Tony Burse (2019) - Hall of Fame - Middle Tennessee State University Athletics

Tony Burse

Induction:
2019

Tony Burse was one of the most intimidating fullbacks ever to compete in the OVC, playing for Coach Boots Donnelly from 1983-to-86, and he was a pioneer in that he was a two-way player out of the backfield before it became popular. Burse led the run-oriented Blue Raiders in pass receptions during the memorable 1985 undefeated regular season with 27 catches for 266 yards. Burse was one of the most dynamic blockers in program history. Every year that Burse was in the Blue Raider offensive backfield, Middle Tennessee had a 1,000-yard rusher. From 1984 thru 1986, Burse led the way for three different all-OVC tailbacks – Vince Hall, Gerald Anderson and Dwight Stone. All three have been inducted into the Blue Raider Sports Hall of Fame. He was recognized by league coaches as the top fullback in the OVC in 1985 and 86. He helped lead MTSU to an undefeated regular season and No. 1 national ranking in 1985. He also helped lead the Blue Raiders into the semifinals of the I-AA playoffs in 1984 – their deepest run in postseason history. He later played in the Canadian Football League, the American Football League and for the Seattle Seahawks of the NFL.