WILMINGTON, N.C. — Former West Virginia University quarterback Bernie Galiffa, a Pennsylvania high school legend who became a two-year starter under coach Bobby Bowden in the early 1970s, died this weekend at the age of 63.
His family said he died from sepsis.
Galiffa led the Mountaineers to a 7-4 record in 1971 and an 8-4 record in 1972, becoming the first West Virginia passer to eclipse the 2,000-yard mark in a season.
Over his WVU career, Galiffa completed 310-of-623 passes for 4,426 yards and 28 touchdowns. He ranks eighth in school history in pass attempts, ninth in passing yards, 11th in pass completions and 12th in total plays.
Galiffa’s 89-yard touchdown pass to Chris Potts in 1971 against Duke is the third-longest pass play in school history.