By Darin How does a player become the MVP of a team while leading them in both tackles and interceptions? For Arizona State in the late 1960s, Ron Pritchard was the ultimate defensive Swiss Army knife. A ferocious linebacker with the ball skills of a safety, Pritchard was the heartbeat of a Sun Devil defense that demanded national respect. From his consensus All-American honors in Tempe to being a first-round selection for the Houston Oilers, Pritchard’s “hit first, ask questions later” style of play paved his way into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Football Bio
April 2, 1947 – Chicago, Illinois – Arizona State running back Ron Pritchard was born.
In 1968, Pritchard led the Sun Devils in tackles and interceptions and was named MVP. Selected by the National Football Foundation for the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003, he became the 15th pick in the 1969 NFL draft by the Houston Oilers.
Pritchard’s nine-year career with the Oilers and Cincinnati Bengals ended prematurely due to a knee injury.
Conclusion
Ron Pritchard was a foundational figure in the rise of Arizona State football under Frank Kush. His rare combination of size and elite coverage ability allowed him to dominate the Western Athletic Conference, setting records that stood for decades. While his professional career was cut short by injury, his impact on the game—particularly his 1968 season where he seemingly did everything for the Sun Devils—remains a masterclass in defensive versatility. Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003, Pritchard remains one of the most decorated and feared defenders to ever wear the Maroon and Gold.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2003.
- Consensus First-Team All-American: 1968.
- ASU Team MVP: 1968.
- 3× All-WAC Selection: (1966–1968).
- NFL First-Round Pick: 15th overall in the 1969 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers.
- Sun Devil Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1978.
- Arizona State Ring of Honor: One of the few legends recognized on the stadium facade.
- Versatility Milestone: Led ASU in both tackles (124) and interceptions (3) during the 1968 season.
- Professional Longevity: Played 9 seasons and 111 games in the NFL/AFL with the Oilers and Bengals.
