Top 25 College Football Players Since 2000: All-Quarter Century Team Revealed!

00:00 – Top 25 College Football Players Since 2000: All-Quarter Century Team Revealed!
23:24 – Exploring the Evolution of College Football in the Past 25 Years
25:59 – The 25 Best College Football Non-Quarterbacks of the Past 25 Years

1. Top 25 College Football Players Since 2000: All-Quarter Century Team Revealed!

Discover the crème de la crème of college football! From 2000 to present, we count down the top 25 players who dominated the gridiron.
Find out where legends like Justin Jefferson, Joe Burrow, and Tim Tebow rank on our list.
Whether you’re a fan of the SEC, Big 12, or Pac-12, this video is for you!

**Players Featured:**
– Justin Jefferson (LSU)
– Joe Burrow (LSU)
– Tim Tebow (Florida)
– And 22 more college football greats!

**Watch to learn:**
– The most impressive college football stats since 2000
– The players who went on to NFL stardom (and those who didn’t)
– The toughest omissions from our top 25 list

2. Exploring the Evolution of College Football in the Past 25 Years

Join us as we delve into the transformation of college athletics over the last quarter-century, examining the top teams, players, coaches, games, and scandals in college football. Discover how the landscape of college sports has changed dramatically, for better or for worse, in terms of economy, geography, ethics, and legality.

3. The 25 Best College Football Non-Quarterbacks of the Past 25 Years

Discover the top 25 non-quarterback college football players from the past 25 years. From Reggie Bush’s electrifying runs to Chase Young’s unstoppable pass-rushing, this list highlights the most dominant players who have shaped the game. Explore their incredible stats, game-changing moments, and why they stand out in college football history.

Find out how players like Travis Hunter, Ndamukong Suh, and Adrian Peterson revolutionized their positions and left an indelible mark on the sport. Plus, dive into the stories behind these athletes’ success, including interviews and highlights. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to college football, this comprehensive list is a must-watch for anyone interested in the game’s best non-quarterback players. #CollegeFootball #TopPlayers #NonQBStars

