The Sports Then and Now Vintage Athlete of the Month had two
separate careers in pro football that combined to make him one of the legendary
players of his era (or eras).
George Blanda, who played a record 26 years in professional
football and didn’t retire from the NFL until the age of 48, is best remembered
for his nine-year stint as the crusty old kicker and miracle maker for the
Oakland Raiders of the late 1960s and early 1970s. However, his career
transcended generations and connected legends.
The Sports Then and Now Vintage Athlete of the Month was one of the most electrifying players in college football history.
Known as “The Jet” for his incredible speed and agility, 1972 Heisman Trophy Winner Johnny Rodgers was a versatile playmaker who dazzled fans and dominated opponents during his career at the University of Nebraska. His achievements on the field and his impact on college football have earned him a place among the sport’s all-time greats.