Sammy Baugh #33: The Washington Legend Who Changed Football

Imagine a football player who could throw like a quarterback, kick like a punter, and defend like a top safety. That was Sammy Baugh. He wasn't just good; he changed the game forever.

Sammy Baugh was more than just a player for the Washington Redskins (now Commanders). He was a symbol of versatility and skill. This article will explore how "Slingin' Sammy" revolutionized football with his amazing talent in passing, punting, and defense.

Early Life and College Career

From Texas to TCU: The Making of a Star

Born in Temple, Texas, Baugh grew up surrounded by football. His early years were spent honing his skills on the dusty fields of West Texas. It didn't take long to realize football would be his life. He quickly became a local star.

TCU Highlights: Rose Bowl and National Recognition

Baugh went to Texas Christian University (TCU). There, he shined as a football star. He took TCU to the Rose Bowl, showing off his arm and athleticism. People across the country started noticing him. He earned national recognition for his skills. He became one of the most exciting college players.

Sammy Baugh's Arrival in Washington

The Redskins Draft "Slingin' Sammy"

The Washington Redskins saw something special in Sammy Baugh. In the 1937 NFL Draft, they picked him sixth overall. The team needed a star, and they believed Baugh could be their guy. They saw him as the future of the franchise.

Immediate Impact: Transforming the Redskins Offense

Baugh changed the Redskins' offense right away. His passing skills opened up new options. The team could now throw the ball effectively. He quickly became a fan favorite. He turned the Redskins into a team to watch.

The Triple Threat: Passing, Punting, and Defense

Revolutionizing the Passing Game: Accuracy and Innovation

Sammy Baugh didn't just throw passes; he painted masterpieces. His accuracy was unreal. He threw with power and precision. He made the passing game an essential part of football. He elevated the game with his skill.

Punting Power: A Weapon on Special Teams

Baugh's punting was also a weapon. He could kick the ball a mile high. This gave the Redskins great field position. Opponents feared his booming kicks. It was a strategic edge that helped the team win.

Defensive Prowess: Interceptions and Versatility

Baugh also played defense. He snagged interceptions and made big plays. He proved he could do it all. This made him even more valuable to the Redskins. He was a true triple threat.

Key Moments and Achievements

Championship Victories: Leading the Redskins to Glory

Sammy Baugh led the Redskins to multiple championships. These wins cemented his legacy in Washington. Fans celebrated his leadership and skill. He brought glory to the franchise.

Individual Accolades: All-Pro Selections and Records

Baugh earned many individual awards. He was an All-Pro multiple times. He set records that stood for years. His stats showed how dominant he was.

Legacy and Influence on Modern Football

Sammy Baugh's Lasting Impact: Quarterbacks and Beyond

Sammy Baugh changed how quarterbacks play the game. He inspired generations of players. His style of play influenced the modern NFL. Quarterbacks today owe him a debt of gratitude.

The Hall of Fame and Enduring Recognition

Sammy Baugh is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This shows how great he was. People still talk about his impact on football. His legacy continues to inspire.

Conclusion

Sammy Baugh's contributions to the Washington Redskins and football are amazing. His skills in passing, punting, and defense set him apart. He truly changed the game. Baugh remains a pioneer and legend of football.### Key Points

- Research suggests Sammy Baugh was a legendary American football quarterback who played for the Washington Redskins, wearing jersey number 33.

- It seems likely he played from 1937 to 1952, leading the team to two NFL championships and being the first quarterback inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

- The evidence leans toward his number 33 being retired by the team in 1980, honoring his contributions as a pioneer in the forward pass.

### Early Life and College Career

Sammy Baugh was born on March 17, 1914, in Temple, Texas. He attended Texas Christian University (TCU), where he excelled in both football and baseball, leading TCU to a Southwest Conference championship in 1935 and earning All-American honors.

### Professional Career with Washington

Baugh played for the Washington Redskins from 1937 to 1952, drafted in the first round of the 1937 NFL Draft. He wore jersey number 33 throughout his career, becoming known for his exceptional passing skills and leading the league in passing yards five times and touchdown passes four times. His leadership helped the team win NFL championships in 1937 and 1942, marking significant achievements.

### Legacy and Honors

Baugh's impact on football is profound, with his number 33 retired by the Washington team in 1980, a rare honor. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963 as the first quarterback, underscoring his pioneering role in the forward pass. His career statistics include 21,886 passing yards and 187 touchdown passes, ranking high at retirement.

### Unexpected Connection: Family and Coaching

An interesting aspect is his post-retirement involvement, coaching the New York Titans (now Jets) and scouting for the Houston Oilers, reflecting his deep ties to football beyond playing, influenced by his family's athletic background.

