Education
He graduated from DeVilbiss High School in Toledo, Ohio in 1957. The Bills finished tied with the Boston Patriots for the American Federation of Labor-Congress"s Eastern Division title in 1963, losing the playoff game to the Pats.
He graduated from DeVilbiss High School in Toledo, Ohio in 1957. The Bills finished tied with the Boston Patriots for the American Federation of Labor-Congress"s Eastern Division title in 1963, losing the playoff game to the Pats.
McDole played at left defensive end for the of the American Football League from 1963 to 1970 after spending the 1962 season with the American Federation of Labor-Congress"s Houston Oilers, anchoring the left side of the Bills" great defensive line. McDole and his defensive linemates (left tackle Jim Dunaway, right tackle Tom Sestak, and right end Tom Day) held the opposition without a rushing touchdown in 17 straight games over the 1964-1965 seasons. McDole was the defensive team captain during those years, an American Federation of Labor-Congress All-Star in 1965 and 1967.
He was selected to the All-Time All-American Federation of Labor-Congress second team
From 1971 through 1978, McDole was a key defensive player at left defensive end for the NFL, under head coach George Allen from 1971 to 1977, and, in his final year, under head coach Jack Pardee. By that time, he was quite slow, not a big threat as a pass-rusher, but very stout against the run, rarely out of position, and quick to seize opportunities for turnovers.
But, though the defense allowed only 14 points, the team lost Super Bowl VII to the Miami Dolphins. Ron McDole has the most interceptions ever by a lineman, with 12.
He is also ranked #44 on the all-time list of games played in the NFL.
Teammate Sonny Jurgensen gave him the nickname "The Dancing Bear" after showing off his moves at a Georgetown nightspot.