By Darin 
They called him an “End,” but Dexter Very played more like a modern running back. Before the forward pass truly dominated the game, this early gridiron star at Penn State was using speed and skill to rip off huge gains, scoring touchdowns at a prolific rate. Today, we celebrate the birthday of the player who carved a path from Fairdale, Pennsylvania, directly into the halls of college football history.
Career
November 27, 1889 – Fairdale, Pennsylvania – Dexter Very, the prolific Penn State University End, was born. During the 1912 season, according to footballfoundation.com, Dexter scored 9 touchdowns in 8 games, averaging 13 yards per carry around end. The National Football Foundation selected Dexter Very to enter the College Football Hall of Fame in 1976.
Conclusion
Dexter Very’s career is a fascinating look into the early days of American football, showcasing a player who perfectly adapted the “end” position to become a powerful scoring threat. His dominance in the 1912 season—averaging 13 yards per carry and scoring nine times in eight games—underscores his elite talent. Though his career was decades ago, his contributions are permanently etched in the annals of the game, earning him his rightful place in the College Football Hall of Fame.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- Prolific Scorer (1912): Scored 9 touchdowns in 8 games during the 1912 season.
- Elite Runner: Averaged 13 yards per carry when running around the end during the 1912 season.
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted by the National Football Foundation in 1976.