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25 Facts About Greg Landry

Ada Varela

Written by Ada Varela

Modified & Updated: 04 Dec 2024

Expert Verified Editorial Guidelines
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Source: Bleacherreport.com

Greg Landry was more than just a football player; he was a legend. Born on December 18, 1946, in Nashua, New Hampshire, Landry's journey in football spanned over four decades. From his college days at UMass to his 15-year career in the NFL, Landry's impact was immense. He played for the Detroit Lions, where he set multiple records and earned a Pro Bowl appearance. Later, he transitioned to coaching, helping teams like the Chicago Bears win Super Bowl XX. His legacy includes not just his stats but his leadership, resilience, and community involvement. Let's explore 25 fascinating facts about this football icon.

Key Takeaways:

  • Greg Landry, a football legend, led an impressive career from college to the NFL, setting records and earning accolades. His legacy as a versatile quarterback and influential coach continues to inspire the football community.
  • Landry's resilience and adaptability shone through his NFL comeback, trade to the Baltimore Colts, and transition to coaching. His impact in the USFL and coaching career further solidified his lasting influence on the sport.
Table of Contents
01Early Life and College Career
02NFL Draft and Early Professional Career
03Achievements with the Detroit Lions
04NFL Comeback and Trade to Baltimore Colts
05USFL Stint and Transition to Coaching
06Coaching Career and Achievements
07Honors and Legacy
08Greg Landry's Lasting Impact

Early Life and College Career

Greg Landry's journey in football began long before his professional career. His early life and college years laid the foundation for his future success.

  1. Born on December 18, 1946, in Nashua, New Hampshire, Greg Landry grew up with a passion for sports, particularly football.

  2. Attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass), where he played college football for the UMass Minutemen from 1965 to 1967.

  3. Led the team in passing for three consecutive seasons and was named All-Yankee Conference for two years.

  4. Holds a school record with a quarterback efficiency rating of 145.4 in 1965 and shares the single-game mark for highest completion percentage (.800).

NFL Draft and Early Professional Career

Greg Landry's transition from college to the NFL marked the beginning of an illustrious professional career.

  1. Selected as the 11th overall pick in the 1968 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, marking the start of his professional football journey.

  2. Played for the Detroit Lions from 1968 to 1978, spending 11 seasons with the team and establishing himself as a reliable and versatile quarterback.

  3. Had a standout year in 1971, passing for 2,237 yards and 16 touchdowns, earning him a first-team All-Pro designation and his only Pro Bowl appearance.

Achievements with the Detroit Lions

Landry's time with the Detroit Lions was filled with notable achievements and memorable moments.

  1. Set multiple passing records, including a career-best 2,932 yards in 1979.

  2. Known for his rushing ability, running for over 2,600 yards and scoring 21 touchdowns throughout his career.

  3. Holds the third spot on the all-time Lions career passing yardage list with 12,451 yards.

  4. Rushing yards per carry average of ten yards in 1970 remains impressive.

NFL Comeback and Trade to Baltimore Colts

Landry's resilience and adaptability were evident in his comeback and subsequent trade to the Baltimore Colts.

  1. Honored with the NFL's Comeback Player of the Year award in 1976 after throwing for 2,191 yards and 17 touchdowns.

  2. Traded to the Baltimore Colts in 1979, where he passed for a career-best 2,932 yards and 15 touchdowns despite a 5–11 record that season.

USFL Stint and Transition to Coaching

After his NFL career, Landry continued to make an impact in the USFL and later transitioned to coaching.

  1. Played for the Chicago Blitz in 1983 and the Arizona Wranglers in 1984 in the United States Football League (USFL).

  2. Had a brief stint with the Chicago Bears in 1984, starting one game as an emergency quarterback before retiring from playing.

  3. Began his coaching career in 1985 as the quarterbacks coach for the Cleveland Browns.

  4. Joined Mike Ditka's staff as the quarterback coach for the Chicago Bears, helping them win Super Bowl XX in 1985.

Coaching Career and Achievements

Landry's coaching career was marked by various roles and significant achievements.

