Career
Billups was known to wear an opponent’s T-shirt the day of the game to stay focused. Known as a tough corner who played with a chip on his shoulder, Billups was a defensive back who was very popular among teammates. Billups is often remembered for his critical dropped interception in Super Bowl XXIII. In the beginning of the fourth quarter with the Bengals up 13–6 over the San Francisco 49ers and the 49ers driving from the Bengals 10-yard line, quarterback Joe Montana threw a pass towards Billups that he dropped in the end zone.
On the next play, the 49ers scored a touchdown, tying the game at 13.
Towards the games conclusion, Montana threw a 10-yard touchdown pass to John Taylor to give San Francisco a 20–16 lead with 34 seconds left. When not playing football, Billups led a playboy life style, complete with the finest cars and an Orlando mansion.
Post-NFL At the end of his NFL career, Billups had a number of brushes with the law. He eventually served over a year in prison, gaining his release on April 4, 1994.
Six days later, Billups died in a car crash when driving at speeds in excess of 100 mph he lost control on Interstate 4 his corvette convertible destroying over 50 meters of steel railing.
Billups was taken to the Orlando hospital where he died from his injuries. The details of Billups" exploits are prominently featured in the best-selling book, "Pros And Consultant".
