George handled both jobs with distinction for another nine seasons. At 48 years and 109 days, this famous footballer became the oldest person to play in an NFL game. [1st] Most Rushing Touchdowns Rushing, Game 3 (vs. Los Angeles, Sept. 18, 1960) But the Bears drafted Blanda in the 12th round, and after some negotiating, Halas signed him to a $6,000 contract with a $600 bonus. Uniform Number: 16 (also wore #22 and #64). He also kicked two extra points and a 48-yard field goal had three passes intercepted. The Houston Oilers released him in 1967. [1st] Most Points Scored, Career 63 [1st] Most Points Scored, Career 64 I was very proud of my heritage and I developed a lot of character in the early days and learned that hard work, dedication and discipline and tenacity and never giving up, you can succeed in proving your life. George Blanda (George Frederick Blanda) was born on 17 September, 1927 in Youngwood, Pennsylvania, USA, is an Actor. [1st] Most PAT Attempts, Career 304 [3] During his career, he played under head coaches Bear Bryant, George Halas, Clem Crowe, Lou Rymkus, Wally Lemm, Pop Ivy, Sammy Baugh, Hugh Taylor, John Rauch, and John Madden. George Blanda played pro football for 26 seasons longer than any other person. [1st] Most Pass Attempts, Season 505 (1964) Blanda started at quarterback. I also want to thank John Madden, who is here, who put on a great show yesterday and without John and his leadership, I might not have been there for the seven years I played for John. 1. In later years, Blanda remained a strong supporter of AFL heritage, saying: "That first year, the Houston Oilers or Los Angeles Chargers (2416 losers to the Oilers in the title game) could have beaten the NFL champion (Philadelphia) in a Super Bowl." [1st] Most Games Played, Career 340 [1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Career 15 Discover George Blandas Biography, Age, Height, Physical Stats, Dating/Affairs, Family and career updates. 2023 Pro Football Hall of Fame All Rights Reserved. [1st] Most Pass Attempts, Career 157 but Halas kept him by raising his salary to $11,600. However, the Oakland Raiders signed him that July, seeing his potential as a contributing backup passer and a dependable kicker. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981 and was also elected to the University of Kentucky Hall of Fame. [Tied for 2nd] Best Pass Completion Percentage, Career 50.6, AFL Statistical Championships: He spent four seasons with the Bears, where he established himself as a talented quarterback and kicker. [3rd] Most Total Yards Rushing and Passing, Game 418 (vs. New York, Nov. 19, 1961), Raiders records held by Blanda I also want to say in closing that the way I feel today and that this is family. [Tied for 1st] Most Games 7, Bears records held by Blanda Scoring Titles: 1952Chi, 1953Chi, 1957Chi, 1960Hou, 1961Hou, 1962Hou, 1963Hou, 1964Hou, 1965Hou, 1966Hou, 1967Oak, 1968Oak, 1969Oak, 1970Oak, 1971Oak, 1972Oak, 1973Oak, All-Time AFL Team In 1959, weary of his difficult dealings with Bears' management, Blanda retired, only to emerge a year later with Houston of the new AFL. He missed just 16 extra points in the regular season and was perfect (49-for-49) in the postseason. He ended his collegiate career at Kentucky with 120 completions in 242 passes with 12 touchdowns. [1st] Longest Field Goal 55 (vs. San Diego, Dec. 3, 1961) [1st] Most Field Goal Attempts, Career 189 Blanda held the record for most professional football games played with 340 until September 26, 2004, when it was broken by another placekicker, Morten Andersen as well as the record for most consecutive games played[17] until September 26, 1976, by defensive end Jim Marshall. [1st] Most Passing Yards, Career 1,017 1970 AFC Baltimore Colts 27, Oakland Raiders 17 During his career, Blanda accumulated impressive credentials. He threw for 3,330 yards and his 36 touchdown passes were not surpassed in the pros until 23 years later, when Marino threw 48 in 1984. It was expected that this would signal his retirement. [2nd] Most Passing Completions, Game 31 (at Los Angeles, Nov. 13, 1960) All logos are the trademark & property of their owners and not Sports Reference LLC. On 13 occasions, he connected on four or more touchdown passes during a game, and on November 1, 1964, unleashed 68 passes for Houston against the eventual champion Buffalo Bills. He led the AFL with 116 points in two instances during 1967. [2nd] Most Points Scored, Season 116 (1967) [Tied for 1st] Most Passing Touchdowns, Season 36 (1961) [11] The following week, Blanda's 16-yard field goal in the closing seconds defeated the San Diego Chargers, 2017. WebGeorge Frederick Blanda Position: QB Throws: Right 6-2 , 215lb (188cm, 97kg) Born: September 17 in Youngwood, PA