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Danny White From Kicker to Quarterback Legend
February 9, 1952 - Mesa, Arizona - The legendary quarterback from Arizona State University, Danny White, celebrated the day of his birth. Danny's football journey is a testament to perseverance and versatility. From his college days as a record-setting kicker to his NFL stardom as a quarterback, White carved a unique path to success, leaving a lasting impact on the game.
-College Career
Danny White's college career at Arizona State University began with him primarily as a kicker. However, his athletic abilities were undeniable, and he eventually transitioned to quarterback, showcasing his strong arm and leadership qualities. While he continued to handle kicking duties, White's prowess as a quarterback became increasingly evident. He set numerous school records and led the Sun Devils to a Fiesta Bowl victory. His dual role as kicker and quarterback highlighted his exceptional athleticism and dedication, setting the stage for his versatile professional career. His time at Arizona State instilled in him a strong work ethic and a competitive spirit that would drive him to succeed at the highest level.
White guided the Sun Devils to an outstanding record of 32-4 during his time at the helm of the ASU offense and helped his team with three straight Fiesta Bowls in the early 1970s. The NFF tells of how White led the nation in pass efficiency and was named All-America in 1973. Danny held Arizona State records for the most yards gained by passing in a career, 6717, and most touchdown passes, 64. He threw six touchdown passes at his pinnacle collegiate game against New Mexico in 1971! The National Football Foundation selected Danny White to enter the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998.
-Road to the Pro Game
White's professional football journey began in the World Football League (WFL) with the Memphis Southmen. This experience allowed him to hone his quarterback skills and gain valuable playing time. When the WFL folded, White joined the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL, initially as a punter and backup quarterback. He learned from the legendary Tom Landry and worked tirelessly to develop his quarterbacking abilities. Eventually, White took over as the starting quarterback for the Cowboys, leading them to multiple playoff appearances and three consecutive NFC Championship games. While he never reached the Super Bowl, White's leadership and clutch performances solidified his place as one of the top quarterbacks of his era. His time with the Cowboys showcased his resilience and his ability to perform under pressure.
-Football Legacy
Danny White's football legacy is one of perseverance, versatility, and leadership. He excelled in multiple roles throughout his career, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to the game. While his NFL career was marked by both successes and near misses, White established himself as a highly respected quarterback who consistently led his team to victory. He was known for his toughness, his intelligence, and his ability to make plays under pressure. Beyond his playing career, White transitioned to coaching, further contributing to the sport.
His legacy extends beyond wins and losses; it's a story of dedication, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Danny White's unique path from kicker to starting quarterback serves as an inspiration to athletes everywhere, demonstrating that perseverance and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements.
-Career highlights and awards
As a player
-Super Bowl champion (XII)
-Second-team All-Pro (1982)
-Pro Bowl (1982)
-All-WFL (1975)
-WFL All-Time Team
-First-team All-American (1973)
-WAC Offensive Player of the Year (1973)
-Arizona State Sun Devils No. 11 retired
As a coach
-2× ArenaBowl champion (VIII, XI)
-AFL Coach of the Year Award (1993)
-Career NFL statistics
-Passing attempts: 2,950
-Passing completions: 1,761
-Completion percentage: 59.7%
-TD–INT: 155–132
-Passing yards: 21,959
-Passer rating: 81.7
-Punting yards: 24,509
-Punting average: 40.2
Stats at Pro Football Reference
Danny White. (2024, December 27). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danny_White
-College Career
Danny White's college career at Arizona State University began with him primarily as a kicker. However, his athletic abilities were undeniable, and he eventually transitioned to quarterback, showcasing his strong arm and leadership qualities. While he continued to handle kicking duties, White's prowess as a quarterback became increasingly evident. He set numerous school records and led the Sun Devils to a Fiesta Bowl victory. His dual role as kicker and quarterback highlighted his exceptional athleticism and dedication, setting the stage for his versatile professional career. His time at Arizona State instilled in him a strong work ethic and a competitive spirit that would drive him to succeed at the highest level.
White guided the Sun Devils to an outstanding record of 32-4 during his time at the helm of the ASU offense and helped his team with three straight Fiesta Bowls in the early 1970s. The NFF tells of how White led the nation in pass efficiency and was named All-America in 1973. Danny held Arizona State records for the most yards gained by passing in a career, 6717, and most touchdown passes, 64. He threw six touchdown passes at his pinnacle collegiate game against New Mexico in 1971! The National Football Foundation selected Danny White to enter the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998.
