Jerry Morgan (1990) - Hall of Fame

Jerry Morgan

Induction:
1990
Class:
1961

Jerry Morgan participated in three sports at Iowa State Teachers College, but he made his mark as a quarterback. In the 1959 and 1960 seasons, Morgan amassed more than 2,000 yards in total offense, including 1,403 passing yards over the two campaigns.

During his first season with the Panthers, Morgan may have earned the nickname "Mr. Everything" as he saw duty at quarterback, kicker, punter, wide receiver and kick returner. He excelled in nearly every category, with a 36-yard punt average, a 17-yard return average, while snagging four interceptions In 1960, Morgan continued his punting responsibilities, raising his average to 36.4 yards, but he began to concentrate on his signal-calling. That season, he ranked third in the North Central Conference in passing with 34 completions for 595 yards. He placed second in the league in total offense with 114 plays and 689 yards.

Overall, the UNI co-captain completed 72 passes in 160 attempts for 1,130 yards and 10 touchdowns. He ranked fifth in the NCC in punting with a 34.7 average. Morgan's accomplishments were rewarded. He led the 1960 team to the Mineral Water Bowl in Excelsior Springs, Mo., completing 10 passes for 123 yards. At the end of the season, he was named first team All-America by Williams Pool and third team All-America by the Associated Press.

Morgan graduated in 1961 with a bachelor's degree in Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, with an emphasis in coaching and athletic training. He played football for the Providence Steamrollers of the Atlantic Coast Conference and in 1964 was named conference MVP. He later spent more than 20 years as a basketball and football coach at Hope High School in Providence, R.I.