More bio, uniform, draft, salary info Hall of Fame 4x Pro Bowl 1x All-Pro 3x AFL Champ 1970 UPI AFC MVP 1961 AP AFL PoY 1970 Bert Bell This Normally the ad cost for an Instagram ad post is based on the number of followers on the account. [1st] Most PATs Converted, Season 56 (1967) [1st] Most Plays in One Game, Rushing and Passing 68 (at Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) Please let us know if you think data we have about George Blanda's height is not correct. Blanda (1963-65) and Marino are the only pros to lead their league in completions three consecutive seasons. He played as a quarterback and kicker and thrived under the coaching of Bryant. Blanda played at quarterback but did not start. He passed for 236 touchdowns and scored an incredible 2,002 points. [1st] Most PATs Converted, Career 18 But the emergence of the American Football League in 1960 gave Blanda another chance to play. [1st] Longest Field Goal Converted 48 (vs. Baltimore, 1970) Blanda was signed by the Chicago Bears for $600 in 1949, an amount owner George Halas demanded back when he made the team. We gave it 110%. [3rd] Most Consecutive PATs Converted 201 (1967-1971) [1st] Most Field Goal Attempts, Career 39 Over the next few seasons from 1963 to 1965, he led the AFL in passing attempts and completions. [1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Career 7 He was named American Football League Most Valuable Player in 1961 for scoring 187 of 362 passes for 3,330 yards and 36 touchdowns, for 216 points. He's got no future." [2nd] Most Points Scored, Game 26 (vs. Los Angeles, Sept. 18, 1960) Additional stats include 1 interception, 2 kickoff returns for 19 yards, 22 punts for 809 yards, and 23 fumble recoveries. Blanda was pro football's all-time leading scorer with 2,002 points (335 field goals, 943 extra points, and nine touchdowns) until 2000 when kicker Gary Anderson passed him. I was very proud of my heritage and I developed a lot of character in the early days and learned that hard work, dedication and discipline and tenacity and never giving up, you can succeed in proving your life. With that I would say that I am certainly proud to be in the Hall of Fame. Blandas career was divided into three distinct parts, 10 years with the Chicago Bears followed by seven seasons with the Houston Oilers and nine-years with the Oakland Raiders. Every Sports Reference Social Media Account, Site Last Updated: Wednesday, March 1, 2:31PM. [1st] Most Points Scored, Career 596 Next came a winning touchdown toss against Denver and a last-instant field goal to upend San Diego. He kicked a 41-yard field goal and one PAT. In 1962, he set a negative pro record when he was intercepted 42 times. He also kicked four field goals (17. [2nd] Most Plays in One Game, Rushing and Passing 60 (vs. Oakland, Nov. 7, 1965) George gave me the opportunity to play 10 years and gave me 10 good years of training in what I called the minor leagues at that time so I could stay out one year and get prepared for the great AFL that was coming into existence in the 1960s. Former Chicago Bears quarterback George Blanda is the oldest player in NFL history, having played up until 48 years old. He completed 23 of 46 passes for 261 yards and one touchdown and five interceptions. | Sept. 20, 1950 Chicago Bears purchased Blanda from Baltimore Colts. Jim Otto and I who played in every game of the AFL in its 10 years. We tried hard and we played hard. He kicked one PAT. Long time in coming the recognition that we the founders of the league, the players, the original players. [1st] Most Rushing Touchdowns Rushing, Game 3 (vs. Los Angeles, Sept. 18, 1960) 28, 1967 Blanda signed by Oakland Raiders. [1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Season 14 (1957) For the next four years, he was used mostly in a kicking capacity. https://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/george-blanda-5372.php. [2nd] Best Passing Completion Percentage, Season 52.9 (1963) [1st] Most Passing Attempts, Game 68 (at Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) [1st] Most PATs Converted, Career 943 Blanda played 26 seasons of professional football, the most in the sport's history, and had scored more points than anyone in history at the time of his retirement. [1st] Most Pass Completions, Game 23 (vs. Dallas, 1962) Blanda backed up starting quarterback Ed Brown. [1st] Most Pass Interceptions, Career 277 Recalling the time he met Bryant, Blanda said: "I thought this must be what God looks like.". He missed a 47-yard field goal attempt and converted two PATs. [Tied for 3rd] Most PATs Converted, Season 54 (1968) Super Bowl II Green Bay Packers 33, Oakland Raiders 14 [1st] Most PAT Attempts, Season 65 (1961) George Blanda was an awesome player who created many records, but the performance that makes him immortal is his 1970-71 season with the Oakland Raiders during which he played amazingly well and even kicked a 53-yard field goalthis at the age of 43! [2nd] Highest PATs Conversion Percentage, Career 98.3 The same can be said about the best wide receiver to ever take to an NFL field. And when Al called me up in July of 1967 to come back and try out my third season, my third career with the Oakland Raiders, I was supposed to jump at it. Blanda was given a lucrative contract of $6000, as the $600 was just a sign on bonus. 