Former Football Great Frank Minnifield Has Jersey Honored
July 20, 2000 | Football
September 25, 1999
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Former University of Louisville defensive back Frank Minnifield had his jersey honored during halftime of the Cardinals' gridiron matchup with Oklahoma Saturday afternoon.
A four-year letterwinner with the Cardinals from 1979-82, Minnifield excelled as a defensive back and kick returner and served as one of three team captains during his senior season of 1982.
For his career, Minnifield intercepted seven passes in four seasons including a career-best three during his sophomore season of 1980. Minnifield saved his best for last, however, intercepting a pass versus rival Memphis State and returning it 56 yards for a touchdown in his final colle-giate game.
Minnifield led the Cardinals in kickoff returns in 1981 with a 30.4-yard average and topped U of L in punt returns in 1982 with a 15.0-yard average. Minnifield reached paydirt on an 88-yard punt return during a 1982 loss to Temple.
Upon completing his eligibility, Minnifield began a professional career with the Chicago Blitz of the short-lived United States Football League. He was a member of the Blitz for two seasons before moving onto the National Football League.
Signed as a free agent by the Cleveland Browns, Minnifield went onto a nine-year career with the franchise before his retirement in 1992.
A native of Lexington, Ky., Minnifield made four consecutive Pro Bowl appearances from 1987-90 and was a three-time all-NFL choice by the Associated Press.
Statistically, Minnifield recorded 20 career interceptions as one of the NFL's top man-to-man coverage specialists in the late 1980's.
Minnifield also had a hand in creating one of professional sports great fan bases. In an attempt to get their defensive teammates fired up, Minnifield and his fellow cornerback Hanford Dixon began barking like dogs whenever a standout play was made. Browns' fans caught onto the game and the "Dawg Pound" was born.
Minnifield joins Ernie Green and Lenny Lyles as initial members of the honored jerseys program.
The honored jerseys adorn the northwest facade of Papa John's Cardinal Stadium.
Previously, the number of Cardinal and NFL great Johnny Unitas was retired, and joins the jerseys on the facade. His special accomplishments warranted retiring his number (16), making it unavailable to be worn by future Cardinals.