Top 25 college football players since 2000. All quarter century team revealed. The ultimate countdown. The top 25 college football players since 2000. When it comes to ranking the best college football players of the 21st century, the task is nothing short of monumental. With so many exceptional athletes to consider, it’s inevitable that some remarkable talents will be overlooked. This includes Heisman Trophy winners and national champions as well as standout players like Michael Penn Jr. While Penn had a commendable career at Indiana and propelled Washington to heights not seen since 1990, he unfortunately didn’t make the final list. Additionally, iconic moments from players like David Pollock’s unforgettable play against South Carolina in 2002 or Roy Williams legendary Superman tackle against Texas in 2001 also didn’t secure a spot. It’s important to note that this list focuses solely on college performance, not NFL success. Some players included here may not have thrived in the professional league, but their college careers were nothing short of spectacular. To tick things off, let’s acknowledge a few players who were outstanding but just missed the cut. One, Cam Newton, QB, Florida Auburn, 2007 to 10. Two, Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma, 2007 to09. Three, Paul Poslny, linebacker, Penn State, 2003 to the ’06. Four, David Pollock, linebacker, Georgia, 2002 to 2004. Five, Jadavian Clowney, DN, South Carolina, 2011-13. Six, Michael Vic, QB, Virginia Tech, 1999 to 2000. Seven, Cedric Benson, running back, Texas, 2001 to 2004. Jamar Chase, wide receiver, LSU. Nine, Julius Peppers, DN, North Carolina, 1999 to 2001. 10, Troy Smith, QB, Ohio State, 2003 to 2006. 25. Calvin Johnson, wide receiver, Georgia Tech 2004 to 2006. Calvin Johnson, known as Megatron, is a prime. For context, during this period, Georgia Tech operated an option offense, which limited passing opportunities. Remarkably, Johnson’s 178 catches represented a staggering 33% of the team’s total completions, while his 2,927 yards accounted for 43% of the Yellow Jackets passing yards. He also scored 28 of the 47 passing touchdowns during those years, making it clear to opponents where the ball was headed. Yet, they were unable to stop him. Johnson led the Atlantic Coast Conference ACC in receptions once 76 in 2006, receiving yards twice, 888 in 2006 and 1,22 in 2006, and touchdowns once, 15 in 2006. He was selected as the second overall pick in the 2007 NFL draft and enjoyed a successful career with the Detroit Lions. Retiring at the age of 30 after making six consecutive Pro Bowl appearances. His 11,619 receiving yards ranked 36th in NFL history despite him only playing nine seasons. 24. Robert Griffin III, QB Baylor 2008 to11. Robert Griffin III, affectionately known as RG3, had a stellar college career, starting all four years at Baylor. However, his 2009 season was cut short due to an ACL injury, limiting him to just three games. He made a triumphant return in 2010 and 2011, throwing for 3,51 yards, 22 touchdowns, and eight interceptions in 2010, while also rushing for 635 yards and nine touchdowns. Griffin’s crowning achievement came in 2011 when he won the Heisman Trophy, throwing for 4,293 yards, 37 touchdowns, and only six interceptions while also rushing for 699 yards, and 15 touchdowns. Drafted second overall in the 2012 NFL draft by the Washington Redskins, Griffin was named Rookie of the Year. Unfortunately, injuries plagued his NFL career, limiting him to just two full seasons and a total of 14 starts over his last 5 years. 23. Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU, 2017 to 19. Justin Jefferson’s college journey began slowly as he didn’t catch a pass during his freshman year in 2017. However, everything changed when Joe Burrow arrived at LSU, transforming the offense. In just two seasons, Jefferson caught an impressive 165 passes, leading all of FBS with 111 receptions in 2019, which helped propel LSU to a national championship. Over those two years, he amassed 2,415 yards and 24 touchdowns. Jefferson was selected as the 22nd pick in the 2020 NFL draft and has since made a significant impact in the NFL, earning Pro Bowl selections in four of his five seasons and winning the offensive player of the year award in 2022. Remarkably, he has recorded over 100 receptions in three of his five seasons and surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in every season, all while still being just 25 years old. 22. Tyron Matthew, S LSU, 2010 to 111. Despite only playing two seasons of college football, Tyron Matthew, known as the Honeybadger, emerged as one of the most disruptive defensive players of this century. He forced 11 fumbles, recovered eight, recorded six sacks, and intercepted four passes along with 133 tackles, 93 of which were solo. In 2011, he also returned punts, scoring two touchdowns. Even though he didn’t play in 2012, Matthew was selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the 69th pick of the 2013 NFL draft. He continued to be a force in the NFL, making three Pro Bowl appearances over his 12-year career. Matthew ranks second among active players with 36 career interceptions and third in interception return yards with 530. Not too shabby for a third round pick. 21. Devonte Smith WR Alabama 2017 to 20. Devont Smith enjoyed a remarkable college career at Alabama winning two national championships during his four years. Initially a role player on the 2017 championship team, he emerged as a star in 2020, becoming the last wide receiver to win the Heisman