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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2009
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 OBITUARY 
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College Football Great 'Doc' Blanchard Dies at 84

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(Newser) – Felix “Doc” Blanchard, who won the 1945 Heisman Trophy as part of Army’s famed “Mr. Inside and Mr. Outside” backfield tandem, died yesterday of pneumonia, ESPN reports. The legendary fullback, linebacker, placekicker, and punter was 84. In 1944-46, Blanchard— “Mr. Inside” to fellow Heisman winner Glenn Davis’ “Mr. Outside”—led Army to a 27-0-1 record, scoring 38 touchdowns.

Blanchard was the first college junior to win the Heisman. Though a promising professional career beckoned—he was the Pittsburgh Steelers' third pick in the 1946 NFL draft—Blanchard was required to stay in the military. After West Point, he joined the Air Force, and piloted jets in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. At the time of his death, he was the oldest living Heisman winner.

Blanchard (35) weaves his way through three Michigan men.
Blanchard (35) weaves his way through three Michigan men.   (AP Photo)
Army football player Felix
Army football player Felix "Doc" Blanchard in 1945.   (AP Photo)
Blanchard, right, with his Heisman Trophy.
Blanchard, right, with his Heisman Trophy.   (AP Photo)
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ghhugh
Jun 21, 09 6:38 PM CDT
"Doc...Thank you for your service as an Athlete and a Military Man. You made us proud., Reply
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