Oklahoma State Cowboys

Barry Sanders

Barry Sanders
AP Photo/David Longstreath
After backing up Thurman Thomas during his first two college seasons, Sanders blossomed in his only season as a starter to become the only Heisman Trophy winner in school history. His running style showcased a speed and ability to break tackles unique for his diminutive size. During his Heisman winning season in 1988, he set 34 school records, including a then-NCAA single-season records of 2,628 rushing yards and 39 touchdowns. In Tokyo for the Cowboys' regular-season finale, Sanders insisted all of his offensive linemen appear with him when he accepted the Heisman Trophy by television hookup. Sanders rushed for more than 300 yards in four games and at least 200 yards in seven games. While backing up Thomas, he led the nation in kickoff return average in 1987. -- Tim Griffin

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Barry Sanders
"I ran like that because guys much bigger than I am were trying to kill me." -- Sanders on his distinctive running style.

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Starting quarterback during Sanders' era has become more well-known for his recent rants while coaching the Cowboys.

barry sanders. There is nobody even close to doing what he did.

jamesbj21



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