Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Gary Danielson

How Gary Danielson built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Gary Danielson is an American college football commentator and former quarterback. He transitioned from a professional football career to broadcasting, becoming a prominent analyst for college football games, primarily known for his work with CBS Sports. Danielson's commentary is known for its insightful analysis and sometimes critical perspective on teams and players. He has become a recognizable and often discussed figure in college football media due to his long career and opinions expressed during broadcasts.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

1969: College Football at Purdue University

In 1969, Gary Danielson began his college football career at Purdue University.

1970: Starting Quarterback

In 1970, Danielson succeeded Mike Phipps as the Boilermakers' starting quarterback.

1971: Record Passing Accuracy

In 1971, Danielson set a Big Ten record with 61.7% passing accuracy. He also led the Big Ten with 10 touchdown passes and a 147.6 quarterback rating.

1971: Led Big Ten Conference

In 1971, Gary Danielson led the Big Ten Conference with a 57.8% completion percentage, 10 touchdown passes, and a 147.6 quarterback rating while playing for Purdue.

September 1972: Single-Game Rushing Record

In September 1972, Danielson set a Purdue single-game quarterback record with 213 rushing yards against Washington, including runs of 80, 49, 32, and 26 yards.

1974: Signed with New York Stars

In 1974, Gary Danielson signed with the New York Stars of the World Football League (WFL).

July 1975: Traded to Chicago Winds

In July 1975, Gary Danielson was traded by the Charlotte Hornets to the Chicago Winds in exchange for a 1976 WFL draft pick.

April 1976: Signed with Detroit Lions

In April 1976, Gary Danielson signed as a free agent with the Detroit Lions.

1976: WFL Draft Pick

In 1976, the Chicago Winds acquired a draft pick from the Charlotte Hornets, in exchange for Gary Danielson.

May 1985: Acquired by Cleveland Browns

In May 1985, Gary Danielson was acquired by the Cleveland Browns as a backup to rookie Bernie Kosar.

1985: Passing Accuracy Record Stands

In 1985, Danielson's 1971 Big Ten passing accuracy record of 61.7% was still standing.

1987: Limited Action with Browns

In 1987, Gary Danielson appeared in six games for the Cleveland Browns, only one as a starter, completing 25 of 33 passes for 281 yards, four touchdowns, zero interceptions, and a 140.3 quarterback rating.

1988: Final NFL Season

In 1988, his final year in the NFL, Gary Danielson completed 31 of 52 passes for 324 yards with the Cleveland Browns.

April 1989: Browns Decline to Offer New Contract

In April 1989, the Cleveland Browns announced that they would not offer a new contract to Gary Danielson.

January 1990: Hired by WDIV-TV

In January 1990, Gary Danielson was hired by WDIV-TV in Detroit as a sports reporter, substitute sports anchor, and pre-game host for Detroit Tigers games.