Indiana University Athletics
Celebrating Black History Month - George Taliaferro
2/4/2007 12:00:00 AM | Football
Feb. 4, 2007
Every day during February, the Big Ten Conference is profiling African Americans from its member schools in celebration of Black History Month. The profile for Feb. 3-4 is of former Indiana football star George Taliaferro, entitled "When Your Word is Your Bond, and Legacy."
Indiana's George Taliaferro is one of the most prominent figures in the National Football League, despite having only played in 61 games, rushing for 1,794 yards and throwing for 843. In 1949, Taliaferro was selected in the 13th round as the 129th pick overall by the Chicago Bears, making him the first African-American to be drafted by an NFL team.
A standout at defensive back, Taliaferro led the Hoosiers to their first Big Ten Championship in 1945, earning first-team All-America honors for his efforts. During the season, he amassed 719 yards, which included a pair of impressive touchdowns against Minnesota - a kickoff return for 95 yards and an 82-yard interception return as well. Not only was Taliaferro a top defender, but he also led Indiana in passing, rushing, and punting too.
Click here to read the rest of the story on the Big Ten website.
Click here for the Big Ten's Black History Month page.
