Football Daily

George "Wildcat" Wilson, a name synonymous with football excellence, left an indelible mark on both the collegiate and professional levels of the game. Born September 6, 1901, George Wilson or Wildcat Wilson, was a halfback from the University of Washington.

Wildcat showed his importance to the the Huskies team in the 1926 Rose Bowl Game. Wilson's dominant performance for much of the first half of the "Grand Daddy of them All" had opponent Alabama on their heels and down by a couple of scores. The Crimson Tide finally got a break late in the second quarter when George Wilson left the game due to injury. The Tide led by Johnny Mack Brown with 20 unanswered points and were driving down the field to score again when the banged up Wildcat Wilson re-entered the contest and was significant in stalling the 'Bama drive at the Husky 12 yard line.

Wilson then guided the Washington offense down the field and capped off the drive with Wilson throwing a 20 yard scoring strike to John Cole. It was not enough as the Tide held ont win the game 20-19. The stat line of the game showed that with Wilson on the field, the Washington Huskies gained 317 yards and put up 19 points, when he was out they mustered a mere 17 yards and were shut out while the Crimson Tide scored all 20 of their points in that 22 minute absence of Wilson from the contest.

It really put Alabama football on the map as a prominant football power in the college football landscape. The 1926 Rose Bowl has gone down in history known as "The game that changed the South." but it could have been a much different game had Wildcat Wilson played the whole game. Needless to say, the College Football Hall of Fame invited George Wilson into their exclusive club of legends in 1951.

His versatile skills and electrifying performances solidified his status as one of the most iconic players of his era.  

Wilson's collegiate career at the University of Washington was nothing short of extraordinary. As a halfback, he displayed a remarkable combination of speed, power, and agility. His ability to evade defenders, break tackles, and score touchdowns consistently made him a nightmare for opposing teams. Wilson's impact on the Huskies was undeniable, as he led them to numerous victories and earned consensus All-American honors.  

After his successful college career, Wilson transitioned to the professional ranks, where he continued to impress. His most notable stint was with the Los Angeles Wildcats. Despite the challenges of the early days of professional football, Wilson's talent and determination shone through. He became a fan favorite and a respected figure among his peers.  

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Wilson's legacy extends to his impact on the sport as a whole. His dynamic playing style and fearless approach to the game inspired countless athletes and fans alike. His contributions to the development of football, both at the collegiate and professional levels, continue to be celebrated and admired.

George "Wildcat" Wilson's name will forever be etched in the annals of football history. His exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and enduring impact on the sport make him a true legend.

Born May 1, 1930, in Trinity, Texas, was the University of San Francisco’s stud halfback of 1949 to 1951, Ollie Matson. Matson, a trailblazer in the realm of professional football, left an indelible mark on both the college and pro game. Hailing from Georgia, Matson's athletic prowess was evident from a young age. He attended the University of Georgia, where he excelled as a running back, earning All-American honors.

Ollie finished as a contender for the Heisman Trophy. After that season, he turned around and won the silver and bronze medals in the 1952 Olympic Games! The College Football Hall of Fame proudly placed a display in honor of Ollie Matson in their legendary museum in 1976. In 1952 Matson was the number one overall pick by the Chicago Cardinals in the NFL Draft.

Matson's college success translated seamlessly to the professional level. Drafted by the Chicago Cardinals in 1952, he quickly established himself as one of the league's premier running backs. Known for his elusive running style, Matson's ability to make defenders miss tackles and find open space was unmatched. He consistently led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns, earning numerous Pro Bowl selections and even winning the NFL MVP award in 1955.

Beyond his individual accomplishments, Matson also played a significant role in breaking down racial barriers in the NFL. As one of the first African American players to achieve widespread success and recognition, he helped pave the way for future generations of Black athletes. Matson's contributions to the game extended beyond the field, as he became a respected figure in the community and a role model for aspiring athletes. His legacy as a pioneering running back and a trailblazer in the fight for racial equality will continue to inspire future generations.

He played well for the Cards but was traded to the Rams in 1959 for nine players! You can learn more about that trade here. Ollie racked up over 12,000 yards of total offense in the League and was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972.