Topic: Michael Bush

Michael Bush (born June 16, 1984, in Louisville, Kentucky) is an American football running back for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted in the 4th round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football at the University of Louisville.

Bush attended Louisville Male High School where he played quarterback his senior year after seeing action at defensive back, defensive end, linebacker, running back, safety, and wide receiver over his career. As a senior, he led the Bulldogs to the state championship game in Kentucky's highest class. In a showdown with future Louisville teammate Brian Brohm and his Trinity Shamrocks, Bush threw for 468 yards and six touchdowns and ran for 116 yards and another touchdown in a 59-56 loss. He also caught two passes for 24 yards, returned a punt and a kickoff, and made five tackles on defense.

Following a successful high school career, Bush became a highly sought after college recruit. He turned down offers from several more established programs (including Ohio State) to stay at home and attend the University of Louisville, largely because head coach Bobby Petrino promised the opportunity to play quarterback, his preferred position. As a true freshman, he was forced to play several positions in order to get on the field because Louisville's starting quarterback position was locked down by Stefan LeFors. Though he was not the starter, Bush was able to rush for 100 yards in back-to-back games as a tailback toward the end of the year.