In a historic announcement that has shocked college football fans and historians worldwide, BYU Cougar legend LaVell Edwards has been voted the Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.) in college football. He has surpassed other legendary players like Earl Campbell (Texas), Tim Tebow (Florida Gators), and Herschel Walker (Georgia). This esteemed distinction pays tribute to a man whose inventiveness and impact permanently altered how the game is played and coached.
LaVell Edwards was the driving force behind BYU’s ascent from regional obscurity to national prominence for almost thirty years. He had one of the most impressive coaching careers in the sport’s history, from 1972 until 2000. He led BYU to 257 victories, a 1984 national title, and the development of the modern passing offense, a legacy that still has an effect on the game today.
Edwards’ vision, not only his victories, was what made him unique. Edwards dared to express it while the rest of the collegiate football community relied on conventional ground-and-pound strategies. In addition to setting records and producing great quarterbacks like Steve Young, Ty Detmer, and Jim McMahon, his ground-breaking pass-heavy offense changed the collegiate football playbook. Edwards demonstrated that greatness didn’t have to be limited to strong recruiting pipelines or big conferences.
In 1984, his greatest accomplishment was when BYU went undefeated and won the national championship, which is still regarded as one of the most inspirational underdog tales in college football history. That season, BYU’s explosive offense and well-coordinated play under Edwards enthralled the country and proved his strategies on the grandest stage.
In addition to the honors and awards, LaVell Edwards was a well regarded humanitarian, educator, and mentor. Edwards established a culture that went well beyond the football field and was well-known for his humility, compassion, and emphasis on character and education. Former athletes frequently give him credit for influencing their lives as men, husbands, and civic leaders in addition to their athletic careers.
His status as the G.O.A.T. is evidence of his tactical prowess as well as the deep and enduring influence he had on countless numbers of athletes and supporters. His influence is widespread in the sport, both at the professional and collegiate levels, and his coaching tree is extensive.
“LaVell Edwards was not just a great coach—he was a visionary,” said Kirk Herbstreit, senior analyst for ESPN, when he announced the award. His impact extends well beyond his time and beyond BYU. He permanently altered football.
History itself now bears his name, as does the field at BYU. LaVell Edwards is the tallest figure in a game full of legends; he is the epitome of creativity, leadership, and enduring excellence.