The Mount Rushmore of Ole Miss Football

No. 3: Frank “Bruiser” Kinard, Tackle (1935-1937)

Next up, is my No. 3 on the Mount Rushmore of Ole Miss football, Bruiser Kinard. Bruiser was born in Pelahatchie, Mississippi in 1914. He played for the Rebels from 1935-1937, where he lettered all three years. Kinard appeared in all 34 of his collegiate games and averaged 55 minutes per game.

His three years with Ole Miss led him to be recognized as not only one of the best Rebels of all time, but one of the greatest college football players ever.

In 1936, Kinard helped lead the Rebels to their first ever bowl game, the Orange Bowl, versus Catholic University. He played 708 of 720 possible minutes that season, earning All-SEC and All-American honors for his play. He was the first player from any school in Mississippi to receive first team All-American honors.

In 1937, Kinard was a consensus first team All-SEC and All-American selection. He was Co-Captain of that Rebel team, as well. His 1937 season led him to be selected to the 1938 Chicago All-Star Team.

He was drafted 18th overall by the Brooklyn Dodgers in the 1938 NFL Draft, and he was first team All-Pro in five of his nine professional seasons.

Accolades

All-America Board’s All-Time football team
Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame
Football Writer’s Association of America – All-time All-America team
National Professional Football Hall of Fame
Ole Miss Athletic Hall of Fame
Ole Miss’ Team of the Century
Walter Camp Football Foundation’s All-Century Team.