By Darin 
November 19th marks the birthday of a true gridiron anomaly: the versatile superstar Ahmad Rashad. Before becoming an iconic broadcaster, Rashad was an unstoppable force for the Oregon Ducks. Did you know this future College Football Hall of Famer started as a phenomenal wide receiver, only to be moved to running back, where he led the team in rushing? Dive into the story of how Rashad dominated college football with his dual-threat skills, even catching passes from NFL legend Dan Fouts, making November 19th a significant date in football history!
Legendary
November 19, 1949 – Portland, Oregon – Oregon’s amazing wide receiver/running back Ahmad Rashad was born. Yes, you saw it correctly: the title “running back” was added. According to footballfoundation.org, during Ahmad’s very first game, he turned in a three-touchdown performance. The coaches wanted to give Rashad as many touches as possible, so they moved the young man to the backfield the following year, and he led the team in rushing!
Just because he lined up in the backfield and toted the ball through holes in the line did not restrict him from catching passes downfield. The Offensive Coordinator was more than happy to call plays for Ahmad to use his receiving skills. After all, the quarterback of the Ducks at that time was none other than a man named Dan Fouts! During his senior season, his rushing totals ranked eighth nationally, and Rashad became a first-team All-American. The National Football Foundation selected Ahmad Rashad to enter the College Football Hall of Fame in 2007.
Concluding Paragraph
Ahmad Rashad’s collegiate career, which began on this date, stands as a testament to the power of versatility and talent. His ability to dominate as both a wide receiver and a running back showcased a level of athletic genius that earned him first-team All-American honors and, eventually, a place in the College Football Hall of Fame. The story of Rashad’s shift to the backfield, orchestrated by coaches determined to get him the ball, highlights a memorable chapter in Oregon Ducks history. The legacy of Ahmad Rashad, born on November 19th, continues to inspire athletes to excel in every role they are given.