ESPN names Richard Wood greatest college football player to wear 83
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 5, 2026, 10:41 PM
Last updated Jul 5, 2026
ESPN recently highlighted Richard Wood as the greatest college football player to wear No. 83. The USC linebacker contributed to two national championships and appeared in three Rose Bowls during his time at USC. He is recognized as a three-time All-American, achieving this in just three years as freshmen were ineligible to play varsity football. Despite his accolades, Wood often receives less recognition compared to other USC linebackers. The recognition as the top player at his number reinforces Wood's significant contributions to college football and USC's legacy.
- •ESPN ranks Richard Wood as the best player to wear No. 83.
- •Wood helped USC win two national championships.
- •He was a three-time All-American and Hall of Fame inductee in 2007.
- •Recognition comes even as he receives less fanfare than peers.
- 10:41 PMYahoo Sports — ESPN has Richard Wood as greatest college football player to wear 83
"A recent ESPN story gave the greatest college football player to ever wear each number. USC was well represented on the list, including No. 83
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