Buddy Young - Brilliant Illini HOF...

Born January 5, 1926, was one of the most impactful football players you might have ever heard of, Buddy Young.

The "Bronze Bullet" had exceptional quickness and acceleration. However, many pro teams overlooked him as he is one of the shortest men ever to play in the NFL. The collegeiate track star was drafted by an NFL rival in the 1947 AAFC Draft in the Special Draft by the New York Yankees.

At Illinois, Young won the National Collegiate 100- and 220-yard dash races and became the champion of those events. In the AAFC and NFL, he thrived, becoming a Pro Bowl player and Kick-off return leader.

Claude "Buddy" Young wasn't a giant in stature, but on the gridiron of the University of Illinois, he stood tall as a legend. His college football career, spanning 1942-1946, was a masterclass in speed, athleticism, and an indomitable spirit, etching his name forever in Illini history.

-Recruited from Chicago, Young's diminutive size (5'5", 163 lbs) raised eyebrows, but his talent silenced doubts.

-In his debut, he ripped off a 64-yard touchdown on the first play and another from 30 yards, showcasing his explosive speed.

-Young's talent exploded in 1944, earning him All-America honors. He tied the school record with 13 touchdowns and averaged nearly 9 yards per carry, leaving defenders in his dust.

-Young wasn't just a highlight machine; he was a natural leader, taking the helm as quarterback in 1945.

-He guided the Illini to a Big Ten Championship in 1946, cementing his legacy as one of the program's greatest leaders.

-Young's impact transcended wins and losses. His electrifying playing style drew record crowds and rekindled Illinois' passion for football.