Thurman McGraw

Bio

Thurman "Fum" McGraw was fresh from action with the U.S. Marine Corps in World War II when he enrolled at Colorado State in 1946. And it didn't take long before he began making his mark as an exceptional football talent. McGraw called upon lessons learned as a boxer and wrestler to fashion himself into a special football player. His arm strength was crushing to opposing players and his agile style developed through wrestling served him well when fending off enemy linemen. Colorado State finished a dismal 2-7-0 in McGraw's freshman season, but things would change quickly. As a sophomore, McGraw helped his Rams post a 5-4-1 mark - the team's best record in 11 years. In 1948, everything came together for Colorado State, as the Rams posted surprising upsets over rivals Utah State, Wyoming, Brigham Young and arch rival Colorado. The 1949 campaign, McGraw's last as a four- year letterman, was even better for the Rams as they logged an impressive 9-1-0 record marred only by a loss to Wyoming. After graduation, McGraw joined the Detroit Lions and captured Rookie of the Year and All-Pro honors. Years after his playing days he was known for a song he sang to CSU teams known as "Fum's Song."

Career Highlights

• 1949 First Team All-America
• 1948 First Team All-America