For the next five weeks, The Juice Online will be counting down the top 5 running backs in Syracuse history. Larry Csonka is No. 4 on our list.
WHY HE’S NO. 4: Csonka started out as a middle linebacker in his freshman season before making the switch to running back. After he made the switch, from 1965-1967, Csonka was one of the most feared backs in the nation. In just three seasons, he rushed for 2,934 yards, averaging about five yards a carry. During his final year, he was ranked fifth in the nation in rushing. He rushed for at least 100 yards 14 different times and currently holds a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame.
» Related: No. 5 on our list is Jim Nance
AFTER SYRACUSE: Csonka was the Miami Dolphins’ No. 1 pick in the 1968 draft, and became one of the Dolphins’ most decorated players. He was a part of Miami’s three Super Bowl teams from 1971-73, rushing for more than 1,000 yards in each of those seasons. During Miami’s undefeated 1972 season, he rushed for 1,117 yards and seven touchdowns on 5.4 yards per carry. He finished with 8,081 yards and 68 touchdowns for his career, and was a five-time Pro Bowler from 1970-74. The Dolphins would eventually retire his No. 39 jersey, and in 1987, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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