In August 1963, he was named the starter in the Chicago College All-Star Game (a game which pitted college all-stars selected from the graduating class from the previous season against the NFL champion) over a group of quarterbacks which included 1962 Heisman Trophy winner Terry Baker. The college all-stars defeated the Green Bay Packers 20-17, with a 74-yard touchdown completion to his former Badger #1 target, Pat Richter, providing the winning touchdown. Vander Kelen was named the game MVP. 1963 would be the last time the college all-stars defeated the NFL champion in this series.