Leinart thinks Bush should get his Heisman back

USC Trojans former quarterback Matt Leinart. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Matt Leinart thinks Reggie Bush should get his Heisman back

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 12/11/22

On Saturday, quarterback Caleb Williams became the first USC player to win the Heisman Trophy since Reggie Bush in 2005. But, technically, Bush vacated his Heisman Trophy a decade ago after an investigation determined he and his family had received improper benefits, violating NCAA rules.

Now that today's players can legally benefit from their play on the field, former USC quarterback Matt Leinart, also a Heisman Trophy winner, believes it's time for Bush to get his back.

"I'll say it til my grave, Reggie earned that trophy," Leinart told The Sporting Tribune's Arash Markazi. "He was the best player in college football."

Matt Leinart is hopeful that Reggie Bush will get his Heisman Trophy back one day. pic.twitter.com/5MddtehlXO
— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) December 10, 2022

When players gained the right to pursue NILs last year, Bush released a statement saying he had reached out to the NCAA and The Heisman Trust regarding the reinstatement of his college records and, of course, the return of his Heisman Trophy.

"I hope that all of it works out for him, and he can get the Heisman back and be represented here," Leinart said. "He's one of the best college football players I've ever seen, and I had the pleasure of playing with him, and now I get the pleasure to work with him and continue to build that friendship and relationship."

Along with advocating for Bush to have his Heisman returned, Leinart also offered his help with the process if his former teammate asked.

"He knows how I feel," Leinart said. "I'll do anything to help him get that back."

Bush had one of the most outstanding seasons in college football when he earned the Heisman in 2005. He rushed for 1,740 yards, averaging 8.7 yards per carry, with 16 touchdowns on the ground, adding 37 catches for 478 yards and two touchdowns receiving.

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