#13
Bennie Cunningham (1972-75)
Bennie Cunningham remains the most decorated tight end in Clemson
history. A native of nearby Seneca, SC, Cunningham was a two-time
first-team All-American at Clemson in 1974 and 1975, one of just 12
multi-year All-Americans in school history.
Cunningham was a pro scouts dream. At 6-5 and 250 pounds, he could run
like a deer, yet run over the opposition in heavy traffic. In addition
to his great hands and quickness, he was a devastating blocker.
Cunningham first came on the scene in 1973 when he started all 11 games
and caught 22 passes for 341 yards. He also averaged 6.6 yards a rush on
11 carries as a runner.
In 1974 Clemson's season long slogan was "Excitement Galore in '74".
Cunningham did his part in the 7-4 season that included a perfect 6-0
home record, with seven touchdown receptions among his 24 catches, the
most touchdown receptions ever by a Clemson tight end and one of the top
five totals nationally that season for tight ends. Cunningham was named
a first-team AP All-American that season.
The Tigers stumbled a bit in 1975 with a young offense, but Cunningham
still averaged 17-yards a catch, an incredible average for a tight end.
After the season he was named a first-team All-American by Sporting News
for the second straight year, then was a first-round draft choice of the
Pittsburgh Steelers, still the only Clemson tight end in history be a
first-round draft choice.
Cunningham might have had an even better NFL career. He caught over 200
passes for the Steelers in his 10-year NFL career and was a starter on
two Super Bowl Championship teams
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