Winston-Salem State University

The Rams’ 1987 football team was one of the greatest in school history. Led by legendary head coach William “Bill” Hayes, the Rams were the first CIAA Southern Division team to win the CIAA conference championship. The team led the conference in several statistical categories, including rushing, scoring offense, and total defense. The team had six players to earn first CIAA All-Conference honors on offense and five earned first team defensive honors. Two players were named Region Two All-Americans as well. The team featured the CIAA Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year along with the CIAA Coach of the Year. Four players were selected for participation in the Freedom Bowl. One player went on the play in the Canadian Football League (CFL) while three players from that team went on to have productive careers in the National Football League (NFL).