Former All-American quarterback dies

Andy Collins was an All-America quarterback at Occidental and went on to play professional football. Occidental athletics photo

Former D3football.com All-America quarterback Andy Collins has died of an apparent heart attack. He was 27.

Collins, who led Occidental to three consecutive unbeaten regular seasons and a trip to the national quarterfinals in 2004, was in Florida. Media reports say he had been working out on a treadmill shortly before his death.

Collins had a tryout with the New York Giants and played for several arena league teams.

"In my opinion, Andy was the most dominant player in my 30 years of coaching football in our conference," said Occidental coach Dale Widolff. "His 26-0 regular season record as our starting quarterback, as well as his selection three times as SCIAC's Most Valuable Offensive player, is unmatched.

"Much more importantly, he was a man who lived a life of great character and integrity in all that he did. His impact upon the members of the Occidental football family was profound. Those players and coaches fortunate enough to have toiled with him during his time at Occidental have been touched by a great young man. His impact will be felt by all of us for the rest of our lives, hopefully inspiring all of us to live more fulfilling lives."