Today in 1990 Detroit Lions running back Barry Sanders makes his 1st Sports Illustrated cover appearance.

As a junior at Oklahoma State in 1988, Sanders compiled what is widely considered one of the greatest individual seasons by a running back in college football history, rushing for a record 2,628 yards and 37 touchdowns, in 11 games. He was awarded the Heisman Trophy, and was unanimously recognized as an All-American.

Sanders retired from the NFL having played his last game at just 30 years old and finished 2nd in all-time rushing yards to Walter Payton. He still holds the NCAA record for rushing yards in a season and rushing TD’s in a season. For my money, he was the most electric and exciting running back I’ve ever seen.

This copy graded in newsstand at CGC 9.4 is a pop 4 with only 2 copies graded higher.