Reggie Bush and the University of Southern California (USC) football program have long been synonymous with explosive, unforgettable moments, and one of their most iconic plays of the 21st century didn’t even come in the storied rivalry against Notre Dame. While the “Bush Push” remains a legendary piece of college football history, another dazzling play involving Bush stands out as one of the most electrifying moments of the modern era.
This particular play took place during USC’s dominant 2005 season in a matchup against the Fresno State Bulldogs. In what turned into a back-and-forth thriller at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Bush delivered a jaw-dropping performance that included one of the most remarkable runs the sport has ever seen. With over 500 all-purpose yards in that game, Bush’s signature moment came on a highlight-reel run where he reversed field, broke multiple tackles, and left defenders grasping at air as he sprinted down the sideline with his trademark glide.
It was a play that embodied everything fans came to expect from Reggie Bush—vision, balance, breakaway speed, and an instinct for the dramatic. The play was pure improvisation and athletic brilliance, a move that would define his legacy just as much as his Heisman-winning season. Though that Heisman was later vacated due to NCAA sanctions, the electricity of Bush’s performances remains etched in the memories of fans and analysts alike.
What made this play particularly special was the context. Fresno State, far from a pushover, had come ready to challenge USC, pushing the Trojans deeper than most teams had during their dominant run under head coach Pete Carroll. In a game filled with tension and fireworks, Bush’s ability to shift momentum with a single touch made all the difference. His performance that night was a key reason why USC remained unbeaten heading into their epic national championship game against Texas.
Analysts have frequently cited that play as one of the greatest in college football history not because of the stakes, but because of the sheer athleticism and improvisation. It has been replayed countless times in highlight packages, and even years later, younger players and fans study it as an example of how a single moment can showcase an athlete’s complete skill set.
While rivalry games like those against Notre Dame naturally draw more attention due to tradition and history, the Fresno State game gave Bush an unscripted platform to create a legacy-defining highlight. It reminded the football world that greatness doesn’t always require a classic opponent—it just needs a player ready to rise to the moment.
Today, that play remains a staple in college football countdowns and is often listed among the top plays of the 21st century. For USC fans and college football historians alike, it stands as a shining example of just how transcendent Reggie Bush was during his time in Los Angeles—a true game-breaker capable of turning any snap into a moment for the ages.
