Title: Former Oceanside High School, USC Football Star C.R. Roberts Passes Away at 87
C.R. Roberts, a renowned former football star from Oceanside High School and the University of Southern California (USC), has sadly passed away at the age of 87. Roberts, who played a pivotal role in USC’s historic victory over Texas in a racially segregated road game in 1956, died of natural causes on Tuesday in suburban Norwalk.
During the game against Texas, Roberts, a fullback, set a remarkable single-game rushing record by accumulating 251 yards on just 12 carries. This extraordinary achievement remained unchallenged for two decades. USC’s coaching staff, fearing potential unrest from the racially segregated crowd, made the difficult decision to withdraw Roberts from the game early.
When the team arrived in Austin, Texas, they faced significant challenges finding a hotel that would accommodate their black players. After trying multiple options, USC eventually found one that allowed their African American athletes to stay. Despite the discomfort, Roberts remained resolute, determined to prove his worth. Recalling the experience in a 2015 USC article, he stated, Damn right, I had something to prove to them.
Roberts further recounted how the black hotel housekeepers initially tried to persuade him and his teammate to leave, but he reassured them that he was part of the team and had every right to be there. In a touching display of support, local black residents clandestinely visited the hotel, dressing in staff uniforms to bypass the segregation laws and show their pride in having the USC players as guests.
Upon his return to campus, Roberts was hailed as a hero. Alumni even flew back on the team plane to congratulate him, while he found it hard to sleep due to the overwhelming support and admiration from boosters.
Born on February 29, 1936, Roberts grew up in Mississippi before moving to California during his grade school years. He graduated from Oceanside High School, where he earned the prestigious title of the 1953 state football player of the year, with an incredible 65 touchdowns to his name.
Roberts continued his athletic journey at USC, where he obtained a degree in business administration. He was subsequently drafted by the New York Giants in the 14th round of the 1958 NFL draft. However, Roberts opted to sign with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League, amassing 595 yards and five touchdowns in just 10 games. Unfortunately, he fell victim to the 12-man quota, which limited the number of American players on the Argos’ roster, resulting in his release. Despite trying out for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1959, Roberts did not make the team. Nevertheless, he had a successful four-year stint with the San Francisco 49ers from 1959 to 1962.
Roberts is survived by his daughters Cathy Creasia and Chandra Roberts, his son Craig, as well as four grandchildren.
C.R. Roberts’ remarkable journey stands as a testament to his resilience and determination in overcoming racial adversity in both football and society. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations and serves as a reminder of the progress made in breaking down racial barriers in sports.
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