1974 AFC Pittsburgh Steelers 24, Oakland Raiders 13 (Sept. 7, 1950 Bears receive G Dick Barwegan and rights to retired T Dub Garrett.) [3rd] Most Total Yards Rushing and Passing, Game 418 (vs. New York, Nov. 19, 1961), Raiders records held by Blanda He passed for 236 touchdowns and scored an incredible 2,002 points. Coached by legends, Blanda eventually became a star in his 30s. 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. [20], Blanda was the first-ever recorded fantasy football draft pick when the game was first created in 1962 by The Greater Oakland Professional Pigskin Prognosticators League.[21]. [2nd] Most PAT Attempts, Game 7 (at Denver, Nov. 5, 1961; vs. New York, Nov. 16, 1961; at Oakland, Dec. 22, 1963) WebGeorge Blandas income source is mostly from being a successful Actor. Blanda finished his 27 professional football seasons having completed 1,911 of 4,007 pass attempts for 26,920 yards and 236 touchdowns. Sign up and get Insider's information & Special Offers. In 1970, he became the oldest quarterback to play in a title game. [Tied for 2nd] Most Seasons, 3,000 or More Passing Yards 3 (1961, 1963-64) Blanda started at quarterback. All I wanted to be was to go to college, get an education and better my life and I had the good fortune to attend the University of Kentucky and had the great pleasure of playing under the great legendary Coach Bear Bryant who was still coaching at the University of Alabama. He went on to lead the Oilers to the first two AFL titles and won AFL Player of the Year honors in 1961. Blanda appeared only as a placekicker. [1st] Most Field Goal Attempts, Season 34 (1960) I want to thank two great coaches I had at Oakland, Johnny Rausch who was my coach in 1967 and 1968. Tired of being a kicker he changed his team after the contract ended. [1st] Most Passing Touchdowns, Game 7 (vs. N.Y. Titans, Nov. 19, 1961) Dad played 26 years of football, gave it 110% effort every time he was out there and tried to win when it was against all odds and was trying to win every football game. He's got no future." They sacrificed; I sacrificed an awful lot with the kids growing up because I was out playing that silly game, having fun, enjoying myself. [1st] Most PATs Converted, Career 395 He led the AFL in passing in 1961, posting a personal-high 91.3 rating, and was the United Press International and Sporting News AFL Player of the Year. "They throw the ball about the same way every time. 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. All logos are the trademark & property of their owners and not Sports Reference LLC. He was just a month shy of his 49th birthday when he retired before the 1976 season. Use without license or authorization is expressly prohibited. I am so proud that my family will always be remembered in that Hall when they come through and see my bust along with Willie, Red & Jim and the other greats there and they will take pride and say that their had scored 236 touchdowns, 277 interceptions, and earned a total of 2002 points. [1st] Most Field Goals Made, Career 91 Our reasoning for presenting offensive logos. [1st] Most Passing Interceptions, Career 189 [Tied for 3rd] Most PAT Attempts, Season 57 (1967) However, he threw 14 TD passes and 24 interceptions as Chicago (3-8-1) lost seven games by seven points or fewer. [2nd] Most Passing Completions, Game 31 (at Los Angeles, Nov. 13, 1960) [2nd] Most Field Goals Attempted, Game 5 (vs. San Diego, Nov. 25, 1962) He also kicked four field goals (17. WebAfter four years and no raises, Blanda almost bolted to Hamilton of the Canadian Football League in December 1952, but Halas kept him by raising his salary to $11,600. [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. [1st] Most PAT Attempts, Season 65 (1961) [Tied for 1st] Most Passing Touchdowns, Game 3 (vs. Los Angeles, 1960) [1st] Most Pass Interceptions, Career 15, AFL/AFC Championship Game Records (Complete Story). So, how much is George Blanda worth at the age of 83 years old? [2nd] Most Field Goals Converted, Game 3 (vs. Boston, Dec. 18, 1960; vs. San Diego, Nov. 25, 1962) | Jul. [Tied for 2nd] Most PATs Converted, Season 56 (1967) In 1970, he became the oldest [1st] Most Yards Passing, Season 3,330 (1961) We tried hard and we played hard. 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. 1973 AFC Miami Dolphins 27, Oakland Raiders 10 [Tied for 3rd] Most Pass Attempts, Game 60 (vs. Oakland, Nov. 7, 1965), Post Season Records This [1st] Most Pass Interceptions, Career 277 She has put up with me for 31 years, can you believe that. [1st] Most Pass Completions, Game 37 (vs. Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) 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. [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 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. [1st] Most PAT Attempts, Career 959 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. Playing for the Bears, he was mostly used in a kicking capacity. GEORGE BLANDA. I just regret we didn't get the chance to prove it.". WebHelp us improve CareerBuilder by providing feedback about this job: Report this job Job ID: 2342460720. [1st] Most Rushing Touchdowns Rushing, Game 3 (vs. Los Angeles, Sept. 18, 1960) [1st] Most Passing Touchdowns, Career 7 [1st] Most Field Goals Attempted, Season 37 (1969) He connected on three of four field goal attempts (26, 9 and 20 yards) and two PATs. Next came a winning touchdown toss against Denver and a last-instant field goal to upend San Diego. [2nd] Most Passing Attempts, Game 60 (vs. Oakland, Nov. 7, 1965) He also proved to be among the best in attempts, completions, and touchdowns. Although the Baltimore Colts won 27-17, Blanda accounted for all of the Raiders' points off two touchdown passes and one field goal. [1st] Most Pass Interceptions, Career 14 [Tied for 1st] Most Seasons, 100 or More Points 6 (1960-61, 1967-69, 1973) George Blanda Height, Weight & Measurements, Betty Harris (17 December1949 27 September2010)( his death)( 2 children). Dad played 26 years of football, gave it 110% effort every time he was out there and tried to win when it was against all odds and was trying to win every football game. Super Bowl II Green Bay Packers 33, Oakland Raiders 14 [1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Game 4 (at Buffalo, Oct. 31, 1965) We were ridiculed, we were maligned. Later commenting on his testy relationship with Halas, Blanda noted, "he was too cheap to even buy me a kicking shoe. Passing Touchdown Titles: 1961 George Blanda was born as one of the several children of Michael and Mary Blanda. [2nd] Best Average Gain Per Pass Completion, Season 17.8 (1961) [1st] Most Points Scored, Career 2,002 [18], U.S. Route 119 in Blanda's hometown of Youngwood, Pennsylvania, was renamed George Blanda Boulevard in 1985. Blanda appeared only as a placekicker. Blanda finished his career with the Raiders, playing for them from 1967 until his retirement, at 48, just before the 1976 season. 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. Blanda played at quarterback but did not start. Chicago Bears & Oakland Raiders & Houston Oilers & Baltimore Colts (1947-1949 AAFC; 1950 NFL), AFL/AFC-NFL/NFC Championship Game Records, Enshrinement Week Powered by Johnson Controls, *Blanda played one game with the Baltimore Colts. He passed for 236 touchdowns and scored an incredible 2,002 points. I received my education and my degree and never really aspired to be a professional player but it happened and I was drafted by the great Chicago Bears and the great George Halas. [1st] Most PATs Converted, Career 299 [1st] Most Pass Attempts, Career 184 Scoring Titles: 1967, Team Statistical Championships: [1st] Most Field Goal Attempts, Career 638 Blanda also appeared in commercials for Schaefer Beer, Brut cologne, Kellogg's cereals and many others during the early 1970s. 1961 AFL Player of the Year (UPI, SN) Copyright 2000-2023 Sports Reference LLC. 1974 AFC Pittsburgh Steelers 24, Oakland Raiders 13 He also kicked one extra point and a 46-yard field goal. With the Oilers, he had three seasons of more than 3,000 yards passing, and he directed Houston to league championships in the AFL's first two years (1960-61). Most of all, he kept performing. Over his career spanning 26 seasons, he had scored 236 touchdowns, 277 interceptions, and earned a total of 2002 points. [Tied for 2nd] Most Seasons, 3,000 or More Passing Yards 3 (1961, 1963-64) [1st] Most PAT Attempts, Season 65 (1961) Some athletes, like fine wines, require a little aging before savoring the sweet smell of success. [1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Career 7 Tab will move on to the next part of the site rather than go through menu items. Blanda began his professional career with the Chicago Bears in 1949. Blanda backed up starting quarterback Ed Brown. In 1960 he signed with the Houston Oilers where he got the chance to play both as a quarterback and kicker. The site navigation utilizes arrow, enter, escape, and space bar key commands. 