​Our countdown to kickoff series has illuminated notable USC players who have worn every number from zero to 99. Yet the question remains: how do these players rank among all-time college football greats? In a recent ESPN feature, the network’s college football writers selected the sport’s greatest player to ever wear each number. For the number 42, they chose USC Hall of Fame safety Ronnie Lott.
ESPN described Lott as one of the fiercest defensive players in football history, renowned for his tenacity on the field in both college and the pros. Offensive players, the article noted, often did everything in their power to avoid facing him. Lott was a sure-handed tackler and one of the smartest players on the field, contributing to the Trojans’ 1978 national title and two Rose Bowl victories. In his senior season, he led the nation in interceptions, finishing his college career with 14 interceptions. His success extended to the NFL, where he enjoyed a storied career with the San Francisco 49ers, earning ten Pro Bowl selections and four Super Bowl championships.
Lott’s list of honors is extensive. He helped guide USC to the 1978 national championship and earned unanimous All-American recognition in 1980. Beyond college, his NFL achievements solidified his legacy: a Hall of Fame career with the 49ers, multiple Super Bowl titles, and a reputation as one of the sport’s greatest safeties. His name appears in both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame, underscoring his status as a legendary figure at both levels of play.
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