'Black Magic' USC QB Allen Mitchell Dead at 48
He led the Gamecocks to a 10-2 record in 1984.
Allen Mitchell, one of two quarterbacks who led South Carolina to its first 10-win season in 1984 as part of the "Black Magic" Gamecocks under Joe Morrison, has died, according to media reports.
He took his life over the weekend, according to reports. He was 48.
He is survived by his wife and two children.
Mitchell, along with QB Mike Hold and a tremendous defense, tore through opponents including Pittsburgh, Florida State and Notre Dame in 1984 — leading the Gamecocks to a 9-0 record and national prominence.
But a 38-21 loss to Navy on Nov. 17, 1984 — which some attributed to the Chicken Curse — ended the Gamecocks' chances at a national title. South Carolina wrapped up with a win over rival Clemson before losing to Oklahoma State in the Gator Bowl.
Chris Winston
8:45 pm on Sunday, September 9, 2012
Condolences for his family.
He's one of my earliest childhood heroes. After Chris Chambliss of the Braves, Mitchell was my biggest sports idol as a 9-year-old Gamecock fan. I believe I have an autograph somewhere from back "in the day."
Amy King
9:40 pm on Sunday, September 9, 2012
I grew up hunting with Alan & his Dad. He was my oldest brother's age, & I thought it was so cool to know the Gamecocks' quarterback! I regret that I haven't seen or talked to him in a while.
Donna C Corder
9:47 pm on Sunday, September 9, 2012
I went to HS with Allen. He was a very special person and will be missed by all who knew him. May God be with his family now and for the months to come!!!
Sandra Martin Jackson
9:46 pm on Monday, September 10, 2012
Thoughts go out to his Family and close friends ..
CLAYTON B LINDSAY
2:39 pm on Tuesday, September 11, 2012
ALLEN WAS MY FRIEND, HE NEVER TALKED MUCH. BUT ALWAYS HAPPY.
WE WON ALOT OF FOOTBALL GAMES TOGETHER, HE WAS NOT JUST A ALL
AROUND ATHELTE. HE WAS VERY , VERY , SMART PERSON.
HE WAS ONE OFE THE BEST QUATERBACKS IN GAMECOCK HISTORY.
BUT NEVER HEARD HIS NAME WHEN CAME TO GAMECOCK FOOTBALL.
HE SHOULD BE IN GAMECOCK HALL OF FAME.. THATS MY OPINION.
MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOUR FAMILY... THANKS FOR BEING YOU'
WE GONNA MISS YOU BROTHER.