50 year ago: Johnny Rodgers wins Nebraska's first Heisman Trophy

LINCOLN, Neb. -- Monday marks a significant anniversary for Husker football.

Fifty years ago today, Johnny Rodgers became the first Nebraska player to win the Heisman Trophy.

Johnny the Jet became the first wide receiver to win the award, but it was his punt return against Oklahoma in the Game of the Century a year earlier that cemented his status in the memories of many Husker fans.

The Omaha native also helped the Huskers win national titles in 1970 and 1971 under then-head coach Bob Devaney.

Rodgers beat out Oklahoma's Greg Pruitt for the Heisman in 1972, while Rodgers' teammate, defensive tackle Rich Glover, finished third.

As a senior, Rodgers piled up 1,978 all-purpose yards, with 54 catches for 919 yards, and scored 17 touchdowns as Nebraska went 8-2-1 and clinched a berth in the Orange Bowl.

After winning his Heisman Trophy, Rodgers put his all-around game on display in a 40-6 win over Notre Dame in the 1973 Orange Bowl. Rodgers had a hand in all five of Nebraska’s touchdowns against the Fighting Irish, rushing for three touchdowns, while adding one touchdown reception. He pitched in a 52-yard pass to Frosty Anderson for another score.

Rodgers played for the Montreal Alouettes where he was named “Rookie of the Year” in 1973 and was All-Pro in 1974, ’75, and ’76. He also had a career with the San Diego Chargers. Rodgers, the “Husker Player of the Century,” was elected to the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame in 1999.