hardy was recognized as being among the very best linebackers in college football as a senior, winning the dick butkus award and receiving consensus first-team all-american honors. he started every game at "drop" linebacker, finishing with 105 tackles (second on the team), 11 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, 5 forced fumbles and 3 interceptions (tied for the team lead). he had 18 tackles against michigan state university and 3 sacks against indiana university.