USC Legend: Anthony Davis TD Prowess & Notre Dame Domination!

Ally Labadie 12 May 2025

Was there ever a college football player who embodied gridiron dominance quite like Anthony Davis? The answer is a resounding, unwavering no; Davis was a force of nature, a whirlwind of talent that decimated defenses and cemented his place in USC Trojan lore.

Anthony Davis wasn't just a football player; he was an event. His performances transcended the game, becoming legendary tales whispered in the hallowed halls of USC and echoing across the college football landscape. He wasn't merely scoring touchdowns; he was crafting an enduring legacy, one that continues to inspire awe and respect decades later. Davis was more than a player; he was a symbol of USC's football prowess, a testament to the program's rich history and unwavering commitment to excellence. He was a game-changer, a difference-maker, and an icon.

Category	Information
Full Name	Anthony Davis
Birth Date	September 8, 1952
Birth Place	Huntsville, TX, USA
High School	San Fernando (Los Angeles, CA)
College	University of Southern California (USC)
Position	Running Back / Wide Receiver / Return Specialist
NFL Draft	1975, Round 2, #37 overall by the New York Jets
College Achievements	National Championships (1972, 1974)
Notable Games	Numerous standout performances, particularly against Notre Dame
Legacy	Remembered as one of the greatest players in USC history, especially for his dominance against Notre Dame.
Reference Link	USC Trojans Official Website

The numbers speak for themselves, but they fail to fully capture the electric atmosphere that surrounded every Anthony Davis touch. He didn't just help USC score a touchdown on their first second-half possession; he scored the instant he touched the ball, a statement of intent that sent shivers down the spines of opposing defenses. It was this immediate impact, this unwavering ability to change the course of a game with a single play, that set him apart. It wasn't just about talent; it was about an unwavering belief in his own capabilities, a confidence that radiated from him and infected his teammates.

He is, quite simply, long remembered for his utter domination of Notre Dame. Eleven touchdowns in three games against the Fighting Irish? That's not just a statistic; it's a legend carved into the annals of college football history. It's a testament to his skill, his determination, and his uncanny ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes were highest. The "Notre Dame Killer" moniker wasn't just a catchy nickname; it was a reflection of the fear he instilled in the hearts of the Irish, a fear that manifested itself in turnovers, missed tackles, and ultimately, defeat.

Think about the sheer devastation caused by the USC Trojans during those periods of dominance. Five Notre Dame turnovers, leading to 55 points in a mere 17 minutes. It was an avalanche of offensive firepower, a display of pure, unadulterated football brilliance. And at the heart of it all was Anthony Davis, the catalyst, the spark that ignited the Trojan engine. It was more than just scoring points; it was about demoralizing the opposition, about breaking their will to fight. It was a performance that showcased the Trojans' unmatched talent and their relentless pursuit of victory.

Notre Dame's inability to score in the entire second half of some games is a glaring indictment of the defensive adjustments (or lack thereof) and the sheer psychological impact Anthony Davis had on the game. It wasn't just that they couldn't score; it was that they seemed utterly incapable of mounting any sort of meaningful offense. The Trojan defense deserves credit, of course, but the offensive dominance, spearheaded by Davis, played a significant role in suffocating the Irish attack. The inability to respond, the sense of hopelessness that permeated the Notre Dame sideline, spoke volumes about the impact of Davis's performance.

Four days after scoring six touchdowns against Notre Dame, the legend only grew, fueled by the memories of past triumphs and the anticipation of future glories. Each game was a chapter in the ongoing saga of Anthony Davis, a narrative filled with electrifying runs, acrobatic catches, and an unwavering determination to win. The legend wasn't just about the touchdowns; it was about the way he carried himself, the way he inspired his teammates, and the way he captivated the fans. It was a legend built on substance, on performance, and on an undeniable aura of greatness.

Indeed, this is the week the "Notre Dame Killer" truly comes to life in the collective memory of college football fans. The highlight reels are dusted off, the stories are retold, and the legend of Anthony Davis is rekindled. It's a time to remember the dominance, the excitement, and the sheer artistry he brought to the gridiron. The rivalry between USC and Notre Dame is fierce, but Davis's performances elevated it to another level, transforming it into a showcase for his extraordinary talent and unwavering competitive spirit.

