Frank Gifford

Frank Gifford is one America’s better-known sports figures, moving from a National Football League career to a lengthy stay as a standout commentator and play-by-play announcer.

Gifford was born in Santa Monica in 1930 but was raised in Bakersfield where he graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1948.  He played one season of football at Bakersfield College, earning a spot the Junior College All-American Team. In 1949, he moved on to USC and in 1951 was named an All-American.

In 1952, Gifford began a 12-season professional career as the first-round draft pick of the New York Giants. Gifford starred on offense and defense, switching from running back to wide receiver.

  He made eight Pro Bowl appearances and five trips to NFL championship games. In 1956, Gifford led the Giants to the NFL title and was named the league’s Most Valuable Player. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977.