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Randy Cross' Hall of Fame Career
Undersized yet remarkably strong, Randy Cross defied expectations to become one of college football's most dominant guards and centers, culminating in a stellar NFL career that cemented his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In this edition, we explore Cross' gridiron journey, from overcoming early challenges to becoming a champion and a legend.
Born in Oklahoma in 1931, Cross faced hardship at a young age. Left behind by his family during the Great Depression, he spent his formative years working odd jobs while displaying a natural athletic talent. This grit and perseverance would become his defining characteristics.
Cross' athletic prowess caught the attention of Bud Wilkinson, the legendary Oklahoma Sooners coach. Despite concerns about Cross' height (listed at 5'9"), Wilkinson saw a player with exceptional strength, agility, and a fierce competitive spirit. Cross arrived in Norman in 1950 and quickly earned his starting spot.
The 1951 season became Cross' breakout year. Alongside quarterback Glyn Milburn, he formed the core of a dynamic backfield. Nicknamed "The Little Wonder," Cross' explosive blocking and ability to neutralize defenders paved the way for the Sooners' high-powered offense. His performance in the "Game of the Century" against Notre Dame solidified his reputation as a national star. Despite trailing late, Cross anchored the offensive line, allowing the Sooners to score two late touchdowns and secure a dramatic victory.
The following year, Cross cemented his legacy. Leading the Sooners to an undefeated season and a national championship, he captured the 1952 Heisman Trophy. At the time, he was the shortest player ever to win the award, a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination.
Cross' NFL career, entirely with the San Francisco 49ers (1976-1989), further solidified his place among the greats. While a knee injury cut his senior year at Oklahoma short, his talent translated seamlessly to the professional level. He transitioned from center to guard early in his career, showcasing his versatility. Cross earned three Pro Bowl selections and played a pivotal role in the 49ers' three Super Bowl victories (XVI, XIX, and XXIII). His intelligence, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his teammates made him a cornerstone of the team's success.
Randy Cross' legacy transcends his Heisman Trophy and Super Bowl rings. He challenged stereotypes and proved that greatness doesn't come in a single size. His work ethic, leadership, and unparalleled blocking skills redefined the role of the offensive lineman. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010 was a fitting tribute to a player who anchored his teams both literally and figuratively.
Born April 25, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, was Randy Cross the tough interior lineman of the UCLA Bruins. The National Football Foundation tells the tale of how Cross as a standout on the UCLA line helped the Bruins avenge an earlier 41-20 blowout loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes.At the 1976 Rose Bowl, UCLA slipped past the top-ranked Ohio State squad in one of the largest upsets in Rose Bowl history subsequently denying OSU of their national championship aspirations. Starting as the team’s center midway through his sophomore season, the coaches moved Randy to play guard for his final two years of eligibility where he became a first-team all-conference and a first-team All-America as a senior. Randy Cross received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2010. After graduation Cross was picked by the San Francisco 49ers in the 1976 NFL Draft. Randy thrived in the Leagues for 13 years and won three Super Bowls with the franchise. Avoiding major injury, the iron man missed only eight games in his professional career propelling him to be named to three All-Pro teams. He was voted the San Francisco 49ers' Man of the Year (1985) for his work in the community. Later after taking off the jersey for the last time, Cross became a television analyst. NFL Jersey Number 51
Born in Oklahoma in 1931, Cross faced hardship at a young age. Left behind by his family during the Great Depression, he spent his formative years working odd jobs while displaying a natural athletic talent. This grit and perseverance would become his defining characteristics.
Cross' athletic prowess caught the attention of Bud Wilkinson, the legendary Oklahoma Sooners coach. Despite concerns about Cross' height (listed at 5'9"), Wilkinson saw a player with exceptional strength, agility, and a fierce competitive spirit. Cross arrived in Norman in 1950 and quickly earned his starting spot.
