What happened today in history?
What happened
today in history?
[ Dec 10 ]
Back

2005 Heisman Trophy Award: Reggie Bush's Controversial Win

Reggie Bush's Triumph at the 2005 Heisman Trophy

The 71st Heisman Trophy Award Winner: Reggie Bush

The 2005 Heisman Trophy was awarded to Reggie Bush, a star running back for the University of Southern California (USC), in a year that saw him put up spectacular performances and establish himself as a college football legend. Bush's ability to evade defenders and score crucial touchdowns earned him recognition as one of the most electrifying players of his time. His achievements during the season helped lead USC to a remarkable 12-0 record and a spot in the national championship game.

Reggie Bush's Season Highlights

During the 2005 college football season, Bush showcased his skills, finishing with over 2,000 all-purpose yards and an impressive average of 8.7 yards per touch. His dynamic playing style thrilled fans, as he not only rushed for 1,740 yards but also made significant contributions through the air and on special teams. This stellar performance cemented his legacy as a key player in USC's football history.

The Fallout: Forfeiting the Heisman Trophy

Controversy Surrounding Bush's Award

Despite the accolades, Reggie Bush's Heisman win was later mired in controversy due to allegations of NCAA violations. Investigations revealed that Bush's family had accepted improper benefits from sports marketers during his time as a student-athlete. These revelations cast a shadow over his achievements and ultimately led to the forfeiture of the Heisman Trophy in 2010, a first in the award's history.

The Legacy of Reggie Bush

Although Bush's trophy was stripped, his impact on college football cannot be diminished. He is still remembered as one of the most talented running backs and remains a significant figure in discussions about the ethics of college athletics and athlete compensation. His post-college career further solidified his status as a notable player, including stints in the NFL and Super Bowl appearances.

Fun Fact

Reggie Bush's Unique Play Style

One interesting fact about Reggie Bush is his ability to change direction and evade tackles effortlessly, which led to many highlight-reel runs. His style has since influenced a generation of young running backs in the game.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Reggie Bush

For those interested in learning more about Reggie Bush, consider reading The New York Times Bestseller: "Out of the Shadows" which delves into his early life and challenges, as well as "Reggie Bush: The Kid Who Did" that chronicles his journey to becoming one of the most exciting players in college football history.