Hall of Fame
Rock solid with elite credentials. Nicknamed "Terna Firma." Bruising ex-fullback who moved to linebacker late in freshman year, started three years at LB, and came into own as senior. Honored on All-Time Huskie Stadium (1995) and All-Century (2000) squads. Third of only four MAC Player of Year recipients in Northern Illinois gridiron history---joining WR Dave Petzke (1978), LB Frank Lewandoski (1979), and TB Garrett Wolfe (2005-06). Prolific tackler playing two years alongside school's all-time hitman and Hall of Famer Lewandoski (616 career stops in 1976-79). Ranked No. 7 on career Northern Illinois Hit List (408 tackles in 1977-80). Produced 25 double-digit tackle games in final 33 Huskie appearances (1978-80). Posted three consecutive triple-figure hit seasons (115 stops in 1978, 134 in 1979, and 152 in 1980). Ranked among MAC tackle leaders as junior and senior. Named team quad-captain, Mid-Am Defensive Player of Week vs. Kent State (17 tackles), First-Team All-MAC, Mid-Am Defensive Player of Year, and Honorable Mention AP All-America in final campaign on 7-4 squad under Hall of Fame head coach Bill Mallory (and defensive coordinator Joe Novak). Became first NIU gridder to lead MAC in pass interceptions (five for 82 yards) and topped team in solo tackles (91), total hits (151), and "picks" (1980). Collected two pass thefts vs. Long Beach State (1980). Notched career-high 19 tackles vs. Central Michigan as junior (1979). Began career on offense, earned first start at FB vs. Wisconsin, rushed for 67 yards on 18 carries, and added eight tackles at LB (1977). Signed free agent contract with USFL Chicago Blitz. Named First-Team All-State as LB (172 tackles) / FB (1,314 yards and 13 TDs) on 10-2 Warrenville High eleven that won loop title and made ISHA Class 4A state semifinals (1976). Serves as western region sales manager for Ineos---third largest chemical company in world.
