Born January 9, 1934 in Montgomery, Alabama was the stellar quarterback from the University of Alabama, Bart Starr. According to his bio on the Pro Football Hall of Fame's website, Bart was a 17th-round draft pick by the Green Bay Packers in 1956. His remarkable career in the NFL lasted for 16 years as he was under center for 5 NFL titles and 2 Super Bowl victories. He was the Most Valuable Player in both Super Bowl I and II. Bart’s career stats show he threw for 152 touchdowns and ran in 15 other scores. The most famous of these rushing TDs was probably the Ice Bowl NFL Championship game of 1967 when he plunged in for the game-winner with little time left in sub-zero temperatures. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined Bart Starr in 1977.
The Ice Bowl Champion and NFL Legend
Football Hall of Fame | Bart Starr, The Ice Bowl Champion and NFL LegendPro Football Hall of Fame Enshrined Player
A select few NFL players are selected to be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. This museum and its content stands as a monument to the gridiron greats, their enshrinement a testament to their lasting impact on the sport.
By honoring these legends, we gain a deeper appreciation for the history and evolution of professional football. Each Hall of Famer represents a specific era, their stories chronicling the game's transformation from its rugged beginnings to the modern marvel it is today. From the early days of Vince Lombardi's coaching genius to the aerial acrobatics of Joe Montana, these players embody the innovation and athletic development that have shaped the game. By celebrating their achievements, we celebrate the rich tapestry of professional football, ensuring that the incredible feats of the past continue to inspire future generations. We are proud to help the Hall to salute these gridiron greats with bios and stories of what made them special in the arena of football history and their impact on the game.
The Ice Bowl Champion and NFL Legend
Early Life and College Career:
Starr grew up in Montgomery, Alabama, where he played football, basketball, and baseball. He attended the University of Alabama, where he was an All-American quarterback and led the Crimson Tide to a victory in the 1953 Orange Bowl.
Green Bay Packers:
Starr was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the 17th round of the 1956 NFL Draft. He spent his first few seasons as a backup but took over as the starting quarterback in 1959. Under the guidance of coach Vince Lombardi, Starr and the Packers became one of the most dominant teams in NFL history.
Lombardi instilled a culture of discipline and hard work in the Packers, and Starr thrived in this environment. He became known for his leadership, intelligence, and clutch performances. The Packers won five NFL championships between 1961 and 1967, including the first two Super Bowls.
Starr was named Super Bowl MVP for both Super Bowls I and II. He is one of only two quarterbacks to win the Super Bowl MVP award in multiple games (Tom Brady has five).
Post-Playing Career:
After retiring from playing in 1971, Starr served as the head coach of the Packers for nine seasons. He compiled a 52-76-3 record but led the Packers to the playoffs three times. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977.
Bart Starr is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. He was a two-time NFL Most Valuable Player, a two-time Super Bowl MVP, and a five-time NFL champion. He is also a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame. Starr's leadership, intelligence, and clutch performances made him a legend in Green Bay and throughout the NFL.