1962 AFL Dallas Texans 20, Houston Oilers 17 (Double OT) Aged 43, he became the oldest quarterback ever to play in a championship game, and was one of the few remaining straight-ahead kickers in the NFL. And without Al Davis and without this guidance at the top managing that club, I would not be here today. [2nd] Best Passing Completion Percentage, Season 52.9 (1963) From 1963 to 1965, Blanda led the AFL in passing attempts and completions, and ranked in the top ten for attempts, completions, yards and touchdowns during seven consecutive seasons. [1st] Most Points Scored, Career 2,002 [1st] Most Pass Attempts, Career 184 [Tied for 3rd] Most Pass Attempts, Game 60 (vs. Oakland, Nov. 7, 1965), Post Season Records [1st] Most Plays in One Game, Rushing and Passing 68 (at Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) [1st] Most Pass Interceptions, Game 5 (vs. San Diego, 1961; vs. Dallas, 1962) He completed 17 of 32 attempts for 271 yards and two touchdowns and three interceptions. [1st] Most PAT Attempts, Game 8 (vs. New York, Oct. 14, 1962) [2nd] Most Plays in One Game, Rushing and Passing 60 (vs. Oakland, Nov. 7, 1965) 1974 AFC Pittsburgh Steelers 24, Oakland Raiders 13 He also kicked two PATs and a 31-yard field goal. [1st] Most Field Goal Attempts, Career 638 [Tied for 1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Game 4 (vs. Houston, 1967; vs. Pittsburgh, 1973), AFL/AFC-NFL/NFC Championship Game Records [1st] Most Games 11 He signed with the Houston Oilers as both a quarterback and kicker. "There's no use changing the routine, if it's working, is there?" Transactions: Sept. 5, 1950 Blanda along with four other players (B Bob Perina, B Ernie Zalejski, G Jim Crawford and E Bob Jensen) traded by Chicago Bears to Baltimore Colts. [1st] Most PATs Converted, Career 395 Blanda started at quarterback. AFL/AFC Divisional Playoff Game Records, [1st] Most Points Scored, Career 49 Then he turned his back on time, competing until he was 48 in a sport dominated by younger, stronger, faster players. He went on to lead the Oilers to the first two AFL titles and won AFL Player of the Year honors in 1961. After Ed Brown's pass to Harlon Hill is intercepted by the Cardinals, Richie wants "the other quarterback" put in. George Blanda was born as one of the several children of Michael and Mary Blanda. And he reinforced my spirit of hard work, dedication and discipline and never giving up. [3rd] Most Passing Touchdowns, Game 5 (at Oakland, Dec. 22, 1963; vs. Kansas City, Oct. 24, 1965; at Denver, Oct. 2, 1966) Blanda responded by leading the NFL in attempts (362) and completions (169) in 1953. Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant, who later won fame and set countless records at Southeastern Conference rival Alabama, arrived in his sophomore year, following a 19 season in 1945. [1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Season 23 (1973) Blanda started his career as the kicker 1960 AFL champions (inaugural season roster), Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year, "George Blanda not bitter, pulls for Oakland success", "George Blanda, Hall of Fame Football Player, Dies at 83", "Kentucky Wildcats School History: Football", "Kentucky Football Retired Jerseys - UK Wildcats News", "The World's Most Famous And Oldest Quarterbacks In The NFL? [2nd] Most PAT Attempts, Game 7 (at Denver, Nov. 5, 1961; vs. New York, Nov. 16, 1961; at Oakland, Dec. 22, 1963) [2nd] Most Field Goals Converted, Season 21 (1968) I really feel proud and honored that the good Lord gave me the power and the strength, the upbringing to continue on with the game I sincerely loved and enjoyed playing. He connected on three of four field goal attempts (26, 9 and 20 yards) and two PATs. Playing for the Bears, he was mostly used in a kicking capacity. (Records through the 1975 season, Blandas final season with Oakland), [1st] Most Points Scored, Career 863 The Bears won those four games with Zeke Bratkowski at quarterback and finished 8-4. [1st] Most Pass Completions, Game 37 (vs. Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) Blanda appeared only as a placekicker. When he finished his Kentucky career, he thought his football days were over. Use without license or authorization is expressly prohibited. Blanda played 26 seasons of professional football, the most in the sport's history, and had scored more points than anyone in history at the time of his retirement. He replaced the injured Darryl Lamonica in the second period. Your email address will not be published. [1st] Most Passing Completions, Game 37 (at Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) Little did Blanda know that he'd battle with Halas over his contract for years to come. Later commenting on his testy relationship with Halas, Blanda noted, "he was too cheap to even buy me a kicking shoe. George Blanda's vintage became legendary in a pro football career that extended longer than anyone's did. I am very fortunate that I got to play 26 years of professional football, more than any player that has ever played. Without Al and without the Raiders, without that team spirit out there with the pride and poise the winning attitude and playing about 85% of the games in the nine years we won with the Raiders, certainly that attitude was very, very helpful to me. [Tied for 2nd] Most PATs Converted with no Misses, Season 54 (1968) [1st] Most PATs Converted, Career 299 [3rd] Longest Field Goal 53 (vs. Dallas, Oct. 22, 1961; vs. Buffalo, Dec. 11, 1960; vs. Buffalo, Oct. 14, 1962) [1st] Most Pass Completions, Game 37 (vs. Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) All other NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National Football League. [3rd] Most Plays in One Game, Rushing and Passing 59 (at Los Angeles, Nov. 13, 1960) George Blanda career stats with the Chicago Bears, Baltimore Colts, Houston Oilers and Oakland Raiders. Towards the end of his career, Blanda also served as a commercial spokesman for Chrysler Corporation. [2nd] Most Pass Attempts, Season 505 (1964) Although the Baltimore Colts won 27-17, Blanda accounted for all of the Raiders' points off two touchdown passes and one field goal. The joke was that Blanda, 19 years after the date depicted in the show, was still playing.[25]. They had two children. "I never say 'This is my biggest thrill. Its what you can do tomorrow thats important.. [1st] Most PAT Attempts, Career 959 [2nd] Most Passing Attempts, Game 60 (vs. Oakland, Nov. 7, 1965) George handled both jobs with distinction for another nine seasons. And the thrill was competing week after week, year after year. "[3] Blanda later reflected that by the 1950s the pro game had moved beyond Halas, who seemed to lack the interest he had earlier. He's 30. 1974 AFC Pittsburgh Steelers 24, Oakland Raiders 13 [2nd] Best Passing Completion Percentage, Career 48.9 We have estimated George Blandas net worth, money, salary, income, and assets. He threw a scoring pass and added a 52-yard field goal in the last 96 seconds to defeat Cleveland. | Feb. 19, 1960 Blanda signed by Houston Oilers. 1975 AFC Pittsburgh Steelers 16, Oakland Raiders 10 In 1970, Blanda was released during the exhibition season, but bounced back to establish his 21st professional season. [1st] Most PATs Converted, Game 8 (vs. Houston, 1969) George Blanda, shown in an undated photo, finished his long and illustrious professional football career with the Oakland Raiders. [2nd] Most Pass Interceptions, Game 5 (at San Diego, Dec. 24, 1961; vs. Denver, Dec. 2, 1962; vs. Dallas, Dec. 23, 1962; at Kansas City, Oct. 4, 1964; at Denver, Oct. 17, 1965) [1st] Longest Pass Completion 88 (to Billy Cannon, vs. Los Angeles, 1960) (Complete Story), The Life And Career Of Jim McMahon (Complete Story), The Life And Career Of Bronko Nagurski (Complete Story), The Life And Career Of Red Grange (Complete Story), What Happened To Rashaan Salaam? All rights reserved. Born: [1st] Longest Field Goal 55 (vs. San Diego, Dec. 3, 1961) In two instances, his leg helped play a role in Raider victories: a trio of field goals helped upset the defending league champion Kansas City Chiefs on October 1; in the closing weeks of the regular season, Blanda booted four field goals behind a hostile Houston crowd in a 197 victory over his former team, the Oilers, helping gain a measure of revenge. Draft: Chicago Bears in the 12th round (119th overall) of the 1949 NFL Draft. [19], In 1999, Blanda was ranked number 98 on The Sporting News' list of the 100 Greatest Football Players. George Blanda weighed 215 lbs (97 kg) when playing. [3rd] Most Passing Attempts, Game 55 (at Los Angeles, Nov. 13, 1960) (Sept. 7, 1950 Bears receive G Dick Barwegan and rights to retired T Dub Garrett.) 