Hall of Fame
Position: Tackle
Years: 1934-1936
Place of Birth: Gonvick, MN
Date of Birth: Jan 05, 1910
Place of Death: St. Paul, MN
Date of Death: Dec 03, 1998
Jersey Number: 77
Height: 6-2
Weight: 220
High School: McIntosh, MN (McIntosh HS)
One of Minnesota's greatest tackles, "Big Ed" Widseth "lived" in enemy backfields and was unquestionably the pillar of strength in the Gopher line during a truly remarkable era. In each of Widseth's varsity seasons, the Gophers claimed national championships. They lost but once in 24 games, the blemish a 6-0 upset decision to Northwestern in 1936. He was a three- time All-America tackle; in 1936 he was captain and was voted Minnesota's Most Valuable Player. A slashing, driving invader, Widseth used his 6-2 220-pound body to pummel opposing players, relentlessly advancing until the ball-carrier was within his grasp and quickly felled. Widseth also won two baseball letters as a first baseman and pitcher for Minnesota. He played professionally with the New York Giants 1937- 1940; an injury ended his career. Widseth coached St. Thomas College 1945-1946; his team won the Minnesota College Conference title both years.
