LOS ANGELES — Mike Battle, a distinguished defensive back recognized as an All-American and an integral part of USC’s 1967 national championship team, has passed away at the age of 78. His death, which occurred due to natural causes, took place in Nellysford, Virginia, and was confirmed by the university on Tuesday.
During the 1967 season, Battle was a defensive powerhouse for USC, which famously allowed only 87 points throughout the entire season. Throughout his tenure with the Trojans, the team achieved a 26-6-1 record and clinched three conference titles. Battle participated in the esteemed 1967, 1968, and 1969 Rose Bowl games, each of which resulted in victories for USC.
Renowned for his exceptional punt return abilities, Battle led USC in this category every year of his collegiate career and continues to hold the school record for the number of punts returned in a single season. In 1967, he emerged as the NCAA’s statistical leader with an impressive 49 returns, amassing 608 yards and an average of 12.4 yards per return. Across his college career, he returned a total of 99 punts, setting a longstanding school record.
Selected by the New York Jets in the 12th round of the 1969 NFL Draft, Battle went on to play two seasons with the team during the 1969 and 1970 campaigns. In addition to his athletic career, Battle appeared in the 1970 film “C.C. and Company,” a motorcycle-themed film featuring his Jets teammate Joe Namath alongside actor Ann-Margret.
Mike Battle is survived by his wife, Laura, and their children: Christian Michael, Hunter, Frank, Michael, Kathleen, Murphy, and Annie. His contributions to college football and beyond have left a lasting legacy.
