University of Memphis Athletics
M Club Hall of Fame
- Induction:
- 1976
Bill Robertson came to Memphis State College after World War II and was a member of the first class of athletes in 1947. With just 49 new players, Robertson saw immediate action in coach Ralph Hatley’s run oriented offense. The Tigers posted a 6-2-1 record in 1947 and a 6-5-0 mark in 1948 when Memphis defeated highly favored Louisville. In 1949, Memphis had reloaded the squad with more new players and with Billy J. Murphy as an assistant, the Tigers ran up a season record of 9-1. The squad set a modern day scoring record of 70 points when Memphis stopped the University of Tampa 70-6 at Crump Stadium. The biggest of the season came at the hands of Kansas State. The 21-14 win over a major opponent opened the nation’s eyes to Memphis football. Robertson scored three touchdowns that season including one in the Tampa victory. For his play, Robertson was named to Williamson’s All-America team, becoming the first Tiger ever to be so honored. In 1950, the receiver became a weapon for the Tigers. He gathered in three touchdown catches in a win over Arkansas State setting a new Memphis record for touchdown receptions in a game. Robertson finished the season with 12 touchdown catches, a record that still stands today. He led the team in scoring in 1950 and his 16 career touchdown catches still ranks fourth all-time in Tiger football annuals. He was also selected to the Tigers’ All-Time Team in 1958 which was picked by coaches Hatley, Muprhy, Zach Curlin and Cecil C. Humphreys. The four-year letterman also lettered in basketball for the Tigers. Robertson received his BS degree in 1951 and his master’s in 1954. He went on to become the Director of School Plant Planning for the Tennessee Department of Education.
