Otis played college football for Ohio State University, and was recognized as an All-American.

He played professionally for the New Orleans Saints, Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals of the NFL.

Otis's most successful year as a professional was in 1975, when he rushed for an NFC-leading 1,076 yards and was selected to the Pro Bowl.

To avoid any appearance of impropriety, Hayes broke off all social contact with the elder Otis during the son's college career.

He was invited to Ohio State in 2001 as a preferred walk-on and lettered in 2003 for special teams play.