Auburn's first black football player passes away

[Gatordiddy]

James Owens passed from heart complications at 65

https://espn.go.com/college-footbal...rn-tigers-first-black-football-player-dies-65

That got me thinking about who came before him...and I recall an HBO special about integration in college football, specifically the SEC. Great show if you happen to find it - I think it's called Breaking the Huddle.

I remember Willie Jackson but we had two players signed in '69:

https://www.teamspeedkills.com/2012...on-of-football-in-the-southeastern-conference

 

[CGgater]

I was 2 when Willie Sr arrived, so I don't know much about his career. Willie Jr and Terry sure provided some highlights for us!

 

[MJMGator]

RIP

 

[rogdochar]

Rest in Peace. Passed too young.

 

[AugustaGator]

Rest in Peace. Passed too young.

Yes. Had to be a very strong man. Attributes to be admired.

 

[stephenPE]

James Owens passed from heart complications at 65

https://espn.go.com/college-footbal...rn-tigers-first-black-football-player-dies-65

That got me thinking about who came before him...and I recall an HBO special about integration in college football, specifically the SEC. Great show if you happen to find it - I think it's called Breaking the Huddle.

I remember Willie Jackson but we had two players signed in '69:

https://www.teamspeedkills.com/2012...on-of-football-in-the-southeastern-conference

History was made on Dec. 17, 1968, when the University of Florida signed halfback Leonard George of Tampa to an athletic scholarship, becoming the first black football player for the Gators. He was joined the following day when Willie Jackson of Sarasota inked his scholarship papers.

George and Jackson made significant contributions to the Florida program. Following a solid year as members of the freshman team in 1969, they moved up to the varsity in 1970. Both lettered all three years, and started most of the games during that period.


George was a running back in 1970 and became the first black athlete to score a touchdown on Alabama in Tuscaloosa; he then started at defensive back his junior and senior seasons. Jackson was a three year starter at wide receiver and kick returner. During his career, he caught 75 passes for 1,170 yards and eight touchdowns.

https://www.alligatorarmy.com/2008/1/21/18348/7778