For his NFL career, Blanda passed for a total of 26,723 yds with 236 touchdowns and 272 interceptions. Over the course of his time in the NFL, he was sacked 88 times for a total of 528 yds lost behind the line of scrimmage. His quarterback rating was a TD percentage of 5.9% and an interception percentage of 6.8%. yards and he averaged 81.5 yds per contest. George Blanda completed 1,902 of his career 3,986 throws for a completion percentage of 47.7%.
Blanda connected on 0 of his 0 tosses in his last year for a completion percentage of 0.0%. His longest pass completion went for 0 yds and he threw for 0.0 yards per outing. He had a QB rating of 0.0 with a TD percentage of 0.0% and an interception rate of 0.0%. In his last year, Blanda threw for 0 yards with 0 touchdowns and 0 picks. He was sacked 0 different times totaling 0 yds lost behind the line of scrimmage.
George Blanda is one of the most storied players in the history of the National Football League, with a career spanning 26 seasons and encompassing a variety of roles. His ability to excel as both a quarterback and a kicker, as well as his record-breaking performances, have left an indelible mark on the sport. In this piece, we will delve into the many facets of Blanda’s incredible career, showcasing the hallmarks of his astonishing longevity, adaptability, and talent.
Born in 1927, George Blanda grew up in Youngwood, Pennsylvania, where his lifelong love for football began. After standout high school and college careers, Blanda was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 1949 NFL Draft and began his professional journey as a backup quarterback. Despite limited playing time in his first few seasons, Blanda displayed incredible potential, catching the eye of coaches and fans alike with his impressive arm strength and accuracy.
As the NFL evolved, so too did Blanda’s role within it. In addition to his duties as a quarterback, he began to develop a knack for place-kicking and assumed the role of kicker for his team on numerous occasions. This unique ability to excel in two distinct facets of the game allowed Blanda to make a greater impact on the field and solidified his status as a truly versatile player.
His kicking prowess became particularly evident in the 1958 NFL Championship Game, when Blanda’s clutch field goal helped propel the Baltimore Colts to victory over the New York Giants in the legendary “Greatest Game Ever Played. ” This performance showcased Blanda’s reliability and poise under pressure, proving his value as both a quarterback and kicker.
One of the defining characteristics of George Blanda’s career was his remarkable longevity. He holds numerous NFL records, including the oldest player to throw a touchdown pass and the oldest player to score a touchdown. Blanda even made history by becoming the oldest player to play in the Super Bowl, when he suited up for the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XI at the age of 42.
This astonishing durability and skill can be seen in Blanda’s 340 career touchdown passes and 940 extra points, both of which were record-breaking at the time of his retirement in 1976. Over the course of his career, Blanda amassed 4,442 passes, throwing for 23,900 yards and completing 1,329 of them, showcasing his remarkable accuracy and consistency. His 54. 67% completion rate, while not mind-blowing today, was undoubtedly impressive for his era.
Blanda’s success as a kicker is equally impressive: 58 field goals and an astounding 940 PAT’s, which equates to a 95. 3% success rate. This ability to perform under pressure and adapt to different roles only served to strengthen his legacy and earned him the accolade of NFL MVP in 1970, a testament to his unparalleled skillset and impact on the sport.
George Blanda’s legend lives on through the countless records he set, the numerous teams he represented, and the countless fans he captivated. His career serves as a testament to the determination, resilience, and adaptability needed to succeed at the highest levels of professional football. As one of the most versatile players in NFL history, Blanda’s ability to excel in two distinct roles and adapt to the changing landscape of the sport is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981, Blanda’s legacy is secure as one of the most important figures in the history of the NFL. His story stands as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and adaptability in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, George Blanda’s NFL career was nothing short of extraordinary. His longevity, versatility, and record-breaking performances have cemented his place in the annals of football history. Whether as a quarterback or kicker, Blanda’s unwavering commitment to excellence and adaptability ensured that he left an indelible mark on the sport, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of athletes to this day.
In the pantheon of NFL greats, George Blanda’s name resonates with those who value determination, adaptability, and sheer athletic prowess. A rare breed of player who could succeed not only as a quarterback but also as a kicker, Blanda’s 26-year career was filled with record-breaking performances and historic milestones. His determination and adaptability ensured that he left an indelible mark on the sport, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of athletes to this day.