Former Lion Great Mel Farr Dies [Video]

The Detroit Lions of the late '60s and early '70s were classic underachievers, a team stuck in seemingly perpetual mediocrity.

One of their bright stars was running back Mel Farr, who achieved just as much off the field as on it. Mel passed away yesterday at the age of 70.

Mel was a multi-sport star in high school in Texas, and went on to play college football at UCLA, where he was an All-American on a Bruin team that featured Heisman Trophy winner Gary Beban at quarterback. Michigan State fans may remember Farr for his role in UCLA's stunning upset of the top ranked Spartans in the 1966 Rose Bowl.

Drafted number one by the Detroit Lions, Farr was the 1967 NFL Rookie of the Year after gaining over 800 yards in his first year with the team.

He embraced the Motor City, and even sang back up vocals, along with fellow Lions player Lem Barney, on Marvin Gaye's classic Motown hit, "What's Goin' On" in 1971.

Upon retiring from football following a knee injury in 1973, Farr became one of the most successful black businessmen in the country, operating Mel Farr Ford in Detroit, where he was known for his goofy commercials promoting his business with the catch phrase "Mel Farr Superstar".

He is survived by two sons, Mike and Mel Jr. followed in his footsteps, playing college football at UCLA and later in the NFL.