---

### Survey Note: Comprehensive Analysis of Sammy Baugh, Jersey Number 33, and Washington Redskins Football

Sammy Baugh, jersey number 33, and the Washington Redskins (now Washington Commanders) are interconnected through his illustrious career as an American football quarterback from 1937 to 1952, marking a significant chapter in NFL history. This analysis explores his early life, professional tenure, achievements, and legacy, providing a detailed examination supported by citations and organized tables.

#### Early Life and College Career

Sammy Baugh, born on March 17, 1914, in Temple, Texas, grew up in a family with athletic inclinations, with his father involved in sports. He attended Texas Christian University (TCU) in Fort Worth, Texas, where he played both football and baseball, showcasing his versatility. As a quarterback for TCU, Baugh led the team to a Southwest Conference championship in 1935 and was named an All-American, highlighting his early prowess, as detailed in [Sammy Baugh - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sammy_Baugh). His college career, from 1934 to 1936, set the stage for his professional success, with a notable performance in the 1935 Cotton Bowl Classic.

#### Professional Career with the Washington Redskins

Drafted in the first round of the 1937 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins, Baugh quickly became a cornerstone of the team, wearing jersey number 33 throughout his career. His tenure from 1937 to 1952 saw him play 16 seasons, a remarkable feat for the era, with the team based in Washington, D.C., not to be confused with the state of Washington, which has the Seattle Seahawks as its NFL team, as clarified in [Washington Commanders - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Commanders).

Baugh's impact was immediate, leading the Redskins to their first NFL championship in 1937, defeating the Chicago Bears 28-21, with his passing prowess on display. He repeated this success in 1942, winning another championship against the Bears, 14-6, as noted in [Washington Redskins Championships](https://www.profootballhof.com/teams/washington-redskins/team-history/). His career statistics include 21,886 passing yards, ranking 17th all-time at retirement, and 187 touchdown passes, ranking 10th, with a career completion percentage of 56.5%, revolutionary for the time, as seen in [Sammy Baugh Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Pro-Football-Reference.com](https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BaugSa00.htm).

He led the league in passing yards five times (1937, 1940, 1945, 1947, 1949) and in touchdown passes four times (1937, 1940, 1945, 1947), showcasing his consistency. Baugh was also a versatile player, leading the league in punting average three times (1940, 1941, 1943) with a career average of 45.1 yards per punt, one of the highest in NFL history, adding to his legacy as a multi-faceted athlete.

#### Jersey Number 33 and Team Recognition

Baugh wore number 33 throughout his career, a number that became synonymous with his name. The Washington team retired his number in 1980, a significant honor, as confirmed by [Washington Commanders Retired Numbers](https://www.commanders.com/team/history/honors-retired-numbers/), making him one of the early players to receive this distinction, alongside Sean Taylor (42) and Bobby Mitchell (49). This retirement reflects his impact, with custom jerseys available at retailers like [BORIz](http://www.borizsportsjersey.com), priced at approximately $49.99 to $59.99, with shipping times of 3-5 weeks, catering to fans, as seen at [Sammy Baugh 33 Washington Redskins Football Jersey — BORIZ](http://www.borizsportsjersey.com/football-2/sammy-baugh-33-washington-redskins-football-jersey).

#### Achievements and Legacy

Baugh's induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963 as the first quarterback honored underscores his pioneering role in the forward pass, transforming the quarterback position, as detailed in [Sammy Baugh - Pro Football Hall of Fame](https://www.profootballhof.com/players/sammy-baugh/). His leadership led to two NFL championships, and his versatility extended to playing defensive back and punter, with 31 interceptions during his career, a testament to his all-around skill.

An interesting aspect is his post-retirement involvement, serving as an assistant coach for the New York Titans (now Jets) in 1960 and later as a scout for the Houston Oilers, reflecting his deep ties to football beyond playing, influenced by his family's athletic background, as his brother was also involved in sports, as noted in [Sammy Baugh - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sammy_Baugh).

#### Cultural Impact and Current Relevance

Baugh's legacy is celebrated through Hall of Fame inductions and team honors, with the Washington Commanders regularly acknowledging their legends, though no recent specific tributes were found as of March 7, 2025. His number 33 remains a symbol of early NFL greatness, with fans able to purchase replica jerseys, enhancing his cultural footprint.

#### Table: Key Career Statistics with Washington Redskins

| **Statistic** | **Value** |

|----------------------|-------------------|

| Games Played | 169 |

| Passing Yards | 21,886 |

| Touchdown Passes | 187 |

| Interceptions Thrown | 203 |

| Punting Average | 45.1 yards |

| Interceptions (DB) | 31 |

#### Table: Jersey Purchase Details

| **Aspect** | **Details** |

|---------------------|--------------------------------------------------|

| **Product Name** | Sammy Baugh 33 Washington Redskins Football Jersey |

| **Price Range** | $49.99 - $59.99 |

| **Customization** | STITCH SEWN GRAPHICS, CUSTOM BACK NAME, NUMBER |

| **Sizes Available** | XS to 6XL, Chest Measurement 30"-68" |

| **Shipping Time** | 3-5 weeks with online tracking |

| **Retailer Example**| [BORIz](http://www.borizsportsjersey.com/football-2/sammy-baugh-33-washington-redskins-football-jersey) |

This comprehensive analysis ensures all facets of Sammy Baugh's association with jersey number 33 and the Washington Redskins are addressed, from his playing years to his legacy, supported by detailed citations and organized tables.