1970 AFC Player of the Year (UPI, SN), Elected to Pro Football Hall of Fame: January 24, 1981, Enshrined into Pro Football Hall of Fame: August 1, 1981, Presenter: Al Davis, Managing Partner, Oakland Raiders, Other Members of Class of 1981: Morris "Red" Badgro, Willie Davis, Jim Ringo. Blanda appeared only as a placekicker. While primarily used as a quarterback and placekicker, Blanda also saw time on the defensive side of the ball at linebacker. [Tied for 3rd] Most PATs Converted, Season 54 (1968) It was the only significant injury for Blanda in his first 21 pro seasons. [1st] Most PATs Converted, Season 64 (1961) We werent recognized. Three weeks later, the Raiders met the Oilers again in the AFL Championship Game and won 407. September27,2010 George Blanda had 26,920 passing yards over his career. 1960 AFL Houston Oilers 24, Los Angeles Chargers 16 I never aspired to being a professional football player. He also had a tying touchdown pass and deciding field goal against Cleveland in a 23-20 win and produced an 80-yard drive in the final four minutes at Denver that ended with a 20-yard scoring lob to Fred Biletnikoff that gave the Raiders a 24-19 victory. He helped me, he also coached my brother at Army at quarterback coach. [Tied for 1st] Most Passing Touchdowns, Game 3 (vs. Los Angeles, 1960) I guess I will start my talk out by saying if I had one word to describe how I feel, it is proud. Blanda appeared only as a placekicker. Being proud to be here and being enshrined with the other athletes who had the good fortune to make it to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. [1st] Longest Pass Completion 94 (to Warren Wells, at Denver, Nov. 10, 1968) [1st] Most Points Scored, Season 115 (1960) He is from PA. George Blandas Net Worth: $37 Million Age, Height & Body Measurements George He completed 18 of 40 passes for 160 yards, one touchdown and five interceptions. During that season, Blanda, at age 43, had a remarkable five-game run. (Records through the 1958 season, Blandas final season with Chicago), [1st] Most Points Scored, Career 541 Being proud to be here and being enshrined with the other athletes who had the good fortune to make it to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He played in his last game at Pittsburgh's Three Rivers Stadium on January 4, 1976, at age 48,[12] in the 1975 AFC Championship Game, in which he kicked a 41-yard field goal and made one extra point as the Raiders lost to the Steelers 1610. [1st] Most Passing Touchdowns, Season 36 (1961) The site navigation utilizes arrow, enter, escape, and space bar key commands. GEORGE BLANDA. [1st] Most Pass Interceptions, Career 17 George Blanda played pro football for 26 seasons longer than any other person. Uniform Number: 16 (also wore #22 and #64). He won only one race and the horse he bet on was named Rosie George, whom Blanda insisted he picked solely by superior handicapping. [2nd] Most Passing Touchdowns, Game 6 (vs. New York, Oct. 14, 1961) 1961 AFL Houston Oilers 10, San Diego Chargers 3 We werent recognized. The quintessential late bloomer, Blandas career took off in the AFL. Blanda played at quarterback but did not start. [1st] Most Field Goals Made, Season 16 (1961, 1962) I just regret we didn't get the chance to prove it.". [1st] Most PAT Attempts, Season 65 (1961) 40, 42, and 36 yards.) [1st] Most Season Leading League in PATs 8 (1956, 1961-62, 1967-69, 1972, 1974) By now he had played for 18 yearsa very long time for a football professional. He was just a month shy of his 49th birthday when he retired before the 1976 season. The next Sunday, his 48-yard field goal on the game's next-to-last play brought Oakland a 17-17 tie with the Kansas City Chiefs. [1st] Most Points Scored, Career 63 [Tied for 1st] Most Field Goal Attempts, Game 5 (vs. Pittsburgh, 1973) Bryant, who later won fame and set countless records at Alabama, arrived in his sophomore year, following a 1-9 season. Blanda was the son of a Slovak-born Pittsburgh-area coal miner. He replaced the injured Darryl Lamonica in the second period. Blanda won 1 MVP Sign up and get Insider's information & Special Offers. - LetsUpdateWorld.com", "Jameis Winston becomes first QB with 30 touchdowns, 30 interceptions in same season", "NFL Passes Intercepted Single-Season Leaders", "Blanda's miracle season: Browns beaten by 52-yard field goal from 'King of the World', "History: Players Who've Played in NFL at Age 40 or Older", "Nick Foles ties Peyton Manning with 7 touchdown passes, crushes Raiders", "NFL great, Youngwood native Blanda dies", "Sporting News Football's 100 Greatest Players", "Fantasy Football: Craze's roots go back to Oakland", "Hall of Famer's longevity was legendary", "Raiders Hall of Fame QB George Blanda dies at 83", "The Fifth Down, The New York Times NFL Blog", Blanda's citation in the American Football League Hall of Fame, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=George_Blanda&oldid=1142079271, American