Johnny Unitas: America's Quarterback

Johnny Unitas: America's Quarterback 

by Lou Sahadi

Offering an in-depth look into the private life behind one of the most important athletes of the 20th century, this comprehensive biography of Johnny Unitas explores the man who made the quarterback position the crux of a football team's offense and was an icon to millions of fans across the country. From his upbringing near the Monongahela River and becoming the “Golden Arm” to his retirement and battle with numerous physical ailments, this book reveals how he was affected by his boss's bets that were as much as $1 million per game and his livid anger at Colts management over his trade to Chargers. It also includes more than 15,000 words of never-before-published commentary directly from Unitas himself about his career, fame, moments of great personal pride, and others he'd rather forget.


Editorial Reviews
Library Journal

Johnny Unitas won his fame in leading the Colts to a 23-17 win over the New York Giants in the 1958 "greatest game ever played." From humble beginnings in Depression-era Pittsburgh, he found his niche in Baltimore, leading the Colts to two more National Football League (NFL) titles. In 17 seasons with the Colts and Chargers, he won Hall of Fame honors and records and also was named the All-Time NFL team's quarterback. Sadly, his final years were marked by illness, bankruptcy, and displeasure with the current game before his death in 2002. Sahadi (Autobiography of Willie Mays) gives Johnny U a glowing portrait that is suitable for popular collections, especially in the Baltimore area.-Morey Berger, St. Joseph's Hosp. Lib., Tucson Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.