There's a question that's been sparking heated debates across the Volunteer State: Who is the best football player to ever come from Tennessee? We're putting it to you, our readers, to help settle the score. Cast your vote now, and let the arguments begin!
This isn't just any poll. As the United States gears up for its 250th anniversary, USA TODAY Sports is honoring the 250 greatest American sports figures of all time. To kick things off, we're shining a spotlight on the high school athletes and sports icons who shaped communities and defined their states. In July, we'll unveil our list of the top 250 overall athletes in Tennessee history. But first, we're diving into individual sports—starting with the gridiron.
We're celebrating the stars who made their mark on Tennessee football. These 10 players (listed alphabetically) were standouts at the high school level before achieving even greater success in college and the pros. They didn't just play the game; they defined it for the state. Check out the list below and vote using the poll. It's open through the end of April and May, so don't wait!
Bobby Dodd moved from Virginia to Kingsport, Tennessee as a boy in 1921. He played end and quarterback for Kingsport High (now Dobyns-Bennett) before suiting up for the University of Tennessee from 1928 to 1930 under legendary coach Robert Neyland. Dodd led the Vols to consecutive unbeaten seasons (9-0) in 1928 and 1929. He later coached at Georgia Tech for 21 seasons (1945-1966), winning two SEC titles and the 1952 national championship. His legacy earned him a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame as both a player (1959) and a coach (1993).
John Hannah arrived at Baylor School in Chattanooga as a ninth-grader, moving from Alabama. He was a dominant offensive lineman for the Red Raiders in the late 1960s before joining Bear Bryant at Alabama. A two-time college All-American, Hannah was a first-round pick by the New England Patriots in the 1973 NFL Draft. He went on to become a 10-time All-Pro and nine-time Pro Bowler, earning induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. From high school to the pro ranks, Hannah's power and consistency made him a Tennessee legend.
Now it's your turn. Who gets your vote as Tennessee's all-time best football player? Dive into the debate and make your voice heard!