Marcus Allen played running back at the University of Southern California from 1978 to 1981. He was recruited as a defensive back, but head coach John Robinson switched him to tailback. Allen spent his first season at USC as a backup to Heisman Trophy winning running back Charles White. In 1979, he was moved to fullback. Eventually, in 1980, Allen became the starter at tailback and rushed for 1,563 yards, the third-most in the nation that year. In 1981, Allen had one of the most spectacular seasons in NCAA history, rushing for 2,342 yards, becoming the first player in NCAA history to rush for over 2,000 yards in one season. He also gained a total of 2,683 offensive yards, led the nation in scoring, and won the Heisman Trophy, the Maxwell Award, and Walter Camp Award. He was also the Pac-10 Player of the Year. Allen finished his four college seasons with 4,669 rushing yards, 5,232 total yards, and 46 touchdowns, while averaging 5.2 yards per carry. USC has retired his jersey number (33), and coach Robinson has called Allen, "the greatest player I ever saw."
Presented here is Marcus Allen’s game worn jersey attributed to his prolific 1981 season at USC. The jersey is made entirely of light-weight burgundy mesh (except for the ribbed rounded collar). The sleeve striping, favored by the team from the '70s to the '90s, as well as the the numeral identifiers are screened on in full-block font. The mustard-yellow numerals on both sides exhibit cracking and scuffing from the moderate contact endured. Several marks from contact are visible throughout, most apparent at the shoulders and several small fabric punctures can be found in the upper sleeves and shoulders. Situated on the tail is a Goodman & Sons manufacturer's size "46" label. The jersey appears to have no restorations or altering. Both underarms have inserts built in for added comfort.
An accompanying letter from USC Assistant Athletic Director Steve Lopes attests to the jersey having been worn by Allen during his historic 1981 Heisman Trophy season.
Letter of Provenance from the Newport Sports Museum.