All Trojans

USC Football: Fans Weigh In on Reggie Bush's Heisman Dilemma

Does Reggie Bush deserve his Heisman back?

Ricardo Sandoval

USC Football: Fans Weigh In on Reggie Bush's Heisman Dilemma
USC Football: Fans Weigh In on Reggie Bush's Heisman Dilemma /
In this story:

The early 2000s for the University of Southern California were truly special times. The Trojans had all they needed to achieve their goals, and they not only talked the talk, but they also walked the walk. 

This team was as complete as it can be, led by head coach Pete Carroll, quarterback Matt Leinart and running back Reggie Bush. The star backfield duo each won a Heisman of their own, with Leinart winning it in 2004 and Bush winning it in 2005. 

Things were clicking on all cylinders for the Pete-led Trojans even after the two left for the NFL. However, all came crashing down in 2010 after an investigation on the Trojans during the Bush-Leinart-Carroll era found that Bush received around $3000,000 in cash and gifts during his collegiate playing days.

This violated NCAA rules, and because of this, Bush's Heisman was vacated. To this day, Bush is the only player to have his Heisman vacated, and after Name, image, and Likeness (NIL) was introduced in 2021, people are making the case for Reggie to get his Heisman back. 

On3 posed the question to their followers via Twitter. Many college football fans believe he deserves what he earned. 

Times have changed; Reggie did nothing wrong but take money, which any kid would've done at the time. I know he broke the rules at the time, but why not give him his Heisman back? 

That award was given to him for being the best college football player, not for what he did outside of the lines. 

Nonetheless, not everyone agrees and believes things should stay pat. 

This debate has been going on for a long time now. Hopefully, the NCAA does the right thing and gives Bush back the trophy THAT HE EARNED. 

Published
Ricardo Sandoval
RICARDO SANDOVAL

Home/Football