By Darin 
Born on November 23, 1930, Dick Kazmaier achieved legendary status as the last single-wing player to win the Heisman Trophy. Playing for Princeton University from 1949 to 1951, Kazmaier was an offensive force, leading the nation in total offense in his senior year. His combination of running, passing, and scoring prowess in the complex single-wing system made him the undisputed top college player of 1951, earning him both the Heisman and Maxwell Trophies. His subsequent decision to decline a professional career and pursue advanced education further cemented his legacy as a true scholar-athlete.
The Legend of Kazmaier
Dick Kazmaier played for Princeton from 1949 through the 1951 season, and per footballfoundation.org, he started at left halfback for Princeton’s single-wing attack. Kazmaier was honored with All-America accolades in 1950 and 1951. Dick led all players in the nation in total offense in 1951 with his gaudy 827 yards, 22 TDs, and incredible .626 passing percentage.
After the great 1951 season, the United Press named him Player of the Year, and Kazmaier also won the Heisman and Maxwell Trophies. Dick Kazmaier was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1966. After graduation, the prolific player turned down a pro career and continued his education, earning a Master’s Degree from Harvard. Dick did many things after college, including serving as the National Football Foundation’s director and president from 1974 to 86.
Dick was awarded the NCAA Silver Anniversary Award, and the National Football Foundation honored him with the Distinguished American Award.
Conclusion
Dick Kazmaier’s football career, though confined to just three seasons at Princeton, was marked by unparalleled success and distinction. He dominated the college game, culminating in a historic 1951 season where he led the nation in total offense and earned the sport’s highest honors. Unlike many of his peers, Kazmaier chose academics and leadership over a professional career, going on to earn a Master’s degree from Harvard and serve the National Football Foundation for over a decade. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame and receipt of the Distinguished American Award confirm his enduring legacy as an exemplary figure both on the gridiron and in life.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
College Career (Princeton University, 1949–1951)
- Heisman Trophy Winner (1951).
- Maxwell Trophy Winner (1951).
- United Press Player of the Year (1951).
- Consensus All-America (1951).
- All-America selection (1950).
- Led the nation in Total Offense in 1951 (827 yards rushing, 22 TDs, .626 passing percentage).
- Played left halfback in Princeton’s single-wing attack.
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1966).
Post-Football Honors and Service
- Earned a Master’s Degree from Harvard.
- Served as the Director and President of the National Football Foundation (1974–1986).
- Awarded the NCAA Silver Anniversary Award.
- Awarded the National Football Foundation’s Distinguished American Award.
Professional Career
- Declined a professional career opportunity after graduation.