The Heisman Trophy signifies the best player in college football and gives people a sense of some superstars. The award is given out annually but there has been a change as the 2005 Heisman Trophy was forfeited in 2010 after significant sanctions for USC, including improper benefits given to the winner of the award: running back Reggie Bush.
ESPN’s Pete Thamel is reporting that the Heisman Trust will announce later today that there will be a formal “reinstatement” of the trophy. As a result of this decision, Reggie Bush will again be invited to all Heisman celebrations and will receive the award, as well as USC receiving a replica to display. Bush discussed the feeling he had with the decision in a statement sent to ESPN.
“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.”
The decision to reinstate Bush as the 2005 Heisman Trophy winner was based on the changes in college athletes in the last few years. The ability for student-athletes to be compensated and it becoming an accepted practice changed their minds. Bush began lobbying since the NIL has become a thing in 2021. Former winners Johnny Manziel, Matt Leinart and Tim Brown have been outspoken about the Heisman Trust vacating the award.
What did Reggie Bush do to win the 2005 Heisman Trophy?
Reggie Bush was a monster in the 2005 season but he also finished fifth in the 2004 Heisman race. For his junior season, Bush finished with 200 rushing attempts for 1,740 yards (8.7 yards per carry) with 16 rushing touchdowns as well as 37 receptions for 478 yards (12.9 yards per catch) with an additional two touchdowns.
He also was part of the special teams unit as a returner as he had returned 28 kickoffs for 493 yards as well as 18 punts for 179 yards and a touchdown. Bush received 2,541 total votes, including 784 of the 892 first-place votes. Following him was Texas quarterback Vince Young and teammate USC quarterback Matt Leinart.