ESPN REPORT: Missouri Tigers Legend Luther Burden III Named the Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.) in College Football, Beating Herschel Walker, Archie Griffin, and Earl Campbell
In a historic announcement that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, ESPN has officially named Missouri Tigers legend Luther Burden III as the Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.) in college football history. This unprecedented honor places Burden ahead of an elite group of iconic figures in the sport, including Herschel Walker of Georgia, Archie Griffin of Ohio State, and Earl Campbell of Texas—players long regarded as titans of college football.
The decision came after months of exhaustive analysis, fan voting, and expert panel debates conducted by ESPN’s College Football Historical Committee. The committee took into account not just raw statistics, but also game impact, leadership, versatility, and cultural significance to the sport. Luther Burden III’s selection marks a milestone, not just for the University of Missouri but also for the broader narrative of college football history.
Burden, who starred as a wide receiver for the Missouri Tigers from 2022 to 2025, rewrote the record books during his collegiate career. Known for his explosive speed, precise route running, and unparalleled ability to turn routine plays into game-changing moments, Burden finished his college career with 5,265 receiving yards and 58 touchdown receptions, both all-time NCAA records for a wide receiver. Beyond the statistics, what set Burden apart was his flair for the dramatic—time and again delivering clutch performances against top-ranked opponents and leading Missouri to its first-ever College Football Playoff national championship in 2024.
His impact went far beyond the field. Burden was widely regarded as a locker-room leader and a role model, celebrated for his work ethic, humility, and contributions to community service in Columbia, Missouri. His off-field influence and charismatic personality brought renewed national attention to the Missouri football program, inspiring a generation of young athletes to follow in his footsteps.
“Luther Burden III redefined what it means to be a complete player,” said ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit. “He combined statistical dominance with leadership and poise under pressure. He didn’t just play the game—he elevated it, time and again.”
The announcement also sparked comparisons with other legendary figures. Herschel Walker, who amassed over 5,000 rushing yards and won the Heisman Trophy in 1982, had long been considered a front-runner for the G.O.A.T. title. Archie Griffin remains the only two-time Heisman winner (1974 and 1975), and Earl Campbell, the 1977 Heisman recipient, was famed for his bruising running style and dominance at Texas. However, Burden’s all-around game and his ability to influence both offensive schemes and defensive strategies gave him the edge.
Reactions from the college football community have been overwhelmingly positive. Former Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz commented, “Luther was the heartbeat of our team. I always knew he was special, but to see him recognized at this level is truly something remarkable for him and for Mizzou.”
With this honor, Luther Burden III cements his legacy as a transcendent figure in the sport’s history. Missouri plans to unveil a statue of Burden outside Faurot Field later this year, and the university has already retired his iconic No. 3 jersey.
As ESPN’s announcement reverberates through the annals of college football, one thing is clear: Luther Burden III’s name will forever be etched alongside the very best to have ever played the game.