The quote stands as a true classic. Joe Theismann stated that the word “genius” didn’t apply to football, only to people such as Norman Einstein. It fits neatly into the dumb jock stereotype into which so many people love to toss football players.
Of course, it’s hilarious. The
The real story, however, might not be that simple. Think of your high school valedictorian. Pretty smart kid, right? Well, turns out Theismann feels the same way about the valedictorian from his graduating class at South River High School in New Jersey — a kid named Norman Einstein.
According to this article, Norman Einstein attended Rutgers University and studied…any guesses? Yes, physics! What else would a guy named Einstein study? He later became a doctor after graduate studies at Tufts University. Afterward, he worked as a doctor for close to 30 years.
One of Theismann’s younger high school football teammates also did pretty well for himself. According to Pro Football Reference, Cowboys star Drew Pearson is one of four NFL players to graduate from South River. Pearson shared stories about his high school career on The Texas Sports Hall of Fame Podcast.
Read more surprising facts about Joe Theismann.
Read Drew Pearson’s memories of his famous Hail Mary Game catch.
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