Anthony Davis, on a late fall Saturday 38 years ago (or any Saturday, for that matter), leading USC to a rout over the Fighting Irish with six touchdowns, is a scene etched into the collective consciousness of college football. It's a moment frozen in time, a reminder of the days when USC reigned supreme and Anthony Davis was the undisputed king of the gridiron. The memory transcends generations, passed down from fathers to sons, from alumni to current students, ensuring that the legend of Anthony Davis lives on.

The anticipation was palpable; it was billed as "AD versus TD," a clash of titans, a battle between two legendary programs and their star players. The hype was immense, but Anthony Davis lived up to it, exceeding all expectations and solidifying his place in college football history. It wasn't just about individual brilliance; it was about the team, the coaches, and the entire Trojan family coming together to achieve a common goal. The "AD versus TD" narrative added fuel to the fire, but it was Davis's performance that ultimately defined the game and the rivalry.

Davis's versatility was a nightmare for opposing defenses. He also scored on runs of 1, 5, and 4 yards, demonstrating his ability to find the end zone from anywhere on the field. It wasn't just about speed and power; it was about vision, agility, and an uncanny ability to anticipate the movements of defenders. He was a complete running back, capable of breaking tackles, outrunning defenders, and making the crucial plays that led to victory. The short-yardage touchdowns were a testament to his toughness and determination, proving that he was more than just a flashy playmaker.

On our ensuing kick off, Dave Lewis totally blew up the ND returner; how he didnt fumble is still a mystery, highlighting the sheer intensity and physicality of those games. It was a time when football was played with a raw passion, a commitment to hitting and a willingness to sacrifice for the team. The special teams plays were just as important as the offensive and defensive plays, and the impact of Dave Lewis's hit underscores the importance of every player on the field contributing to the overall success of the team. The fact that the returner didn't fumble is almost miraculous, a testament to his own toughness and the unpredictable nature of the game.

Anthony Davis played a key role in several significant bowl game victories for USC, adding to his already impressive resume and further solidifying his legendary status. The bowl games were the culmination of a season's worth of hard work and dedication, and Davis's performances in those games cemented his place as one of the greatest players in USC history. He thrived under pressure, rising to the occasion when the stakes were highest and delivering the game-changing plays that led to victory. The bowl game victories were not just about individual accolades; they were about the team, the coaches, and the entire USC community celebrating together.

Davis helped the Trojans win national championships in 1972 and 1974, further cementing his legacy and solidifying his place as one of the greatest players in college football history. The national championships were the ultimate validation of the team's talent and hard work, and Davis's contributions were instrumental in achieving those remarkable feats. He was a leader on and off the field, inspiring his teammates to reach their full potential and pushing them to achieve greatness. The national championships were not just about winning games; they were about building a legacy of excellence that would endure for generations to come.

The TD pass to close out the half, then the returned 2nd half kickoff for a touchdown, are just two examples of Davis's incredible versatility and game-changing ability. He was a threat to score every time he touched the ball, whether it was on offense or special teams. His ability to excel in multiple positions made him an invaluable asset to the team and a constant headache for opposing coaches. The TD pass and the kickoff return were not just individual plays; they were symbols of his extraordinary talent and his unwavering commitment to winning.

Born September 8, 1952, in Huntsville, TX, USA, Anthony Daviss journey to football stardom began long before his days at USC. He honed his skills at San Fernando High School in Los Angeles, CA, laying the foundation for his future success. His natural athleticism and dedication to the sport were evident from an early age, and he quickly emerged as a standout player, attracting the attention of college scouts from across the nation. It was at San Fernando that he developed the work ethic and the competitive spirit that would define his career.

Drafted in 1975 in round 2, #37 overall by the New York Jets, Daviss professional career, while promising, didn't quite reach the same heights as his college days, due to injuries and other factors. He continued to showcase his talent and contribute to his teams, but the magic of his USC years remained the defining chapter of his football story. He was a star in college, but the transition to the pros proved to be challenging. Despite the setbacks, he remained a respected player and a valuable asset to his teams.