The University of Southern California has made an official announcement regarding the retirement of Caleb Williams’ No. 13 jersey and the restoration of Reggie Bush’s No. 5 jersey to its honored position among the retired numbers displayed on the Coliseum’s peristyle. These decisions were confirmed on social media by the school two days before the Trojans’ home opener against Utah State, which is ranked 13th.
USC has a tradition of retiring the uniform numbers of its eight Heisman Trophy winners, which is more than any other university. The recognized numbers, including the likes of O.J. Simpson’s No. 32, are showcased on oversized banners that adorn the peristyle steps during home games.
Jen Cohen, USC’s athletic director, shared her excitement on social media, emphasizing the university’s accomplishments with a post that read, “Home of the Heismans! More Heisman Trophy winners than any other university. Let’s go #5 and #13… Can’t wait to celebrate you.”
Caleb Williams achieved Heisman success in 2022 during his two-year tenure at USC, right after making the move with coach Lincoln Riley from Oklahoma. The quarterback was selected as the overall No. 1 pick in the recent NFL draft by the Chicago Bears.
Reggie Bush, after an electrifying career as a tailback and winning the Heisman in 2005 during his third season, had his number removed from the peristyle in 2010 due to returning his trophy amidst an NCAA investigation that uncovered improper benefits received during his exceptional tenure. However, Bush’s Heisman trophy was reinstated earlier this year by the Heisman Trust following the school’s reestablished connection with him post an NCAA-required disassociation period.
Reggie Bush is presently involved in a lawsuit against the NCAA for defamation, asserting that he was wrongly targeted.
