The University of Texas at Austin’s football program, affectionately known as the Texas Longhorns, boasts a rich history of producing exceptional athletes who have left their mark on the sport. From legendary players who dominated the gridiron in the early days of college football to modern-day stars who continue to shape the program’s success, the Longhorns have consistently produced talent that has made a lasting impact. To identify the top 5 Texas Longhorns football players of all time, we’ll consider a mix of factors, including their achievements on the field, their impact on the team’s success, and their lasting legacy in the world of college football.
Earl Campbell: The Tyler Rose
Earl Campbell, known as “The Tyler Rose,” is widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in college football history. Campbell played for the Longhorns from 1974 to 1977, during which he accumulated over 4,600 rushing yards and scored 40 touchdowns. His impressive performance earned him the Heisman Trophy in 1977, as well as numerous other accolades, including being named a consensus All-American. Campbell’s dominance on the field was characterized by his powerful running style, which allowed him to break through tackles and gain significant yardage.
Campbell's achievements on the field were not limited to his statistics. He was a key factor in the Longhorns' success during his playing career, helping the team secure a national championship in 1977. His legacy extends beyond his playing career, as he remains one of the most iconic figures in Texas Longhorns football history.
Ricky Williams: The Bruising Back
Ricky Williams, a running back for the Longhorns from 1995 to 1998, is another legendary player who left an indelible mark on the program. Williams accumulated over 5,000 rushing yards during his career, which remains the most in Texas Longhorns history. He was a versatile player who excelled in multiple facets of the game, earning him a spot as a finalist for the Heisman Trophy in 1998. Williams’ determination and work ethic made him a fan favorite, and his on-field accomplishments continue to inspire current Longhorns players.
| Player | Rushing Yards | Touchdowns | Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earl Campbell | 4,616 | 40 | Heisman Trophy (1977) |
| Ricky Williams | 5,096 | 43 | Doak Walker Award (1998) |
Derrick Johnson: The Linebacker Legend
Derrick Johnson, a linebacker for the Longhorns from 2000 to 2004, is a defensive stalwart who dominated the field during his playing career. Johnson’s combination of speed, agility, and tackling ability made him nearly unblockable, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest linebackers in college football history. He was a key factor in the Longhorns’ defensive success during the early 2000s, helping the team secure a national championship in 2005.
Johnson's impact on the Longhorns' defense cannot be overstated. He was a versatile player who could be counted on to make big plays, including interceptions and sack-producing hits. His legacy continues to influence the way the Longhorns approach defensive play.
Brian Orakpo: The Defensive End Dynamo
Brian Orakpo, a defensive end for the Longhorns from 2005 to 2008, was a game-changer on the defensive side of the ball. Orakpo’s speed and agility allowed him to wreak havoc on opposing offenses, as he accumulated 39.5 sacks during his career. He was a key factor in the Longhorns’ defensive success during the late 2000s, helping the team secure a Rose Bowl victory in 2009.
"Brian Orakpo was an elite defensive player who consistently made big plays for the Longhorns. His ability to rush the quarterback and disrupt opposing offenses was unparalleled, making him one of the most feared players in college football during his era."
Colt McCoy: The Texas Tornado
Colt McCoy, a quarterback for the Longhorns from 2006 to 2009, is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in college football history. McCoy’s impressive statistics, including 13,253 passing yards and 102 touchdowns, are a testament to his exceptional skill and work ethic. He was a key factor in the Longhorns’ success during the late 2000s, leading the team to a Rose Bowl victory in 2009 and finishing as a finalist for the Heisman Trophy in 2009.
Pros and Cons of McCoy's Playing Style
- Pros:
- Exceptional accuracy and decision-making
- Ability to extend plays with his feet
- Clutch performances in big games
- Cons:
- Height and arm strength concerns
- Sometimes struggled against top-tier defenses
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is considered the greatest Texas Longhorns football player of all time?
+While opinions may vary, Earl Campbell is often regarded as one of the greatest Texas Longhorns football players due to his impressive achievements on the field, including winning the Heisman Trophy in 1977.
What makes Ricky Williams’ legacy so significant in Texas Longhorns history?
+Ricky Williams’ legacy is significant due to his record-breaking rushing yards, which remain the most in Texas Longhorns history. His determination and work ethic made him a fan favorite, and his on-field accomplishments continue to inspire current Longhorns players.
How did Derrick Johnson impact the Texas Longhorns’ defense during his playing career?
+Derrick Johnson was a dominant linebacker who made a significant impact on the Texas Longhorns’ defense. His speed, agility, and tackling ability made him nearly unblockable, and he was a key factor in the Longhorns’ defensive success during the early 2000s.
What were some of Brian Orakpo’s notable achievements during his time with the Texas Longhorns?
+Brian Orakpo was a game-changer on the defensive side of the ball, accumulating 39.5 sacks during his career. He was a key factor in the Longhorns’ defensive success during the late 2000s and helped the team secure a Rose Bowl victory in 2009.
How did Colt McCoy’s playing style contribute to his success with the Texas Longhorns?
+Colt McCoy’s playing style, characterized by his exceptional accuracy and decision-making, as well as his ability to extend plays with his feet, contributed to his success with the Texas Longhorns. He was a clutch performer in big games and led the team to a Rose Bowl victory in 2009.
