Chad Wilson
October 29, 2025
Every defensive back dreams of a season where the ball seems magnetically drawn to their hands. It’s the ultimate measure of preparation, instinct, and raw playmaking ability. In the history of college football, a few select legends didn’t just have a great season—they had an all-time, record-breaking year. Their production set a high-water mark for every defensive back who follows. Here is a look at the defensive backs who hold or share the record for the most interceptions in a single FBS (NCAA Division I-A) season.
The Record Holders: 14 Interceptions
Only two players in the history of the FBS have reached the 14-interception mark in a single season. The first player to achieve this feat did it in an era of run-heavy football, and the second did it recently in the age of the pass-happy offense, showing that elite playmaking transcends generations. Gerod Holliman of Louisville (2014) is the most recent player to share the single-season record, achieving his incredible number in just 13 games. This production was so outstanding that he was awarded the 2014 Jim Thorpe Award, given to the nation’s best defensive back. His season proves that in the modern, spread-offense era, a DB who studies film and possesses elite ball skills can still dominate. Al Worley of Washington (1968) holds the other share of the record. Achieving this mark in only 10 games is arguably the most dominant run of interception play in history. While the era was different, his ball-hawking instinct and ability to convert coverage into turnovers is a timeless lesson for every player.
The Near-Perfect Season: 13 Interceptions
Just one pick shy of the record, the following defensive back delivered a monumental performance that still stands as a pinnacle of production. David Amerson of NC State (2011) took the college football world by storm in his sophomore campaign. His 13 interceptions in 2011 are the most by an NCAA player whose entire career took place after the 1990s. Amerson showed that aggressive play combined with a nose for the ball can create game-changing plays week after week. His season remains one of the greatest defensive performances in modern ACC history.
The Elite Tier: 12 Interceptions
A group of five players are tied for the next spot on this legendary list, all recording a phenomenal 12 interceptions in their respective seasons. These players epitomize the peak of defensive production. Terrell Buckley of Florida State (1991) is a true FSU legend. His 1991 season included both the 12 interceptions and an NCAA record-tying 238 interception return yards, leading to him winning the Jim Thorpe Award. Tony Thurman of Boston College (1984) delivered his elite season as the defensive anchor on the legendary team that featured Heisman winner Doug Flutie. Terry Hoage of Georgia (1982) was an absolute star at safety, cementing his reputation as one of the best to ever play the position. Rounding out the 12-interception club are Cornelius Price of Houston (1989) and Bob Navarro of Eastern Michigan (1989).
The Takeaway: It’s Not Luck, It’s Knowledge
What do all these players have in common? They were opportunistic and prepared. While the records they set may seem untouchable, their success is a reminder that elite playmaking is built on: Reading the Quarterback, Studying Film to know the opponent’s tendencies, and possessing Elite Ball Skills to turn an opportunity into a catch.
Ready to Start Your Legendary Season?
These defensive backs didn’t become kings of the air by accident. They mastered the small details that create the big moments.
If you’re ready to become a playmaker just like Holliman, Amerson, and Buckley, you need to master the fundamentals. Our book, 101 DB Tips, hands you the blueprints these legends used—from film study hacks to coverage techniques—so you can start putting up those highlight-reel numbers.
Stop watching the ball. Start taking the ball.
Click here for more on 101 DB Tips
Chad Wilson is the owner of All Eyes DB Camp and author of "101 DB Tips". He played college football at the University of Miami and briefly in the NFL for the Seattle Seahawks. Over his 15 year high school football coaching career, he tutored over a dozen Division I defensive backs and as a trainer has worked with NFL All Pros, first round draft picks, college football All Americans and Top 10 ranked high school football prospects.
