Sep 7, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; A detailed view of the Chicago Bears helmet during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
We at Bear Goggles On have decided to count down the days until the Chicago Bears’ regular season opener on September 13th against their arch-rivals, the Green Bay Packers. As of today, there are 61 days until the big day, giving us a reason to give you a profile on #61, Bill George.
The Chicago Bears have a long and rich history of great defensive players. It is a tradition that has been passed on for years helping to develop the name Monsters of the Midway. For decades, the Bears have shaped and molded some of the best linebackers in NFL history.
One of those greats was linebacker, Bill George.
Bill George was born on October 27, 1929, in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania. He played college football at Wake Forest College, where he received All-American honors. The Bears selected George in the second round of the 1951 NFL draft. As a Bear, George was a Pro Bowl selection eight times.
Many have credited George as being the first true middle linebacker in football. He helped to change the way teams used linebackers by allowing them to play over the middle to potentially break up passes and force interceptions.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, George was a leader and dominant player for the Bears. He brought a fierce and ferocious way of play that has carried on for generations. George was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1976. Sadly, at the age of 51 George’s life tragically end in an automobile accident in 1985.
The memory and legacy of Bill George carries on today. His jersey, number 61 was later retired by the Bears. George’s contributions to the game of football will never be forgotten.
Next: 2015 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year: Top Ten Candidates