In a landmark ESPN report celebrating 150 years of college football, Texas Longhorns legend Earl Campbell has been named the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) among college football players, surpassing iconic figures like Herschel Walker of Georgia, Tim Tebow of Florida, and Archie Griffin of Ohio State. Known as the “Tyler Rose,” Campbell’s selection underscores his extraordinary college career and enduring legacy, sparking both celebration and debate among fans and analysts.
Earl Campbell’s Legendary College Career
Born on March 29, 1955, in Tyler, Texas, Earl Campbell’s journey to greatness began at the University of Texas, where he redefined the running back position from 1974 to 1977. His rare blend of power, speed, and resilience made him a force in the Southwest Conference (SWC). As a freshman, Campbell rushed for 928 yards and six touchdowns, but it was his senior year in 1977 that cemented his legend. That season, he amassed 1,744 yards and 19 touchdowns, leading the nation and powering Texas to an undefeated 11-0 regular season. His 4,443 career rushing yards set a then-UT record, and his physicality—famously attributed to his massive 34½-inch thighs—earned him the Heisman Trophy, making him Texas’s first winner. Campbell’s two-time All-American honors and three-time All-SWC selections highlight his consistent dominance.
The Contenders: Walker, Tebow, and Griffin
Campbell’s crowning as the GOAT came against stiff competition. Herschel Walker, Georgia’s phenom from 1980 to 1982, rushed for 5,259 yards and 49 touchdowns, leading the Bulldogs to a 1980 national championship. His 1982 Heisman-winning season included 1,752 yards and 16 touchdowns, showcasing explosive athleticism. Tim Tebow, Florida’s dynamic quarterback from 2006 to 2009, combined 9,285 passing yards with 2,947 rushing yards, totaling 145 touchdowns. His 2007 Heisman season featured 55 total touchdowns, and he led Florida to two national titles. Archie Griffin, Ohio State’s running back from 1972 to 1975, remains the only two-time Heisman winner (1974, 1975), with 5,589 rushing yards and three consecutive seasons of at least 1,450 yards. Each player’s achievements are monumental, yet ESPN’s panel of 150 media members, administrators, and former players favored Campbell’s era-defining impact.
Why Campbell Stands Above
Campbell’s selection hinges on his unparalleled physicality and influence. His punishing running style, often leaving defenders dazed, revolutionized the running back position. His 1977 season, where he led Texas to a Big 12 championship and a Cotton Bowl berth, showcased efficiency and dominance, with a yards-per-carry average that awed opponents. Beyond statistics, Campbell’s cultural impact resonates deeply. Honored at the 2020 LSU-Clemson national championship halftime, he remains a Texas icon, with the Longhorns’ field named Campbell-Williams Field in his honor. His ability to carry an offense, combined with his Heisman and All-American accolades, tipped the scales over Walker’s versatility, Tebow’s dual-threat brilliance, and Griffin’s historic consistency.
The Debate and Legacy
While Campbell’s crowning is celebrated, it has sparked debate. Some argue Tebow’s leadership and national titles, or Griffin’s unprecedented Heisman sweep, warrant higher placement. Walker’s freshman dominance and cultural impact also make a strong case. Yet, Campbell’s raw power and singular 1977 season, described as “a season of destruction,” left an indelible mark. His legacy transcends statistics, embodying the rugged spirit of college football. As a trailblazer from Tyler, Texas, Campbell’s story of hard work and dominance continues to inspire, solidifying his place as the sport’s greatest.