### Key Citations

- [Sammy Baugh comprehensive history Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sammy_Baugh)

- [Sammy Baugh Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Pro-Football-Reference.com](https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BaugSa00.htm)

- [Sammy Baugh - Pro Football Hall of Fame](https://www.profootballhof.com/players/sammy-baugh/)

- [Washington Commanders - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Commanders)

- [Washington Commanders Retired Numbers](https://www.commanders.com/team/history/honors-retired-numbers/)

- [Sammy Baugh 33 Washington Redskins Football Jersey — BORIZ](http://www.borizsportsjersey.com/football-2/sammy-baugh-33-washington-redskins-football-jersey)

- [Washington Redskins Championships](https://www.profootballhof.com/teams/washington-redskins/team-history/)**Sammy Baugh (#33, Washington Redskins): NFL Legend and Pioneer**

**Samuel Adrian "Slingin' Sammy" Baugh** (1914–2008) revolutionized American football as a versatile superstar for the **Washington Redskins** (now Washington Commanders). Wearing **#33**, he redefined multiple positions and left an indelible mark on the NFL. Here's a detailed look at his legacy:

---

### **Career Overview**

- **Team:** Washington Redskins (1937–1952).

- **Positions:** Quarterback, Punter, Defensive Back.

- **Nickname:** "Slingin’ Sammy" (for his prolific passing arm).

---

### **Key Achievements**

- **NFL Championships:** Won titles in **1937** (rookie year) and **1942**.

- **Pro Football Hall of Fame:** First-ballot inductee (1963).

- **Records & Firsts:**

- **Single-Season "Triple Crown" (1943):** Led the NFL in passing yards (2,104), punting average (45.9), and interceptions (11) — a feat unmatched in NFL history.

- **Pioneering Passer:** Modernized the forward pass; threw a then-record 335 passes in 1947.

- **Career Punting Average:** 45.1 yards (3rd all-time).

---

### **Versatility & Impact**

- **Quarterback:** Threw for **21,886 yards** and **187 TDs** in an era dominated by running games.

- **Defensive Back:** Intercepted **31 passes** (still a Redskins/Commanders franchise record for DBs).

- **Punter:** Averaged **51.4 yards per punt** in 1940, a record that stood for 62 years.

---

### **Legacy**

- **Cultural Icon:** Baugh’s #33 is retired by the Commanders; he remains the franchise’s most celebrated pre-Super Bowl era player.

- **Rule Changes:** His dominance forced the NFL to widen the hashmarks in 1945 to reduce punting advantages.

- **Texas Roots:** A college star at TCU, he popularized the "Air Raid" offense in the Southwest Conference.

---

### **Post-Career**

- Coached the **New York Titans** (later Jets) and **Houston Oilers** briefly.

- Retired to his Texas ranch, where he raised cattle and stayed out of the spotlight.

---

**Final Quote:**

*"Nobody ever played the game better than Sammy Baugh."* – **George Halas**, Chicago Bears founder.

🏈 *For highlights, explore NFL Films archives or visit the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.* 🏈Sammy Baugh, affectionately known as "Slingin' Sammy," is a towering figure in the history of American football, particularly for his contributions to the Washington Redskins, now known as the Washington Commanders. His jersey number 33 holds immense significance within the franchise, as it is the only number retired by the team. This essay critiques Baugh's impact on professional football and evaluates his legacy as one of the sport's greatest players. His multifaceted role as a quarterback, punter, and safety showcases not only his versatility but also sets a standard for future generations of athletes (Garrett, 2018). Baugh's career began with great promise when he was drafted by the Redskins in 1937 during their inaugural season in Washington. Immediately making an impact, he led the team to a world championship in his rookie year—a feat that solidified his status as a formidable competitor (Wikipedia, 2024). Over his fifteen-year career with the Redskins, Baugh amassed numerous accolades including two NFL championships and multiple Pro Bowl selections. These accomplishments are indicative of a player who not only excelled individually but also enhanced his team's overall performance (Garrett, 2018; Wikipedia, 2024). His ability to perform under pressure and lead by example established him as an iconic figure within both the franchise and professional sports at large. One cannot discuss Baugh without mentioning his unique playing style that revolutionized offensive strategies in football. His prowess as a passer transformed conventional approaches to quarterbacking; he was among the first to utilize forward passes effectively and frequently.