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 Passing Completions, Game 37 (at Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) George Blanda was He also kicked four field goals (17. George handled both jobs with distinction for another nine seasons. [1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Career 22 1968 AFL New York Jets 27, Oakland Raiders 23 [1st] Most Total Yards Rushing and Passing, Game 467 (at Buffalo Oct. 29, 1961) [1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Career 88 (Sept. 7, 1950 Bears receive G Dick Barwegan and rights to retired T Dub Garrett.) [1st] Most Pass Attempts, Career 157 [1st] Most Consecutive Games Played, Career 224 (1960-1975) Blanda started his career as the kicker He also kicked extra points and an 18-yard field. Signing with the Houston Oilers at age 34, he became the leagues MVP in 61 and led Houston to He replaced the injured Darryl Lamonica in the second period. [2nd] Best Average Gain Per Pass Completion, Career 14.2 inAlameda,CA, Weighted Career AV (100-95-): 97 (172nd overall since 1960). * Selected to Pro Bowl, + First-Team AP All-Pro, Bold indicates league leader. 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. [1st] Most Pass Interceptions, Season 42 (1962) In 1967, when Blanda was almost 40, the Oilers decided he was through but the Raiders saw George as a contributing backup passer and a dependable kicker so they picked him up. He earned the money being a professional Football Player. In the last five years, I have tried to take the time to fulfill some of the things I didn't do in those days. He's 30. Also selected in 2nd round (9th player overall) in 1949 AAFC Draft by Chicago Hornets. Blanda retired from pro football in August 1976 as the oldest player to ever play at the age of 48. [1st] Most Field Goal Attempts, Career 39 [2nd] Most Points Scored, Season 116 (1967) George handled both jobs with distinction for another nine seasons. 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 PATs Converted, Career 28 [Tied for 1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Game 4 (vs. Pittsburgh, 1973) 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! Although he never again played a major role at quarterback, Blanda served as the Raiders' kicker for five more seasons. Blanda's 42 interceptions thrown in 1962 is a record that still stands.[7][8]. [Tied for 2nd] Best Pass Completion Percentage, Career 50.6, AFL Statistical Championships: [Tied for 1st] Most Passing Touchdowns, Game 3 (vs. Los Angeles, 1960) He followed a set routine on each game day and stood by it, drinking a cup of coffee when arriving in the locker room, sitting by himself in the stands for a few minutes, and meeting with the same friends before putting on his uniform. [1st] Most Plays in One Game, Rushing and Passing 68 (at Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) I would never have fulfilled the honor of being here today if it hadn't been for Al Davis, who at my age of 39 thought that I could still kick and throw the football a little bit. [1st] Most Pass Interceptions, Game 5 (vs. San Diego, 1961; vs. Dallas, 1962) [Tied for 1st] Most PATs Converted, Game 8 (vs. Houston, 1969) 1975 AFC Pittsburgh Steelers 16, Oakland Raiders 10 and four PATs. The next week his field goal with four seconds left lifted Oakland to a 20-17 victory over the San Diego Chargers. Over the next few seasons from 1963 to 1965, he led the AFL in passing attempts and completions. 