Billy Cannon electrifies college football fans with game-changing speed and unmatched power, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest running backs in LSU history.
Football Bio
August 2, 1937 – LSU former star halfback and 1959 Heisman winner Billy Cannon was born.
Mr. Cannon was enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008.
His punt return on October 31, 1959, haunted the number three-ranked Ole Miss Rebels and is considered by many to be one of the greatest plays in LSU football history. [Source NFF]
Billy Cannon also had a nice AFL and NFL career with the Houston Oilers, Oakland Raiders, and the Kansas City Chiefs.
The Los Angeles Rams also drafted him, but the AFL Oilers owner Bud Adams won a court ruling to help bid the NFL’s Rams for his rights.
Billy Cannon stands forever as a titan of the gridiron, transforming the LSU football program and leaving an indelible mark on the professional leagues. His breathtaking runs and competitive fire ensure his eternal place among football’s immortal legends.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- Heisman Trophy: Won the prestigious award in 1959.
- National Champion: Led the LSU Tigers to a perfect season and the 1958 national championship.
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted as part of the Class of 2008.
- All-American Honors: Named a unanimous All-American in both 1958 and 1959.
- National Player of the Year: Two-time UPI and Sporting News Player of the Year in 1958 and 1959.
- Historic Draft Status: Selected first overall in the 1960 NFL Draft and in the first round of the 1960 AFL Draft.
- AFL Team Success: Won three AFL championships during his professional career (1960, 1961, 1967).
- AFL Individual Honors: Named the AFL Championship MVP in 1960 and 1961.
- Rushing Leader: Led the AFL in rushing yards during the 1961 season.
- Jersey Retirement: The first player in LSU football history to have his jersey number (No. 20) retired.