Trophy that season. Smith led FBS with 117 receptions, 1,856 receiving yards, and 23 touchdowns, achieving a rare receiving triple crown that marked one of the best seasons in Alabama history. Even as a junior, he managed 1,256 receiving yards while sharing the field with other talented receivers like Jerry Judy and Henry Rugs III. Drafted 10th overall by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2021 NFL draft, Smith has accumulated 4,11 receiving yards in four seasons with his former college teammate Jaylen Herz throwing him the ball. 20. Michael Crabtree, wide receiver, Texas Tech, 200708. Michael Crabtree’s two years at Texas Tech were nothing short of spectacular. He made history with one of the most iconic plays during a monumental victory against the then topranked Texas in 2008. As a freshman in 2007, he led FBS with 134 receptions and 1,962 yards. and he continued to shine in 2008. His 41 receiving touchdowns over two seasons still rank him 41st in conference history. Just imagine the records he could have set had he played three or four seasons. Crabtree was the first standout receiver in Mike Leachch’s air raid offense. He was selected as the 10th pick in the 2009 NFL draft by the San Francisco 49ers and enjoyed an 11-year career in the NFL, finishing with 637 receptions, 7,499 yards, and 54 touchdowns. 19. Trevor Lawrence, quarterback, Clemson, 2018 to 20. Trevor Lawrence made an immediate impact at Clemson, leading the team to a national championship victory over Alabama as a freshman in 2018. His sophomore season was nearly as impressive as he led the ACC with 3,665 passing yards. Over his three years as a starter, Lawrence threw for 90 touchdowns against just 17 interceptions. Drafted first overall in the 2021 NFL draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, Lawrence has experienced a mixed bag of success in the NFL, but he did earn a Pro Bowl selection in 2022. 18. Justin Blackman, WR, Oklahoma State, 2009 to 111. Justin Blackman’s college career began quietly, but he quickly became a household name at Oklahoma State. Over his next two seasons, he caught 233 passes, leading FBS with 122 receptions in 2011 and amassed 3,34 yards and 38 touchdowns with 20 touchdowns in 2010. Also leading FBS, he was named the Big 12 offensive player of the year in 2010 and earned all-American honors twice. Blackman was selected fifth overall in the 2012 NFL draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars. He had a promising rookie season, but played only four more games in his career due to suspensions related to substance abuse. Unfortunately, it seems unlikely that he will return to the NFL. 17. Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville, 2015 to 17. Lamar Jackson was a highlight reel during his time at Louisville, winning the Heisman Trophy in 2016 and finishing third in 2017. Over three seasons, he rushed for an astonishing 4,132 yards and scored 50 rushing touchdowns. In 2017, he led the conference with 1,601 rushing yards, a remarkable feat for a quarterback. Jackson was also an effective passer, throwing for 9,043 yards and leading the ACC with 3,660 passing yards in 2017. Drafted 32nd overall in the 2018 NFL draft by the Baltimore Ravens, Jackson’s unique skill set allowed the team to tailor their offense around him, a move that many NFL teams were slow to adopt. The results have been impressive with Jackson making four Pro Bowl appearances in seven seasons and accumulating 6,173 rushing yards alongside 20,059 passing yards. 16. Leenian Tomlinson orb TCU 1997 to 2000. Leenian Tomlinson had a solid start to his college career, but it was his junior and senior years that truly showcased his talent. In 1999, he led FBS with 1,850 rushing yards in just 11 games. And in 2000, he again topped the charts with 2,158 rushing yards on an astounding 369 carries. His 5,263 career rushing yards still ranked 14th in FBS history. Tomlinson’s durability translated to the NFL where he was drafted fifth overall by the San Diego Chargers in 2001. Over 11 seasons, he made five Pro Bowl appearances and finished his career with 13,684 rushing yards, ranking seventh in NFL history. His 18,456 total yards from scrimmage ranked sixth all time. And he was a pioneer in emphasizing the importance of running backs as effective receivers. 15. Ed Reed, safety Miami, Florida, 1998 to 2001. Ed Reed played a pivotal role in helping Miami regain its dominance in college football. After transitioning from linebacker to safety, he intercepted 17 passes for 298 return yards and four touchdowns in his final two seasons. His nine interceptions in 2001 led FBS and his 21 career interceptions still rank fourth in FBS history. Reed was selected 24th overall in the 2002 NFL drought by the Baltimore Ravens, where he continued to excel, making nine Pro Bowl teams and winning Super Bowl XLV. His 1590 interception return yards are an NFL record. 14. Christian McCaffrey, running back, Stanford, 2014 to 16. Christian McAffrey was one of the most durable players in college football and his 2015 season was particularly remarkable. He rushed for 2019 yards and accumulated 2,664 total yards from scrimmage leading FBS. Despite missing a few games in 2016, he still managed 1,913 scrimmage yards and led the Pack 12 with 1,603 rushing yards. Drafted eighth overall by the Carolina Panthers in the 2017 NFL draft, McAffrey has made three Pro Bowl appearances and was named offensive player of the year in 2023, leading the NFL with 1,459 rushing yards and 2,23 total yards from scrimmage. 