CONGRATULATIONS: Nebraska’s Tom Osborne Crowned Best College Football Coach Ever, Receiving Elite Award for Historic 292-71-1 Record
In a historic announcement that cements a legacy built over decades, legendary Nebraska football coach Tom Osborne has been officially crowned the greatest college football coach of all time. The National Football Foundation presented Osborne with the “Coach of Coaches” Lifetime Achievement Award in a prestigious ceremony honoring his unparalleled career record of 292 wins, 71 losses, and one tie.
The recognition comes as no surprise to those who followed Osborne’s remarkable journey on the sidelines from 1973 to 1997. During his 25-year tenure at the University of Nebraska, Osborne built the Cornhuskers into a dominant national powerhouse, earning three national championships (1994, 1995, 1997), 13 conference titles, and a staggering 25 consecutive bowl game appearances. His win percentage of .836 ranks among the highest in major college football history.
“This award is not just about numbers,” said NFF President Steve Hatchell. “It’s about integrity, innovation, leadership, and the undeniable impact Coach Osborne made on generations of athletes and fans. He transformed not only a program, but the very standards of coaching excellence.”
Known for his stoic demeanor, tactical brilliance, and unwavering commitment to player development, Osborne was revered both on and off the field. Under his leadership, Nebraska became known for its punishing running game, physical dominance, and discipline. Even more impressively, his teams consistently ranked among the top academically in the country, with Osborne prioritizing character and education as much as championships.
Perhaps most iconic were the back-to-back national titles in 1994 and 1995, with the 1995 squad often hailed as the greatest team in college football history. That season, Nebraska outscored opponents by an average of 38 points and steamrolled Florida 62-24 in the national title game.
“I’m humbled by this honor,” Osborne said during his acceptance speech. “But any recognition I receive is really a reflection of the players, coaches, and support staff I was blessed to work with. Football is the ultimate team sport, and I was part of a very special team for 25 years.”
Osborne’s legacy extends far beyond football. After retiring from coaching, he served three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and later returned as Nebraska’s athletic director, where he oversaw major upgrades to the university’s sports facilities and programs.
Now officially crowned the best to ever do it, Tom Osborne remains a beacon of excellence in the world of college football—a symbol of what’s possible when passion, integrity, and purpose come together.
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