O.J. Simpson

American college football running back who won the 1968 Heisman Trophy and set numerous rushing records at USC before his professional career.

Born in San Francisco, California in 1947, Orenthal James Simpson overcame childhood challenges including rickets that required leg braces to become one of America's most celebrated athletes. Raised in the Potrero Hill housing projects by his mother after his father left the family, Simpson discovered his athletic talents at Galileo High School before transferring to finish his prep career at City College of San Francisco. At the University of Southern California from 1967-1968, Simpson transformed college football with his explosive running style and record-breaking performances. His junior season in 1967 established him as a national star, but his 1968 campaign elevated him to legendary status. That season, he rushed for 1,709 yards and 23 touchdowns in just 10 games, averaging 171 yards per game. His Heisman Trophy victory came by the largest margin in the award's history to that point, receiving 855 first-place votes out of 1,050 possible. Simpson earned consensus All-American honors in both his varsity seasons and led the Trojans to a perfect 10-0-1 record and Rose Bowl victory over Michigan in 1969. Simpson's collegiate achievements include career totals of 3,423 rushing yards and 36 touchdowns over two varsity seasons, along with multiple NCAA records. His single-game performances became the stuff of legend, including a 274-yard effort against Oregon State. The Maxwell Award winner in 1968, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983. His jersey number 32 was retired by USC, and the university's athletic complex features a statue commemorating his achievements. Simpson's impact on college football extends beyond statistics to his role in elevating the sport's national profile during the late 1960s. His combination of speed, power, and charisma helped establish USC as a dynasty and influenced recruiting patterns that brought top talent to West Coast programs. Despite later legal controversies that overshadowed his athletic accomplishments, Simpson's college football legacy remains integral to the sport's history during its modern era's formative years.

Explosive speed, elusive running style, excellent vision, and ability to break away for long touchdown runs

One of the greatest college football running backs in history who revolutionized the position with his speed and versatility at USC

• Heisman Trophy (1968)
• Consensus All-American 2x
• Rose Bowl
• Pac-8 rushing record