George Blanda's football career is a remarkable tale of longevity and adaptability in the world of professional sports. Born on September 17, 1927, in Youngwood, Pennsylvania, Blanda attended the University of Kentucky, where he played under the legendary coach Paul "Bear" Bryant. His college career set the stage for what would become one of the longest professional football careers in history.

Blanda entered the professional arena when he was drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1949. Initially, he played as a quarterback and kicker, a dual role that would define much of his career. Under the guidance of George Halas, the Bears' head coach and owner, Blanda honed his skills, although his early years were marked by limited playing time and a focus on kicking duties.

In 1958, after a decade with the Bears, Blanda retired briefly due to dissatisfaction with his role. However, the formation of the American Football League (AFL) in 1960 provided him with a new opportunity. He joined the Houston Oilers, where he was given the chance to showcase his abilities as a starting quarterback. Blanda thrived in the AFL, leading the Oilers to the league's first two championships in 1960 and 1961. His performance during these years was outstanding, earning him the AFL Most Valuable Player award in 1961.

Blanda's tenure with the Oilers lasted until 1966, after which he was released. Yet, his career was far from over. The Oakland Raiders signed him, and it was with this team that Blanda became a symbol of endurance and versatility. As a Raider, he played primarily as a kicker but also served as a backup quarterback. His most memorable season came in 1970 when, at the age of 43, he played a crucial role in several games, leading the Raiders to a series of last-minute victories. This remarkable performance earned him the Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year award.

Throughout his career, Blanda was known for his ability to perform under pressure, particularly in clutch situations. His record for the most combined points in NFL and AFL history stood for many years, a testament to his scoring ability both as a kicker and a quarterback. Blanda's career spanned 26 seasons, a record at the time, and he retired at the age of 48, having played 340 games, another record for a professional football player.

George Blanda's legacy is enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, into which he was inducted in 1981.

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