Former SI writer Alexander Wolff reflects on his 1984 visit to Alabama to spend time with Auburn’s ascending three-sport star, Bo Jackson.

Before Bo Jackson won the Heisman, played a down in the NFL or had a professional at bat, he was a 20 year old college kid showing off his immense talents at Auburn. Sports Illustrated is opening up the SI Vault and examining its most consequential work about moments like this one that defined the most legendary athletes in sports through its new podcast, The Record.

In 1984, former SI writer Alexander Wolff visited the 21-year-old ascending star in Alabama, where he rode in the passengers seat of Jackson’s 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass, furiously scribbling notes. Jessica Smetana talked with Wolff about his reflections on his story, Bo on the Go, Jackson’s the legendary college career and upbringing, and what it was like to ride around Alabama with him. 

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