Tom Pate Season 1974

1974 (Senior)
Pate was a solid defensive end starter for the Huskers. He could rush a quarterback or drop back for the pass with standout ability. Pate finished the season with career highs with 57 tackles, 30 unassisted, seven for a loss of 30 yards and an interception. 

Tom helped the Huskers to a dominant defensive season. They finished second in the Big Eight in rushing defense (165.1 ypg), passing defense (98.4 ypg), and scoring defense (11.1 ppg). Nebraska finished the season with a 9-3 record and a Sugar Bowl win against Florida (13-10).

1973 (Junior)
Pate was a strong alternate and starter at right end on the 1973 squad. Tom finished the season with 27 tackles, 17 unassisted and a fumble recovery.

Tom was a key reason the Huskers pass defense was the best in the Big Eight, allowing just 28.2% of opponents passes to be completed for only 39.9 yards per game. Nebraska ranked second in total defense (245.8 ypg), trailing only Oklahoma. Tom helped the Huskers to a 9-2-1 record and a 19-3 Cotton Bowl win over Texas.

1972 (Sophomore)
Tom was the backup to All-American Willie Harper during ‘72. Despite this he finished with 27 tackles, 17 unassisted, three tackles for a loss of 13 yards, a fumble recovery and two pass break ups. The Huskers finished with a 9-2-1 record and a dominating 40-6 win over Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl.

1971 (Redshirt)
Pate redshirted his second season as a Husker. 

1970 (Freshman)
Tom was a member of the unbeaten Husker freshman team. 

Omaha Westside High School (Omaha, Nebraska)
Tom earned All-State honors under Coach Don Johnson. He was majoring in business administration and is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur L. Pate.