By Darin Before Penn State was universally recognized as “Linebacker U,” a versatile athlete from Northampton, Pennsylvania, helped build the foundation of that prestige. Dennis Onkotz was a rare specimen of the 1960s—a linebacker with the ball-hawking instincts of a safety and the electric open-field speed of a return specialist. A two-time All-American and a defensive anchor for two of Joe Paterno’s undefeated teams, Onkotz proved that a linebacker could be the most dangerous man on the field, no matter where he lined up.
Football Bio
February 8, 1948 – Northampton, Pennsylvania – Birth of Penn State linebacker Dennis Onkotz. A two-time All-American (1968, 1969), Onkotz was a versatile force who recorded 11 interceptions and served as an electric punt returner. He was selected for the College Football Hall of Fame in 1995.
Conclusion
Dennis Onkotz’s career at Penn State remains one of the most statistically unique in college football history. Holding the school record for interceptions by a linebacker (11) and serving as a primary punt returner, he embodied the “triple-threat” era in a defensive package. Though an injury cut his professional career short, his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame cements his legacy as the original star who launched the Nittany Lions’ linebacker tradition.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (Class of 1995)
- 2-time Consensus All-American (1968, 1969)
- Academic All-American (1969)
- 2-time Orange Bowl Champion (1969, 1970)
- Penn State Career Record Holder (Interceptions by a Linebacker: 11)
- Total Career Tackles: 287 (Ranks Top 10 in Penn State history)
- Punt Return Excellence: Averaged 13.2 yards over 47 career returns
- NFL Draft: 3rd Round pick (72nd overall) by the New York Jets (1970)
- Undefeated Seasons: Key member of the 1968 and 1969 11-0 teams
