By Darin 
Born on November 27, 1960, Ken O’Brien didn’t start his career in the bright lights of Division I, but he finished it on the highest pedestal in college football. Before his successful eleven-year NFL career, O’Brien put together one of the most remarkable seasons in Division II history—a run of perfection that saw him become one of the nation’s most efficient passers.
Career
November 27, 1960 – Ken O’Brien, the quarterback who played for both UC Davis and Sacramento State, was born. After the 1982 Season, he was voted a Division II All-American at his position and, per the NFF, ranked No. 2 in total offense and No. 3 in passing efficiency in DII. Ken threw 23 TD passes in just 10 games, and his .611 completion percentage led his Cal Davis team to a perfect 10-0 record, until they lost in the National Division II final to Southwest Texas.
The NFF Board of voters inducted Ken O’Brien into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1997. Ken had a brilliant eleven-year NFL career with the Jets and the Eagles.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- Division II All-American (1982): Voted as a Division II All-American at Quarterback.
- National Statistical Leader (1982): Ranked No. 2 in total offense and No. 3 in passing efficiency in NCAA Division II.
- Completion Percentage Leader: Led his Cal Davis team with a .611 completion percentage.
- Touchdown Record: Threw 23 touchdown passes in just 10 games.
- College Team Record (1982): Led his Cal Davis team to a perfect 10-0 regular season record.
- Professional Career: Played a professional career that spanned eleven years with the New York Jets and Philadelphia Eagles.
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame by the NFF Board of voters in 1997.
Conclusion
From a perfect 10-0 season at UC Davis to a distinguished eleven-year career in the NFL, Ken O’Brien’s journey proves that greatness can emerge from any corner of college football. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1997 justly recognizes him as one of the most prolific and efficient quarterbacks of his era.