John Riggins, the Pro Football Hall of Fame running back, played for the New York Jets and Washington Redskins. Well known for his power running, Riggins was made famous his break away run on a fourth and one play during Super Bowl XVII where he was awarded MVP for the game.

Riggins played his college for the University of Kansas where he broke Gayle Sayers rushing record. He was drafted by the New York Jets on their first pick of 1971 and was the sixth overall. He was twice voted as the Jets MVP and averaged of 4 yards a carry four out of the 5 years.

Riggins signed with the Washington Redskins in 1976 as a free agent. While he had 1000 yard seasons both 1978 and 1979 he sat out the season in 1980. In 1981 Joe Gibbs was hired as the Redskins football coach and John Riggins style of power running fit into his plans. Riggins excelled behind the Offensive line of the Redskins which was nicknamed the “hogs.” Riggins MVP performance during Super Bowl XVII included the recording breaking 38 carries for 166 yards. Before he retired Riggins had 6 postseason 100 yard rushing games. He was named All Pro during the 1983 season for the only time in his career.

Riggins retired after the 1985 season. He made headlines before the season when at a black tie dinner he told Sandra Day O'Connor: "Loosen up, Sandy baby. You're too tight," before passing out and spending 45 minutes under the table.http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1119782/index.htm The Pro Football Hall of Fame inducted him in 1992.

• August 4, 1949: Born

• 1967: Attended University of Kansas and played with the Kansas Jayhawks Football team

• 1971: Drafted first round in the NFL Draft by the New York Jets

• 1972: Named New York Jets MVP

• 1975: Named New York Jets MVP

• 1976: Played in Pro Bowl

• 1976: Signed as a free agent by the Washington Redskins

• 1980: Elected not to play due to a contract dispute

• 1981: Differences resolved and he returned to the Washington Redskins

• 1983: MVP of Super Bowl XVII

• 1983: Received the Bert Bell Award

• 1984: Played in Super Bowl XVIII

• 1985: Retired from professional football

• 1992: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame

• 1993: Inducted into Washington Redskins Ring of Honor

• 2005: Served as color commentator for Sunday Night Football for Westwood One

• 2006: Started hosting The John Riggins Show, airing on Triple X ESPN Radio

• 2007: Inducted into University of Kansas Ring of Honor