Reggie Bush: A College Football Icon Immortalized in NCAA Football 25

Reginald Alfred "Reggie" Bush II, born on March 2, 1985, stands as an American former professional football running back whose college career with the USC Trojans cemented his place as one of the sport's all-time greats. From his consensus All-American honors to his Heisman Trophy win in 2005, Bush's electrifying performances left an indelible mark on college football. Now, with the return of the EA Sports College Football video game, Bush's legacy is further solidified as he receives an unprecedented honor: a 99 score for speed in the highly anticipated NCAA Football 25.

Early Life and High School Career

Born in Spring Valley, California, Bush's athletic prowess was evident early on. At Helix High School in La Mesa, he starred as a running back alongside Alex Smith, the 2004 Heisman Trophy finalist and first overall pick in the 2005 NFL draft. Bush's achievements at Helix earned him the prestigious Silver Pigskin trophy from KUSI's Prep Pigskin Report. Notably, Bush and Smith both became finalists for the 2004 Heisman Trophy.

Beyond football, Bush excelled in track and field, showcasing his exceptional speed. In 2002, he placed second in the CIF California State Meet 100 meters final with a time of 10.72 seconds. His personal bests included 10.42 seconds in the 100 meters and 21.06 seconds in the 200 meters, ranking him among the nation's top senior football players.

Electrifying Career at USC

Bush's impact at USC was immediate. As a freshman in 2003, he quickly demonstrated his versatility as a carrier, catcher, thrower, and return specialist. He was named a consensus first-team Freshman All-American, leading the Pacific-10 Conference in kickoff returns. His 1,331 all-purpose yards set a USC freshman record.

In 2004, Bush continued to shine, finishing fifth in the Heisman voting and earning team MVP honors. He received consensus All-American recognition and was a finalist for the Walter Camp Player of the Year Award. Bush rushed for 908 yards and six touchdowns on 143 carries, adding 509 yards and seven touchdowns on 43 receptions. He also excelled on special teams, returning 21 kickoffs for 537 yards and 24 punts for 376 yards, including two touchdowns. His total of 2,330 all-purpose yards led the Pac-10, making him the first Trojan since Marcus Allen to achieve this feat.

2005 saw Bush reach unparalleled heights. He amassed 2,611 all-purpose yards and scored 18 touchdowns. Leading the Trojans with 1,740 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns on 200 carries, he also recorded 39 receptions for 481 yards and two touchdowns. Bush added 179 punt return yards and a touchdown, along with 493 kickoff return yards. He led the nation with 222.3 all-purpose yards per game and ranked fourth in rushing yards per game with 133.85. On November 19, 2005, against Fresno State, Bush set a Pac-10 record with 513 all-purpose yards (294 rushing, 68 receiving, 151 return). By season's end, Bush was a unanimous first-team All-American and the Associated Press College Football Player of the Year.

The 2005 Heisman Trophy

On December 10, 2005, Reggie Bush was awarded the Heisman Trophy, solidifying his status as college football's most outstanding player. He garnered 784 first-place votes, surpassing University of Texas quarterback Vince Young, who received 79 first-place votes. Bush's total voting points of 2,541 exceeded Young's 1,608. Teammate Matt Leinart finished third. At the time, Bush's first-place votes and total points were second only to O. J. Simpson's record in 1968.

The 2006 Rose Bowl

On January 4, 2006, Bush and Leinart made history as the first pair of Heisman Trophy winners to play together for the same team in a single game, facing the Texas Longhorns in the Rose Bowl. Bush accumulated 279 all-purpose yards and one touchdown. However, Vince Young and Bush's teammate LenDale White overshadowed his performance in a losing effort.

Career Statistics

In his three seasons at USC, Bush only started 15 of 39 games. Despite this, he finished tenth in NCAA Division I-A history with 6,541 all-purpose yards, accumulating 3,169 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns on 433 carries, and 1,301 receiving yards with 13 touchdowns on 95 catches. He also recorded 1,522 kickoff return yards and a touchdown, and 559 punt return yards and three touchdowns.

