SPORTS HISTORY IN BLACK: Marcus Allen enters the college football record books

The University of Southern California has been known for producing great running
backs in college football. Players like O.J. Simpson and Charles White were spectacular
and won Heisman Trophies during their careers. One running back who came along behind
them was special too, and his name was Marcus Allen.

Marcus Allen of the USC Trojans poses with the coveted Heisman Trophy awarded to him at the Downtown Athletic Club in New York on Dec. 6, 1981. Allen, 21, who traversed more football turf than any other player in college football history, was the 47th winner of the Heisman. Photo credit: Ron Frehm, The Associated Press
Marcus Allen of the USC Trojans poses with the coveted Heisman Trophy awarded to him at the Downtown Athletic Club in New York on Dec. 6, 1981. Allen, 21, who traversed more football turf than any other player in college football history, was the 47th winner of the Heisman. Photo credit: Ron Frehm, The Associated Press

The talented athlete eventually made his way onto the field. And once he made his way out there, he never returned to the bench.

An example of Allen’s excellence took place on Oct. 10, 1981, when he achieved his fifth consecutive 200-yard rushing game. Allen went on to win a Heisman Trophy himself.

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