O.J. Simpson Dead: Iconic Running Back Set NFL Record vs. New York Jets

Long before he was controversially exonerated of murder, Buffalo Bills' superstar O.J. Simpson ran for a record against the New York Jets at snow-covered Shea Stadium.

To some, O.J. Simpson is merely one of the most controversial exonerated criminals in the history of American justice. But to NFL fans, he was one of the most electrifying and dominating running backs to ever take a hand-off.

O.J. died Thursday of cancer at age 76, ending one of the most fascinating lives in U.S. history.

Long before a jury declared him innocent of murdering his ex-wife in Los Angeles in 1995 in a trial that gripped the country, Simpson was a gifted running back who made history against the New York Jets.

On Dec. 16, 1973 O.J. rushed for 200 yards against the Jets in the snow at Shea Stadium, becoming the first NFL runner to gain 2,000 yards in a season. He accomplished the feat in 14 games.

After winning the Heisman Trophy at USC, Simpson was drafted No. 1 overall by the Buffalo Bills in 1969. After his record-setting day against the Jets he finished with 2,003 yards.

New York lost that game, 34-14, to finish a 4-10 season under head coach Weeb Ewbank and injury-riddled quarterback Joe Namath.

Simpson had another banner year in 1975, with 1,817 yards rushing, 426 yards on receptions and a then-record 23 touchdowns. All told, he led the league in rushing four times (1972, 1973, 1975 and 1976) during his eight years with Buffalo, and was named NFL Player of the Year in 1972, 1973 and 1975.