Former BYU All-American running back Eldon "The Phantom" Fortie remains a legendary figure in BYU football history following his performance in a 1962 game against Wyoming, according to a November 4 report. Playing with a fractured collarbone, Fortie's brief appearance helped the Cougars secure a 14-7 victory over the Cowboys.
During the 1962 game, which was played on a snow-lined Cougar Stadium field, Fortie played for only two minutes and 32 seconds. Despite having his right arm taped and wrapped securely to his body to prevent movement, he touched the ball three times. One of those carries resulted in a touchdown that remains a celebrated moment in BYU history, as Fortie is the only player known to score a touchdown with one arm strapped to his side.
BYU entered the matchup having not beaten Wyoming since 1948. The victory allowed the Cougars to finish the season in second place, while a Wyoming win would have secured them first place in the WAC. The game drew a record attendance of 11,600 spectators.
Fortie, who stood 5-foot-11 and weighed 170 pounds, was a star player known for his explosive offensive capabilities as both a passer and a runner. His 1962 season included rushing for 1,039 yards and 14 touchdowns, making him BYU's first football All-American. He also set a school record by rushing for 272 yards against George Washington, a mark that stood until 2016.
His No. 40 jersey was formally retired in 1962. Following his collegiate career, Fortie received the Dale Rex Memorial Award in 1963 for his contributions to amateur athletics in Utah. He also played one year of professional football for the Edmonton Eskimos of the Canadian Football League after earning his bachelor's degree in 1963.
Fortie attended Granite High School in Salt Lake City, where he played under LaVell Edwards. His former teammate, Roger DuPaix, noted that Fortie led by example with integrity, humility, and courage. Fortie passed away on January 6, 2021, in Mesa, Ariz.
