LINCOLN, Neb. -- Former Nebraska defensive back Joe Blahak, a member of the Cornhuskers' national championship teams in 1970-71, has died.
Roper & Sons Funeral Home in Lincoln confirmed Blahak's death Monday. He was 65.
The native of Columbus, Nebraska, was best known for throwing a key block to clear the way for Johnny Rodgers' 72-yard punt return for a touchdown in the 1971 "Game of the Century" against Oklahoma.
Some observers believe Blahak's block actually was a clip, but no penalty was called and the Huskers won 35-31.
Blahak was named All-Big Eight in 1971-72 and selected by Houston in the eighth round of the 1973 NFL draft.