Blanda, George (1927-2010), was one of the greatest quarterbacks and placekickers in professional football history. Blanda scored 2,002 points during his National Football League (NFL) career, a league record until 2000, when Gary Anderson broke it. The current recordholder is Morten Andersen, who scored 2,544 career points. Blanda holds the records for most extra point kicks attempted (959) and most extra point kicks made (943). Blanda played professional football for a record 26 seasons.
Blanda began his professional career with the Chicago Bears of the NFL from 1949 to 1958. Blanda was also with the Baltimore Colts for one game in 1950. After a one-year retirement, he played with the Houston Oilers of the American Football League (AFL) from 1960 to 1966. He finished his career with the Oakland (now Las Vegas) Raiders of the AFL and NFL from 1967 to 1976. Blanda played his last game at the age of 48 on Jan. 4, 1976, in the American Football Conference (AFC) championship game. Blanda led the NFL in pass attempts and completions in 1953. While starring for the Oilers, he led the AFL in pass attempts and pass completions three consecutive years, from 1963 through 1965.
Blanda captured the imagination of sports fans with his brilliant play after he reached his 40’s. He became known for leading his teams to come-from-behind victories, especially late in his career. Over five consecutive games in 1970, Blanda led Oakland to four victories and a tie, mostly with last-quarter touchdown passes or field goals.
George Frederick Blanda was born on Sept. 17, 1927, in Youngwood, Pennsylvania. He played for the University of Kentucky and was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 12th round in 1949. Blanda was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981. He died on Sept. 27, 2010.
See also Las Vegas Raiders ; Tennessee Titans .
