The decision came after an extensive review by a panel of analysts, historians, and former players, culminating in White narrowly edging out three of the sport’s most iconic names: Tony Dorsett (Pitt), Colt McCoy (Texas), and Tim Tebow (Florida).
Pat White’s college career is often described as groundbreaking, yet it has long flown under the national radar compared to the flashier programs of his era. However, ESPN’s latest ranking finally gives the dual-threat quarterback his long-overdue flowers.
Playing for West Virginia University from 2005 to 2008, White set a standard that redefined the quarterback position. He became the first quarterback in NCAA history to win four consecutive bowl games as a starter, including a stunning victory over Georgia in the 2006 Sugar Bowl and a dominant performance against Oklahoma in the 2008 Fiesta Bowl.
White’s stats are as impressive as his leadership. He threw for over 6,000 yards and rushed for more than 4,000 yards, becoming one of the most productive dual-threat quarterbacks in NCAA history. His 56 career rushing touchdowns were a record among QBs at the time of his graduation. He also finished his career with a 34–8 record as a starter, cementing his legacy as one of the winningest QBs in college football.
Comparisons with other legends were inevitable. Tony Dorsett, who won the Heisman Trophy in 1976 and led Pitt to a national championship, is still revered as one of the greatest running backs ever. Colt McCoy was the face of Texas football in the late 2000s, racking up over 13,000 passing yards and a remarkable 45-8 record. Meanwhile, Tim Tebow, a Heisman winner and two-time national champion, is widely considered the most polarizing and inspirational player in Gators history.
Yet, what set Pat White apart, according to ESPN analysts, was his versatility, consistency, and impact on the evolution of college offenses. “White was ahead of his time,” said one analyst. “He helped pave the way for the modern spread-option attack we see dominating college football today.”
Fans of rival programs may debate the decision, but the numbers and impact don’t lie. ESPN’s ranking doesn’t just reward statistics—it honors those who changed the game. And Pat White did just that. He proved that a quarterback could be equally deadly with his legs and his arm, at a time when traditional pocket passers still dominated headlines.
West Virginia fans are ecstatic at the recognition, calling it a long-overdue tribute to a player who brought pride, national attention, and electrifying football to Morgantown.
For Pat White, the title of “GOAT” isn’t just a label—it’s a testament to years of hard work, dazzling play, and a legacy that will live forever in college football history.