81 Ken Herock

Hometown: Munhall, PA

Career: 1960-1962

Record: 12-16-2, Bowl Record: 0-0

Ken Herock was part of arguably the worst team in WVU football history (1960). The 1960 season was Coach Gene Corum’s first in Morgantown and the team struggled to pick up the new scheme, finishing the campaign at 0-8-2. Fortunately for players like Herock, Coach Corum was able to turn the team around, creating a winning squad by 1962. Like many players of his era, Herock played both offense and defense. Herock is predominantly remembered for his play as tight end. He would amass 292 yards and 2 touchdowns for his career. At the conclusion of his time in Morgantown, Herock would go on to earn a spot on the Oakland Raiders roster, becoming the first Mountaineer to play in a Super Bowl (losing in Super Bowl II to Green Bay). After his playing career, Herock became an executive for various teams in the NFL.

Memorable Game: The 1961 season was a trying year for the Mountaineers. WVU opened the season with three straight losses heading into the home game against Southern Conference opponent Virginia Tech. The Mountaineers, frustrated by close losses, were looking for a big game against the Hokies. The WVU players came out fired up and would dominate the Hokies on both sides of the ball. Herock would contribute one of the four Mountaineer touchdowns on the day. WVU beat VT by a final score of 28-0.

Competition: Statistically speaking, Darrell “Coast to Coast” Miller was the logical choice. Again, there are only so many pictures of former players online, so when a picture of Herock became available, I had to jump on the opportunity. Also considered here was Keith Winn.

Teaser: The selection at #80 is famous, at least in name. He is the grandson of a Morgantown legend. No, I’m not talking about Johnny West, but the grandson of the Godfather of modern Mountaineer football.