13. Patrick Mahomes, QB, Texas Tech. 2014 to 16. Patrick Mahomes only started for two seasons at Texas Tech, but he put up staggering numbers. In 2015, he threw for 4,653 yards and 36 touchdowns. And in 2016, he raised the bar even higher with 5,52 passing yards and 41 touchdowns against just 10 interceptions. His career total of 11,252 passing yards ranks 10th in Big 12 history. Drafted 10th overall in the 2017 NFL draft by the Kansas City Chiefs, Mahomes has spent his entire career with the team, making six consecutive Pro Bowl appearances and winning two NFL MVP awards. He has led the Chiefs to three Super Bowl victories and boasts a career passer rating of 102.1 which is second in NFL history. Terrell Suggs de Arizona State 2000 to 2000. Terrell Suggs was a dominant force during his time at Arizona State, setting the FBS record for sacks in a season with 24 in 2002. Over his three-year career, he recorded 46 sacks and 65 tackles for loss, making him one of the most feared defensive linemen in college football history. Suggs was drafted 10th overall by the Baltimore Ravens in the 2003 NFL draft and continued his success in the NFL, finishing with 139 sacks, 12th all time, and 202 tackles for loss, the most in NFL history. He made seven Pro Bowl appearances during his 17-year career. 11. Vince Young, QB, Texas, 2003 to 2000. Vince Young’s college career was defined by a magical 2005 season. After rushing for 998 yards as a freshman and 1,079 yards as a sophomore, he truly shined in his junior year, throwing for 3,036 yards with 26 touchdowns and only 10 interceptions while also rushing for 1,50 yards and 12 touchdowns. His most memorable moment came in the 2006 Rose Bowl where he led Texas to a comeback victory against USC. Young was selected third overall in the 2006 NFL draft by the Tennessee Titans where he won offensive rookie of the year and made the Pro Bowl. However, injuries hindered his career after 2009, limiting him to just 11 more starts. His early success paved the way for future dual threat quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Jaylen Herz. Number 10, Deshaawn Watson, QB, Clemson, 2014 to 16. Deshaawn Watson’s college career began with promise, but an ACL injury in 2014 cut his freshman season short. He bounced back in 2015, becoming the first player to surpass 4,000 passing yards and 1,000 rushing yards in a single season. In 2016, he improved even further, throwing for 4,593 yards and 41 touchdowns, leading Clemson to a national championship victory over Alabama. Grafted 12th overall in the 2017 NFL draft by the Houston Texans, Watson led the league with 4,823 passing yards in 2020 and made three consecutive Pro Bowl appearances from 2018 to 2020. However, he has faced challenges since then, including injuries and legal issues. Darren McFaden, running back, Arkansas, 2005 to 2007. Darren McFaden was a force during his three seasons at Arkansas, rushing for over 1,000 yards each year. He ranks third in SEC history with 4,590 career rushing yards and scored 44 touchdowns during his time in Fagatville. Selected fourth overall in the 2008 NFL draft by the Oakland Raiders, McFaden had a solid NFL career, accumulating 5,421 rushing yards over 10 seasons despite never making a Pro Bowl. Eight. Larry Fitzgerald, wide receiver, Pittsburgh 2002 to 2003. Larry Fitzgerald’s 2-year stint at Pittsburgh solidified his status as one of the best receivers of the century. He set an FBS record with at least one touchdown reception in 18 consecutive games, a record that still stands today. In 2003, he led FBS with 1,672 yards and 22 touchdowns despite having Rod Rutherford as his quarterback. Fitzgerald finished his college career with 161 receptions for 2,677 yards and 34 touchdowns. Drafted third overall in the 2004 NFL draft by the Arizona Cardinals. Fitzgerald went on to have an illustrious NFL career, making 11 Pro Bowl appearances, and finishing with 1,432 receptions, 17,492 yards, and 121 touchdowns, ranking second in NFL history in both receptions and receiving yards. He is expected to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame soon. Seven. Reggie Bush, RBUSC, 2003 to 5. Reggie Bush may not have the goddy statistics of some of his peers due to sharing carries with Lendale White, but he was undeniably one of the most electrifying players of his era. In 2005, he rushed for 1,740 yards on just 200 carries, winning the Heisman Trophy, and leading FBS with 2,218 total yards from scrimmage. His 7.3 career yards per carry average, ranked second in Pack 12 history. BCH was selected second overall in the 2006 NFL draft by the New Orleans Saints and enjoyed a successful NFL career. accumulating 9,088 total yards and 54 touchdowns over 11 seasons. Six. Adrien Peterson, running back, Oklahoma 2004 to 2006. Adrien Peterson burst onto the college football scene as a freshman in 2004, leading NBS with 339 carries and 1,925 rushing yards, a record for true freshman. Despite injuries limiting him to just 11 games in 2005 and seven in 2006, he still managed to rush for over 1,000 yards in both seasons. Exploring the evolution of college football in the past 25 years. College football has undergone a seismic shift and the last 25 years have been nothing short of revolutionary. Welcome to Sports Illustrated’s College Football Quarter Century Week. A deep dive into the most transformative era the sport has ever seen. From powerhouse teams to unforgettable scandals, we’re unpacking it all. Over the course of this special week, Sports Illustrated is revisiting the past quarter