Born April 22, 1907, in Temple, Texas, was the Baylor Bears guard from 1928 through the 1930 seasons, Barton “Botchy” Koch. The NFF’s website bio on Barton states that college scouts of the Bears wrote descriptions of him in their notes such as the world “aggressive.” Koch did not disappoint the Baylor followers, and sports writers spread the word across the nation, hailing the 5-11, 195-pound lineman as he moved toward All-America honors in 1930. Despite Baylor's 20-7 loss to Purdue in 1930, Bear fans were encouraged by Koch's play in the game when he provided the only BU touchdown. Instead of tackling the ball carrier, Koch wrestled the ball from the arms of the Boilermaker back and raced to a score. Another great example of Botchy’s high motor was in the game against Texas Christian in 1930, when he batted an opponent’s pass high into the air, caught the ball and fought off several would-be tacklers on the way to another touchdown. Barton Koch’s collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1974. At the 1930 East-West Shrine Game, a reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle wrote this: "There were a lot of great linemen in the game, but Koch was simply the best. A steamroller could not get over him."
Barton Koch
COLLEGE HOF: Barton `Botchey` Koch
The 1922 Rose Bowl
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College Hall of Fame
Dive into the gridiron greats with this collection of articles exploring the lives and legacies of American college football Hall of Fame players. Each piece delves into the on-field heroics that secured their place in history, from jaw-dropping touchdowns to strategic brilliance. But these articles go beyond the stats, uncovering the personal stories that shaped these legends. You'll discover their journeys from high school prospects to national stars, the challenges they overcame, and the impact they left on the game they loved. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply appreciate sporting excellence, this collection offers a captivating look at the men who forever changed the landscape of college football.
The College Football Hall of Fame is a hall of fame and interactive attraction devoted to college football. The National Football Foundation members select historic players, coaches, and contributors who rose above their peers in collegiate gridiron history to their College Football Hall of Fame. We are happy to help this legendary museum celebrate the stars and innivators of the gridiron with these individual tributes.
Barton Koch
Born April 22, 1907, in Temple, Texas, was the Baylor Bears guard from 1928 through the 1930 seasons, Barton “Botchy” Koch. The NFF’s website bio on Barton states that college scouts of the Bears wrote descriptions of him in their notes such as the world “aggressive.”
Koch did not disappoint the Baylor followers, and sports writers spread the word across the nation, hailing the 5-11, 195-pound lineman as he moved toward All-America honors in 1930. Despite Baylor's 20-7 loss to Purdue in 1930, Bear fans were encouraged by Koch's play in the game when he provided the only BU touchdown. Instead of tackling the ball carrier, Koch wrestled the ball from the arms of the Boilermaker back and raced to a score. Another great example of Botchy’s high motor was in the game against Texas Christian in 1930, when he batted an opponent’s pass high into the air, caught the ball and fought off several would-be tacklers on the way to another touchdown. Barton Koch’s collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1974. At the 1930 East-West Shrine Game, a reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle wrote this: "There were a lot of great linemen in the game, but Koch was simply the best. A steamroller could not get over him."
Being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame is a mark of unparalleled prestige and accomplishment. It signifies that a player has not only excelled on the field but has also left a lasting legacy that transcends generations. This honor is reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and impact in collegiate football, shaping the sport’s history and inspiring future players. Remembering these inductees is not just a tribute to their remarkable careers but also a celebration of their enduring influence on the game. Their stories and achievements serve as a beacon of excellence and a testament to the profound role they’ve played in elevating college football to new heights.
Koch did not disappoint the Baylor followers, and sports writers spread the word across the nation, hailing the 5-11, 195-pound lineman as he moved toward All-America honors in 1930. Despite Baylor's 20-7 loss to Purdue in 1930, Bear fans were encouraged by Koch's play in the game when he provided the only BU touchdown. Instead of tackling the ball carrier, Koch wrestled the ball from the arms of the Boilermaker back and raced to a score. Another great example of Botchy’s high motor was in the game against Texas Christian in 1930, when he batted an opponent’s pass high into the air, caught the ball and fought off several would-be tacklers on the way to another touchdown. Barton Koch’s collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1974. At the 1930 East-West Shrine Game, a reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle wrote this: "There were a lot of great linemen in the game, but Koch was simply the best. A steamroller could not get over him."
Being inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame is a mark of unparalleled prestige and accomplishment. It signifies that a player has not only excelled on the field but has also left a lasting legacy that transcends generations. This honor is reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and impact in collegiate football, shaping the sport’s history and inspiring future players. Remembering these inductees is not just a tribute to their remarkable careers but also a celebration of their enduring influence on the game. Their stories and achievements serve as a beacon of excellence and a testament to the profound role they’ve played in elevating college football to new heights.
Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
We invite you to take a ride through 1920's sports history in the audio drama that takes the listener through the sounds and legendary events of the era through the eyes of a young newspaper journalist. You will feel like you were there!
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Sports Jersey Dispatch
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Gridiron Legacy: Pro Football's Missing Origin Story
Author Gregg Ficery tells the story of the beginnings of Pro Football through the pro football career of his Great Grandfather, Bob Shiring
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Bears versus Cardinals: The NFL's Oldest Rivalry
Author Joe Ziemba the master historian of football in Chicago has released another beauty. It is titled Bears versus Cardinals: The NFL's Oldest Rivalry.
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