By Darin Born on May 10, 1930, in Lake City, Florida, George Allen “Pat” Summerall overcame a childhood physical ailment—a clubfoot—to become one of the most enduring figures in the history of American sports. While many remember him as the steady, baritone voice of the NFL, his legacy was forged on the gridiron as a versatile end and a clutch placekicker.
College Career: A Razorback Standout
Summerall attended the University of Arkansas, where he played for the Razorbacks from 1949 to 1951. Standing 6’4″, he was a formidable target at the end position and a reliable kicker. During his senior season in 1951, he emerged as a primary offensive threat, catching 24 passes for 411 yards and three touchdowns. His multi-sport athleticism—having lettered in basketball, baseball, and tennis as well—made him a prized prospect for the professional ranks.
Road to the Pro Game
The Detroit Lions selected Summerall in the fourth round (45th overall) of the 1952 NFL Draft. Although he earned an NFL Championship ring with the Lions that year, a preseason injury limited his contribution. He was subsequently traded to the Chicago Cardinals, where he played from 1953 to 1957. It was during his time with the Cardinals that he established himself as a “three-way” player, contributing as a defensive end, receiver, and kicker. In 1958, he joined the New York Giants, a move that would define his playing legacy.
Football Legacy
Summerall’s legacy is anchored by one of the most famous kicks in NFL history. During a snowy 1958 regular-season finale against the Cleveland Browns, Summerall nailed a 49-yard field goal in the closing minutes to secure a 13-10 victory. This win forced a playoff that eventually led the Giants to the “Greatest Game Ever Played”—the 1958 NFL Championship. After retiring in 1961, he transitioned to the broadcast booth, where his minimalist style and 22-season partnership with John Madden set the gold standard for sports journalism, calling a record 16 Super Bowls on network television.
Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats
- NFL Champion: 1952 (Detroit Lions)
- Pro Football Hall of Fame: Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award (1994)
- Hall of Fame Inductions: Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (1971), National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame (1994)
- National Sportscaster of the Year: 1977