Marty Below The Colossus of Camp Randall

The echoes of crunching tackles and deafening cheers still reverberate through the hallowed halls of Camp Randall Stadium, carrying with them the legend of Marty Below. More than just a football player, Below was a titan of the 1920s Wisconsin Badgers, a man whose name is synonymous with grit, power, and unwavering loyalty to his alma mater.

Standing at a formidable 6'2" and 220 pounds, Below was a human wall on the offensive line. He played with a ferocity unmatched in his era, his tackles clearing paths for Badger ball carriers like battering rams through stone walls. His dedication to technique and athleticism earned him the nickname "The Colossus," a moniker that perfectly captured his imposing presence on the field.

But Below's legacy transcends mere physical prowess. He was a leader, a strategist, and the heart and soul of the Badger teams he anchored. His calm demeanor under pressure and unwavering determination inspired his teammates and instilled fear in opponents. He possessed a keen football intellect, calling out defensive plays and adjusting the offensive line with the precision of a seasoned general.

His impact was undeniable. During his two-year varsity career (1922-1923), the Badgers compiled a stunning 14-2-1 record and captured two Western Conference championships. Below himself received a plethora of accolades, including unanimous All-America selection in 1923 and induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988.

However, his most defining moment came not on the field, but amidst the allure of professional football. After a dazzling senior season, Below was offered a lucrative contract by a professional team. Yet, with unwavering loyalty to Wisconsin, he rejected the offer, stating, "No one loves to play football any better than I do, but in my opinion there is no comparison between college and professional football. I have completed my work in college and therefore I have played my last game."

This selfless act cemented Below's status as a Wisconsin legend. He embodied the university's ethos of academic excellence and athletic integrity, choosing loyalty over personal gain. Though in the era's reality, Bbelow probably made a much better and consistent wage at his regular 9-5 than pro football would have paid him, it probably was not as fun as getting paid on the gridiron!