He played college football at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln under head coach Bob Devaney, and was a member of the 1970 and 1971 undefeated national championship teams.
Born and raised in Columbus, Nebraska, Blahak played football for its Scotus Central Catholic High School and graduated in 1969.
In the first quarter of the "Game of the Century" against #2 Oklahoma on Thanksgiving, he was accused of clipping Sooner punter Joe Wylie halfway through a 72-yard punt return for a touchdown by Johnny Rodgers,[3][4] but was not penalized.
[8][9][10][11][12] In his senior season in 1972, Nebraska finished fourth and won a third consecutive Orange Bowl, defeating Notre Dame, 40–6.
He was one of two players cut to make room for newly signed receiver Morris Owens, and running back Rod McNeill.