Jim Daniell

Bio

October 19, 1941, was a rainy Saturday afternoon in Columbus, Ohio, and Ohio State and Purdue were pushing each other through the mud in a scoreless Big Ten game when Purdue set up in punt formation. Ohio State's "Big Jim" Daniell exploded across the scrimmage line, evaded blockers and leapt with out-stretched arms. The punted ball was swatted back-beyond the goal line, then beyond the end line. Ohio State led, 2-0. That blocked kick became the margin of victory in a 16-14 Buckeye decision. Known for his aggressive determination, Daniell was a key player in OSU's drive to the Big Ten title in 1939 and a 6-1-1 record in 1941. World War II saw Jim serve as Naval Lieutenant on a destroyer in the Pacific, where he earned the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and a Presidential Citation. He later played professional football with the Chicago Bears and Cleveland Browns, serving as Cleveland's captain in 1946. Following his professional playing career, Daniell became a successful executive in the steel industry. He was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1977, joining his brother, Averell.

Career Highlights

• 1941 First Team All-America