Introduction
Sam Willis Scarber (June 24, 1949) is a retired professional American football Running back. He played college football at the University of New Mexico and was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the 3rd round (69th overall) of the 1971 NFL Draft.
Early years
Scarber was born in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended John O'Fallon Technical High School. He moved on to play at Northeastern Junior College, before transferring to the University of New Mexico, where the team used a triple-option running offense.
In 1968, he registered the school's second longest pass play (88 yards) against the University of Texas at El Paso. In 1969, he was the team's leading rusher (534 yards) and had a school record 38 carries against Kansas University. In 1970, the team led the nation averaging 350 rushing yards per game and he was again the team's leading rusher (961 yards with a 5.2 average). He set season school records in scoring (78 points), touchdowns (13) and received All-WAC honors.
He finished his college career as the school's second career rusher (1,531 yards).
Professional career
Dallas Cowboys
Scarber was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 3rd round (69th overall) of the 1971 NFL Draft. He was waived on August 31, 1971.
Los Angeles Rams
He signed with the Los Angeles Rams on September 2 1971. He was waived on September 16, 1971.
Edmonton Eskimos (CFL)
The Edmonton Eskimos signed him before the start of their training camp in 1972. He was limited physically during the season, after separating both shoulders in different incidents. He was waived on July 27, 1973.
Detroit Wheels (WFL)
In 1974, he signed with the Detroit Wheels of the World Football League, where he was the starter at running back and their leading rusher with 606 yards (4.4 average). The Wheels were the first WFL franchise to fold in 1974. The league held a dispersal draft for their players and he was selected by the Southern California Sun.
San Diego Chargers
The San Diego Chargers signed him on June 20, 1975 to serve as a backup running back. He was waived on August 29, 1977.
Acting career
Television appearances
On Cheers, Scarber played the role of Lewis, one of Cliff's co-workers at the post office.
Film appearances
After supporting roles in Against All Odds (1984), Sam played arm wrestler Harry Boscoe in the 1985 Sylvester Stallone film Over The Top. He has since appeared in small roles in many television shows and several movies.