-Road to the Pro Game
White's professional football journey began in the World Football League (WFL) with the Memphis Southmen. This experience allowed him to hone his quarterback skills and gain valuable playing time. When the WFL folded, White joined the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL, initially as a punter and backup quarterback. He learned from the legendary Tom Landry and worked tirelessly to develop his quarterbacking abilities. Eventually, White took over as the starting quarterback for the Cowboys, leading them to multiple playoff appearances and three consecutive NFC Championship games. While he never reached the Super Bowl, White's leadership and clutch performances solidified his place as one of the top quarterbacks of his era. His time with the Cowboys showcased his resilience and his ability to perform under pressure.
-Football Legacy
Danny White's football legacy is one of perseverance, versatility, and leadership. He excelled in multiple roles throughout his career, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to the game. While his NFL career was marked by both successes and near misses, White established himself as a highly respected quarterback who consistently led his team to victory. He was known for his toughness, his intelligence, and his ability to make plays under pressure. Beyond his playing career, White transitioned to coaching, further contributing to the sport.
His legacy extends beyond wins and losses; it's a story of dedication, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Danny White's unique path from kicker to starting quarterback serves as an inspiration to athletes everywhere, demonstrating that perseverance and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements.
-Career highlights and awards
As a player
-Super Bowl champion (XII)
-Second-team All-Pro (1982)
-Pro Bowl (1982)
-All-WFL (1975)
-WFL All-Time Team
-First-team All-American (1973)
-WAC Offensive Player of the Year (1973)
-Arizona State Sun Devils No. 11 retired
As a coach
-2× ArenaBowl champion (VIII, XI)
-AFL Coach of the Year Award (1993)
-Career NFL statistics
-Passing attempts: 2,950
-Passing completions: 1,761
-Completion percentage: 59.7%
-TD–INT: 155–132
-Passing yards: 21,959
-Passer rating: 81.7
-Punting yards: 24,509
-Punting average: 40.2
Stats at Pro Football Reference
Danny White. (2024, December 27). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danny_White
A Wolverine Legend
Born February 20, 1912, in Chicago, Illinois, was the awesome Michigan Wolverines Tackle Francis Whitey Wistert. According to the National Football Foundation Whitey had absolutely no prior gridiron experience when he arrived on campus at Michigan in the early 1930s. The Wolverines were 7-0-1 in the 1933 season, aided in part by Whitey’s quick diagnosing of the opposition’s plays. Francis Wistert received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1967. Amazingly great football ran in his family’s bloodline as his brothers Albert, who played 1940-1941, and Alvin, who played 1947-1949, are also Hall of Fame enshrinees who played at Michigan.
Whitey Wistert, a name synonymous with Michigan football, carved a legendary path on the gridiron. His prowess as a two-way player for the Wolverines and his subsequent professional career solidified his place in football history.
-College Career
Wistert's college career at the University of Michigan was spectacular. Playing under the legendary coach Fritz Crisler, he became a standout offensive and defensive end. His versatility was a tremendous asset, contributing significantly to the Wolverines' success. He was a key part of the undefeated 1947 team that was named national champion. Wistert earned All-American honors three times, a testament to his exceptional talent and impact on the game.
Famed football journalist Grantland Rice once stated: "Wistert was unanimously selected as the best tackle in the Middle-West this year. He was the key to Michigan's defensive line play. He was a sure tackler and it was next to impossible to fool him on trick maneuvers. He was keen, quick, and accurate in diagnosing plays."
-Road to the Pro Game
The Philadelphia Eagles drafted Wistert in the 1944 NFL Draft. However, his professional career was delayed due to his service in the United States Navy during World War II. He eventually joined the Eagles after his military service.
His professional career leaned towards the game of baseball, and he played for the Cincinnati Reds of the MLB. Wistert played five years of professional baseball before entering a career as a New York attorney.
-Football Legacy
While shorter than his collegiate tenure, Wistert's professional career with the Eagles was still notable. He was a part of the Eagles team that won back-to-back NFL championships in 1948 and 1949. His two-way skills, honed at Michigan, continued to be an asset in the pros. After playing, he remained connected to the sport, serving as a color commentator for Michigan football games for many years.
