George Blanda

 Short one today, I am feeling lazy. When I was doing my little bit of research that I do yesterday for my top 5 QBs article, I came across a stat that I found interesting. The all time single season leader in interceptions thrown is George Blanda. Upon looking at his Pro-FootballReference page, I have determined that this man is my hero. 

In 1962 with the Houston Oilers, George Blanda threw 42 interceptions. In a 14 game season that works out to exactly 3 per game. This is simply an inconceivable stat in today's game. If a QB today had 9 interceptions in 3 weeks, he'd be riding the pine with very little chance he gets to play again. The closest thing I can think of is when the Bills decided to start Nathan Peterman in 2017 and he immediately threw 5 picks. He got 1 more chance the next week then found himself glued to the bench. 

This isn't the crazy part of George Blanda's season though. He was a pro-bowler that year. Yes, he threw 3 picks a game and made the pro-bowl. His career gets even more wacky than that. Blanda started his career at age 22 in 1949 as a kicker. He went on to play 26 seasons, being a QB and kicker from age 25-44 before spending the final 4 years of his career as only a kicker. Blanda went on to make the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The all time single season interceptions thrown leader, a man who set a record that likely will never be broken, is in the Hall of Fame. 

Not much to say today, just felt it was interesting to take a look back and see how much the game has changed today. The passing game has become not only important, but a staple of any good offense. Turnovers have become the most important thing a defense can create. All of these factors play into the fact that we will never see another man like George Blanda. I think that's pretty cool.