By Darin 
Our Unsung Heroes series continues with a special player who brought stadiums filled with people to their feet on many occasions: Otis Anderson.
Otis Anderson was born on September 19, 1957, in Sanford, Florida, a place he would quickly leave his indelible mark upon through his collegiate achievements.
College Career
Anderson became one of the most decorated running backs in the history of the University of Florida Gators program. Playing from 1975 to 1978, he became the first Gator to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season, achieving the feat twice. By the time his collegiate career concluded, he held virtually every rushing record for the program, totaling 2,217 career rushing yards and 18 touchdowns. His exceptional performance was recognized nationally, culminating in him being named a Consensus All-American in 1978. He was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2006.
Road to the Pro Game
Anderson’s combination of speed, durability, and versatility made him a highly coveted prospect in the professional ranks. He was selected with the 10th overall pick in the first round of the 1979 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals. He immediately stepped into a starting role, solidifying his place as a premier offensive weapon in the league.
Pro Teams Played On and Football Legacy
Anderson spent the first eight and a half seasons of his career with the St. Louis Cardinals (1979–1987) before being traded mid-season to the New York Giants. It was with the Giants that Anderson cemented his legacy as a durable, powerful back known for his physical running style and excellent blocking. He was a crucial component of the Giants’ “smashmouth” offense under Bill Parcells, contributing significantly to two Super Bowl victories: Super Bowl XXI and Super Bowl XXV. His crowning achievement came late in his career when he revitalized his game, earning the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award in 1989. Anderson retired after the 1990 season, finishing a remarkable 12-season tenure defined by grit and championship success.
Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats
- Played 12 NFL seasons, accumulating 6,108 rushing yards, 49 rushing touchdowns, and 210 receptions for 1,475 receiving yards.
Accolades:
- 2x Super Bowl Champion (XXI, XXV)
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1989)
- Pro Bowl Selection (1985)
- Consensus All-American (1978)