Ricky Bell (1997) - USC Athletics Hall of Fame

Ricky Bell

Induction:
1997

A 2-time (1975-76) All-American first team tailback, Ricky Bell was the runner-up for the 1976 Heisman Trophy. A 4-year letterman (1973-76) who came to USC as a linebacker, Bell--known for his punishing running style--ran for 3,689 yards in his career (still No. 4 on Troy's all-time list). He led the nation in rushing with 1,957 yards as a 1975 junior and he set a USC single game record with 347 yards against Washington State in 1976. He played on 3 Rose Bowl teams, was on USC's 1974 national champions (and the 1976 team which was ranked No. 2) and captained the 1976 squad. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003. After being the No. 1 pick in the 1977 NFL draft (selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Bell played 6 years in the NFL with the Bucs and the San Diego Chargers. He died at the age of 29 in 1984 of a rare muscular disease of the heart.