Written By: Nathan Skinner
Canes Rising Contributor
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| George Mira Sr. (Photo Credit: Fanbase.com) |
The 1960's were a time of great social and political unrest. It was also a time of change in the sport of football, thanks to quarterbacks Roger Staubach and Fran Tarkenton. For the first time field generals were encouraged to be dual threat players, players capable of beating a team with their arms and legs. While "Roger the Dodger" and "Tark" were getting most of the headlines, Miami had a dual threat quarterback of our own. "The Matador" George Mira was The U's first superstar, the first Miami player who played on the national stage.
George Mira, like most 'Canes, is a local product. Born in Key West, Mira enrolled at The U in 1960, and went on to have an outstanding career. Mira finished in the top 10 of Heisman voting in 1962 and 1963, finishing 5th in 1962. Mira, who was famous for his uncommon athleticism, was a one man offense. The Matador was top 2 in total yards gained in both 1962 and 1963 In an era in which most quarterbacks completed 40% of their attempted passes, George averaged 48.8% during his collegiate career. Mira led the nation in passing yards and completions in 1962, and also attempted the most passes that year. Mira, who was placed on the cover of Sports Illustrated in 1963, was considered a leading candidate for the Heisman trophy, before a late season swoon ruined his campaign.
Even though Mira never got a chance to play for a national title, Mira had plenty of shining moments. Mira threw for 321 yards and was named the Most Valuable Player of the 1962 Gotham Bowl. Mira also led a thrilling comeback against Florida in Gainesville, winning the game with an unlikely touchdown pass. The Miami Herald called it a "MIRAcle", it remains one of the best plays in Miami history.
Following his outstanding collegiate career, Mira was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers of the NFL, and the Denver Broncos of the fledgling AFL. Mira signed with the Niners, and became a journeyman player, ending up playing for 4 different NFL franchises. In 1972, the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League welcomed the former Miami star, and Mira finished his playing career moving between the CFL and the recently formed World Football League. The Matador called it a career in 1977. Mira, whose son, George Mira Jr., became an All-American for the 'Canes in the 80s, moved back to Miami following the end of his playing career. He is currently running a food concession at the Fairchild Botanical Gardens, and is still a passionate Miami supporter.
George Mira was an athlete that was ahead of his time. Players like Michael Vick, Colin Kaepernick, and Russell Wilson can look to Mira as a trailblazer. Mira was the first Miami quarterback to burst onto the national stage, paving the way for Jim Kelly, Bernie Kosar, Vinny Testaverde, and every other Miami quarterback that followed.
*Video provided by UMiami Sports Hall of Fame
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