99 for 99 - #60: Pete Rao Nabs 4 Interceptions

99 for 99 takes a look at the 99 biggest moments in UB Football history in anticipation of the 99^th Season of UB Football which begins on September 1^st, 2012. These moments are not in any order, however the top 10 moments have been saved for last.

October 3, 1953 - Buffalo 12, Cortland 12 - Pete Rao nabs four interceptions in one game.

The 1953 Bulls struggled offensively, scoring 44 points all season in 7 games; the defense struggled as well, allowing 30 points a game. The Bulls only had two games within 20 points: a 20-0 victory against Ohio Northern and a 12-12 tie against Cortland.

In the Cortland game, UB threw a record 6 interceptions, to secure the tie, UB needed a record breaking effort from Pete Rao. Rao offset the UB mistakes by snagging 4 interceptions, setting a UB record that still stands today.

Rao started his UB career at running back, cornerback and linebacker and he starred on the UB wrestling and track teams. After UB, Rao joined Lou Corriere coaching at Lewiston-Porter High School. After a short stint at Sweet Home High School, Rao became the defensive coordinator at UB in 1980. True to form, the '80 team broke the record for interceptions by a defense. Rao then coached the UB offense under Bill Dando between 1981 and 1990. After only 7 wins as a student-athlete, Rao redeemed himself with 52 wins as a member of UB's coaching staff.