When you talk about the greatest football players in USC history, one name stands above the rest: Orenthal James Simpson—better known as OJ Simpson. While the Trojans have produced countless legends, Simpson's case for being the best is backed by two undeniable arguments that set him apart from the pack.
First, consider this: OJ Simpson could have easily won back-to-back Heisman Trophies. In 1967, the award went to UCLA's Gary Beban, but it was Simpson who stole the show in the USC-UCLA rivalry game that year. His iconic cutback touchdown run—one that Reggie Bush would later mirror against Fresno State in 2005—was pure magic. Many believe Simpson deserved the 1967 Heisman just as much as Beban, and it wouldn't have been a stretch to see him take home the trophy.
The following year, Simpson made sure there was no debate. He captured the 1968 Heisman Trophy in dominant fashion, leading USC to a No. 2 ranking and a national championship showdown against No. 1 Ohio State in the Rose Bowl. Simpson was on track to become the first two-time Heisman winner in history—a feat later achieved by Ohio State's Archie Griffin in 1974 and 1975. To this day, Griffin remains the only player to win the award twice, but Simpson's near-miss only adds to his legacy.
But Simpson's greatness didn't end in college. He went on to become the first NFL running back to rush for 2,000 yards in a single season, accomplishing this milestone in 1973. What makes this even more impressive? He did it in just 14 games. The NFL didn't expand to a 16-game season until 1978, meaning Simpson's record stood as a testament to his unparalleled skill and endurance. While other running backs eventually reached the 2,000-yard mark, none did it in fewer games. OJ was simply ahead of his time.
From his college dominance to his NFL exploits, Simpson was a towering figure on the field—a running back who combined speed, vision, and power in a way few have ever matched. Whether you're debating USC's all-time greats or the best to ever carry the football, OJ Simpson's name belongs in the conversation. He was, quite simply, one of one.