Eric Hipple

Former Detroit Lions quarterback Eric Hipple joins us ON THE DEAN'S LIST.

Hipple played eight seasons for the Lions from 1980 through 1988.  He ranks fifth among the Detroit Lions' all-time passing yards leaders. Hipple was drafted by the Lions in 1980 and he took the starting job in 1981. He made 57 starts and played 102 games for Detroit with a quarterback rating of 68.7. He topped the 2,000 yard mark three times and reached a career-highs with 2,952 passing yards and 17 touchdowns in 1985. Hipple also led the NFL in Yards per Pass Completion (16.8) in 1981. Hipple played his college ball at Utah State, where he was a part of two Aggies PCAA conference championship teams. Hipple threw for more than 5,300 yards and 32 touchdowns from 1977-1979. Hipple also rushed for 11 touchdowns in those three seasons. 

Eric is also the author of the book,  Real Men Do Cry, which discusses Hipple's playing career with the Lions, his bouts with depression and details the warning signs of teens who have committed suicide, was published in 2009. Hipple's son committed suicide when he was 15 years old., which is why he is so dedicated to talking and teaching about a subject.

Hipple is involved in educating people about the dangers of depression. Hipple travels the country and gives speeches on suicide prevention and Mental Illness. He is the Outreach Coordinator of the Depression Center of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. 
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ANOTHER PODCAST YOU MAY FIND OF INTEREST

Kurt A. David, author and host of the TV Series "From Glory Days." talks about transitions of professional athletes:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/onthedeanslist/2013/11/06/kurt-david