Groza's Greatness

This is a completely random blog about college football. College football awards are named after certain players who excel in a specific area. The Lou Groza award is presented each year to the game’s best placekicker. Not surprisingly, the award is named after former Ohio State kicker and offensive tackle, Lou Groza. Groza only played one season as a Buckeye but received his degree from Ohio State in 1949. Groza fascinates me because he played his entire career for the Cleveland Browns. He was born in Ohio, played at Ohio State, was drafted by the Browns and died in Ohio. Most casual fans don’t remember his contributions as a Browns’ placekicker. For those who don’t really know a thing about Groza, this blog’s for you.
Groza’s number 76 is retired by the Browns. In Cleveland, Groza excelled as the kicker and offensive tackle. He notched a game-winning 16 year field goal with 30 seconds on the clock to win the NFL Championship Game in 1950 to beat the LA Rams. That same year, he led the league in field goals. Groza was so adored by the Cleveland Browns, they eventually named a boulevard after him. He was selected to the Pro Bowl nine times and co-led the NFL in scoring in 1957. Nicknamed “The Toe” for his kicking proficiency, Groza personified the importance of the kicking game in the NFL. He could nail narrow attempts at any angle and is still considered one of the best at his position of all time. Groza went on to play 21 seasons for the Browns until he retired for good in 1967. He won eight championships and holds the franchise records for most games played and career points. Groza was inducted into the pro Football Hall of Fame in 1974.

Parting Points: Pick up the Drew Brees autobiography out in stores today.

Bill Haley’s “Rock Around the Clock” is spinning on the stereo with some Rick Price and Tina Arena mixed in.