Colorado State University Athletics

Colorado State Athletics Hall of Fame

Al "Bubba"  Baker
Al "Bubba" Baker
  • Induction:
    1991
  • Class:
    1978
Football (1974 to 1977)
Basketball (1975)


Al Baker became one of the backbones on the Big Green defense of the 1970s and broke through opposing offensive lines like no other Ram before. Baker teamed with All-American Mike Bell to make a one-two punch defense that helped the Rams to a 9-2-1 season in 1977. Baker was also an outstanding basketball player for the Rams, but never lettered in the sport since football was his primary focus. He was selected as an All-Conference defensive lineman in 1977 and also selected to play in the 1977 Blue-Gray Classic. 

In 1978, Baker was chosen by the Detroit Lions in the second round of the NFL Draft making him the 40thpick overall. He spent 13 seasons in the NFL with the Lions, Cardinals, Browns and Vikings making All-Pro one time and was selected to three Pro Bowl teams. Following his career in the NFL, Baker opened a successful barbeque restaurant called “Bubba’s Q” in the Cleveland area. 
 
Other Accomplishments:
  • Nye Award (1978)
  • NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1978)
  • Co-MVP of 1977 Blue-Gray game
  • 65.5 Career sacks in NFL (131.5 unofficial)
Al Baker - 1974
Al Baker - 1974
Al Baker in action - 1977
Al Baker in action - 1976
Al Baker and Mike Bell 1977
Mike Bell and Al Baker - 1977
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