History and Traditions Behind Auburn Football's #34 Jersey

The History of the Auburn Tigers #34 Football Jersey

The Auburn Tigers football program is steeped in tradition and history. As one of the oldest college football teams in the nation, the Tigers have had countless great players don the #34 jersey over the years. Let's take a look back at some of the best to wear the iconic jersey number 34.

The Early Years of #34

While records aren't fully clear on the earliest days, some of the standouts from the early 20th century include Jimmy Hitchcock, Auburn's first All-American in 1932, and Walter Gilbert, an All-SEC selection at both fullback and linebacker in the late 1930s. However, it was in the 1950s that #34 first became linked to Auburn football legendry. In 1957, All-American halfback Jackie Burkett helped lead the Tigers to an SEC Championship while wearing #34. He was drafted #10 overall by the Baltimore Colts in 1959.

The Modern Era of Greats

In the modern era of Auburn football, some true greats have donned the #34 jersey. James Brooks was a star running back in the late 70s and early 80s, finishing his career as Auburn's second all-time leading rusher. He went on to a successful NFL career with multiple Pro Bowl appearances. The late 1980s saw Ron Stallworth shine bright wearing #34. An All-American in 1987, Stallworth helped Auburn to an SEC title. He had a brief NFL career before retiring. Arguably the greatest to wear #34 was 1990s linebacker Takeo Spikes. An elite talent, Spikes was a two-time All-American and SEC Defensive Player of the Year in 1997. He wore #34 while anchoring some of Auburn's best defenses. Spikes played 15 seasons in the NFL.

Recent Stars Keep the Streak Going

Auburn has had several excellent players don the #34 jersey in more recent years. Running back Rudi Johnson wore it in the late 90s before a long NFL career. Safety Junior Rosegreen wore it in the early 2000s while leading Auburn's defense. Perhaps the biggest Auburn star to wear #34 in the modern era was running back Cadillac Williams. The electric back was an All-American in 2004 while helping Auburn to an undefeated season. Williams is still revered by Auburn fans for his thrilling style.

Honoring a Storied Jersey Number

The #34 jersey holds a special place in Auburn football history. It has been worn by numerous All-Americans and Auburn greats that excelled both on the college and pro gridirons. Fans still reminisce about players like Takeo Spikes and Cadillac Williams electrifying Jordan-Hare Stadium wearing the iconic #34.

As Auburn continues adding to its decorated history, it will be exciting to see what future stars don the #34 jersey. If the past is any indicator, fans can expect more legends in the making carrying on the traditions behind one of college football's most storied programs.

FAQs

Who was the first All-American to wear the #34 Auburn jersey?

The first All-American to wear the #34 Auburn jersey was Jimmy Hitchcock in 1932.

Which Auburn player had the longest NFL career after wearing #34?

Takeo Spikes had the longest NFL career after wearing the #34 Auburn jersey, playing 15 seasons in the pros.

When did Cadillac Williams wear the Auburn #34 jersey?

Cadillac Williams wore the #34 jersey for Auburn from 2001-2004, during which he was an All-American in 2004.

How many SEC championships were won by Auburn players wearing #34?

Auburn players wearing #34 were part of SEC championship teams in 1957, 1987, and 2004.

Which Auburn #34 had his number retired by the school?

James Brooks, who wore #34 from 1977-1980, had his #34 jersey retired by Auburn in 1986.