James Earl Wright is often referred to as Memphis State University’s “Golden Boy,” and many still feel he is the greatest quarterback to ever play for the Blue and Gray.
A native of Columbus, Mississippi, Wright came to MSU in 1958. By the end of his Tiger career, he had rewritten the record book, led the nation in passing, set many school records, and received All-America honors.
During Wright’s junior year (1960), the scrambling quarterback was unstoppable. He had three touchdown passes against Tennessee Tech, two against North Texas State, and three against Abilene Christian and an eighty-two-yard touchdown toss against Mississippi State.
After one 1960 battle with Alabama, Crimson Tide Coach Bear Bryant gave Wright the biggest compliment he could muster: “James Earl Wright is too good to play for any team other than Alabama.”
The All-American opened his senior season with three touchdowns against The Citadel, two against Hardin-Simmons, and three against Louisville, before suffering a career-ending knee injury against Southern Mississippi. Shortly before he went into surgery, “Time” magazine featured Wright as the nation’s total offense leader and called him “the most dangerous back in the South.”
By the time his collegiate career had ended in 1961, Wright held ten Memphis State records, including most total offense and most career touchdown passes. Following graduation, Wright returned to Memphis State after a stint in pro football and coached under Billy J. Murphy.