By Darin 
Born November 22, 1946, in Toledo, Ohio, Mel Long stands as one of the most unique and inspiring figures in football history. A decorated Marine Vietnam War veteran, Long enrolled at the University of Toledo and immediately anchored one of college football’s most dominant defenses. As a disruptive defensive tackle, he led the Toledo Rockets to an unprecedented 35-0 undefeated streak, securing three conference titles and three Tangerine Bowl victories. Long’s blend of military toughness and gridiron skill earned him multiple All-America honors and solidified his legacy as a true football hero.
The Legend
Mel Long enrolled at Toledo as a decorated Marine Vietnam War veteran, now that is a real football hero! During Mel’s time on the D-line, according to the NFF, Toledo led the nation in defensive statistics and won the MAC all three years of his college playing career.
It is no wonder that the Rockets were an amazing 35-0 in that span and won three straight Tangerine Bowls over quality opponents. Regarding the players’ personal accomplishments, Long made All-America in 1970 and 1971 and was a consensus choice in 1972. The National Football Foundation selected Mel Long to enter the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998.
Mel went on to play professionally with the Cleveland Browns for four NFL seasons.
List of Accolades and Football Accomplishments
College Career (University of Toledo)
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1998).
- Consensus All-America selection (1972).
- All-America selection (1970, 1971).
- Undefeated Team Record: Contributed to an unprecedented 35-0 record during his tenure.
- MAC Championships: Won three straight Mid-American Conference titles.
- Bowl Victories: Won three consecutive Tangerine Bowls.
- Defensive Dominance: Played on a defensive line that led the nation in defensive statistics (NFF data).
- Distinction: Decorated Marine Vietnam War veteran.
Professional Career (Cleveland Browns)
- Played four NFL seasons with the Cleveland Browns.