Editor's note: In anticipation of the 121st college football season in Utah, DeseretNews.com writer Jay Yeomans is ranking the 50 greatest Division I college football players of all time from the state of Utah. We're counting down the 50 days until Sept. 1 when Southern Utah at Utah and Weber State at Utah State kick off at 6 p.m. Rankings are based on what the player did during his college career.
9. Larry Wilson, Utah, running back/defensive back/returner (1957-59)
Wilson was a legendary all-around performer during his time with the Utes. He was a big-time playmaker in the secondary and an All-American running back.
One of his best seasons on the hill came in 1959 when he was a Third-Team Williamson All-America selection at running back after he totaled 559 yards and eight touchdowns on just 98 carries. He was also a big weapon in the aerial attack, catching 21 passes for 215 yards and four touchdowns. Those numbers were good enough to rank in eighth in the nation in rushing touchdowns and fourth in touchdowns from scrimmage.
For his Utah career, he had 230 carries for 1,220 yards and 11 touchdowns. He added 43 catches for 593 yards and eight more scores. He also made plenty of plays in the secondary and on special teams where he averaged 26.1 yards on 26 kick returns. He was inducted into the Crimson Club Hall of Fame in 1985.
Jay Yeomans is a sports writer for DeseretNews.com. Contact him at jyeomans@deseretdigital.com.