By Darin Imagine stepping onto the field for your first collegiate start and tossing seven touchdown passes. For Marc Wilson, that wasn’t a dream—it was opening day. A pioneer of the modern “Air Raid” style at BYU, Wilson didn’t just play quarterback; he shattered records and redefined what was possible for a passing offense in the late 1970s. From his historic battles in the Holy War against Utah to an 11-year journey through the NFL, Wilson’s legacy is a story of explosive talent and pioneering greatness. Discover the man who helped turn BYU into “Quarterback U.”
Football Bio
February 15, 1957 – Bremerton, Washington – Marc Wilson, who was under center for the BYU teams of the late 1970s, celebrates his date of birth. In Marc’s first game as a starter, he threw 7 touchdown passes in a 63-17 triumph over Colorado State. Later that season, he set an NCAA record at the time by tossing for 571 passing yards against Utah. In 1979, Wilson was a unanimous All-America and was named Player of the Year by the Seattle and Miami Touchdown Clubs. The NFF voters selected Marc Wilson for entrance into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1996. Marc enjoyed an eleven-year career in the NFL with both the Raiders and the Patriots.
Conclusion
Marc Wilson remains one of the most prolific signal-callers in BYU history, serving as a vital link in the chain of legendary quarterbacks that defined the Cougars’ program for decades. His ability to produce astronomical numbers in the late 70s paved the way for the high-octane offenses we see in college football today. Whether it was his unanimous All-American status in 1979 or his long-standing professional career with the Raiders and Patriots, Wilson’s impact on the game is undeniable. Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1996, his place among the gridiron’s elite is forever secured.
Accolades & Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1996.
- Unanimous First-Team All-American: (1979).
- Sammy Baugh Trophy Winner: (1979).
- NCAA Passing Leader: (1979).
- WAC Player of the Year: (1979).
- NCAA Record (at the time): 571 passing yards in a single game vs. Utah (1977).
- NCAA Record (at the time): 7 touchdown passes in first collegiate start vs. Colorado State (1977).
- Heisman Trophy Finalist: Finished 3rd in the 1979 voting.
- NFL First-Round Draft Pick: Selected 15th overall by the Oakland Raiders in 1980.
- 2× Super Bowl Champion: (XV, XVIII – member of the Raiders).
- NFL Career Stats: 14,391 passing yards and 86 touchdowns over 11 seasons.
