Albion College

The linemen lay the foundation for a remarkable defense on thefootball field. Kris Knobloch laid that foundation for Albion,helping the Britons earn four MIAA championships in football duringhis career.

He was named the MIAA defensive most valuable player in 1992after wrapping up 86 tackles—including three forloss—and collecting two interceptions. His performance in theBritons’ 35-20 Homecoming victory over Olivet stood out as hewas credited with 13 tackles.

Kris was third on Albion’s tackles ladder in 1991 with 77stops, but it was the interceptions he made at crucial times invictories over Kalamazoo and Olivet that are remembered most.

His legendary determination pushed him to become one of the bestplayers to take the field. During his playing days, he earned thenickname of "Russian Bear."

"Kris didn’t say a lot," recalled D.J. Rehberg, adefensive lineman for the Britons, but D.J. noted that Kris wasalways focused on his assignment and "did it well."

After graduation Kris went to work at Starr Commonwealth School.He died on Dec. 5, 1993.