ESPN REPORT: Billy Cannon Named the Greatest of All Time in College Football, Surpassing Legends Like Herschel Walker, Tim Tebow, and Archie Griffin
In a stunning declaration that cements his legacy for generations to come, ESPN has officially named Billy Cannon — the electrifying halfback from Louisiana State University — as the Greatest of All Time in College Football. The announcement comes more than six decades after Cannon won the Heisman Trophy in 1959, making history as the first LSU Tiger to ever receive college football’s most prestigious individual honor.
Cannon’s GOAT status was determined after months of analysis, polling, and expert debate, culminating in a special ESPN report aired nationwide. In a field packed with titans of the game — including Herschel Walker (Georgia), Tim Tebow (Florida Gators), and Archie Griffin (Ohio State) — it was Cannon’s unmatched impact, era-defining plays, and legacy of leadership that elevated him above all.
A native of Baton Rouge, Cannon’s rise to college football immortality began the moment he stepped onto the field at LSU. His most iconic moment, however, came on Halloween night in 1959. In what is still considered the single greatest play in LSU history, Cannon returned a punt 89 yards against Ole Miss, dodging nearly every defender in sight to score the game-winning touchdown. The play sealed his Heisman win and became symbolic of his combination of speed, strength, and sheer willpower.
“Billy Cannon was not just a great player — he was a force of nature,” said ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit during the GOAT special. “He defined what it meant to carry a team, inspire a fan base, and turn a college football program into a national powerhouse.”
What separated Cannon from his elite peers, according to the ESPN panel, was his versatility and dominance during a time when athleticism and training weren’t nearly as advanced as they are today. Playing both offense and defense, Cannon was a true ironman, excelling as a running back, return specialist, and even contributing on defense. He wasn’t just the star — he was the whole show.
The ESPN GOAT report took into account statistical dominance, cultural impact, individual accolades, and game-changing performances. Cannon’s legacy, though less saturated with modern-day media coverage, stood the test of time. In addition to his Heisman Trophy, Cannon led LSU to a national championship in 1958 and left behind a legendary career that shaped the very identity of the Tigers football program.
Tim Tebow, widely praised for his leadership and multiple national championships with Florida, came in third on the list, while Georgia’s powerhouse back Herschel Walker, a former Heisman winner and Olympic bobsledder, ranked second. Two-time Heisman winner Archie Griffin of Ohio State rounded out the top four.
LSU fans have long argued that Cannon’s contributions transcended the stat sheet. His impact was seen in packed stadiums, roaring Tiger fans, and the pride he instilled in Louisiana’s sporting culture. Now, with ESPN’s recognition, that sentiment has been officially validated on a national stage.
Following the announcement, LSU held a special tribute in Tiger Stadium, where a statue of Cannon already stands in his honor. A banner reading “The GOAT Lives Forever” was unfurled as fans chanted his name.
Billy Cannon is no longer just a legend he is the legend. The GOAT.
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