ESPN REPORT: George Rogers Named College Football’s Greatest of All Time, Surpassing Herschel Walker, Tim Tebow, and Archie Griffin
In a groundbreaking announcement from ESPN, George Rogers, the legendary running back from the University of South Carolina, has officially been named the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in college football history. The decision honors Rogers’ iconic college career and cements his legacy as one of the most dominant forces the sport has ever seen—outshining fellow greats Herschel Walker (Georgia), Tim Tebow (Florida), and Archie Griffin (Ohio State).
Rogers made history in 1980 when he became the first South Carolina Gamecock to win the Heisman Trophy, bringing national attention to a program that had often been overshadowed by SEC powerhouses. His Heisman-winning season saw him rush for an incredible 1,781 yards, leading the nation in rushing and putting South Carolina football firmly on the national map.
Now, over four decades later, Rogers has achieved the rarest of honors: being officially recognized as the GOAT by ESPN, following months of analysis, fan voting, and expert panel debate. The criteria considered included individual performance, historical impact, influence on the sport, and overall legacy. Rogers’ blend of raw power, breakaway speed, and consistent excellence gave him the edge in one of the most competitive fields in sports history.
“George Rogers was the complete package,” said ESPN college football analyst Desmond Howard. “He didn’t just put up numbers—he changed the culture at South Carolina. He made people believe in Gamecock football, and his performances were simply unstoppable.”
During his time at South Carolina from 1977 to 1980, Rogers rushed for over 5,200 career yards, a staggering feat in an era when defenses were brutally physical and offensive lines were not as dominant as they are today. He ran for over 100 yards in 22 consecutive games, a record that still stands as a testament to his consistency and toughness.
While legendary names like Herschel Walker, Tim Tebow, and Archie Griffin were all strong candidates—each with Heisman Trophies and national championships to their name—it was Rogers’ trailblazing path and unmatched dominance that set him apart. His performances were not only statistically outstanding but also culturally transformative. At a time when South Carolina football had few national accolades, Rogers gave the program its first true identity on the big stage.
Following the announcement, the University of South Carolina held a special tribute in Columbia. Williams-Brice Stadium lit up in celebration, with fans chanting “GOAT! GOAT!” as Rogers took the field for an honorary ceremony. A new banner was raised reading: “George Rogers: The Greatest of All Time – 1980 and Forever.”
Rogers, always humble in the face of greatness, responded with heartfelt gratitude: “To be named the GOAT is an incredible honor. I played the game with love, with pride in my school, and with a heart full of fire. This recognition is not just for me—it’s for every Gamecock who ever wore the garnet and black.”
From his Heisman moment in 1980 to this historic ESPN designation, George Rogers’ legacy has come full circle. He is not only the pride of South Carolina but now stands as the definitive icon of college football, a legend whose name will echo through the ages.
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