Billy Cannon

American college football halfback who won the 1959 Heisman Trophy at LSU and became famous for his legendary Halloween Run touchdown against Ole Miss.

Born in Philadelphia, Mississippi in 1937, William Abb Cannon Jr. emerged from humble beginnings to become one of college football's most celebrated players. Growing up in rural Mississippi, Cannon developed his athletic prowess at Istrouma High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where his family relocated during his youth. His exceptional speed and power as a running back attracted attention from college recruiters across the South. Cannon's college career at Louisiana State University from 1957 to 1959 established him as one of the most dynamic players in SEC history. Playing under coach Paul Dietzel, he combined blazing speed with remarkable power, making him equally effective as a running back, punt returner, and defensive back. His versatility and game-changing ability made him the centerpiece of LSU's national championship team in 1958. The following season culminated in his most famous moment: the Halloween Run on October 31, 1959, when he returned a punt 89 yards for a touchdown against Ole Miss, breaking multiple tackles in a performance that epitomized his exceptional talent. Cannon's collegiate achievements were substantial and lasting. He accumulated 1,867 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns during his three-year career, while also excelling as a returner and defensive player. His 1959 Heisman Trophy victory made him LSU's only winner of college football's most prestigious individual award. The Halloween Run is widely regarded as the greatest single play in SEC history and proved pivotal in his Heisman campaign. Selected first overall by the Los Angeles Rams in the 1960 NFL Draft, Cannon instead signed with the Houston Oilers of the fledgling American Football League, delivering a significant legitimacy boost to the rival organization. He won two AFL championships with Houston and enjoyed a successful professional career. Despite later personal troubles, including a 1983 counterfeiting conviction, Cannon's athletic legacy endured. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008 cemented his status among the sport's greatest players.

Explosive halfback with exceptional speed and breakaway ability, dangerous punt returner and versatile offensive weapon

One of the greatest college football players ever, transformed LSU into a national powerhouse and his Halloween Run is considered among the most famous plays in college football history

• Heisman Trophy (1959)
• SEC champion
• AP All-American
• Halloween Run vs Ole Miss