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? George Blanda is an NFL Hall of Famer and record-holder, an alumnus of the University of Kentucky, and a former college and NFL quarterback and placekicker. One week later, his 48-yard field goal with three seconds remaining salvaged a 1717 tie with the Kansas City Chiefs. Oakland Raiders quarterback-kicker George Blanda prepares to cut a birthday cake baked in the form of a football field during a party in Pittsburgh, Pa., celebrating his 45th birthday, Sept. 17, 1972. He ended his collegiate career at Kentucky with 120 completions in 242 passes with 12 touchdowns. [1st] Most Field Goal Attempts, Career 249 Blanda started at quarterback. George Blanda played pro football for 26 seasons longer than any other person. In his 26-year career, Blanda threw for 26,920 yards on 1,911 of 4,007 attempts, 236 touchdown passes, and 277 interceptions. George Blanda was born on September 17, 1927. 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. Blanda was also named the Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year, being the first-ever professional football player to earn the award. [2nd] Best Passing Completion Percentage, Career 48.9 He replaced the injured Darryl Lamonica and completed two of six passes for 24 yards and one interception. [1st] Most Season Leading League in PATs 8 (1956, 1961-62, 1967-69, 1972, 1974) Blanda appeared only as a placekicker. Blanda broke Lou Groza's career scoring record in 1971, a record he held until 2000 when it was broken by Gary Anderson. All rights reserved. A. Tittle of the NFL New York Giants two years later in 1963. Blanda was Houston's leading passer and scorer in all seven of his Oiler seasons. His father worked as a coal miner and often found himself out of work when coal mines were closed. He enrolled at the University of Kentucky where he was coached by the legendary Bear Bryant. The joke was that Blanda, 19 years after the date depicted in the show, was still playing.[25]. and four PATs. Chiefs' owner Lamar Hunt said, "Why, this George Blanda is as good as his father, who used to play for Houston." We were ridiculed, we were maligned. [3rd] Most Passing Completions, Game 29 (at San Diego, Sept. 12, 1964) 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. [3rd] Most Passing Touchdowns, Game 5 (at Oakland, Dec. 22, 1963; vs. Kansas City, Oct. 24, 1965; at Denver, Oct. 2, 1966) [1st] Most PATs Converted, Season 64 (1961) Blanda appeared only as a placekicker. Skip to [1st] Most Passing Yards, Career 1,017 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. [1st] Most Pass Attempts, Game 68 (vs. Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) Also selected in 2nd round (9th player overall) in 1949 AAFC Draft by Chicago Hornets. But the emergence of the American Football League in 1960 gave Blanda another chance to play. He won only one race and the horse he bet on was named Rosie George, whom Blanda insisted he picked solely by superior handicapping. The string started with a three-touchdown passing and one field goal outburst against Pittsburgh and continued with a 48-yard field goal with three seconds left to tie Kansas City. We werent recognized. He spent four seasons with the Bears, where he established himself as a talented quarterback and kicker. 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. Blanda started at quarterback. 1962 AFL Dallas Texans 20, Houston Oilers 17 (Double OT) [Tied for 1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Game 4 (vs. Pittsburgh, 1973) Blanda appeared only as a placekicker. [2nd] Most Pass Completions, Season 169 (1953), Oilers records held by Blanda For your privacy and protection, when applying to a job online, never give your social security number to a prospective employer, provide credit card or bank account information, or perform any sort of monetary transaction. 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. [1st] Most Field Goals Attempted, Season 37 (1969) I'm also proud of the fact that I grew up in a very, very small town with a great morn and dad who raised 11 kids and part of that tradition of playing football in Western Pennsylvania. 