Reggie Bush Set to Reclaim Heisman Trophy
Reggie Bush signals a first down during a game in 2006 vs UCLA.
Photo cred: Lisa Blumenfeld/ Getty Images
By: Joshua Martin
As a part of a decision made by the Heisman Trust Wednesday (April 24th), the Heisman Trophy is returning to Reggie Bush and its replica to the University of Southern Cal. Bush will also be allowed to attend all future Heisman Trophy ceremonies starting this fall.
The Heisman Trust’s decision comes after Bush forfeited his Heisman trophy back in 2010 in the wake of NCAA sanctions for USC. These violations included Bush receiving improper benefits during his Trojans career, spanning from 2003 to 2005.
“Recognizing that the compensation of student athletes is an accepted practice and appears here to stay, these fundamental changes in college athletics led the Trust to decide that now is the right time to return the Trophy to Bush, who unquestionably was the most outstanding college football player of 2005.”
The NCAA vacated 14 victories in which Reggie Bush played including the Trojans impressive victory over Oklahoma after the 2004 season. USC’s sanctions also included the vacating of the 2004 national title, the first time a major college football champion had been stripped of its championship.
“Personally, I’m thrilled to reunite with my fellow Heisman winners and be a part of the storied legacy of the Heisman Trophy, and I’m honored to return to the Heisman family. I also look forward to working together with the Heisman Trust to advance the values and mission of the organization.”
Bush’s impressive play on the field made him one of the most transcendent college athletes of all time. He averaged 8.5 yards per touch from scrimmage during his USC career, including rushing for 1,740 yards and 8.7 yards per carry on only 200 carries during his Heisman campaign. Bush was so dominant that season that his 784 first-place votes are the fifth most in Heisman Trophy history. Bush went on to become the No. 2 overall pick in the 2006 draft by the New Orleans Saints.
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