Jack Crabtree -

Jack Crabtree is one of the least well-known quarterbacks from the University of Oregon, but led the team to one of its famed accomplishments – the 1958 Rose Bowl, where the Ducks nearly pulled off a huge upset.

Crabtree grew up in Southern California and moved to Eugene from San Bernardino Junior College in time for the 1955 season.

At 6-feet, 180 pounds, he played three seasons for the Oregon varsity, and was the starter at quarterback as a senior when the Ducks went 7-3 and tied Oregon State for the Pacific Coast Conference title. Conference rules gave the Ducks, who lost to the Beavers 10-7 at the close of the regular season, the Rose Bowl berth because OSU had been to the game the previous year.

During the season, Crabtree attempted just 99 passes and threw for four touchdowns, but the Ducks averaged 295 yards of offense per game and he was named all-conference honorable mention.

In the Rose Bowl, Crabtree completed 10 of 17 passes for 135 yards and also played defense against Ohio State, ranked No. 1 and favored to win by 19 points. Although Oregon lost 10-7, the Ducks carried coach Len Casanova off the field on their shoulders and Crabtree was named the game’s MVP, only the third player at the time to be so honored from the losing team.

Crabtree served two years in the Army before attempting to play in the American Football League with both the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers. He did not see any action and retired to work in the athletic supply business.

Crabtree was inducted to the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame in 1981 and the University of Oregon Athletics Hall of Fame in 2002.