Greg Battle, American-Canadian football player

Greg Battle, born on April 14, 1964, stands as a legendary figure in Canadian Football League history, particularly renowned for his formidable career as a linebacker with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. His journey from collegiate standout to one of the CFL's most decorated defensive players is a testament to his skill, athleticism, and dedication on the gridiron, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

A Promising Start and the Path to the CFL

Battle honed his impressive football talents at Arizona State University, where he was a collegiate standout. During his senior year, he showcased his exceptional defensive prowess, accumulating a remarkable 147 tackles, an effort that earned him prestigious Honorable Mention All-America honors from the Associated Press. This stellar college performance naturally led to aspirations of playing in the National Football League (NFL), and he subsequently earned a tryout with the Denver Broncos. While a full NFL career didn't materialize at that time, Battle's football journey took a pivotal turn in 1987 when he opted to head north, embracing the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the Canadian Football League. This move proved to be a career-defining decision, as he quickly adapted to the wider fields and different rules of Canadian football, setting the stage for a period of defensive dominance.

Defining Years with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers

It was with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers that Greg Battle truly cemented his legacy as one of the CFL's most impactful defenders. His time in Winnipeg was characterized by exceptional individual accolades coupled with significant team success. He was a cornerstone of the Blue Bombers' defense, helping guide the team to two memorable Grey Cup victories in 1988 and 1990. Battle’s individual brilliance did not go unnoticed; he earned the distinction of being named the Eastern Division's outstanding defensive player an impressive three times in consecutive years (1989, 1990, and 1991). His peak performance came in 1990 and 1991, when he was recognized as the CFL's top defensive player, clinching the coveted CFL Outstanding Defensive Player award in both seasons. These league-wide honors underscore his consistent and dominant presence on the field.

The 1990 Grey Cup: A Defensive Masterclass

Perhaps Battle's most iconic single-game performance occurred during the 1990 Grey Cup, where his heroics were instrumental in the Blue Bombers' emphatic 50-11 victory over the Edmonton Eskimos (now Edmonton Elks). In a truly commanding display, Battle not only recorded four tackles but also made two crucial interceptions. One of these interceptions was a game-changing play, as he returned it for a thrilling 56-yard touchdown, showcasing his remarkable speed and opportunistic instincts. His overall performance was so dominant that he was deservedly named the Grey Cup's defensive MVP. Such was his impact that one sportscaster, in a moment of humorous admiration, even playfully suggested nominating Battle for the most outstanding offensive player award, highlighting his rare ability to influence the game on both sides of the ball through his exceptional playmaking from the linebacker position. Throughout his career, Battle was particularly renowned for his elite pass coverage skills and outstanding speed, attributes that made him a formidable and often uncontainable force against opposing offenses.

A Journey Across the League and a Return to Winnipeg

While his most celebrated years were with Winnipeg, Greg Battle's career also saw him briefly don the colours of several other CFL franchises, a common trajectory for many professional players. In 1994, he played for both the Las Vegas Posse, a team that was part of the CFL's short-lived expansion into the United States, and the Ottawa Rough Riders. He then moved on to play for the Memphis Mad Dogs in 1995, another American expansion team, before joining the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 1996. Demonstrating the strong bond he shared with the city and the team, Battle ultimately returned to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers for his final two seasons, bringing his illustrious career full circle and concluding it where he had achieved his greatest successes.

A Legacy Honored: Hall of Fame Induction

Greg Battle concluded his remarkable playing career as the third-leading tackler in CFL history, amassing an impressive total of 766 career defensive tackles – a testament to his longevity, consistency, and relentless pursuit of the ball. His profound impact on the Winnipeg franchise was further recognized when he was deservedly named one of the All-Time Blue Bomber Greats, a prestigious honor reserved for the most influential figures in the team's storied history. The ultimate recognition for his outstanding contributions to Canadian football arrived in 2007 when Greg Battle was formally inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame. This induction solidified his place among the pantheon of football legends, acknowledging a career defined by extraordinary talent, pivotal leadership, and unforgettable performances on the field.

Frequently Asked Questions About Greg Battle

What position did Greg Battle play?

Greg Battle played as a linebacker throughout his distinguished Canadian Football League career.

Which teams did Greg Battle play for in the CFL?

He primarily played for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. He also had stints with the Las Vegas Posse, Ottawa Rough Riders, Memphis Mad Dogs, and Saskatchewan Roughriders.

How many Grey Cups did Greg Battle win?

Greg Battle won two Grey Cups with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, in 1988 and 1990.

What individual awards did Greg Battle receive?

He was a two-time CFL Outstanding Defensive Player (1990, 1991), a three-time Eastern Division Outstanding Defensive Player (1989, 1990, 1991), and the Grey Cup Defensive MVP in 1990.

When was Greg Battle inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame?

Greg Battle was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2007.

What made Greg Battle a notable player?

Battle was renowned for his outstanding speed, exceptional pass coverage skills, and consistent tackling ability, culminating in him being the third-leading tackler in CFL history. His dominant performance in the 1990 Grey Cup, including a touchdown-scoring interception, further solidified his legendary status.