Early Life and Career:
* Full Name: Harold Edward Grange
* Born: June 13, 1903, in Forksville, Pennsylvania
* Nickname: "The Galloping Ghost"
* College: University of Illinois
* Position: Running back
* Years at Illinois: 1923-1925
Record-Breaking Achievements:
* "The Galloping Ghost" nickname: Coined by sportswriters due to his electrifying speed and elusiveness on the field.
* Unprecedented popularity: Grange's fame as a player transcended sports, making him a national icon.
* Record-setting games: He set numerous NCAA records for rushing, including a record 253 yards against Michigan in 1924.
* "The Four Horsemen" game: Grange's performance against Michigan in 1924 was a highlight of his career, earning him the moniker "The Galloping Ghost". The game is still remembered as a defining moment in college football history.
Professional Career and Legacy:
* Professional debut: Grange joined the NFL's Chicago Bears in 1925, where he was paid $10,000 (a then-unheard-of salary).
* Impact on the NFL: He was a key player in bringing attention and popularity to the fledgling league.
* Post-NFL career: Grange worked in radio broadcasting and later became a businessman.
* Legacy: Grange's impact on the game of football is still felt today. He is considered one of the greatest players of all time, and his nickname "The Galloping Ghost" remains a legendary term in football history.
* Hall of Fame: Grange was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963.
Additional Facts:
* Grange was a skilled athlete in other sports like baseball, track, and basketball.
* He was a popular figure in the media, appearing in films and on radio.
* His fame even inspired a popular candy bar named after him.
* He was a fierce competitor but also known for his sportsmanship and fair play.
Red Grange was a true icon in the world of sports and a pioneer who helped shape the game of football. His legacy continues to inspire generations of athletes and fans.