But it was an undersized, little-known running back from Jackson State who most captured Croom's attention. Before a 13-year career with the Chicago Bears that saw him retire as the NFL's all-time leading rusher, Walter Payton rushed for a game-high 73 yards for the South team in the 1975 Senior Bowl.
"I remember looking over at Walter during the game," Croom said. "And after being at practice with him all week, I was just an honor to be in the huddle with a guy like that. He was a special person and of course a great player."