University of South Dakota Athletics

John Kohler, originally of Boston, MA, ranks as one of the best offensive tackles in South Dakota football history. Kohler, who starred for USD from 1966-69, was drafted in the third round by the Denver Broncos, the highest any South Dakota player had ever been drafted in the NFL. The 6-6, 225 pound tackle was professional material due to his size, speed, and agility. A three-year regular and a two-time all-NCC selection (1968, 1969). Kohler was a big factor in 1968 when the Coyotes finished a 9-1 record and a No. 8 ranking in the final Associated Press poll. Kohler and his line counterparts made it possible for USD to grind out 204 rushing yards per game while opponents averaged only 124. Kohler became the school's only two-time all-America pick when he was first-team choice on the Eastman Kodak's 1968 Football Coaches Squad and the Associated Press' 1969 Little all-American team. Currently in the construction business in Massachusetts, Kohler was the first Coyote invited to compete in a post-season game when he was selected to play in the 1969 Blue-Gray Classic in Montgomery, AL.