Number Seven- Running Back Ricky Williams
Ricky Williams sure could run. He finished his 1995-1997 career in Austin as college’s all-time rushing leader, with 6,279 yards. The record would be broken a year later by Ron Dayne, but Williams will never be looked at as anything but dominating. In 1998, he won the Heisman, the Maxwell and player of the year honors from the Associated Press and Sporting News.
Ricky Williams is one of those players who many think of when discussing Longhorns football. The former all-time leading rusher in college football history is one that brings fond memories to fans of the burnt orange. Williams came to Texas in 1995 and still holds most of the school’s rushing records. For one season, Williams was the best back in college football history in terms of the stats.
The New Orleans Saints thought so highly of Williams that they gave away their entire draft just to secure his talents. His 6,592 yards is still the most in school history. He also holds the single-season mark of 2,124 yards in 1998. The 350-yard performance against Iowa State is the most for one game. It broke Roosevelt Leak’s record of 342 yards he set in 1973 against SMU.
Ricky Williams is also the last Texas Longhorn to win the Heisman Trophy when he took home the honors in 1998. Williams sits second in NCAA history behind Ron Dayne. His 72 rushing touchdowns are tied for fourth in NCAA history.