Pennsylvania State University
John Cappelletti played defensive halfback as a sophmore when the lions had Franco Harris and Lydell Mitchell – Tailback during junior and senior years.
Cappelletti put together three straight 200-yard rushing games in the final month of the season, including a high of 220 against North Carolina State. In 1973, Cappelletti recieved the Maxwell Trophy, which is presented annually to the outstanding player in collegiate football. Cappelletti was also selected as Player-of-the-Year by ABC-TV, United Press International, the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association, the Walter Camp Foundation, and the Washington Touchdown Club. He also played in the hula and Senior bowl games.
Cappelletti’s career yardage total of 2,639 still ranks him No. 9 on the Lions’ all-time rushing list. Cappelletti still holds a number of Penn State ground-gaining records.
The 1973 Heisman Trophy winner, John Cappelletti helped the Nittany Lions to a perfect 12-0 season and No.5 national ranking in both of the major polls. A consensus All-American, Cappelletti rushed for 1,522 yards and 17 touchdowns in 1973. Cappelletti Majored in law enforcement and corrections.
Read John Cappelletti’s Heisman Acceptance Speech:
Professional Career
A first-round draft choice of the National Football Leauge Los Angeles Rams, Cappelletti played 10 seasons in the professional ranks, six in Los Angeles and four with the San Diego Chargers.
In his 8 professional seasons, Cappelletti rushed 824 times for 2,751 yards, a 3.3 average, and 24 touchdowns. He caught 135 passes for 1,233 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Cappelletti’s Career at a Glance
Los Angeles Rams: 1974-78
San Diego Chargers: 1980-83
Cappelletti was introduced into the National Football Foundation College Football Hall of Fame on December 7,1993.
Cappelletti resides in Laguna Niguel, CA, where he is active in sales and manufacturing activities.
Facts:
Coach: Jack Gottshalk
Nicknames: The “Upper Darby Iceman”
Personal:
John gave a moving Heisman speech which inspired a TV movie “Something for Joey”. In the speech, Cappelletti said he was inspired by his love for his little brother, Joey, age 11, who was critically ill with leukemia. John said, “If I can dedicate this trophy to him tonight and give him a couple of days of happiness, that is worth everything.” Joey died in April, 1976.
“Cappy is the best player I have ever been around. He is strong, fast, durable and a great leader. You know he is going to come through for you when you need him.”
