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Frank Emanuel

Linebacker

Inducted 2004

Date of Birth

12/4/1942

Birthplace

Clio, SC

School

University of Tennessee (1963-1965)

Bio

The slumping University of Tennessee football program wasn’t in the best of shape when Frank Emanuel arrived in Knoxville. That trend would prove to be short-lived as the play of the All-America linebacker helped spark the Volunteers to a breakout 8-1-2 campaign during his senior season. Emanuel played the final two seasons of his exceptional three-year college football career under Hall of Fame coach Doug Dickey. In 1965, the Emanuel-led Volunteer defense gave up just 98 points in 11 games. His individual performance that season led to an array of post-season honors including a consensus All-America first team selection, and roster spots in the East-West Shrine game, the Senior Bowl, and the College All-Star game. Emanuel's most impressive performance came in 1965 when he recorded 26 tackles versus Kentucky. Emanuel went on to play five seasons in the NFL with the Dolphins and Saints. After his playing days, he began a collegiate coaching career with stops at five different universities, including Tennessee.