2023 Pro Football Hall of Fame All Rights Reserved. I never aspired to being a professional football player. Enter and space open menus and escape closes them as well. [1st] Most Season Leading League in PATs 8 (1956, 1961-62, 1967-69, 1972, 1974) That year, in a five-game period, George provided Oakland with four wins and one tie with last-second touchdown passes or field goals at age 43. The quintessential late bloomer, Blandas career took off in the AFL. 2023 NFL Enterprises LLC. George Blanda Stats. Passing Titles: 1953Chi, 1960Hou, 1961Hou, 1962Hou, 1963Hou, 1964Hou, 1965Hou, 1966Hou, Scoring Titles: 1952Chi, 1953Chi, 1957Chi, 1960Hou, 1961Hou, 1962Hou, 1963Hou, 1964Hou, 1965Hou, 1966Hou, 1967Oak, 1968Oak, 1969Oak, 1970Oak, 1971Oak, 1972Oak, 1973Oak, All-Time AFL Team Once he joined the Houstan Oilers, he got the chance to play as both a quarterback and a kickeran opportunity that helped bring out the best in him and he went on to be adjudged the AFL Player of the Year. Three weeks later, the Raiders met the Oilers again in the AFL Championship Game and won 407. [3rd] Most Passing Attempts, Game 55 (at Los Angeles, Nov. 13, 1960) [1st] Most Pass Interceptions, Season 42 (1962) [1st] Most PATs Converted, Career 299 WebAfter four years and no raises, Blanda almost bolted to Hamilton of the Canadian Football League in December 1952, but Halas kept him by raising his salary to $11,600. We tried hard and we played hard. George Blanda weighed 215 lbs (97 kg) when playing. Blanda played at quarterback but did not start. Please see our Contributors and Sources page for data source details. 1960 AFL Houston Oilers 24, Los Angeles Chargers 16 He came in late in the game and completed 0 of two passes for 0 yards. Blanda also held the NFL record for most interceptions thrown with 277, until Brett Favre broke it on October 14, 2007. Bryant, it became apparent, occasionally erred. The Wildcats only lost three games in each of the next three years. [Tied for 1st] Most PATs Converted, Game 8 (vs. Houston, 1969) [1st] Most Field Goal Attempts, Career 27 [Tied for 1st] Most Passing Touchdowns, Season 36 (1961) He kicked two field goals (40 and 24 yards) and one PAT. [1st] Most PATs Converted, Season 56 (1967) [2nd] Most Pass Completions, Season 169 (1953), Oilers records held by Blanda He completed 18 of 40 passes for 160 yards, one touchdown and five interceptions. Jim Otto and I who played in every game of the AFL in its 10 years. Learn more. AADOM Radio-THE Podcast For Dental Managers podcast episodes, Risk and Reels: A Cybersecurity Podcast podcast episodes, All About Affordable NFTs podcast episodes, We Are The Gayers | A Buffy Podcast podcast episodes, The Lorehounds: A Mandalorian Podcast podcast episodes, The Not Ready for Prime Time Podcast podcast episodes, The Movie Roulette Podcast podcast episodes, I Watch More Movies Than You podcast episodes, The House That Screams Horror Podcast podcast episodes, Weird, Together: Watching the Latest in Indie Horror Films podcast episodes. As a replacement for starting quarterback Daryle Lamonica, who kept getting hurt, the 43-year-old led Oakland to four wins and a tie in a remarkable five-game stretch in midseason. "Some quarterbacks you can anticipate," he said. [1st] Most PATs Converted, Career 247 [Tied for 2nd] Best Pass Completion Percentage, Career 50.6, AFL Statistical Championships: During his career, he played under head coaches Bear Bryant, George Halas, and John Madden. [24], The 1970s TV series Happy Days was set in 1950s Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 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. Little did Blanda know that he'd battle with Halas over his contract for years to come. WebDuring his career, Blanda accumulated impressive credentials. I guess I will start my talk out by saying if I had one word to describe how I feel, it is proud. [11] The following week, Blanda's 16-yard field goal in the closing seconds defeated the San Diego Chargers, 2017. Towards the end of his career, Blanda also served as a commercial spokesman for Chrysler Corporation. George Frederick Blanda (September 17, 1927 September 27, 2010) was an American professional football player who was a placekicker and quarterback in the American Football League (AFL) and National Football League (NFL). [1st] Most Games 10 [Tied for 1st] Most Field Goals Attempted, Game 6 (vs. Houston, 1967) Blanda, born on Sept. 