ESPN REPORT: Joe Burrow Crowned the GOAT of College Football—Beating Out Montana, Crabtree & Walker in Stunning Final Vote
In a jaw-dropping announcement that has shaken the college football world to its core, ESPN has officially named LSU legend Joe Burrow the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in college men’s football, topping an elite field that included iconic names like Herschel Walker, Michael Crabtree, and even the legendary Joe Montana.
That’s right. The kid from Athens, Ohio who brought a swagger-filled revolution to Baton Rouge has now been immortalized not just in LSU lore—but in the entire history of college football.
Burrow’s Reign: From Underdog to Undisputed King
Joe Burrow’s journey from Ohio State backup to Heisman-winning, record-shattering, national championship hero is the stuff of college football fairy tales. But now, it’s official: the 2019 LSU superstar has climbed all the way to the top of the mountain.
ESPN’s extensive fan poll, bolstered by expert analysis, pitted Burrow against three all-time greats in a final four showdown for college football’s GOAT. And Burrow didn’t just edge past the competition—he steamrolled it.
Crabtree, known for his acrobatic catches and record-setting seasons at Texas Tech, fell short. Walker, the Georgia Bulldogs’ powerhouse running back and a former Heisman winner himself, couldn’t catch Burrow’s momentum. And Joe Montana, who needs no introduction, saw his iconic Notre Dame legacy outshined by a Tiger who played just two seasons in purple and gold—but made them count like no other.
The 2019 Season That Sealed His GOAT Status
Burrow’s 2019 campaign is widely considered the greatest individual season in the history of college football. Let’s break it down:
- 5,671 passing yards
- 60 touchdowns (a single-season FBS record)
- A perfect 15-0 record
- A blowout national title win over Clemson
- Heisman Trophy winner—by one of the widest margins ever
And let’s not forget: Burrow led LSU to victories over seven top-10 teams that season. That alone reads like a video game on “impossible” mode.
His pinpoint accuracy, calm under pressure, and lethal decision-making made every snap must-see television. Combine that with his signature confidence—and a cigar celebration that became instantly iconic—and you’ve got a cultural moment that transcended sports.
“It’s Bigger Than Me,” Says Burrow
Reacting to the GOAT announcement, Burrow was characteristically humble.
“I’m honored, but I wouldn’t be here without LSU, Coach O, my teammates, and that magical 2019 season,” he told ESPN. “This isn’t just about me. It’s about a team that believed it could do the impossible—and did.”
College Football’s Throne Has a New King
With this official crowning by ESPN, Joe Burrow has not only cemented his legacy at LSU—he has redefined what excellence looks like on the college gridiron. He didn’t just play the game. He rewrote it.
Joe Burrow is no longer just a Heisman winner, national champion, or No. 1 NFL draft pick—he is now, officially, the GOAT.
And the rest? They’ll just have to catch up.