Marinaro found his way to fame on the gridiron fields of Cornell which took him to the College Football Hall of Fame and Haollywood Stardom.

College Career

Marinaro established himself as a legendary running back at Cornell University from 1969 to 1971. His collegiate career was nothing short of phenomenal, marked by record-breaking performances and consistent dominance. In just 27 games, Marinaro averaged an astounding 174.6 rushing yards per game, a figure surpassing many celebrated collegiate rushers like Tony Dorsett, O.J. Simpson, and Herschel Walker. He showcased his explosive talent with ten 200+ yard games, including remarkable outings such as 245 yards against Rutgers and 281 against Harvard in 1969, 260 against Lehigh in 1970, and a pair of 260+ yard performances against Columbia (272) and Colgate (260) in his senior year. In 1971, Marinaro set an NCAA single-season rushing average record of 209 yards per game, a mark that stood for a decade. His exceptional play earned him All-America honors twice and recognition as the Ivy League's premier player.  

Road to the Pro Game

Marinaro's outstanding college career led to his selection in the second round of the 1972 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. He transitioned to the professional level, bringing his dynamic running style to the NFL.

Football Legacy

Ed Marinaro enjoyed a six-year professional football career, playing for the Minnesota Vikings, the Seattle Seahawks, and the New York Jets. While he didn't replicate his record-shattering collegiate statistics in the NFL, he proved to be a valuable player and contributed to his teams. However, his most enduring football legacy remains his remarkable achievements at Cornell. His incredible rushing prowess and consistent ability to dominate games at the Ivy League level cemented his place as one of the greatest college running backs of all time. His statistics and accolades speak volumes about his impact on the collegiate game. Marinaro's later success as a television actor on popular shows like "Laverne and Shirley" and "Hill Street Blues" further broadened his public recognition, but his legendary status in college football remains a defining aspect of his legacy.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

✦ 2× All-America Selection (College)

✦ Maxwell Trophy Winner (1971)  

✦ Player of the Year by Columbus Touchdown Club (1971)

✦ Player of the Year by Cleveland Touchdown Club (1971)  

✦ Player of the Year by Washington Touchdown Club (1971)  

✦ Ivy League Silver Anniversary Team Selection

✦ NCAA Single-Season Rushing Average Record (209 yards per game, 1971)

✦ College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1991)  

✦ NFL Teams: Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, New York Jets  

✦ NFL Career Stats: While a contributor, his NFL statistics did not reach the level of his collegiate dominance. Specific detailed NFL career stats can be readily found through professional football databases.