Five of O.J. Simpson’s Greatest Runs

Michael Hafford
Jul 20, 2017 · 2 min read

As iconic running back Orenthal James Simpson was successfully granted parole, it’s a great time to look back on a few of his greatest triumphs as a professional athlete and in the private sector. O.J. “The Juice” Simpson had a storied career at both USC and as a member of the Buffalo Bills. Despite playing a shortened 14-game season, “Juice” was the first person to ever break the 2,000 yard barrier, still a measuring stick for greatness among running backs.

Let’s take a look back at some of his accomplishments.

Facing off against crosstown rival UCLA in 1967, “Juice” was handed the ball with the game on the line. Boy did he deliver. He charged through the UCLA defense to the tune of 64 yards, breaking tackle and sealing the game for the mighty Trojans.

Facing powerhouse Ohio State in 1969, “Juice” burst through the defense for an 80 yard touchdown run. His power and grace were on full display in a losing effort. But nobody will forget how great of a running back he was, even in the toughest of circumstances.

It’s tough to pick just one run from O.J.’s iconic 273-yard performance on Thanksgiving Day. Simpson dominated the Lions, proving more effective on the ground than many teams are through the air. One thing was for certain: “The Juice” was loose!

Though O.J.’s playing days were over, he never stopped entertaining us. He leaps over luggage as easily as he once leaped over defenders. Even dashing through an airport, “Juice” always delivered in style.

Perhaps O.J.’s most famous run was in a Bronco when he ran from police in a slow-speed chase with a gun to his head after almost certainly murdering his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson and waiter Ron Goldman, a crime for which he was later acquitted. Wow!

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Michael Hafford

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Michael Hafford is an editor at Playboy and a feature writer for Rolling Stone, MEL, and other fine publications.

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