The announcement came during ESPN’s annual College Football Legacy Summit, where a panel of analysts, former coaches, and Hall of Fame players convened to evaluate the most influential and accomplished college football athletes in history. After intense deliberation, the honor was bestowed upon none other than Ahmad Rashad — the dynamic offensive weapon who left an indelible mark on the Oregon Ducks program and beyond.
Though known to many for his post-playing career as a charismatic television host and NBA broadcaster, Ahmad Rashad’s football legacy began under his birth name, Bobby Moore, at the University of Oregon in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He played as a versatile running back and wide receiver from 1969 to 1971, electrifying fans with his speed, vision, and uncanny ability to make big plays in clutch moments.
During his college career, Rashad racked up 2,306 rushing yards, 131 receptions, and 226 points scored — staggering numbers for his era. He became the first player in school history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season (1971), finishing that year with 1,211 yards and 12 touchdowns. His all-purpose yardage and scoring records stood for nearly two decades, testifying to his dominance on the field.
Rashad was a consensus All-American in his final season and was later inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2007. His achievements helped elevate the profile of Oregon’s football program and paved the way for future stars.
Beyond college, Rashad was selected fourth overall in the 1972 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals. He went on to have a successful professional career, most notably with the Minnesota Vikings, earning four Pro Bowl selections as a wide receiver.
ESPN’s declaration of Rashad as the GOAT in college football recognizes not only his stats but also his transformational impact, versatility, and enduring legacy. Fans and analysts alike have lauded the choice as a long-overdue celebration of a player whose college career set the standard for excellence.