Bernie Parrish

Bernie Parrish (April 29, 1936 – October 23, 2019) was a cornerback who played eight seasons in professional football during the 1950s and 1960s, appearing in both the NFL with the Cleveland Browns and the AFL with the Houston Oilers. Born in Long Beach, California, Parrish grew up in Gainesville, Florida, and played halfback and defensive back at the University of Florida under coach Bob Woodruff in 1956 and 1957. He earned Associated Press "Back of the Week" honors after a standout performance against Vanderbilt, rushing for 111 yards, scoring both touchdowns, and adding an interception. His post-career football memoirs later drew controversy.