Penn State’s football history is one of the most extravagant we have seen in college football. It’s primarily because of superlative players and moments that last a lifetime.
The Nittany Lions have experienced many greats, but just one Penn Stater has touched the Heisman Trophy, which is college football’s highest personal honor. There have been, however, a few that created greatness. Now let’s see them.
John Cappelletti (1973): The Only Heisman Winner
John Cappelletti became the sole Heisman Trophy winner in Penn State history in i973. Cappelletti, who started as a defensive back, played running back. He gained 1,522 yards on the ground and 17 touchdowns, leading the Nittany Lions to a 12-0 record.
His emotional Heisman acceptance speech, which he made in honor of his deceased younger brother Joey, who was suffering from leukemia, remains one of the finest sporting moments ever. Cappelletti’s career was recalled later in the television movie Something for Joey.
Richie Lucas (1959): The Versatile Virtuoso
Giving the nickname “Riverboat Richie” to his attacking style of play, Richie Lucas was a flashy quarterback who took Penn State to a 9-2 mark in 1959. He was multi-talented and filled the roles of a passer, runner, punter, and defensive back. Lucas was a 1959 Heisman runner-up and the first player to sign with the Buffalo Bills.
Chuck Fusina (1978): The Field General
With the 1978 Nittany Lions, quarterback Chuck Fusina led the team to an 11-1 year and a Sugar Bowl invitation. His passing accuracy and leadership placed him second in the Heisman ballot. College success set the stage for a professional career with the USFL and the NFL.
Ki-Jana Carter (1994): The Explosive Playmaker
Ki-Jana Carter’s 1994 campaign was nothing less than spectacular. Gaining 7.8 yards per carry, he totaled 1,539 yards and 23 touchdowns as Penn State ended the year at 12-0. Carter stunned onlookers in the Rose Bowl with an 83-yard game-starting scoring dash. Although he came in second in Heisman balloting, his play cemented his status as one of Penn State’s immortals.
Larry Johnson Jr. (2002): The Record-Breaker
Larry Johnson Jr. in 2002 was the first Penn State running back to gain more than 2,000 yards rushing in a single season on only 251 attempts. His incredible 8.0-yard average per try and several games of 200 or more yards on the ground demonstrated his mastery. Johnson’s marvelous campaign brought him to a third-place finish in the Heisman balloting.
Ted Kwalick (1968): The Trailblazing Tight End
Ted Kwalick changed the tight end position at Penn State. He was the first two-time All-American at Penn State with 1,343 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in his collegiate career. Kwalick’s sure hands and ruggedness earned him a favorite target and a Heisman fourth-place finisher in 1968.
Kerry Collins (1994): The Precision Passer
Kerry Collins piloted one of college football’s most dominant offenses in 1994. The country’s top passing efficiency at 172.9 rating, Collins passed for 2,679 yards and 21 touchdowns. Collins’ poise and precision meant a fourth-place Heisman vote finish and a 17-year NFL career.
Saquon Barkley (2017): The Modern Marvel
Renowned for his explosive plays and intimidating power, Saquon Barkley amazed fans throughout his Penn State career. In 2017, he ran for 1,271 yards, gained 18 total touchdowns, and established himself as a talented return specialist. Barkley’s dazzling play led to his fourth-place finish in the Heisman voting. His athleticism, especially his powerful legs, resulted in him being nicknamed “Quadzilla.”
KEEP READING: Oregon Ducks Heisman Trophy Winners: A Complete List and History
Although John Cappelletti is the only Heisman Trophy winner from Penn State, the program has had players compete for the award. Do-it-all quarterback candidates, pound-for-pound running backs, and trailblazing tight ends—are the Nittany Lions who have left their mark on college football. Their legacy inspires the next generation of players, keeping the Heisman dream alive in Happy Valley.
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