Every year on May 11, USC football fans mark the calendar not just for the date itself but for the two iconic jersey numbers that have become synonymous with Trojan greatness.
The Numbers That Sparked a Legacy
Reggie Bush wore No.5 and Matt Leinart No.11 during their three‑year run together from 2003 to 2005, a period that saw the Trojans dominate college football like few teams in history.
During that span the pair helped the program reel off 34 straight victories, capture back‑to‑back national championships and etch their names into the school’s record books. Their impact went beyond wins; both earned All‑American honors and brought a level of excitement that reshaped the Trojans’ identity.
The duo’s individual brilliance was recognized with Heisman Trophy awards — Leinart in 2004 and Bush in 2005 — making them the first pair of Heisman winners to appear together in a game, a feat highlighted by their showdown in the 2006 Rose Bowl against Texas.
The legacy of that partnership endures today, as the university has retired both No.5 and No.11, ensuring that future generations of Trojans will forever associate those digits with excellence. The University of Southern California continues to celebrate this milestone, linking the historic achievements to the broader spirit of Trojan pride.