Auburn to Celebrate Bo Jackson at Iron Bowl, Marking 40 Years Since Heisman Glory

Tigers to honor legendary two-sport star during rivalry clash with Alabama, commemorating his record-setting 1985 season.

AUBURN, Ala. | Auburn University will pay tribute to one of its most iconic athletes this fall when it honors Bo Jackson at the Iron Bowl, commemorating the 40th anniversary of his historic 1985 Heisman Trophy-winning season.

Widely considered one of the greatest athletes in American sports history, Jackson excelled in football, baseball, and track during his Auburn career from 1982 to 1986. His dominance on the football field culminated in a 1985 campaign that saw him rush for 1,786 yards — the second-highest single-season total in Southeastern Conference (SEC) history at the time — along with 17 touchdowns and an average of 6.4 yards per carry.

“Ever since he arrived on the Plains in 1982, Bo Jackson has represented Auburn in a world-class manner in his athletic, professional, and philanthropic endeavors,” Auburn Athletics Director John Cohen said. “Bo’s 1985 season ranks among the greatest in the storied history of Auburn and the Southeastern Conference. It is our privilege to honor Bo on the 40th anniversary of his Heisman Trophy season.”

Jackson became Auburn’s second-ever Heisman Trophy recipient, cementing his place in Tigers history. Over his collegiate career, he amassed 4,303 rushing yards, 4,575 all-purpose yards, and 43 rushing touchdowns. His legendary No. 34 jersey was retired in 1992 as part of Auburn’s football centennial celebration.

Following his Auburn career, Jackson went on to achieve rare dual-sport stardom, playing eight seasons in Major League Baseball with the Kansas City Royals, Chicago White Sox, and California Angels, as well as four seasons in the NFL with the Los Angeles Raiders. He was named the 1989 MLB All-Star Game MVP, the 1993 American League Comeback Player of the Year, and recorded 2,782 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns in the NFL before a hip injury in 1991 cut his football career short.

The Iron Bowl — Auburn’s annual rivalry game against Alabama — will serve as the perfect backdrop for honoring Jackson’s legacy, ensuring a packed stadium and a national television audience for the celebration. Fans can expect special tributes, video highlights, and appearances honoring his impact both on and off the field.

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-- By Masakela Rawls

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