Paper Lion is taken from the actual experiences of journalist
George Plimpton. George (
Alan Alda) dons helmet and pads to play quarterback against the Detroit Lions. His experience is less-than-successful as he is mercilessly tackled by the Lion's defense, including
Alex Karras. Roger Aaron Brown tackles George and carries the ball and the player over the line for a touchdown. Flashbacks include the reporter's three-round bout with "Sugar Ray" Robinson. Football legends
Frank Gifford and coach Vince Lombardi also appear. The final scene is the actual pre-season game against the St. Louis Cardinals football team. After his retirement from the Lions,
Alex Karras made a successful transition into acting in films and on television, joining
Jim Brown who preceded and
Bubba Smith and others who followed. ~ Dan Pavlides, All Movie Guide