century of college football, offering comprehensive rankings and reflections on the sport’s most defining elements. Expect top 25 lists that spotlight the greatest teams, standout quarterbacks, non-quarterback stars, legendary coaches, iconic games, and yes, those jaw-dropping scandals that rocked the NCAA. But here’s where it gets controversial. On Monday, we kick things off with a bold look at how college sports have morphed into something almost unrecognizable. The article college sports transformed in the past 25 years to a nearly unrecognizable product explores the sweeping changes in the sports financial structure, geographic reach, ethical standards, and legal frameworks. The transformation has been dramatic. Some changes have elevated the game while others have sparked heated debate. Also on Monday, we unveiled our ranking of the 25 best college football teams of the past 25 years. This list features defensive fortresses, offensive dynamos, dynastic champions, and even one team whose season was officially vacated, but whose dominance was too undeniable to ignore. And this is the part most people miss. The evolution of college football isn’t just about wins and losses. It’s about how the sport reflects broader societal shifts. How money, media, and morality have reshaped what it means to compete at the collegiate level. So, what do you think? Has college football changed for the better or lost its soul in the process? Do you agree with the rankings or do you think a few teams were unfairly snubbed? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let the debate begin. The 25 best college football non-quarterbacks of the past 25 years. This is a story about the extraordinary non-quarterback stars who have defined college football over the past 25 years. Players so impactful and talented that they reshaped what it means to excel on the grid iron. But here’s where it gets controversial. While quarterbacks often steal the spotlight, these nonQB legends remind us that the game’s true magic comes from a diverse array of skills, athleticism, and game-changing moments. Ready to discover the most remarkable players outside of the traditional star position? Let’s dive in. Our journey begins with Reggie Bush, whose presence on the field was nothing short of electrifying. From the moment he arrived at USC, Bush immediately signaled that he was a special talent, key to the Trojans winning two national championships and rarely losing a game. With only two defeats, both narrowly decided in the final moments or overtime. Over three seasons, he accumulated 2,000 all-purpose yards twice and maintained a mind-boggling average of 7.3 yards per carry. His exceptional agility, quick cuts, and explosive speed made him a nightmare for defenders. Whether he was running, catching, or returning kicks, his highlight reel has become college football folklore, filled with moments that continue to inspire. Moving to another level of uniqueness, Travis Hunter stands out as a true anomaly. A player who broke the mold of typical college football greatness. As the top ranked recruit of 2022, he became the first five-star athlete to sign with an H.B.CU and seamlessly transitioned to FBS competition with Colorado. Despite battling injuries, he produced a season for the ages in 2024. rarely leaving the field and regularly logging over 100 snaps per game. Hunter achieved a rare double by winning the Baltnikov award for the best receiver and the Bederk award for the top defensive player all in the same season and added a Heisman Trophy to his trophy case making him a once- in a generation talent. And this is the part most people miss. Nearly every quarterback facing Nebraska has had to undergo a complete ritual of checking and re-checking where Nadamakung Su was lining up. That’s because Sue from the interior defensive line was more than just a disruptive force. He was an unstoppable game wrecker with a rare mix of savvy, strength, and instinct. In college, he recorded more interceptions as a defensive tackle than forced fumbles, an astonishing feat. Over his final two years, he logged more than 16 tackles for loss each season. And his senior year included 12 sacks, almost single-handedly carrying his team to the Big 12 title game. S’s dominance earned him the AP player of the year award in 2009, marking him as one of the most disruptive defenders of his era. If anyone seemed destined to skip the minor leagues entirely and jump straight into the NFL, Adrien Peterson is that player. His tenure at Oklahoma was electric with his blend of speed, power, and vision, transforming him into a true encore of what a college running back could be. Although he spent only one complete season due to injuries, Peterson finished as the Heisman runnerup as a freshman, and over three seasons, he consistently exceeded 1,000 rushing yards and scored at least a dozen touchdowns each year. His combination of burst, agility, and brute strength demanded multiple defenders every time he carried the ball. Then there’s Ed Reed, whose last two years at Miami redefined the safety position. Despite only playing two seasons, Reed was unlike any other. Unmatched instincts, a nose for the ball, and a relentless desire to make game-changing plays. He recorded 17 interceptions in just 22 games, leading Miami to an impressive record of 231 and a national championship. Reed’s ability to anticipate plays and his uncanny timing made him a constant threat, an absolute gamecher who often seemed to know where the ball was headed before the quarterback