Reggie Bush, the renowned former USC star running back and a two-time All-American, is taking a bold stand against the NCAA.
In a decisive move, he is set to initiate a defamation lawsuit against the NCAA on Wednesday.
This legal action comes as a direct response to a statement made in 2021 by an NCAA spokesperson, wherein it was alleged that Bush had participated in a “pay-for-play arrangement.”
Confidential sources from within Bush’s camp informed his impending developments on Tuesday night.
Reggie Bush NCAA: Defamation Lawsuit & More
Reggie Bush, who amassed an impressive 3,169 yards and scored 25 touchdowns during his remarkable three-season stint with the Trojans, faced a significant setback in his collegiate legacy.
His 2005 Heisman Trophy, once a crowning achievement, was later vacated in 2010 following an initiative on his part.
This step was taken in the aftermath of a high-profile NCAA investigation that concluded Bush and his family had received impermissible benefits, including monetary compensation, travel expenses, and even a residence in San Diego, all while he was an active college player.
As a pivotal member of the USC team, which clinched the national championship twice consecutively in 2003 and 2004, Bush sought to reclaim his Heisman accolade and reinstate his collegiate records in 2021.
This pursuit aligned with the newly enacted name, image, and likeness laws that ushered in the possibility for college athletes to earn income from external sources.
In response to these efforts, the Heisman Trust expressed its willingness to welcome Bush back into the fold if the NCAA would reinstate his records from the 2005 season.
However, the eligibility criteria for the Heisman dictate that recipients must adhere to the bylaws governing NCAA student-athletes.
Tragically, Bush’s aspirations were met with disappointment as the NCAA declined to reconsider his case, citing its policy of not revisiting past penalties.
An NCAA spokesperson, while explaining this stance to ESPN, referenced the notion of “pay-for-play arrangements” in their statement.
“Although college athletes can now receive benefits from their names, images and likenesses through activities like endorsements and appearances, NCAA rules still do not permit pay-for-play type arrangements. The NCAA infractions process exists to promote fairness in college sports. The rules that govern fair play are voted on, agreed to and expected to be upheld by all NCAA member schools.”
Reggie Busch College Years
Reggie Bush’s journey began with an athletic scholarship that paved his way to the University of Southern California.
From 2003 to 2005, he graced the football field as a vital member of the Trojans, playing under the guidance of head coach Pete Carroll.
Carroll’s strategic vision for Bush encompassed utilizing his unparalleled skills as a versatile threat, manifesting in a remarkable five-way proficiency on the field.
Bush’s impact was immediately felt. As a freshman, he showcased his prowess in carrying, catching, throwing, and returning the ball, aligning perfectly with Carroll’s strategic vision.
This multifaceted talent earned him a consensus first-team Freshman All-American distinction in 2003.
Notably, he joined the ranks of Anthony Davis in 1974 as the first Trojan to dominate the Pacific-10 Conference in kickoff returns.
Remarkably, his all-purpose yardage of 1,331 set a USC freshman record, standing as a testament to his dynamic abilities.
His stellar performance was also recognized through the ESPN Pac-10 Newcomer of the Year award.
Additionally, he contributed an impressive 521 rushing yards and secured three touchdowns from 91 carries during that inaugural season.
Reggie Busch Heisman
During the 2004 season, a remarkable narrative unfolded as University of Utah quarterback Alex Smith and Reggie Bush emerged as finalists for the prestigious Heisman Trophy.
This marked an unprecedented occurrence, as it was the first instance of a single university producing two finalists for this coveted award.
In that same year, Bush secured a notable fifth place in the Heisman voting. His dedication and standout performances earned him the title of the team’s Most Valuable Player.
Furthermore, he achieved the distinction of being a consensus All-American, solidifying his reputation as a true football powerhouse.
Among his impressive accomplishments in 2004, Bush was a finalist for the Walter Camp Player of the Year Award, further highlighting his impact on the sport.
His statistical achievements were equally noteworthy: he carried the ball 143 times, accumulating an impressive 908 yards with an average of 6.3 yards per carry.
Through his versatility, Bush also tallied 509 receiving yards and found the end zone seven times, showcasing his prowess as a receiver.
Beyond his offensive contributions, Bush exhibited his versatility on special teams. Returning 21 kickoffs for 537 yards, with an average of 25.6 yards per return, he demonstrated his ability to shift the momentum of the game.
Additionally, he returned 24 punts for an average of 15.7 yards, achieving two touchdowns in the process.
Bush’s stature in the game was further solidified as he became the first Trojan since Marcus Allen to lead the Pac-10 in all-purpose yardage, an impressive feat that underscored his impact on every facet of the game.
He even showcased his passing ability, throwing a 52-yard touchdown pass, proving his prowess as a well-rounded athlete.
In 2005, Bush was a unanimous first-team All-American and winner of the Heisman Trophy.