-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats
-3x All-American (University of Michigan)
-2x NFL Champion (Philadelphia Eagles)
-Member of the College Football Hall of Fame
Whitey Wistert's legacy is defined by his dominance at the University of Michigan and his contributions to the Philadelphia Eagles' championship teams. He was a true embodiment of the two-way player, excelling on both offense and defense. His accomplishments at both the collegiate and professional levels cemented his place as one of football's most respected figures.
Whitey Wistert, a name synonymous with Michigan football, carved a legendary path on the gridiron. His prowess as a two-way player for the Wolverines and his subsequent professional career solidified his place in football history.
-College Career
Wistert's college career at the University of Michigan was spectacular. Playing under the legendary coach Fritz Crisler, he became a standout offensive and defensive end. His versatility was a tremendous asset, contributing significantly to the Wolverines' success. He was a key part of the undefeated 1947 team that was named national champion. Wistert earned All-American honors three times, a testament to his exceptional talent and impact on the game.
Famed football journalist Grantland Rice once stated: "Wistert was unanimously selected as the best tackle in the Middle-West this year. He was the key to Michigan's defensive line play. He was a sure tackler and it was next to impossible to fool him on trick maneuvers. He was keen, quick, and accurate in diagnosing plays."
-Road to the Pro Game
The Philadelphia Eagles drafted Wistert in the 1944 NFL Draft. However, his professional career was delayed due to his service in the United States Navy during World War II. He eventually joined the Eagles after his military service.
His professional career leaned towards the game of baseball, and he played for the Cincinnati Reds of the MLB. Wistert played five years of professional baseball before entering a career as a New York attorney.
-Football Legacy
While shorter than his collegiate tenure, Wistert's professional career with the Eagles was still notable. He was a part of the Eagles team that won back-to-back NFL championships in 1948 and 1949. His two-way skills, honed at Michigan, continued to be an asset in the pros. After playing, he remained connected to the sport, serving as a color commentator for Michigan football games for many years.
-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats
-3x All-American (University of Michigan)
-2x NFL Champion (Philadelphia Eagles)
-Member of the College Football Hall of Fame
Whitey Wistert's legacy is defined by his dominance at the University of Michigan and his contributions to the Philadelphia Eagles' championship teams. He was a true embodiment of the two-way player, excelling on both offense and defense. His accomplishments at both the collegiate and professional levels cemented his place as one of football's most respected figures.
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Joe Donchess the Pride of Early Pitt Pigskin Stars
The University of Pittsburgh’s great end from 1927 to 1929, Joe Donchess was born on March 17, 1905 in Youngstown, Ohio
Joe Donchess, a name synonymous with early University of Pittsburgh football greatness, overcame significant early life challenges to forge a remarkable college career and establish a lasting football legacy. Born in Youngstown, Ohio, in 1905, Donchess's path to collegiate stardom was far from conventional. According to the National Football Foundation, he left school in the fifth grade to work in a steel mill to contribute to his family's finances. This detour could have easily ended his academic and athletic aspirations.
However, fate intervened when an alumnus of Wyoming Seminary learned of Donchess's situation. Recognizing the potential, this benefactor facilitated Donchess's enrollment in the prestigious prep school approximately five years later. Demonstrating exceptional dedication and intellectual aptitude, Donchess excelled at Wyoming Seminary, remarkably completing three grades in a single year. His success there paved the way for his enrollment at the University of Pittsburgh.
At Pitt, Donchess flourished both academically and athletically as an end from 1927 to 1929. His prowess on the gridiron quickly became apparent. The 1929 season proved to be a pinnacle, as the Panthers achieved an undefeated record. This dominant performance coincided with Donchess earning consensus All-American honors, solidifying his status as one of the nation's premier players. The 1929 Pitt squad, boasting four All-Americans and lauded as one of the greatest teams in Eastern football history, earned a coveted invitation to the Rose Bowl. Unfortunately, the highly anticipated matchup against the University of Southern California resulted in a disappointing 47-14 defeat for the Panthers. Donchess had previously experienced the Rose Bowl in 1928 against Stanford, where despite another strong Pitt team, they suffered a narrow 7-6 loss to the Cardinal.