even threw it. Wide receiver Jerry Smith from Alabama not only helped his team secure back-to-back national titles, but also dazzled with his ability to get open and make clutch catches. His highlight moments include a memorable overtime walk-off in 2018 and leading college football in yards and touchdowns during his senior year. an achievement that placed him in the top five all time for career receiving touchdowns. His knack for finding openings and his big play ability, averaging nearly 17 yards per catch made him a constant deep threat. Georgia’s Brock Bowers brings a different kind of greatness. arguably the finest tight end in college football history, showing unmatched talent and significance for some of the greatest Georgia teams of all time. All-American in each of his three seasons, winning back-to-back Mackey awards. Bowowers was vital both as a receiver and as a blocker, often pivotal to his team success in national titles. Larry Fitzgerald’s college career at Pit may have been brief, but left a lasting impression. With 18 consecutive games catching a touchdown pass and FBS record, he was nearly unstoppable as a receiver. In just 26 games, he surpassed 1,000 yards in two seasons. With 22 touchdowns in 2003, standing as one of the best seasonal totals in college history, his presence marked a new era for Pit’s passing attack, earning him the Bletnikov award and a near Heisman finish. Christian McCaffrey epitomized all-around versatility, becoming a nightmare for defenses with his ability to run, catch, and return at an elite level. His 3,864 all-purpose yards in 2015 shattered previous records, and his 183.9 yards per game over his career made him one of the most dynamic players college football has seen. His agility and vision allowed him to burst through defenses for long runs, constantly keeping defenders on their heels. Derk Henry’s physical dominance was undeniable, and he proved that a player of exceptional size and power could excel in college football’s highest levels. Despite sharing touches in Alabama’s crowded backfield, he dominated as a junior, earning the Heisman Trophy, scoring at least a touchdown in every game that season, and posting one of the best singleseason rushing totals in FBS history. His combination of speed and power made defenders think twice before trying to bring him down. On the offensive line, Joe Thomas set the gold standard. The Wisconsin star was a towering, technically perfect left tackle, able to neutralize pass rushers with his long arms and ideal frame and was instrumental in creating lanes for multiple 1500yard rushers. Madison’s long tradition of elite lineman might never have been better than Thomas, whose impact on the game was felt far beyond his blocking prowess. Defensive end Jadevian Clowney redefined what it means to be a pass rusher. His size, speed, and explosiveness combined to create a relentless force who could overpower opponents and make game-changing plays frequently. His infamous hit on Vincent Smith in the Outback Bowl exemplifies his intimidating style and ability to impact the game on nearly every snap. A true motor always sets a player apart, and Aiden Hutchinson’s relentless pursuit of quarterbacks did just that. His energy helped Michigan climb to new heights, capturing Big 10 titles and playoff appearances. During his final season, Hutchinson snagged the Lombardi, Hrix, and lot trophies while setting Michigan’s record for sacks, a testament to his unstoppable drive. Michael Crabtree’s emergence at Texas Tech sparked a new level of the air raid offense. Despite only two seasons of production, Crabtree caught an incredible 231 passes, including a record 134 as a freshman, still an NCAA record, and amassed 1,962 yards that season, the most by any player since 2000. His ability to make precise route runs and secure crucial catches made him a key piece in Texas Tech’s offensive success. Alton Janty stood out with his impressive rushing and receiving ability, rushing for over 200 yards and gaining more than 100 receiving yards in the same game. An elite rare feat. His 29 rushing touchdowns in 2024 along with his consistent production helped Boise State reach the college football playoff, illustrating that even in today’s game, some group of five players can rise and shine while maintaining loyalty to their programs. Finally, Manteo exemplified consistency and leadership over his four years at Notre Dame, earning all-American honors each year. His knack for making plays was evident, especially in 2012 when he helped lead the Irish to the national championship game. Meanwhile, Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin’s prolific back, set records with his explosive running, including a game of 408 yards rushing against Nebraska and over 2,500 yards in the 2014 season. A testament to his burst and ability to break long runs. And let’s not forget Devin Hester during his college days. More known now as a Hall of Fame return man who also played at Miami. His speed, agility, and knack for scoring on special teams and offense made him a terrifying opponent. Always a threat to shift the momentum in his team’s favor. These players prove that greatness isn’t confined to the spotlight of the quarterback. It’s built through grit, versatility, and game-changing moments that leave fans in awe. Are you convinced that some of the most influential players of modern college football are actually offensive or defensive stars beyond the quarterback? Or do you believe quarterbacks still reign supreme? Share your thoughts below.