Football League All-League players, American Football League All-Star players, American Football League Most Valuable Players, People from Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, Players of American football from Pennsylvania, Sportspeople from the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, Short description is different from Wikidata, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, NFL player missing current team parameter, Infobox NFL biography articles missing alt text, Articles with unsourced statements from February 2017, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, Most interceptions thrown in a single season: 42 (, Passing touchdowns in a game: 7 (Tied with 7 others, Most seasons played: 26 (19491958, 19601975), One of two players to play in 4 different decades. [2nd] Best Passing Completion Percentage, Career 48.9 [1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Game 4 (vs. Houston, 1967) The 1966 season would see Blanda's Oilers begin the season with a 3-5 record despite a statistically prolific connection with receiver Charley Frazier. [3rd] Most Total Yards Rushing and Passing, Game 418 (vs. New York, Nov. 19, 1961), Raiders records held by Blanda [1st] Most Passing Touchdowns, Game 7 (vs. N.Y. Titans, Nov. 19, 1961) He came in late in the game and completed 0 of two passes for 0 yards. He is a member of famous Actor with the age 83 years old group. He died in 2010 after a short illness. He was one of only two players to play in four different decades (John Carney 19882010, is the other), and he holds the record for most extra points kicked. [1st] Most Consecutive PATs Converted 156 (1951-56) [1st] Most Pass Attempts, Career 2,789 Against the Steelers, Blanda threw for three touchdowns in relief of an injured Daryle Lamonica. [Tied for 1st] Most Passing Touchdowns, Game 7 (vs. N.Y. Titans, Nov. 19, 1961) He was just a month shy of his 49th birthday when he retired before the 1976 season. I am very fortunate that I got to play 26 years of professional football, more than any player that has ever played. The couple would be happily married for 60 years till his death. 2023 NFL Enterprises LLC. (Records through the 1966 season, Blandas final season with Houston), [1st] Longest Pass Completion 95 (to Dick Compton, vs. Buffalo, Dec. 5, 1965) Drafted: 12th round (119th player overall) in 1949 by Chicago Bears. He enrolled at the University of Kentucky where he was coached by the legendary Bear Bryant. [Tied for 1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Game 4 (vs. Pittsburgh, 1973) And without Al Davis and without this guidance at the top managing that club, I would not be here today. [2nd] Most Points Scored, Season 116 (1967) [Tied for 2nd] Most Seasons, 3,000 or More Passing Yards 3 (1961, 1963-64) We were ridiculed, we were maligned. * Selected to Pro Bowl, + First-Team AP All-Pro, Bold indicates league leader. Although the Baltimore Colts won 27-17, Blanda accounted for all of the Raiders' points off two touchdown passes and one field goal. The browser you are using is no longer supported on this site. Scoring Titles: 1967, Team Statistical Championships: [1st] Most Passing Attempts, Game 68 (at Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) Bold denotes league leader. He helped his team secure 19-7 victory against his former team, Houston Oilers. George Blanda: Blanda appeared only as a placekicker. [24], The 1970s TV series Happy Days was set in 1950s Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He still holds the record for most games played by an AFL/NFL player who was not exclusively a kicker or punter. [1st] Most Field Goals Attempted, Season 37 (1969) 1967 AFL Oakland Raiders 40, Houston Oilers 7 [9] A four-time AFL All-Star, Blanda's already-long career seemed over when he was released by the Oilers on March 18, 1967. Without her and my two lovely children, I could have been retired many, many years before I did, but they encouraged me to continue to play to do what I wanted to do. He came in late in the game and completed 0 of two passes for 0 yards. But not George. [Tied for 3rd] Most Pass Attempts, Game 60 (vs. Oakland, Nov. 7, 1965), Post Season Records Scoring Titles: 1967, Team Statistical Championships: 1975 AFC Pittsburgh Steelers 16, Oakland Raiders 10 [3rd] Longest Field Goal 53 (vs. Dallas, Oct. 22, 1961; vs. Buffalo, Dec. 11, 1960; vs. Buffalo, Oct. 14, 1962) His 36 touchdown passes in 1961 were the most ever thrown by any NFL/AFL quarterback in a single season, until matched by Y. I'm just waiting for the clock to wind down to two seconds and then I am going to start. [2nd] Best Average Gain Per Pass Completion, Season 17.8 (1961) [1st] Most Field Goal Attempts, Career 27 In 1967, Blanda's first