[3] Adams played college football at Ohio State University and started for three seasons at OSU, helping the Buckeyes compile a 27–2 record.

He was one of the "Super Sophs," a starting linebacker who helped lead the Buckeyes to the 1968 national title.

[1] in Adams' three years, the Buckeyes won two Big 10 titles and played in two Rose Bowls.

[4] Adams was selected by the Denver Broncos in the seventh round of the 1971 NFL draft.

[6] He retired after the 1974 season at age 25 after battling a knee injury,[7] and he returned to Ohio State to earn a dental degree.