Edhat Staff
By edhat staff
Santa Barbara-born football star Sam “Bam” Cunningham died in his Inglewood home Tuesday at the age of 71.
The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Cunningham and his four brothers (Anthony, Bruce, and Randall) all played football and other sports at Santa Barbara High School in the late 60s and early 70s. The newly installed track at Peabody Stadium was recently named in their honor.
Sam Cunningham at Santa Barbara High School (courtesy photo)
Cunningham went to the University of Southern California (USC) after graduating and became a standout fullback where he was part of the 1972 team that produced a perfect 12-0 season. They went on to beat Ohio State in the 1973 Rose Bowl where Cunningham was named the MVP of that game. His collegiate performance earned him an induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.
He was then drafted into the National Football League (NFL) and helped the New England Patriots make the playoffs and eventually earned a spot at the Pro Bowl. He produced a 1,000-yard rushing season in the NFL, accounted for over 7,300 yards as a runner and receiver, and scored 49 touchdowns in his pro football career.
“Sam ‘Bam’ Cunningham was one of my favorite players throughout the ’70s and my sons all loved him. After I bought the team in 1994, it was my honor to welcome him back to the team on multiple occasions, recognizing him as a 50th anniversary team member and again for his induction into the Patriots Hall of Fame. As much as I admired him as a player, my affection for him only grew after spending time with him and learning more about him as a person. He made a tremendous impact, both on and off the field, and was beloved by his teammates. As a Patriots Hall of Famer, Sam’s legacy and contributions will be preserved and celebrated forever, but today his loss is felt with heavy hearts,” said Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft in a statement.
Cunningham has been described as the Patriot’s “all-time leading rusher.”
