Bobby Reynolds electrifies the gridiron with unmatched agility and playmaking, transforming the Nebraska Cornhuskers’ program in the early 1950s. Through broken tackles and breathtaking reverses, this Grand Island native breathes life back into a struggling team and writes his name into college football history. From his mind-boggling touchdown runs to earning the title of “Mr. Touchdown,” Reynolds secures his status as a permanent icon in Lincoln.
Football Bio
June 27, 1931 – Grand Island, Nebraska – Nebraska Cornhuskers halfback from 1950 to 1952, Bobby Reynolds was born.
After nearly a decade of poor records, the Nebraska team was energized with offense and “W’s” after the arrival of the talented Reynolds. The FootballFoundation.org says that Bobby led Nebraska to a 6-2-1 season in 1950.
These games were filled with Husker scoring, too, as the Cornhuskers won 49-21, 40-34, 33-26, and 32-26, and suffered a loss by the score of 49-35. Reynolds was an All-America selection, but he may be best remembered for a final touchdown against Missouri in 1950 that assured a 40-34 Husker win.
This run play is officially listed as a 33-yard gain; however, he covered well over 100 yards, running backward, forward, and side-to-side, reversing his field three times before crossing the goal line.
However, a slew of injuries slowed him down in his final two seasons, including an infection from lime in his eye, a shoulder separation, and a broken leg.
Bobby’s 1342 yards in the 1950 season set a school record that stood for 32 years. The College Football Hall of Fame proudly displayed a tribute to Bobby Reynolds in its legendary museum in 1984.
Bobby Reynolds cements his legacy as a true trailblazer for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Despite suffering severe injuries in his final seasons, his record-shattering 1950 campaign showcases a level of dominance that changes the trajectory of Nebraska football forever. He stands tall today as a celebrated legend whose heart and undeniable talent earned him a rightful place in the College Football Hall of Fame.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1984.
- Consensus First-Team All-American: 1950.
- Heisman Trophy Finalist: Finished 5th in the 1950 Heisman voting.
- NCAA Scoring Leader: Led the nation with 157 points (22 touchdowns) in 1950.
- “Mr. Touchdown, U.S.A.” Winner: Claimed the national award in 1950 for scoring the most touchdowns in college football.
- First-Team All-Big Seven: 1950.
- Nebraska Rushing Record: Rushed for 1,342 yards in 1950, a school record that stood for 32 years (eventually broken by Heisman winner Mike Rozier).
- Nebraska Touchdown Record: Scored 22 touchdowns in 1950, holding the school record for 33 years.
- NFL Draft: Selected in the 7th round (84th overall) of the 1953 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams.