The number is in recognition of an award that honors Bob Chandler, a legendary USC wideout in 1968-70 who died of cancer in 1995. At the team banquet last December, Mays won the Bob Chandler Award, given to an underclassman based on his athletic ability, academic scholarship and character on and off the field, and will wear the "10" sticker in Chandler's honor throughout the season. Chandler wore No. 10 when he played for the Trojans.
Donated by the Bob Chandler Foundation, the award funds a scholarship for the player's full tuition, room and board for the following year. It's in its 14th season, and previous winners include Sammy Knight, Chad Morton, Keary Colbert, Lofa Tatupu, Ryan Kalil and Keith Rivers.
Chandler played 12 seasons in the NFL and was the league-leader in receptions for three straight seasons in 1975-77. He was also the MVP of the 1970 Rose Bowl, when he scored the game-winning touchdown.
Safety Taylor Mays wears a "10" sticker on the back of his helmet in honor of the Bob Chandler Award he received last December. The award recognizes Chandler, a USC legend who died of cancer in 1995.
