Barry Sanders No. 20 Hall of Fame Class of 2004 Detroit Lions Running Back Size: 5-8, 200
Sander’s 1988 season at Oklahoma State was named #1 College Football Season of All-Time by ESPN, beating out former greats such as Marcus Allen, Tim Tebow and Ricky Williams.
Oklahoma State: Won the 1988 Heisman Trophy. During the 1988 season Sander’s broke a total of 25 Oklahoma State school records compiled 2,850 yards on the ground and a total of 44 TDs. His single season rushing record still stands today as an NCAA record.
Lions:
Sander’s was the first round pick of the Lions in 1989. From the onset Barry proved to be force and had no problem transitioning his game into the NFL. Over his first ten seasons in the league he eclipsed the 1,000 yard mark each time becoming the first player to do so. In 1997 he rushed for 2,053 yards a feat that is very impressive. An accomplishment even more unfathomable in my opinion is the fact that he rushed for 1500 yards plus in 4 consecutive years 1994-1997. Proving that the combination of a stout body and elusive speed can be devastating Sander’s finished his career ranking 3rd on the All-Time career rushing list with 15, 269 yards and 99 touchdowns. He averaged an amazing 5.0 yards a touch. Despite never winning a Super Bowl and only claiming 1 career playoff touch down Barry Sanders will always be remember as a pioneer, leading the way for the small and powerful running backs of the future. Today players such as Maurice Jones Drew, Ray Rice provide a glimpse into the style Barry perfected years ago.
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