Telegram Shows How Admiration for Simpson Transcended Rivalries

In the USC sports information department, files nearly a foot high hold press clippings from O.J. Simpson’s storied college football career.

In one of them, an envelope contains half a dozen telegrams sent to Simpson on Nov. 25, 1968, the day he won the Heisman Trophy.

One of them illustrates how Simpson’s talent and personality transcended rivalries.

“Warmest congratulations on your well deserved Heisman Trophy award,” it began.

“You are a great credit to intercollegiate athletics and have always conducted yourself as a champion on and off the field. We wish you unlimited success in all future endeavors.”

(Signed) J.D. Morgan and all at UCLA.

The late J.D. Morgan was UCLA’s athletic director at the time.