By Darin 
Did you know that one of the toughest linemen in college football history, Georgia Tech’s Bill Fincher, played his entire career and earned All-American honors with only one eye? Born on November 12, 1896, in Spring Place, Georgia, Fincher’s improbable journey from a disability to gridiron greatness makes him one of the most remarkable and inspirational figures in the sport’s early history, forever linked to the legendary “Ramblin’ Wreck” teams.
Bill played for the Ramblin Wreck from 1916 through the 1920 seasons; the school did not count the abbreviated 1918 season as a full season. Fincher had lost his right eye earlier in life by an unknown reason but he did not let that stop him from living life to the fullest, including playing ball. Fincher played well, even with only one eye! Bill had a glass eye which he would covertly pull out after feigning an injury, turn to his opponents and say: “So that’s how you want to play!” (SEC Football: 75 Years of Pride and Passion)
Fincher holds a unique place in football history for having participated in the sport’s most lopsided game: the infamous 222-0 Georgia Tech victory over Cumberland College on October 7, 1916. While the final score is the main headline, Fincher was instrumental in this rout, contributing to the offensive line’s dominance and serving as the primary placekicker for the copious extra points.
His consistent excellence on both sides of the ball earned him national acclaim. He was recognized as a First-Team All-American multiple times, highlighting his status as one of the best linemen in the country during the post-WWI era. His contribution to Georgia Tech’s success and his indomitable spirit were ultimately recognized by the National Football Foundation (NFF), which enshrined Bill Fincher into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1974. He stands as a powerful reminder that true determination can overcome any physical obstacle on the path to athletic legend.
Football Accolades and Accomplishments:
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1974).
- Multi-Time First-Team All-American (Years contested by various selectors).
- Participant in the 222-0 Georgia Tech vs. Cumberland College game (1916).
- Versatile player who excelled at Tackle, Defensive End, and Placekicker.
- Four-year letter winner for the Georgia Tech Ramblin’ Wreck (1916-1920).
- Known for playing successfully despite having only one eye.