National Champion, 2-time All-American, and a member of both the College & Pro Football Halls of Fame, Slingin’ Sammy Baugh revolutionized football
45 | QB Sam Baugh (1934-36)
The definition of a “do-it-all” athlete, Slingin’ Sammy Baugh was an All-SWC third baseman for TCU Baseball in addition to being a three-way superstar for the Horned Frogs on the football field, playing quarterback, defensive back, and punter. Along with TCU head coach Dutch Meyer, Baugh revolutionized the way football was played, utilizing the forward pass in ways never before seen. A First-Team All-Southwest Conference and First-Team All-American in 1935 and 1936, leading the nation in passing and punting both seasons. Baugh led the Horned Frogs to its first ever National Championship following a 12-1 season in 1935 and Sugar Bowl victory over LSU. The Following season, Baugh would lead the Frogs to a 9-2-2 record and a win in the first ever Cotton Bowl, where he was named Offensive MVP. Baugh’s number 45 jersey is one of just three retired jerseys for TCU Football and TCU’s indoor practice facility is named in his honor. He closed his collegiate career by starring in the College All-Star Game, defeating the reigning NFL Champion Green Bay Packers.
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A First Round selection by the Washington Redskins in the 1937 NFL Draft, where he would start as a rookie at quarterback, safety, and punter, setting NFL records for pass yards and completions, leading Washington to an NFL Championship victory. Baugh turned in one of the greatest single-season campaigns in NFL history in 1943, leading the league in passing, punting, and defensive interceptions, again reaching the NFL Championship game. Baugh would spend 16 seasons with Washington, an 8-time All-Pro, winning two NFL Championships, and named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame with his No. 33 retired by the franchise.