While Joe Donchess did not play in any professional football leagues after his collegiate career, his impact on the sport is undeniable. His exceptional play as a dominant two-way end during a golden era of Pitt football cemented his reputation as a foundational figure in the program's history. His leadership and outstanding performance contributed significantly to the Panthers' success during his tenure.
Joe Donchess's enduring football legacy is best exemplified by his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1979. This prestigious honor recognizes his exceptional collegiate career and his significant contributions to the sport. While specific career statistics from that era are often less comprehensive than modern records, his consensus All-American selection in 1929 stands as a testament to his exceptional talent and impact on the game. Joe Donchess's journey from a steel mill worker to a Hall of Fame college football player is a compelling story of perseverance, opportunity, and athletic excellence, forever etching his name in the annals of the sport.
Joe Donchess, a name synonymous with early University of Pittsburgh football greatness, overcame significant early life challenges to forge a remarkable college career and establish a lasting football legacy. Born in Youngstown, Ohio, in 1905, Donchess's path to collegiate stardom was far from conventional. According to the National Football Foundation, he left school in the fifth grade to work in a steel mill to contribute to his family's finances. This detour could have easily ended his academic and athletic aspirations.
However, fate intervened when an alumnus of Wyoming Seminary learned of Donchess's situation. Recognizing the potential, this benefactor facilitated Donchess's enrollment in the prestigious prep school approximately five years later. Demonstrating exceptional dedication and intellectual aptitude, Donchess excelled at Wyoming Seminary, remarkably completing three grades in a single year. His success there paved the way for his enrollment at the University of Pittsburgh.
At Pitt, Donchess flourished both academically and athletically as an end from 1927 to 1929. His prowess on the gridiron quickly became apparent. The 1929 season proved to be a pinnacle, as the Panthers achieved an undefeated record. This dominant performance coincided with Donchess earning consensus All-American honors, solidifying his status as one of the nation's premier players. The 1929 Pitt squad, boasting four All-Americans and lauded as one of the greatest teams in Eastern football history, earned a coveted invitation to the Rose Bowl. Unfortunately, the highly anticipated matchup against the University of Southern California resulted in a disappointing 47-14 defeat for the Panthers. Donchess had previously experienced the Rose Bowl in 1928 against Stanford, where despite another strong Pitt team, they suffered a narrow 7-6 loss to the Cardinal.
While Joe Donchess did not play in any professional football leagues after his collegiate career, his impact on the sport is undeniable. His exceptional play as a dominant two-way end during a golden era of Pitt football cemented his reputation as a foundational figure in the program's history. His leadership and outstanding performance contributed significantly to the Panthers' success during his tenure.
Joe Donchess's enduring football legacy is best exemplified by his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1979. This prestigious honor recognizes his exceptional collegiate career and his significant contributions to the sport. While specific career statistics from that era are often less comprehensive than modern records, his consensus All-American selection in 1929 stands as a testament to his exceptional talent and impact on the game. Joe Donchess's journey from a steel mill worker to a Hall of Fame college football player is a compelling story of perseverance, opportunity, and athletic excellence, forever etching his name in the annals of the sport.
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Terry Baker Oregon State Football Legend
Born May 5, 1941, in Pine River, Minnesota, was Oregon State’s quarterback from 1960 to 1962, Terry Baker. The National Football Foundation says Terry is the only athlete to win the Heisman Trophy, Maxwell Award, Scholar-Athlete Award from the National Football Foundation and Sports Illustrated's Sportsman of the Year Award in the same year.
Yes 1962 was a special one for Baker as he won the Liberty Bowl's Most Valuable Player Award as his 99 yard run was the only score in a 6-0 win over Villanova. Terry Baker’s collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1982. When school was done the Los Angeles Rams made the brilliant young QB the first player selected in the collegiate draft. He played three seasons for the Rams and one season in the CFL.
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.
Yes 1962 was a special one for Baker as he won the Liberty Bowl's Most Valuable Player Award as his 99 yard run was the only score in a 6-0 win over Villanova. Terry Baker’s collegiate football records are celebrated in the College Football Hall of Fame after his induction in 1982. When school was done the Los Angeles Rams made the brilliant young QB the first player selected in the collegiate draft. He played three seasons for the Rams and one season in the CFL.
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.
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