Cowboys offseason countdown: 99 facts until the regular season (Day 61)

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We countdown the days to kickoff giving you an interesting fact about each number. Today is number 61

We are at day 61 of our 99 day countdown until the regular season. Here is your daily fact associated with number 61.

Whenever the number 61 is mentioned in Dallas, the great Nate Newton is often brought up by most people. After featuring him in last year’s countdown, this year we shift our focus to another hero on the offensive line, and that man is Blaine Nye.

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Blaine Francis Nye, born on March 29, 1946, was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 1968 NFL Draft to play as a defensive tackle. Following two years of primarily playing on special teams, Nye transitioned to the offense and became the team’s starting right guard.

Nye was a key member of a formidable offensive line that guided the Cowboys to three Super Bowls, including their triumph in Super Bowl VI. Over the course of his nine-year tenure with the Cowboys, he participated in 125 games, securing two Pro Bowl selections and one All-Pro accolade. Known for his intelligence, Nye was regarded as one of the most astute players in the NFL. Despite the demands of the regular season, he managed to earn two master’s degrees. Within the team, he established the “Zero Club”, a group that excelled in their behind-the-scenes contributions. Nye decided to retire after the conclusion of the 1976 season.

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Following his football career, Nye established Stanford Consulting Group, Inc. where he conducts a wide range of economic analyses and research. Additionally, he offers expert testimony in various fields such as intellectual property and insurance economics. All of this speaks to the level of intellect Nye brought to the Cowboys as a player during their prime in the 1970’s.

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Cowboys Training Camp, Oxnard, 25th July (16 days to go).