  1. Served as the wide receivers and tight ends coach before becoming the offensive coordinator for the Chicago Bears from 1988 to 1992.

  2. Hired as the offensive coordinator at the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign in 1993, leading the 1994 Illinois Fighting Illini to a 30–0 win in the Liberty Bowl over East Carolina.

  3. Returned to the Detroit Lions as the quarterbacks coach in 1995, guiding Scott Mitchell to record-setting passing numbers that season.

Honors and Legacy

Greg Landry's contributions to football have been recognized through various honors and his enduring legacy.

  1. Inducted into the National Polish-American Sports Hall of Fame in 2012, recognizing his contributions to American sports and his Polish-American heritage.

  2. Inducted into the UMass Athletics Hall of Fame in 1980 for his outstanding performance during his college years.

  3. Accumulated impressive career statistics, throwing for 16,052 yards with 98 touchdowns and 103 interceptions, and rushing for over 2,600 yards and scoring 21 touchdowns.

  4. Set a record for the longest rush by a quarterback in NFL history at the time with a 76-yard quarterback sneak in the 1970 opener against the Green Bay Packers.

  5. Passed away on October 4, 2024, at the age of 77, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of football players and coaches.

Greg Landry's Lasting Impact

Greg Landry's football journey is a testament to dedication and versatility. From his college days at UMass to his standout years with the Detroit Lions, Landry's skills as a quarterback were undeniable. His 1971 Pro Bowl appearance and 1976 Comeback Player of the Year award highlight his resilience. Transitioning to coaching, Landry's influence grew, mentoring young players and shaping offensive strategies. His roles with the Cleveland Browns, Chicago Bears, and University of Illinois showcased his adaptability. Beyond the field, Landry's community involvement and radio hosting reflected his commitment to giving back. His induction into the National Polish-American Sports Hall of Fame and UMass Athletics Hall of Fame cements his legacy. Greg Landry's impact on football, both as a player and coach, continues to inspire future generations. His story is one of perseverance, leadership, and a deep love for the game.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Greg Landry?
Greg Landry is a name that might ring a bell for fans of American football. He's known for his time as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL), showcasing his skills on the field throughout the late 1960s into the 1980s. With a career that spanned over a decade, Landry made significant contributions to the teams he played for, including the Detroit Lions and the Baltimore Colts.
What made Greg Landry stand out in his NFL career?
One of the highlights of Landry's career was his ability to combine athleticism with strategic thinking. Not only could he execute plays with precision, but his agility allowed him to maneuver out of tight spots, making him a dual-threat quarterback. His performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection in 1971, a testament to his impact on the field.
Did Greg Landry receive any awards or recognition during his career?
Yes, indeed! Greg Landry's prowess on the football field didn't go unnoticed. Apart from his Pro Bowl selection in 1971, he was also celebrated for leading the NFC in passing that same year. These accolades reflect his skill and dedication to the sport.
How did Greg Landry contribute to his teams' successes?
Throughout his career, Landry was instrumental in leading his teams to numerous victories. His strategic plays and ability to read the game made him a valuable player. Whether it was a crucial pass or a surprising run, Landry knew how to make the most of every play, contributing significantly to the successes of his teams.
What is Greg Landry known for after his NFL career?
After hanging up his cleats, Landry didn't stray far from the sport he loves. He transitioned into coaching, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience with younger players. His journey through the NFL equipped him with insights that have made him a respected figure in coaching circles.
Can you tell me about a memorable game in Greg Landry's career?
Sure! One game that stands out is when Landry led the Detroit Lions to a thrilling victory against their rivals. His performance was a showcase of his skill set, from pinpoint passes to strategic runs. This game is often cited by fans as a prime example of Landry's impact on the field.
Where can I find more information about Greg Landry's football career?
For those looking to dive deeper into Greg Landry's career, numerous resources are available. Sports history websites, NFL archives, and even documentaries about football history offer detailed insights into his achievements and contributions to the sport. These platforms provide a comprehensive look at Landry's legacy in the NFL.

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