Tony Davis, the legendary Nebraska running back, has been inducted into the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Hall of Fame as part of the 2025 class. This honor recognizes his outstanding performance in the 1974 Cotton Bowl Classic, where he led the Cornhuskers to a decisive 19–3 victory over Texas. Davis rushed for 106 yards on 28 carries and scored a crucial touchdown, earning him the game’s Most Valuable Player award .
A Nebraska Icon
Born in Tecumseh, Nebraska, Davis was a standout athlete from a young age. As a sophomore in 1973, he became Nebraska’s first 1,000-yard rusher under head coach Tom Osborne. Davis finished his college career with 2,445 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, leaving a lasting legacy in the program .
Dual Bowl MVP
Remarkably, Davis was named MVP of two major bowl games in the same calendar year. In addition to his Cotton Bowl performance, he was also honored as the MVP of the 1974 Sugar Bowl. In that game, Davis rushed for 126 yards, including a pivotal 40-yard run that set up the game-winning field goal, leading Nebraska to a 13–10 victory over Florida .
NFL Career and Further Honors
After college, Davis was selected in the fourth round of the 1976 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. He also played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Portland Breakers in the USFL. Davis was inducted into the Nebraska Sports Hall of Fame in 1989, further cementing his status as a Nebraska football legend .
A Fitting Tribute
The 2025 Cotton Bowl Hall of Fame induction ceremony, held on May 23 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, celebrated Davis’s contributions to college football. He was honored alongside other legends, including Bo Jackson, Jerome Bettis, and David Cutcliffe. This recognition highlights Davis’s enduring impact on the sport and his place among college football’s elite.
Tony Davis’s induction into the Cotton Bowl Hall of Fame not only honors his individual achievements but also underscores the rich history of Nebraska football. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of athletes and fans alike.