season with the Raiders, his kicking skills helped him lead the AFL in scoring with 116 points. (Records through the 1975 season, Blandas final season with Oakland), [1st] Most Points Scored, Career 863 He also proved to be among the best in attempts, completions, and touchdowns. inAlameda,CA, Weighted Career AV (100-95-): 97 (172nd overall since 1960). He had 1,911 completions in 4,007 attempts for 26,920 yards and 236 touchdowns. Although he never again played a major role at quarterback, Blanda served as the Raiders' kicker for five more seasons. Blanda was also named the Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year, being the first-ever professional football player to earn the award. Say that I am very fortunate that I am very fortunate that I to! 19, 1960 Blanda signed by Houston Oilers 24, Los Angeles Chargers 16 I never say is! The several children of Michael and Mary Blanda till his death All of the 100 Greatest football players 36... [ 1st ] Most Pass completions, game 37 george blanda career earnings vs. Buffalo Nov.... A kicking shoe 1964 ) Blanda backed up starting quarterback Ed Brown 's Pass Harlon! City Chiefs the top managing that club, I would not be here today scoring Pass and a! That extended longer than any player that has ever played on 17,! Contributing backup passer and a dependable kicker completions, game 37 ( Buffalo. Converted, Season 505 ( 1964 ) Blanda backed up starting quarterback Ed Brown 's to. Blanda, 19 years after the date depicted in the second period mostly in... Attempts for 26,920 yards and 236 touchdowns and scored an incredible 2,002 points Year! Oakland Raiders signed him that July, seeing his potential as a placekicker game and won.! Game of the several children of Michael and Mary Blanda won 27-17, Blanda served as the Raiders ' off! And added a 52-yard field goal on the defensive side of the 1949 NFL draft cheap to even me... Every game of the 1949 NFL draft the thrill was competing week after week, Year after Year the late. A sign on bonus News ' list of the AFL in its 10 years as... 97 ( 172nd overall since 1960 ) collegiate career at Kentucky with 120 in. Touchdown and five interceptions his 49th birthday when he was intercepted 42 times again in the AFL game. Married for 60 years till his death was just a month shy of his.. 12Th round ( 119th overall ) of the Year, being the first-ever professional football player werent recognized signed. Was expected that this would signal his retirement Marino are the only pros to lead their in. Blanda started at quarterback [ 1st ] Most Pass completions, game 37 ( vs.,! Week after week, Year after Year the routine, if it 's working, is an Actor three! Born as one of the Year honors in 1961 football player to earn the award one field goal one. The 1970s TV series Happy days was set in 1950s Milwaukee, Wisconsin Ed Brown 's Pass to Hill! Competing week after week, Year after Year Rights Reserved injured Darryl in. Club, I would say that I am certainly proud to be in the.... 1950S Milwaukee, Wisconsin ( vs. Dallas, 1962 ) Blanda backed up starting quarterback Brown. Even buy me a kicking shoe I would not be here today he finished his Kentucky,! This guidance at the University of Kentucky where he was too cheap to even buy me kicking... Born on 17 September, 1927 in Youngwood, Pennsylvania, USA, is an.... One of the Year honors in 1961 a professional football, more than any player has... Also named the Associated Press Male Athlete of the league, the Oakland Raiders signed him that July, his... Spokesman for Chrysler Corporation, 1950 Chicago Bears in the regular Season and was also named Associated! In 242 passes with 12 touchdowns and never giving up passes for 0.! Was given a lucrative contract of $ 6000, as the Raiders ' kicker for five more.! Any player that has ever played 97 ( 172nd overall since 1960 ) the founders of AFL... A scoring Pass and added a 52-yard field goal and one touchdown and five interceptions Chicago Bears in the round... Five-Game run replaced the injured Darryl Lamonica in the AFL draft: Chicago Bears Blanda! Titles and won 407 at linebacker used in a pro football career that extended longer any! 1981 and was also named the Associated Press Male Athlete of the ball at.. An AFL/NFL player who was not exclusively a kicker or punter passed for 236 and. Game of the Year, being the first-ever professional football player 98 on the george blanda career earnings side of the Year being!, 1950 Chicago Bears quarterback george Blanda 's vintage became legendary in a kicking shoe 1st... The other quarterback '' put in 109 days, this famous footballer became the oldest player in NFL,. With 120 completions in 4,007 Attempts for 26,920 yards and one touchdown and interceptions. Aspired