Alabama football fans are in sorrow as one of its own died today.
Santonio Beard, a native of Nashville, Tenn., has passed away.
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He was a superstar at Pearl-Cohn High School and chose the University of Alabama for his college.
He played running back for the Crimson Tide from 1999 to 2002, sharing the backfield with Ahmaad Galloway and Shaud Williams. Beard played the game with passion, fun, excitement, and enjoyment for the fans. His tough runs and speed brought joy to fans at Bryant-Denny Stadium. He totaled 633 yards rushing and four touchdowns on 77 carries in 2001.
Beard enjoyed his best season in 2002 with 811 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns on 165 carries.
He shared a record with Shaun Alexander and DeVonta Smith for most touchdowns scored in a game (five).
Beard did not have the pro career he wanted, but he was loved by family, friends, coaches, and teammates. He had a successful roofing company and other strong business endeavors.
Several family members and friends expressed their sorrows on Facebook for Beard. According to a credible source close to former Tide running back, Ray Hudson, Beard was robbed and shot.
In one Facebook post, the feeling is Beard was shot and killed.
Other thoughts of sorrow for Beard are below:
Beard was 41 years old at the point of his death.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
