What I have been watching lately #4 -- is Eddie LeBaron the smartest person who ever lived or merely the smartest professional athlete who ever lived?

This summer I have been watching re-runs of the 1970s television sports quiz show Sports Challenge on ESPN Classic. Sports Challenge was a game show hosted by Dick Enberg (pictured above) that featured current and former players from various professional sports teams competing against each other in a test of sports knowledge. For example, yesterday's episode featured stars of the Cleveland Indians versus stars of the Dallas Cowboys.

The Cowboys were represented by two former quarterbacks -- Eddie LeBaron and Don Meredith -- and one wide receiver -- Frank Clarke. (See photo above - LeBaron is on the left) It is clear from watching the show that Eddie LeBaron is either the smartest person who ever lived or else the smartest professional athlete who ever lived. He knew almost all the answers and often answered before even hearing the entire question. His teammates, especially Don Meredith, seemed constantly amazed by his abilities.

Below: The Cowboys team has a chance to talk to special mystery guest Billy Jean King.

Eddie LeBaron played for both the Washington Redskins and Dallas Cowboys during his career. In addition to being a football player, he also served in the military in the Korean War (see photo below) and became an attorney after retiring from the NFL. Frank Clarke also led an interesting life after football, becoming part of several alternative spiritual movements before settling down for a long career in the childcare field. Don Meredith, of course, is known by most Americans as one of the most beloved hosts of ABC's Monday Night Football.