Walter Koppisch Columbia Standout

June 6, 1901 - Walter Koppisch was a halfback out of Columbia University who earned his way into the College Football Hall of Fame in the 1981 selection class. He played professionally for the Buffalo Bisons and the New York Giants in the NFL. At the age of just 23, he was named head coach of the Bisons, making him one of the youngest NFL head coaches in the history of professional football.

The National Football Foundation's website bio lists that Koppisch stunned the rival defense of New York University in 1924 with electrifying touchdown runs of 76, 67, and 55 yards - all in one quarter - as Columbia romped to a 40-0 victory. Koppisch's performance prompted Columbia Lions coach Percy Haughton to proclaim: "He's the best back I've ever coached!" But Koppisch was also an all-around talent. He was also a bone-crushing blocker on offense and a beast of a defensive player as he gained All-America recognition in both his junior and senior seasons.