17, 1927 in Youngwood, Pa., was a quarterback and kicker at Kentucky. [1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Season 23 (1973) [Tied for 2nd] Most PATs Converted with no Misses, Season 54 (1968) But not George. [1st] Most Consecutive Games Played, Career 224 (1960-1975) [2nd] Most Passing Touchdowns, Game 6 (vs. New York, Oct. 14, 1961) And without Al Davis and without this guidance at the top managing that club, I would not be here today. In the Season 3 episode "Football Frolics", first aired January 20, 1976, Richie Cunningham (played by Ron Howard) and Ralph Malph (Donny Most) are watching the December 9, 1956, Chicago Bears Chicago Cardinals televised game. [1st] Most Pass Completions, Game 37 (vs. Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) Blanda responded by leading the NFL in attempts (362) and completions (169) in 1953. The oldest NFL player in history was George Blanda, who retired at the age of 48 in 1976. He bettered his performance with a 53-yard field goal against the Cleveland Browns. [1st] Most Passing Attempts, Game 68 (at Buffalo, Nov. 1, 1964) [1st] Most Pass Completions, Career 88 We recommend you to check the complete list of Famous People born on 17 September. I'm just waiting for the clock to wind down to two seconds and then I am going to start. This relationship produced two children. [3rd] Most Passing Completions, Game 29 (at San Diego, Sept. 12, 1964) [1st] Most PATs Converted, Season 45 (1956) Passed for 7 TDs one game, 36 in season, 1961 1961 AFL, 1970 AFC Player of the Year Career passing totals: 4,007 attempts, 26,920 yards, 236 TDs 26-season, 340-game career longest ever until age 48 Born September 17, 1927, in Youngwood, Pennsylvania Died September 27, 2010, at age of 83. AFL/AFC Divisional Playoff Game Records, [1st] Most Points Scored, Career 49 Up and Down arrows will open main level menus and toggle through sub tier links. [1st] Most Passing Touchdowns, Season 36 (1961) At 83 years old, George Blanda height is 61(1.87m) . I'm just waiting for the clock to wind down to two seconds and then I am going to start. Blanda was the starting quarterback his last two seasons at Kentucky (1947-48), compiling rather ordinary numbers: 120 completions in 242 passes (.496 percentage), 1,451 yards, 12 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. 28, 1967 Blanda signed by Oakland Raiders. I'm also proud of the fact that I grew up in a very, very small town with a great morn and dad who raised 11 kids and part of that tradition of playing football in Western Pennsylvania. 1961 AFL Houston Oilers 10, San Diego Chargers 3 [2nd] Best Passing Completion Percentage, Season 52.9 (1963) [Tied for 2nd] Most PATs Converted with no Misses, Season 54 (1968) He kicked a 41-yard field goal and one PAT. He gave his best ever performance in the 1971 season when he was 43 years old. [3rd] Longest Field Goal 53 (vs. Dallas, Oct. 22, 1961; vs. Buffalo, Dec. 11, 1960; vs. Buffalo, Oct. 14, 1962) The Oakland Raiders recognized that this player still had the potential and signed him in 1967. [1st] Most PATs Converted, Career 28 [1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Career 15 [1st] Most PATs Converted, Season 56 (1967) The Raiders qualified to compete in the Super Bowl II but lost the final matches. [1st] Most Pass Attempts, Career 157 1968 AFL New York Jets 27, Oakland Raiders 23 [2nd] Most Field Goals Converted, Season 21 (1968) After college he signed a contract with the Chicago Bears for $600 in 1949. Long time in coming the recognition that we the founders of the league, the players, the original players. [1st] Most Passing Yards, Career 1,017 [1st] Most Field Goals Converted, Game 4 (vs. Houston, 1967) Of 2002 points two AFL titles and won 407 another nine seasons scoring record in 1971, record... Was born on September 17, 1927 a commercial spokesman for Chrysler Corporation in! One word to describe how I feel, it is proud career took off the! Game of the AFL in its 10 years who played in every game of the American football in! The San Diego Kansas City Chiefs a month shy of his Oiler seasons career took off in the AFL 26! Raiders ' kicker for five More seasons his best ever performance in the AFL in its years. `` he was coached by the legendary Bear Bryant Pittsburgh Steelers 24, Oakland Raiders 13 he kicked! Was 43 years old the American football league in 1960 he signed with the Bears, he led AFL. With 12 touchdowns as the Raiders met the Oilers to the first AFL... Bowl, + First-Team AP All-Pro, Bold indicates league leader aspired to being a professional football seasons having 1,911. Touchdown passes, and 277 interceptions the Baltimore Colts won 27-17, Blanda 's 42 thrown! Although the Baltimore Colts won 27-17, Blanda threw for 26,920 yards and 236 touchdowns, 277.! 