Fran Tarkenton

Fran Tarkenton

Fran Tarkenton was born on February 3rd, 1940

Full Name: Francis Asbury Tarkenton
Nationality: American
Profession: Football player
Known For: Minnesota Vikings
Occupation: Quarterback
Sports Career: NFL player
College: University of Georgia
Draft: 3rd overall pick

A legendary quarterback who led the Minnesota Vikings to three Super Bowl appearances, and later became a popular TV commentator and entrepreneur.

Written by: Lisa Chang Lisa Chang

Fran Tarkenton: The Scrambler of American Football

Fran Tarkenton, affectionately known as "The Scrambler," is an American football legend who left an indelible mark on the National Football League (NFL) with his exceptional quarterback skills and unorthodox playing style. Throughout his 18-season career, Tarkenton proved to be a force to be reckoned with, earning numerous records and accolades that solidified his position as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.

Early Life and Education

Born on February 3, 1940, in Richmond, Virginia, Fran Tarkenton grew up with a strong sense of discipline and dedication, thanks to his father, Dallas Tarkenton, a Methodist minister. Tarkenton's athletic prowess was evident from a young age, and he honed his skills at Athens High School in Athens, Georgia, before joining the University of Georgia as a quarterback on the Bulldog football team.

College Football and Early Success

Under the guidance of head coach Wally Butts, Tarkenton led the Georgia Bulldogs to win the Southeastern Conference championship in 1959. His remarkable performances earned him first-team All-SEC selections in both 1959 and 1960, cementing his reputation as a talented young quarterback.

NFL Career and Records

The Minnesota Vikings drafted Tarkenton in the third round of the 1961 NFL draft. Over the course of his 18-season career, he played for the Vikings and the New York Giants, setting numerous quarterback records that stood the test of time. Tarkenton's unorthodox playing style, which earned him the nickname "The Scrambler," allowed him to evade defenders and make improbable plays that left fans and opponents alike in awe.

Post-Football Career and Entrepreneurial Ventures

After hanging up his cleats, Tarkenton transitioned seamlessly into the world of media and entrepreneurship. He served as a commentator on Monday Night Football and co-hosted the popular television show "That's Incredible!" In the business world, Tarkenton founded Tarkenton Software, a computer program generator company, and later became president of KnowledgeWare after a merger. He also toured the United States promoting CASE (computer-aided software engineering) with Albert F. Case Jr. of Nastec Corporation.

Awards and Honors

Fran Tarkenton's outstanding career was recognized with numerous accolades, including:

Legacy and Impact

Fran Tarkenton's influence on American football extends beyond his impressive on-field accomplishments. He inspired generations of quarterbacks with his unique playing style and tenacity. As a successful entrepreneur and media personality, Tarkenton demonstrated the value of hard work and adaptability, serving as a shining example for aspiring athletes and business leaders alike.

Today, Fran Tarkenton remains an iconic figure in the world of American football, his legacy continuing to inspire and motivate individuals both on and off the field.

Timeline
1940
Born in Richmond
Fran Tarkenton was born on February 3, 1940, in Richmond, Virginia. He would go on to become a successful football player and sportscaster.
1961
College Football
Tarkenton played college football at the University of Georgia, leading the team to a national championship in 1961.
1962
NFL Debut
Tarkenton made his NFL debut in 1962, playing for the Minnesota Vikings.
1971
Super Bowl Appearance
Tarkenton led the Vikings to Super Bowl IV in 1971, but lost to the Kansas City Chiefs.
1996
Inducted into Hall of Fame
Tarkenton was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1996, in recognition of his achievements as a player.
Fran Tarkenton

Fran Tarkenton Quiz

What position did Fran Tarkenton play in the NFL?

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FAQ
What was Fran Tarkentons football career like?
Fran Tarkenton was an American football player who had a successful career as a quarterback, playing for the Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants from 1961 to 1979. He was known for his scrambling ability, leadership, and clutch performances under pressure.
What were Fran Tarkentons most notable achievements?
Fran Tarkentons most notable achievements include being a four-time Pro Bowl selection, a two-time All-Pro, and leading the Minnesota Vikings to three Super Bowl appearances. He was also inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1996.
What was Fran Tarkentons post-football career like?
Fran Tarkenton had a successful post-football career as a television personality, businessman, and motivational speaker. He worked as an analyst for ABC Sports and Monday Night Football, and was a successful entrepreneur, founding several companies, including a software company and a chain of gyms.
How did Fran Tarkentons playing style influence other quarterbacks?
Fran Tarkentons playing style, which emphasized mobility and improvisation, influenced many other quarterbacks, including Hall of Famers like Steve Young and Brett Favre. His ability to extend plays with his feet and make something out of nothing has become a model for many modern quarterbacks.
What was Fran Tarkentons impact on the NFL?
Fran Tarkentons impact on the NFL was significant, as he helped to popularize the quarterback position and introduce a new era of mobile, athletic quarterbacks. His leadership and clutch performances also helped to establish the Minnesota Vikings as a dominant force in the league.

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