Jerry Blanton: From UK Freshman Starter to NFL Veteran
- kentuckysportsmemo
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
About the Guest(s):
Jerry Blanton: Jerry Blanton is a former University of Kentucky Wildcat football player known for his pioneering role as the first freshman ever to start in UK football history. Blanton, who hailed from Toledo, Ohio, managed to carve a niche for himself as a formidable linebacker and fullback. Post his collegiate career, he ventured into professional football, playing seven seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, after an initial stint with the Buffalo Bills that reflected the challenges and unpredictable nature of professional sports recruitment.
Episode Summary:
This week on Kentucky Sports Memories, Gary Fogle revisits the remarkable football journey of Jerry Blanton, highlighting his profound impact as a University of Kentucky Wildcat. From being the first freshman to start in UK football history to overcoming professional setbacks, Blanton's story is one of resilience, strategic decision-making, and the pursuit of excellence on and off the field.
Jerry Blanton shared insights into his unique experiences, like joining the University of Kentucky after a memorable recruitment encounter at Ohio State, opting for a basketball-centric school to create a legacy in football. His narrative also dives into the dynamics of the 1976 Peach Bowl, where an important decision on probation shaped UK's future in collegiate bowls. His transition to professional football saw him navigate through the Buffalo Bills' challenging roster cuts, eventually finding a place with the Kansas City Chiefs—thanks to his connection with Art Still. This episode provides a rich tapestry of his career highs and lows, offering listeners a deeper understanding of college football's historical landscape through Jerry's personal journey.
Key Takeaways:
Jerry Blanton was a trailblazer at the University of Kentucky, notably becoming the first freshman to start in varsity football.
Despite geographical expectations to play for Ohio State or Michigan, Blanton chose Kentucky, attracted by their vision for the football program and the university's basketball prestige.
The decision around the 1976 Peach Bowl probation highlights the critical strategic choices in collegiate sports programs.
Blanton faced challenges in the NFL but exemplified resilience, eventually securing a place with the Kansas City Chiefs through persistence and networking.
His story is not just about sports achievements but also about navigating institutional decisions and personal connections to progress professionally.
Notable Quotes:
"Well, when you grow up in Ohio you supposed to go to Michigan or Ohio State... I knew that this wasn't a school for me." — Jerry Blanton on choosing UK over Ohio State and Michigan.
"They wanted to build the culture of the football program like the basketball team." — Jerry Blanton on the University of Kentucky's vision.
"I was the last person cut at Buffalo. And I remember him calling me into the office saying, young man, I'm not gonna lie to you, you should have made this team." — Jerry Blanton on his NFL draft experience.
"I think we had a choice, get on probation our junior year or our senior year. All the players voted to go on probation our junior year." — Jerry Blanton on the pivotal decision regarding the 1976 Peach Bowl.
"I can come here and start." — Jerry Blanton’s decisive thought on joining the University of Kentucky.
Resources:
History of the Wildcat Lodge and its significace in UK Athletics
Details on the 1976 Peach Bowl and the recruitment violations faced by UK
Kansas City Chiefs' historical roster information during Jerry Blanton's era
Join Gary Fogle as he continues to explore the stories behind the events and figures that have left a lasting mark on the world of sports in Kentucky. Listen to the full episode for a deeper dive into Jerry Blanton’s football journey and stay tuned for more captivating episodes of Kentucky Sports Memories.
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