Bush's stellar college career earned him and Leinart a cover feature on the December 25, 2005, issue of Sports Illustrated.

Read also: Bush's Reinstatement

NFL Career

Bush declared for the NFL Draft on January 12, 2006, forgoing his senior season at USC. His impressive on-field performances and pro day showcase made him a top prospect. The New Orleans Saints selected him with the second overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, sparking excitement among fans.

2006 Season

In his rookie season, Bush showed flashes of brilliance. In the first game of his NFL career, he amassed 141 total yards against the Cleveland Browns. On December 3, Bush tied the Saints' single-game touchdown record with four against the San Francisco 49ers. He gained 168 all-purpose yards, leading the Saints to victory. In the NFC Divisional Playoff game, Bush ran for 52 yards and scored a touchdown, helping the Saints advance to their first NFC Championship Game appearance.

2007 and 2008 Seasons

The 2007 and 2008 seasons saw Bush facing challenges and injuries. However, he continued to make significant contributions when healthy. In 2008, he had a standout performance against the Denver Broncos, with 18 carries for 73 yards and two touchdowns, along with 11 receptions for 75 yards and one receiving touchdown.

Later Career

Bush's NFL career continued with stints at other teams, showcasing his versatility as a running back and return specialist.

NCAA Investigation and Sanctions

In 2006, allegations surfaced that Bush's family had received improper benefits while he was at USC, leading to an NCAA investigation. The NCAA found that Bush had received lavish gifts from sports agents, resulting in significant sanctions against USC in 2010. These sanctions included a four-year probation, vacating wins from the 2004 and 2005 seasons (including the 2005 Orange Bowl), a ban from bowl games in 2010 and 2011, and a loss of 30 scholarships over three years.

Bush expressed deep regret over the sanctions, acknowledging the impact on USC and its athletes.

Reinstatement and Legacy

In June 2020, USC ended its disassociation with Bush following the NCAA's mandated 10-year span. With the NCAA's decision to allow players to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL) in 2021, Bush began advocating for the reinstatement of his Heisman Trophy and USC records.

In 2023, efforts to restore Bush's legacy gained momentum. A defamation lawsuit was filed against the NCAA, and USC restored Bush's banner at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and retired his number alongside the school's other Heisman winners. Bush expressed gratitude for being recognized once again as the Heisman Trophy recipient.

Reggie Bush in NCAA Football 25

The return of the EA Sports College Football video game has brought renewed attention to Reggie Bush's legendary college career. Bush expressed his excitement about being included in the game and receiving a 99 score for speed, an unprecedented honor.

Impact and Fan Excitement

Bush's inclusion in NCAA Football 25 is expected to generate significant excitement among fans, who will have the opportunity to play as one of the most electrifying running backs in college football history. His presence in the game serves as a reminder of his incredible talent and the unforgettable moments he created on the field.

"First player to ever receive 99 speed on the new EA Sports College Football 25 make sure you go get my player! I’m honored and proud to be back, EA SPORTS it’s in the game!"

NIL and Player Compensation

The return of the EA Sports College Football game also brings opportunities for current college players to benefit from their NIL. Players who opt into the game will receive at least $1,500 and a Deluxe Edition copy of the game, with some athletes earning significantly more.

Future Coaching Aspirations

Looking ahead, Bush has expressed a strong desire to return to USC as a head coach. He believes that his experiences as a player, his understanding of the game, and his commitment to creating a championship culture would make him an excellent leader for the Trojans.

"One hundred percent. The same way that I helped them win national championships as a player is the same way I can help them win those championships as a coach. I believe that wholeheartedly."

Bush acknowledges the current coach, Lincoln Riley, and his capabilities, but he remains hopeful for an opportunity to coach his alma mater.

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