Although known primarily for his excellent blocking and tackling, he helped the Buckeyes win a National Championship in 1957 (as recognized by the Coaches poll), and was also the leading receiver on the 1959 team, including a 100-yard game that year against Michigan State.
He originally played as a defensive end under head coach Paul Brown, but later moved to linebacker under Blanton Collier.
At linebacker he became a four-time Pro Bowl selection, and helped the Browns win the 1964 NFL Championship.
Houston died on September 11, 2018, at his home in Sagamore Hills of complications of dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
[2][3] An autopsy conducted at Boston University found he had advanced (Stage 3) chronic traumatic encephalopathy.