Frank Hawkins dominates the gridiron, breaking rushing records and establishing a legacy as one of the most prolific running backs in Nevada football history.
Football Bio
July 3, 1959 – Las Vegas, Nevada – Nevada Reno’s brilliant halfback from the 1977 to 1980 season, Frank Hawkins, was welcomed into the world.
The footballfoundation.org states that Frank rushed for 5,333 yards in his collegiate career. This guy was money with the ball under his arms.
He was named a Division All-American three times and led Division 1 AA in rushing in 1979 and 1980. His best rushing game was 293 yards against the San Francisco State team in 1978.
He rushed for 265 yards against Idaho in 1980. 217 against Idaho in 1979. 202 hard-earned yards against Montana in 1980. And a magic 201 against Weber State in 1979.
He finished with 21 consecutive 100-yard games. That’s astounding. And he scored 39 touchdowns in four years.
For his final game, November 22, 1980, against Idaho, his school created the Day of the Hawk and gave commemorative pins to spectators. Hawkins’ jersey number 27 was retired.
And Frank Hawkins received the great honor of being selected for the College Football Hall of Fame in 1997. Frank entered the NFL after college and played for the Oakland Raiders for 7 strong seasons.
Frank Hawkins cements his legacy through his unstoppable running style and undeniable production. He seamlessly transitions from a collegiate superstar to a reliable NFL champion, proving his talent at the highest level.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1997.
- Super Bowl Champion: Won Super Bowl XVIII with the Los Angeles Raiders (1983 season).
- 3× First-Team All-American: 1978, 1979, and 1980 (Division I-AA).
- 2× Rushing Leader: Led Division I-AA in rushing in 1979 (1,683 yards) and 1980 (1,719 yards).
- NCAA Record Holder: Recorded 21 consecutive 100-yard rushing games.
- Career Rushing Yards: Amassed 5,333 rushing yards at Nevada.
- Retired Number: The Nevada Wolf Pack retired his #27 jersey.
- NFL Career: Played 7 seasons with the Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders (1981–1987), scoring 15 rushing touchdowns.
- Big Sky Conference Hall of Fame: Inducted as part of the 2026 class.