Bobby Grayson

Bio

On October 22, 1932, Southern California defeated Stanford 13-0. It was Stanford's fifth consecutive loss to the Trojans. Two days later, members of the Stanford freshman team made a promise never to lose to Southern Cal. Two sportswriters overheard the conversation and the legend of the "Vow Boys" was born. Bobby Grayson was a 5-11, 190-pound back on that freshman squad. In his first varsity appearance against Southern Cal he scored Stanford's first touchdown as Stanford defeated the Trojans 13-7. The 1933 victory was the first of three consecutive wins over USC by Grayson and his "Vow Boy" teammates. As a bonus to the original vow, Stanford also defeated rival California three consecutive times in "The Big Game." In his three varsity seasons Grayson was part of a Stanford team that posted a 25-4-2 record and became the first team to play in three consecutive Rose Bowls. He was a two-time consensus All-America player. In the 1934 Rose Bowl he rushed for 152 yards, a Rose Bowl record that stood for 20 years. In addition to his offensive abilities he was an excellent defensive player. Against Washington he intercepted four passes returning two for touchdowns. Ernie Nevers said Grayson was "the best back I've ever seen."

Career Highlights

• 1935 Consensus All-America
• 1934 Consensus All-America
• 1933 Second Team All-America