The 1951 season became Cross' breakout year. Alongside quarterback Glyn Milburn, he formed the core of a dynamic backfield. Nicknamed "The Little Wonder," Cross' explosive blocking and ability to neutralize defenders paved the way for the Sooners' high-powered offense. His performance in the "Game of the Century" against Notre Dame solidified his reputation as a national star. Despite trailing late, Cross anchored the offensive line, allowing the Sooners to score two late touchdowns and secure a dramatic victory.
The following year, Cross cemented his legacy. Leading the Sooners to an undefeated season and a national championship, he captured the 1952 Heisman Trophy. At the time, he was the shortest player ever to win the award, a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination.
Cross' NFL career, entirely with the San Francisco 49ers (1976-1989), further solidified his place among the greats. While a knee injury cut his senior year at Oklahoma short, his talent translated seamlessly to the professional level. He transitioned from center to guard early in his career, showcasing his versatility. Cross earned three Pro Bowl selections and played a pivotal role in the 49ers' three Super Bowl victories (XVI, XIX, and XXIII). His intelligence, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his teammates made him a cornerstone of the team's success.
Randy Cross' legacy transcends his Heisman Trophy and Super Bowl rings. He challenged stereotypes and proved that greatness doesn't come in a single size. His work ethic, leadership, and unparalleled blocking skills redefined the role of the offensive lineman. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010 was a fitting tribute to a player who anchored his teams both literally and figuratively.
Born April 25, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, was Randy Cross the tough interior lineman of the UCLA Bruins. The National Football Foundation tells the tale of how Cross as a standout on the UCLA line helped the Bruins avenge an earlier 41-20 blowout loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes.At the 1976 Rose Bowl, UCLA slipped past the top-ranked Ohio State squad in one of the largest upsets in Rose Bowl history subsequently denying OSU of their national championship aspirations. Starting as the team’s center midway through his sophomore season, the coaches moved Randy to play guard for his final two years of eligibility where he became a first-team all-conference and a first-team All-America as a senior. Randy Cross received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2010. After graduation Cross was picked by the San Francisco 49ers in the 1976 NFL Draft. Randy thrived in the Leagues for 13 years and won three Super Bowls with the franchise. Avoiding major injury, the iron man missed only eight games in his professional career propelling him to be named to three All-Pro teams. He was voted the San Francisco 49ers' Man of the Year (1985) for his work in the community. Later after taking off the jersey for the last time, Cross became a television analyst. NFL Jersey Number 51
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Rick Redman
Hall of Fame UW football player Rick Redman — who starred as an offensive guard, linebacker and punter — died Friday at 79. — www.seattletimes.com
Richard Clark "Rick" Redman (March 7, 1943 – September 30, 2022) was an American football player who carved out a remarkable career as a linebacker in both college and professional football.
College Prowess:
Redman's football journey began at Bishop Blanchet High School in Seattle, Washington, where he showcased his athletic talent. He continued to shine at the University of Washington, playing both linebacker and offensive guard, a testament to his versatility. Redman garnered national recognition, earning consensus All-America honors in both 1963 and 1964. He played a pivotal role in leading the Huskies to a conference championship and a Rose Bowl berth in 1963. His outstanding collegiate performance enshrined him in the College Football Hall of Fame in 1995.
Professional Success:
Redman's professional career began with a bang as he was drafted by both the NFL's Philadelphia Eagles and the AFL's San Diego Chargers in 1965. He opted to join the Chargers, where he became a mainstay on their defense for nine seasons (1965-1973). Redman's exceptional tackling and leadership earned him an AFL All-Star selection in 1967. He continued to be a valuable contributor to the Chargers' defense after the AFL-NFL merger in 1970. In 1974, Redman capped off his playing career with a season with the Portland Storm of the World Football League.
Beyond the Gridiron:
Redman's impact extended beyond the football field. Following his retirement, he joined his stepfather's construction company, Sellen Construction. Redman's leadership and business acumen helped the company grow and diversify, contributing to the construction or renovation of several notable landmarks in Seattle, including Alaska Airlines Arena and Conibear Shellhouse. He remained active in the community, supporting various philanthropic initiatives and serving on the Tyee Club's "Champions Circle."
