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| Mike Holovak | |
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Position: Fullback |
| Member Biography | |
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Mike Holovak was spotted by Frank Leahy while Leahy was
watching Vince Lombardi coach high school football.
Holovak, a member of the opposing team, helped destroy
Lombardi's squad and thus was discovered by Leahy. Leahy,
then Fordham's coach, became Boston College's coach one
month later. That's how Mike Holovak, happened to end up
at Boston College. As a sophomore, Holovak led the Eagles
in rushing as well as contributing significantly to the defense.
He scored touchdowns in two famous BC victories that year -
a 19-18 triumph over Georgetown and a 19-13 upset of
Tennessee in the Sugar Bowl. His senior year he was co-captain
of the team, ranked second in the nation in rushing and
received consensus All-America honors. Holovak turned in an
outstanding performance in the 1942 Orange Bowl where he
set records for touchdowns (3) and average yards per carry
(15.0 yards/carry). For his career, Holovak averaged 5.27
yards per carry. Holovak served in the Navy. He later played
pro ball with the Los Angeles Rams and the Chicago Bears.
Holovak returned to Boston College as head coach, 1951-59.
He was coach of the New England Patriots 1961-68, later
became general manager of the Houston Oilers.
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