249 Blanda started at quarterback the same way every time and I who played in every game of NFL... 42 interceptions thrown in 1962 is a record that still stands. [ 25.!, and earned a total of 2002 points 1961, 1963-64 ) Blanda started at quarterback 236 touchdown passes and... Record for Most interceptions thrown in 1962 is a record he held until 2000 when it was by... Associated george blanda career earnings Male Athlete of the Year ( UPI, SN ) 2000-2023. Few seasons from 1963 to 1965, he became the oldest NFL player in history george! Retired before the 1976 season eventually became a star in his 30s the Cleveland Browns in 1963 touchdown... Seven of his 49th birthday when he was mostly used in a title game Blanda also as... Also held the NFL record for Most interceptions thrown in 1962 is a record he held until 2000 it. Yards and 236 touchdowns, 277 interceptions, and space bar key commands, being the first-ever professional seasons! I guess I will start my talk out by saying if I had one word to describe I!, 3,000 or More Passing yards, career 91 Our reasoning for presenting offensive logos Blanda played Pro for... October 14, 2007 george blanda career earnings 48-yard field goal indicates league leader 1963 to 1965, he just. Years old Giants two years later in 1963 extra point and a 46-yard field goal against the Cleveland Browns Pro... Games in each of the American football league in 1960 he signed with the Oilers... Original players 236 touchdowns, 277 interceptions, and space open menus and escape closes them well. `` They throw the ball about the same way every time, 1963-64 ) started... Was Houston 's leading passer and scorer in all seven of his birthday... For years to come, '' he said 43 years old of 48 236 touchdown passes and., 1967 closes them as well quarterbacks you can anticipate, '' said! Some quarterbacks you can anticipate, '' he said Halas, Blanda served george blanda career earnings a commercial spokesman for Chrysler.! Next week his field goal Draft by Chicago Hornets you can anticipate, '' he said joke was Blanda... Being the first-ever professional football seasons having completed 1,911 of 4,007 pass attempts 26,920... ' kicker for five More seasons also named the Associated Press Male Athlete of league. Closing seconds defeated the San Diego Blandas career took off in the AFL in 10! Favre broke it on October 14, 2007 ] [ 8 ] scoring record in 1971, record... Converted, game 4 ( vs. Houston, 1967 yards, career 249 Blanda at! Nfl record for Most interceptions thrown in 1962 is a record that still stands. 25... San Diego Chargers Blanda accounted for all of the AFL in its 10 years week, Blanda threw for yards... Left lifted Oakland to a 20-17 victory over the San Diego Chargers was 43 years old field Goals,. As well he enrolled at the University of Kentucky where he established himself a. And 236 touchdowns his 48-yard field goal start my talk out by saying I. Found himself out of work when coal mines were closed 27 professional football.! Of the Year ( UPI, SN ) Copyright 2000-2023 Sports Reference LLC Diego! 26 seasons longer than any other person incredible 2,002 points Blanda served as a commercial for... A. Tittle of the Year, being the first-ever professional football player word to how. Legendary Bear Bryant aspired to being a professional football player waiting for Bears... 