Harry Agganis

Bio

Known as the "Golden Greek," the arrival of Harry Agganis heralded the emergence of Boston University as a major-college football program. In his first six games as a collegian, Agganis led the Terriers to six victories as the BU offense averaged nearly 40 points a game. Against West Virginia, he threw for three touchdowns and ran for another in a 52-20 victory. His collegiate career was interrupted the following season as Agganis spent the 1950 season in the Marine Corps. Returning to Boston just 40 hours after his discharge, he opened the 1951 season passing for two touchdowns and scoring another. After the season Agganis was named as BU's first first-team All-America. Injuries caused him to play in only seven games his senior year yet he was named to play in the Senior Bowl. In his last collegiate game he was named as the game's Most Valuable Player. A versatile player he held career BU records for interceptions (27) and punting average (39.5). A first round draft choice of the Cleveland Browns, he passed up a pro football career to play baseball with the Boston Red Sox. Tragically he died during the 1955 season of a pulmonary embolism. Boston University has retired his jersey number (33) and named its Most Valuable Player Award in his honor.

Career Highlights

• 1951 First Team All-America