Baugh, Sammy

Baugh, Sammy

(Samuel Adrian Baugh), 1914–2008, American football player, b. near Temple, Tex. The first great passer in the game, "Slingin' Sam" played for Texas Christian Univ. (1934–36) and the Washington Redskins (1937–52), helping the latter win two National Football League championships. An excellent punter and defensive back as well, he led the NFL in passing, punting, and interceptions in 1943, and was a six-time All-Pro. When Baugh retired, he held most of the NFL's passing records. He subsequently coached college and professional football teams.

Baugh, (Samuel Adrian) Sammy

(1914– ) football player; born in Temple, Texas. After earning All-America honors as a triple-threat tailback at Texas Christian University in 1936, he led the Washington Redskins to National Football League (NFL) championships in 1937 and 1942. The success of his unprecedented pinpoint passing was influential in turning professional football toward a modern aerial style of attack. In his 15-season career, "Slingin' Sammy" led the NFL in passing six times.