Biography of Jorge Blanda

Sports

In a time when players didn’t have much protection in the form of padding, George Blanda was the paragon of longevity, remaining relatively injury-free throughout his career. He played quarterback, placekicker and even linebacker. He played for the Chicago Bears, the Oakland Raiders, the Houston Oilers, and the Baltimore Colts.

George Blanda played 26 seasons in the NFL and may be the best example of what perseverance is in American football. The son of a coal miner, Blanda, what hard work was all about. George Blanda played in a rough and physical game until he was 48 years old (1 month after 49). For many people, Blanda symbolized eternity and was an inspiration for people to never stop doing what they love.

Blanda scored more points as a quarterback and kicker than any other player in NFL history. Some other career highlights of hers are:

  • 3-stroke AFL field
  • AFL passing leader in 1961
  • MVP in 1970
  • Played in 340 career games
  • 2002 points (which is a record)
  • 4 time professional bowler
  • Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1981

By 1967, George Blanda had 17 years of professional football experience as a quarterback and kicker. At the time he thought he would have to retire, but Al Davis and the Oakland Raiders gave him another chance. The first three years the Raiders only used him as a placekicker, but his chance to shine once again would come in 1970. In the middle of a close game against the Steelers, Raiders starting quarterback Daryle Lamonica was injured. his back and he would be lost. for the season Raiders head coach John Madden faced a difficult decision. Should he play the fledgling Ken Stabler or go with the veteran veteran? Madden decided to go for the experience, and George Blanda was named the starting quarterback once again.

It didn’t take long for Madden to realize that he had made the right decision. Blanda threw a 29-yard TD on his first play from scrimmage. He then threw two more touchdown passes and kicked a field goal to lead the Raiders to victory. the following week he kicked a game-winning 48-yard field goal with just seconds left on the clock. America soon fell in love with Blanda and he was an inspiration to everyone who is never too old to pursue their dreams.

Over the course of Blanda’s career, he deservedly earned the nickname “The Great Old Man,” and his 26-year career remains a record that may never be reached. Blanda passed away on September 27, 2010 after a brief illness, but the legendary stories will live on forever.

Interesting Facts About George Blanda

  • He was a basketball star in high school and dreamed of playing in college at Madison Square Garden.
  • When Blanda retired, he had a regular-season record 16 and 21 championship games.
  • George Blanda was asked to endorse many products. He refused to advertise anything he didn’t wear himself. He only recommended a breakfast cereal and the aftershave he used.
  • Longest-serving starting quarterback in a championship game.
  • One of only two soccer players to play in a span of four decades. He played during the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *