Mario Danelo, American football player (b. 1985)

Mario Danelo (born July 3, 1985; died January 6, 2007) was an esteemed American college football placekicker who left an indelible mark on the University of Southern California (USC) athletics program. As a vital component of the USC Trojans football team, Danelo distinguished himself through his consistent performance and significant contributions on the field during a highly successful era for the university's gridiron program.

Born into a family with a strong football lineage—his father, Joe Danelo, was a successful NFL placekicker—Mario followed in his father's footsteps, developing into a reliable and accurate kicker. His tenure at USC coincided with one of the most dominant periods in modern college football, where the Trojans consistently contended for national championships under head coach Pete Carroll. Danelo’s role was critical, converting field goals and extra points that often proved decisive in closely contested games.

Key Achievements and Contributions at USC

• Record-Setting Performance: Mario Danelo established himself as one of USC's most prolific kickers. He set a USC single-season record for points scored by a kicker with 136 points during the 2005 season.
• Career Scoring Leader: By the end of his collegiate career, Danelo amassed 359 career points, which at the time of his passing, stood as the all-time scoring record for a USC kicker. This impressive tally underscored his consistency and longevity as a starter for the Trojans.
• Reliability and Precision: Known for his composure under pressure, Danelo was a trusted asset in clutch situations, demonstrating a high success rate on both field goal attempts and extra point conversions, which are fundamental to a team's offensive output.
• Part of a Dynasty: His contributions were integral to USC's sustained success, including two BCS National Championship appearances and multiple Pacific-10 Conference titles during his playing years from 2003 to 2006.

Mario Danelo’s legacy extends beyond statistics; he was known for his dedication, sportsmanship, and the positive impact he had on his teammates and the USC community. His sudden passing in January 2007 was a profound loss, but his achievements and spirit continue to be remembered and honored within the University of Southern California's athletic history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mario Danelo

Who was Mario Danelo?

Mario Danelo was an American college football placekicker who played for the University of Southern California (USC) Trojans from 2003 to 2006. He was recognized for his exceptional kicking abilities and his role in USC's highly successful football teams during that period.

What position did Mario Danelo play in college football?

Mario Danelo played the position of placekicker for the University of Southern California Trojans.

What were some of Mario Danelo's significant achievements at USC?

At USC, Mario Danelo set a single-season record for points by a kicker with 136 points in 2005 and became the Trojans' all-time leading career scorer for a kicker, accumulating 359 points. He was also a crucial part of USC teams that competed for national championships and won multiple conference titles.