Bob Anderson

Bio

Despite having an injury-shortened career, Bob Anderson earned election to the College Football Hall of Fame. “He did everything well, running, blocking, tackling, passing, defending, punting," noted coach Earl “Red” Blaik. He broke into the national spotlight his sophomore season when he rushed for 186 yards against Notre Dame, including an 81-yard touchdown run. That season he also had a 214-yard day against Utah, and finished the year with 983 yards setting an Army single-season record. His play earned him consensus All-America recognition as he placed seventh in the Heisman voting. As a junior, he teamed with Heisman Trophy winner Pete Dawkins to lead Army to an 8-0-1 record and a number three national ranking. He showed his great versatility in the opening game of the season by throwing two touchdowns passes, catching a pass for a score, rushing for 64 yards and making one interception. For the year he rushed for 564 yards out-gaining his Heisman Award wining teammate. Anderson once again gained All-America notice. In the second game of his senior year he tore the cartilage in his knee, which altered his role for the rest of the season. Despite the injury he led Army in rushing for the third consecutive year. Anderson was drafted by the New York Giants, but needed to fulfill his military obligations. He joined the Giants in 1964, suffering a career-ending knee injury.

Career Highlights

• 1958 First Team All-America
• 1957 Consensus All-America
• 1957 Heisman - Seventh