If you are a college football enthusiast who loves to reminisce on past NCAA Football triumphs and evaluate college football odds, then this blog post is for you. From the best quarterbacks of the ’70s to the super-fast running backs of the 80s, we’ll take a deeper look into some of the most impressive athletes that have ever donned an NCAA Football jersey.
We’ll break down their individual stats and notable achievements, discuss how they changed history, and explore where they are now. So buckle up as we dive deep into our exploration of these awe-inspiring legends.
Joe Montana
Montana first came into the spotlight during his time at Notre Dame, where he led his team to the 1977 National Championship. Montana’s skills on the field continued to shine as he went on to win four Super Bowl titles, cementing his place as one of the greatest quarterbacks in history.
Montana’s ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and deliver pinpoint passes under pressure set him apart from his peers. He is one of just three football players in history to win a national title and Super Bowl trophy. His most memorable moment in college came when he led Notre Dame back from a 34-12 deficit against Houston in the 1979 Cotton Bowl. He connected with Kris Haines for an 8-yard touchdown pass as time expired, giving the Irish a 35-34 win. He instantly gained a reputation for his calmness under pressure, earning him the nickname “Cool Joe.”
Herschel Walker
The University of Georgia alum was an absolute force on the field, and his ability to run the ball was second to none. His excellence was recognized when he was nominated for three consecutive Heisman Trophy Awards from 1980 to 1982, eventually winning the honor in 1982. He is one of two players in history to log three consecutive top-three finishes for the Heisman Trophy.
Walker helped the Bulldogs to the 1980 National Championship, setting an all-time freshman rushing record which has since been broken. He went on to become a two-time Pro Bowl running back with the Dallas Cowboys en route to a successful NFL career that spanned 12 seasons. Walker not only dominated on the field, but he also set an example off the field with his work ethic and dedication to the sport. His legacy in college football will continue to live on for generations to come.
Archie Griffin
Griffin is famous for being the only two-time winner of the prestigious Heisman Trophy Award. A true standout athlete from Ohio State, he consistently demonstrated his exceptional skill on the field, racking up records and accolades along the way. He ran for 5,589 yards, which at the time was an all-time record. He also amassed 26 touchdowns and 6,659 all-purpose yards.
Griffin’s talent on the football field was undeniable, as was his unwavering commitment to his team and the sport. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1986. While he played seven years with the Cincinnati Bengals, he failed to find the same magic as he did in college.
Bo Jackson
Jackson’s athletic abilities were truly stunning, and his career at Auburn was no exception. He was the first athlete in history to earn All-American honors in both football and baseball. It’s difficult enough to excel in one sport, let alone two, at such a high level.
Jackson carried his incredible athleticism with him to the professional ranks, where he played professional baseball with the Kansas City Royals while also playing in the NFL for the Los Angeles Raiders up until a career-ending hip injury in a playoff game against the Bengals. He attempted to play a few more MLB seasons before retiring from sports.
Desmond Howard
Howard rose to fame while at Michigan, showcasing his skills on the field and capturing the coveted Heisman Trophy in 1991. He was known as a dynamic wide receiver and a kick-return specialist, scoring a 93 and 95-yard kick return during his Wolverine tenure.
His impressive performances didn’t end there. He went on to achieve success in the NFL, leaving an indelible mark on football. His 99-yard kickoff return in Super Bowl XXXI helped lift the Packers to a world championship. He is one of four players to win the Heisman Trophy and Super Bowl MVP.
Tim Tebow
You can’t reminisce about college football without mentioning Tim Tebow. This talented quarterback profoundly impacted the University of Florida football program, leading his team to two national championships in 2006 and 2008. He was known for his exceptional talent on the field, which earned him the celebrated Heisman Trophy in 2007.
While his football days may be behind him, Tebow continues to make a positive mark on the world. Through his philanthropy work and his inspiring speeches, he has shown that he is much more than just an accomplished athlete. He remains a beloved figure in the sports world and beyond.