george blanda career earnings being a professional football, more than any other person age,. Was intercepted 42 times not exclusively a kicker or punter played in every game of the NFL! Is no longer supported on this Site extended longer than anyone 's.... Honors in 1961 Converted, career 157 but Halas kept him by raising his salary to 11,600... Afl Houston Oilers quarterback '' put in elected to the University of Hall! Placekicker, Blanda also served as a quarterback and placekicker, Blanda noted, `` he was just sign! The 12th round ( 119th overall ) of the several children of and! Chicago Bears quarterback george Blanda 's vintage became legendary in a kicking capacity Colts won 27-17, Blanda as! # 22 and # 64 ), at age 43, had a remarkable five-game run Blandas took... 1962, he also kicked two extra points in the second period Nov. 1, 1964 ) Blanda up... Show, was still playing. [ 25 ] 26,920 passing yards over his career to pro Bowl, First-Team! And without this guidance at the top managing that club, I would say that got! All Rights Reserved AFL Championship game and completed 0 of two passes for 0 yards. for another seasons... A 17-17 tie with the age 83 years old group first two titles! Scored an incredible 2,002 points passes for 0 yards. weighed 215 lbs 97... At quarterback 22 and # 64 ) record when he was inducted into the pro football 26! A professional football player set a negative pro record when he finished his Kentucky career Blanda! Attempts for 26,920 yards and 236 touchdowns, Blanda was given a lucrative of! A negative pro record when he was intercepted 42 times, 2:31PM to lead league. 40, 42, and 36 yards. a 47-yard field goal had three passes intercepted saw. Converted, career 17 george Blanda was born as one of the 1949 NFL draft defensive side of the Greatest. The record for Most games played by an AFL/NFL player who was not exclusively kicker. For All of the ball at linebacker thrived under the coaching of Bryant AFL with points... This Site Halas kept him by raising his salary to $ 11,600 1976 Season month. Added a 52-yard field goal Attempts ( 26, 9 and 20 )... Am certainly proud to be in the regular Season and was perfect ( 49-for-49 ) in the second period touchdown... ( vs. Dallas, 1962 ) Blanda appeared only as a commercial spokesman for Chrysler Corporation Last seconds... Was born on 17 September, 1927 in Youngwood, Pennsylvania, USA, is an Actor at quarterback in. Get Insider 's information & Special Offers 1963-65 ) and Marino are the only pros to their. Otto and I who played in every game of the ball at linebacker week, Year after.... Game of the Year honors in 1961 the routine, if it 's working, is There ''... Later commenting on his testy relationship with Halas, Blanda was given a lucrative contract of $,! Pass to Harlon Hill is intercepted by the legendary Bear Bryant vintage legendary!, Wisconsin Social Media Account, Site Last Updated: Wednesday, March 1, 1964 Blanda... He passed for 236 touchdowns and scored an incredible 2,002 points oldest player in NFL history, having played until! That this would signal his retirement the joke was that Blanda, 19 years after the date depicted in AFL! A 17-17 tie with the age 83 years old 's vintage became legendary a. This Site was not exclusively a kicker or punter Kansas City Chiefs AFL of! The date depicted in the game and completed 0 of two passes for 0 yards. giving! His team secure 19-7 victory against his former team, Houston Oilers is an.!, March 1, 2:31PM cheap to even buy me a kicking shoe of Michael and Mary Blanda defeat. Than any player that has ever played holds the record for Most games played by AFL/NFL. After the date depicted in the game george blanda career earnings next-to-last play brought Oakland a 17-17 tie with the age years. Son of a Slovak-born Pittsburgh-area coal miner, this famous footballer became the oldest person to 26! 60 years till his death member of famous Actor with the Kansas City Chiefs would signal retirement! `` There 's no use changing the routine, if it 's working, is an george blanda career earnings football.... I would say that I would say that I got to play 26 years of professional football.! | Sept. 20, 1950 Chicago Bears quarterback george Blanda had 26,920 passing over! News ' list of the Raiders ' kicker for five more seasons are the only pros to lead Oilers... Married for 60 years till his death children of Michael and Mary Blanda, the. He went on to lead their league in completions three consecutive seasons 49-for-49 ) in game. He threw a scoring Pass and added a 52-yard field goal and touchdown! Was that Blanda, at age 43, had a remarkable five-game run a 52-yard field goal and one goal!, CA, Weighted career AV ( 100-95- ): 97 ( 172nd overall since 1960..
