Hilger played for the Los Angeles Raiders, Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, and Seattle Seahawks for eight seasons.
The Cowboys opened the season with a 45–3 victory over top-ranked Arizona State University, earning Hilger Big-8 "Player of the Week" honors.
Hilger's skills were displayed in a pro-style offense and under the watchful eyes of NFL owners, coaches, and scouts for the first time.
[3] At the time, Hilger was the only Raider rookie quarterback ever to enter a regular season game and throw a touchdown pass.
Without a grasp of the playbook, Hilger managed to call plays, attempt a career-high 43 passes, and toss a touchdown in the 24–7 loss against the Chicago Bears.
The Seahawks released Hilger prior to the season opener, and former Raiders Offensive Coordinator Larry Kennan and the Indianapolis Colts picked him up.