Bill Banker

Bio

The "Blond Blizzard" - fast, shifty, his sun-bleached hair looked a blur when he ran helmet-less through the defense. Bill Banker was one of the flashiest backs in Tulane football history, and even today, remains among the school's all-time statistical leaders. A 1929 first-team All-America, he held the Tulane school record for career scoring (263 points), career touchdowns (37), touchdowns in a single game (4), most rushes in a career (515), most rushes in a game (43) and average yards rushing in a game (93.2). In his senior year he led Tulane to an undefeated season. After his final game in 1929, Banker went to Hollywood, signed a five-year contract with Warner Brothers, appeared in a series of films and finally talked the studio into releasing him from his agreement in order to return to Tulane to continue his studies. To pay for his education he played professionally with the Memphis Tigers. He graduated with a degree in business administration and went into the oil business. He became president of both the Pinnacle Oil company and Southern Solvents Chemical Company before his retirement.

Career Highlights

• 1929 First Team All-America
• 1928 Second Team All-America