Tim Brown, 1987
Tim Brown’s race for the Heisman Trophy began in essence in the final game of his junior year as he helped the Irish to an electrifying come-from-behind 38-37 win over Southern California. His 56-yard punt return set up the winning Irish field goal. He then began the 1987 campaign with back-to-back punt returns for touchdowns in an early-season 31-8 win over Michigan State. Listed as a flanker (6-0, 195), Brown utilized his ability as a pass receiver, rusher out of a full-house backfield and punt and kickoff returner to rank third nationally in all-purpose yardage as a junior (176.5 per game) and sixth as a senior (167.9).
Brown, from Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas, TX, ended his Notre Dame career as the all-time leader in pass reception yards (2,493) and returned six kicks for touchdowns (three punts and three kickoffs).
Brown was drafted by the Los Angeles Raiders of the National Football League and had a stellar pro career before retiring in 2004. He was second all time in receiving yards with 14,934 and fifth all time in all-purpose yards with 19,682.
Loyal Sons:
Winner Of Three
National Book Honors
