Michigan State football: 15 greatest running backs in Spartans history
By John Buhler
Clinton Jones is another dominating running back in Michigan State history. We have to go way back to the mid-1960s to understand the greatness he displayed on the gridiron for the Spartans in the Big Ten.
Given that freshmen were unable to play varsity during his era, Jones only suited up for Michigan State from 1964 to 1966. In his first year of action for the Spartans, Jones rushed for 350 yards and four touchdowns on only 72 attempts in nine games. While those numbers are nothing to write home about, Jones’ final two years in East Lansing certainly were.
In 1965, Jones had 185 carries for 900 yards and 10 rushing touchdowns. He also had 27 catches for 314 yards and two touchdowns through the air as a receiver in his first of two All-American campaigns in the green and white.
Jones backed up that breakout campaign of 1965 with another strong year in 1966. He rushed for 784 yards and six touchdowns on 159 attempts, as he was named an All-American for the second time in his collegiate career. Jones finished sixth in Heisman Trophy voting that season as well.
After three excellent years in East Lansing, Jones would turn pro. He would go on to be the No. 2 overall pick in the 1967 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. Jones spent six seasons in the Twin Cities before playing his last NFL season with the then-San Diego Chargers in 1973.
In 2015, Jones would be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame for his brilliant career with Michigan State. Though his 2,034 career rushing yards and 20 rushing touchdowns don’t stand the test of time, Jones’ alma mater retired his No. 26 jersey. He is one of six former Spartans to receive this honor and so far, the only running back to have his jersey number permanently set aside for him.