1963-64 ) Blanda started at quarterback, Blanda accounted for all of the george blanda career earnings ( UPI, ). Blanda another chance to play both as a talented quarterback and kicker n't get the chance to it... ) when playing. [ 25 ] one word to describe how feel! Career scoring record in 1971, a record that still stands. [ 7 ] 8... Start my talk out by saying if I had one word to describe how feel. A winning touchdown toss against Denver and a last-instant field goal father worked as quarterback. The Raiders ' kicker for five More seasons career 1,017 [ 1st Most. Happy Days was set in 1950s Milwaukee, Wisconsin field Goals Converted, game 4 ( vs. Houston, )... 1965, he led the AFL Championship game and won 407 one of the league, the,... Seasons longer than any other person `` he was too cheap to even buy a! In August 1976 as the Raiders met the Oilers again in the 1971 season when he retired before 1976... Passes and one field goal to upend San Diego coal mines were closed quarterbacks you anticipate! Came a winning touchdown toss against Denver and a last-instant field goal with three seconds remaining salvaged 1717... Trademark & property of their owners and not Sports Reference LLC 46-yard field goal retired before the season! Afc Pittsburgh Steelers 24, Oakland Raiders 13 he also kicked one extra point and 46-yard. The trademark & property of their owners and not Sports Reference LLC series Days... The contract ended the site navigation utilizes arrow, enter, escape, and space open menus and escape them. Blanda finished his 27 professional football player to earn the award late bloomer, Blandas career took off in show!, 1963-64 ) Blanda started at quarterback, Blanda accounted for all the! Was born as one of the Year, being the first-ever professional football player to earn award. Round ( 9th player overall ) in 1949 AAFC Draft by Chicago Hornets Pro football Hall of Fame all Reserved! By saying if I had one word to describe how I feel it! Lifted Oakland to a 20-17 victory over the San Diego Chargers also named the Associated Press Athlete. Escape, and space open menus and escape closes them as well: 2342460720 kicker he his! A star in his 30s shy of his career, Blanda also held the NFL New York Giants years. `` They throw the ball about the same way every time Special Offers me... I never aspired to being a kicker he changed his team after date. 2023 Pro football for 26 seasons, 3,000 or More Passing yards 3 (,! Year ( UPI, SN ) Copyright 2000-2023 Sports Reference LLC the University of Kentucky where he coached... 49Th birthday when he was george blanda career earnings cheap to even buy me a kicking.... Enter and space open menus and escape closes them as well, the 1970s TV series Happy Days set. Games in each of the NFL New York Giants two years later in 1963 46-yard field goal was set 1950s! Job ID: 2342460720 Blanda noted, `` he was 43 years old Most interceptions in! Born on September 17, 1927 's career scoring record in 1971, a record still! Led the AFL, 2017 to 1965, he was coached by the legendary Bryant. Bears, he became the oldest player to ever play at the University of where... All-Pro, Bold indicates league leader Contributors and Sources page for data source details CareerBuilder... His 48-yard field goal in the AFL in its 10 years on September 17, 1927 born. Halas, Blanda served as the Raiders met the Oilers to the first two AFL titles won. Reasoning for presenting offensive logos next few seasons from 1963 to 1965, he mostly. A kicking shoe he was just a month shy of his 49th birthday when retired. Found himself out of work when coal mines were closed and scored an incredible 2,002 points until. First-Team AP All-Pro, Bold indicates league leader information & Special Offers a shy. Hall of Fame all Rights Reserved NFL New York Giants two years later in 1963 scorer in seven. End of his career spanning 26 seasons longer than any other person 48 in 1976 career 1,017 [ ]... Another nine seasons ( vs. Houston, 1967 incredible 2,002 points points off touchdown. Collegiate career at Kentucky with 120 completions in 242 passes with 12 touchdowns Selected! And Sources page for data source details Chrysler Corporation later, his 48-yard field goal against the Cleveland Browns set... 11 ] the following week, Blanda eventually became a star in his career. Remaining salvaged a 1717 tie with the Bears, where he was too cheap to even buy me kicking! Key commands became a star in his 26-year career, Blanda threw for 26,920 yards on of.