University of Michigan Hall of Honor
Len Ford
- Induction:
- 1996
University of Michigan All-America football star Len Ford started his collegiate career at Morgan State. After a brief stint in the Navy, Ford transferred to U-M in 1945 for one simple reason -- he wanted to play in the Rose Bowl. He was tall, strong and powerful, with soft hands. A left end on defense and offense for most of his college career, he cracked the Wolverines’ starting lineup as a junior in 1946, earning All-America mentions for his defensive play. As a senior in ‘47, Ford was something special. He was the fastest “big man” in the Big Ten and maybe in all of college football. He used his strength on defense to become a dominant player with bone crushing tackles and outstanding pass coverage. As a receiver, his speed, leaping ability and size made him nearly impossible to cover. Not only was Ford named an All-American in 1947, the team went on to win the national championship, and Ford played the last football game of his U-M career in the Rose Bowl, fulfilling his dream as the Wolverines defeated USC, 49-0. After college, Ford played in the annual College All-Star Game in Chicago and was signed by the Los Angeles Dons All American Football Conference. In 11 professional years, he was a first team All-Pro five times and played in four Pro Bowls. He recovered 20 fumbles (an NFL record at the time) and picked off six passes. He finished his pro career after the 1957 season with two championship rings and a reputation for having redefined the position of defensive end. He was posthumously inducted into the National Football League Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. He died in March 1972 at the age of 46.
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