Phillip King the Legendary Princeton...

Phillip King, born March 16, 1872, in Washington, D.C., etched his name into the annals of early American football history through his remarkable achievements at Princeton University. His story is one of extraordinary talent and leadership during the sport's formative years.

-College Career

King's college career began with an explosive debut. In his freshman year at Princeton, during an 1890 game against Columbia, he achieved an almost unbelievable feat: scoring eleven touchdowns in a single game. In an era where statistics were less rigorously recorded, this astonishing performance highlighted his exceptional athleticism. He scored a 25-yard touchdown on his first ever carry. King quickly became a dominant force for the Tigers.

His road to prominence was swift and decisive. He excelled on the football field and demonstrated leadership qualities, becoming captain of the football and baseball teams. In that era, the captain often served as the coach, adding another layer to his responsibilities. His freshman year alone saw him score 29 touchdowns, 18 of which came in two consecutive weeks, despite missing the first three games. Over his four-year career, he amassed 50 touchdowns and 56 conversion kicks, solidifying his reputation as a prolific scorer.

-Football Legacy

King's football legacy is defined by his unparalleled collegiate achievements and subsequent coaching success. He was a four-time first-team All-American from 1891 to 1893, a rare accomplishment and an All-American in baseball. He opted against pursuing a professional career in either sport, choosing instead to contribute to the game as a coach. He served as the head coach at the University of Wisconsin from 1896 to 1902 and again in 1905, compiling an impressive 65-11-1 record. His coaching tenure further cemented his impact on football strategy and player development.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

King’s accolades include his four-time All-American selection in football and baseball and his College Football Hall of Fame Induction. His career stats, though somewhat incomplete due to the era, include 50 touchdowns and 56 conversion kicks at Princeton. His coaching record at Wisconsin is a testament to his ability to translate his playing expertise into successful coaching strategies. Phillip King's contributions to early football history testify to his extraordinary talent and leadership.