January 1, 1970
Tampa held off a Kent State rally for a 21-18 victory in the 27th annual Tangerine Bowl.
Tampa scored twice in the first quarter on Paul Orndorff (now Mr. Wonderful of Pro Wrestling fame) TD receptions of 15 and 35 yards. Freddie Solomon added a two-yard run in the second quarter for the Spartans. KSU came fighting back in the second half as QB Greg Kokal completed 18 passes for 310 yards and two TDs (including one to Olympic sprinter Gerald Tinker). Bernie Harmon then added a record 78-yard punt return TD.
The difference in the game was extra points. Tampa connected on all three while Kent State failed to convert on its three attempts.
Solomon received Most Outstanding Back honors with 103 yards on 14 carries.



