(Dec. 2, 1912 – Jun. 4, 1999) “Iron Mike” played only three seasons for the University of Oregon football team, but left a lasting impression enough to warrant Hall of Fame status.

Mikulak grew up in Minnesota, and moved to Eugene to play for the Ducks in 1931-33. He started at fullback in ‘32 and ‘33 and was an First Team All-America pick in ‘33 when the Ducks tied for the Pacific Coast Conference title with a 9-1 overall record and 4-1 conference record.

The next fall, Mikulak, who stood 6-foot, joined the Chicago Cardinals of the NFL and played three seasons, helping the team to a winning record (6-4-2) in 1935. He was named second-team All-Pro that season.

After three years, he returned to Eugene as an assistant coach for four seasons and completed his degree. He joined the Armed Forces in 1941 and served in the military for nearly three decades.

He earned his nickname for wearing an aluminum plate to protect a protruding sternum.