ROCKY BLIER 
Grit, determination and perseverance were the hallmarks of the former Notre Dame star's career in pro football. Blier, who suffered a knee injury his senior season with the Fighting Irish, was drafted in the 16th round and few thought he'd make the Steelers' 1968 roster, but he did. He missed the 1969 season because of military service. While in the army in Vietnam, Blier was shot in the left leg and had a grenade explode under his right foot.
The combat veteran spent 1970 on the injured reserve rehabilitating his injuries. In 1971 he made Pittsburgh's 'taxi squad' and saw action in six games. In 1972-73 he played primarily on special teams. But in 1974, Blier won a job as the team's starting fullback and remained at the position until he retired following the 1980 campaign. His first year as a starter was also the year that the Steelers began their unprecedented run of four Super Bowl championships in six seasons.
Blier, who wasn't known for his speed, primarily opened holes for his Hall of Fame backfield mate Franco Harris. But he also caught many passes in clutch situations and gained the tough yards between the tackles. In 1976, Blier surprised the football world and perhaps even himself when he joined Harris in the 1,000-yard club. He gained 1,036 yards (4.7 avg.) and added 294 yards on 24 receptions. It was only the second time in league history that two runners from the same team accomplished the feat in the same season.
Although he didn't put up Hall of Fame numbers, Blier's unselfish efforts helped the careers of three teammates (quarterback Terry Bradshaw, Harris, and center Mike Webster) who are enshrined in Canton, and many others who played during the glory years of the Pittsburgh Steelers. -- Ed Maloney, NFL Producer
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