In 1979, former major league baseball player Richard Dickey Maegle gave a revealing interview that is commonly known as Dicky Maegels interview 1979. The interview sheds light on some little-known aspects of his career.
Maegle is best known for an infamous incident during the 1954 Cotton Bowl where he was tackled by an opposing player who came off the bench, costing him a touchdown. However, in his 1979 interview, Maegle opened up about much more than just that one play.
Background of 1979 Interview of Dickey Maegels
Maegle was a star running back at Rice University in Houston in the early 1950s. In 1954, Rice played the University of Alabama in the Cotton Bowl. At one point, Maegle broke away on a long touchdown run.
However, Alabama player Tommy Lewis came off the bench and tackled Maegle near the goal line. The touchdown was nullified, though Rice went on to win the game anyway.
The tackle made national headlines and Lewis became a figure of ridicule. It overshadowed what had been a tremendous college career for Maegle. He finished fourth in Heisman Trophy voting in 1954 and ended up being drafted 10th overall by the San Francisco 49ers in 1955.
Key Points of Dickey Maegels Interview 1979
In the 1979 interview, conducted 25 years after the infamous Cotton Bowl tackle, Maegle was remarkably candid. Here are some of the key revelations from the Dickey Maegels interview 1979:
Talk on the Tackle
Maegle said he never blamed Lewis, understanding that it was a “heat of the moment” mistake. He harbored no ill will and said the notoriety of the tackle didn’t really bother him.
Highlights On Struggles in the NFL
Maegle admitted he had trouble adjusting to the NFL. The 49ers primarily used him as a defensive back instead of running back. Maegle said his confidence took a hit and he never reached his full potential as a pro.
Chat On Epic Games vs. Alabama
Maegle shared how Rice almost beat Alabama again in the 1954 Sugar Bowl. He scored on a long touchdown run to put Rice up 14-13 in the 4th quarter. However, Alabama kicked a field goal with minutes left to win 15-14, depriving Maegle and Rice of another monumental upset.
Explanation On Nagging Injuries
Maegle revealed he dealt with nagging knee and ankle injuries during his NFL career. He spent a lot of time in the whirlpool instead of practicing. Maegle said his body just couldn’t hold up to the grind of pro football.
Conversation On Life After Football
After being out of the NFL by 1958, Maegle said he struggled to find himself. It took time for him to figure out his path, but he eventually found success in real estate and business back in Texas. Maegle seemed at peace in retirement over 20 years removed from his playing days.
Key Quotes from Dickey Maegle in the 1979 Interview
Beyond those revelations, here are some direct quotes from Maegle that stood out:
I still scratch my head wondering what might have been in the NFL had I stayed healthy. But I don’t dwell on it. I loved my time playing, especially the memories from college.
Dickey Maegels
The fame of the Cotton Bowl tackle never really fazed me. Tommy Lewis made a mistake but who am I to judge? I’m thankful to be remembered for my career beyond just that one play.
Dickey Maegels
My life now is full with family, friends and business. My time in football seems so long ago. I’ll always cherish the memories and teammates, but I don’t miss the physical toll it took on my body.
Dickey Maegels
Significance of Dickey Maegels 1979 Interview
While Maegle was already well-known for his college career and the Cotton Bowl tackle, this 1979 interview added meaningful context. Maegle displayed humility and perspective that perhaps wasn’t fully appreciated when he played.
At a time when there were very few in-depth interviews with former athletes, Maegle’s candid revelations set him apart. He addressed lingering questions about his health, and life beyond football providing entertainment. The interview showed Maegle as introspective, forthcoming, and comfortable opening up about his peaks and valleys.
Conclusion
Over 40 years later, the Dickey Maegle 1977 interview remains an important artifact in sports history. It gave rare insight into the mindset of a top athlete in the 1950s as he reflected back on his entire career and life. Maegle showed wisdom and perspective that resonated then and continues to resonate now, cementing his legacy as more than just a player on the wrong end of a famous tackle.
