In a stunning and historic announcement, ESPN has officially named Arizona State Sun Devils legend Danny White as the greatest college football player of all time. The declaration, which comes after weeks of analysis, fan input, and expert deliberation, places White above a formidable field of legendary contenders—Michael Crabtree of Texas Tech, Herschel Walker of the Georgia Bulldogs, and Joe Montana of Notre Dame.
Danny White’s selection may surprise casual fans, but for those who have studied his college career closely, the honor is richly deserved. Playing for Arizona State from 1971 to 1973, White established himself as one of the most prolific quarterbacks in college football history. During his tenure, he led the Sun Devils to three consecutive Fiesta Bowl victories and was instrumental in elevating the program to national prominence. He finished his career with over 6,700 passing yards and 64 touchdown passes—numbers that were unprecedented at the time and still impressive by today’s standards.
What truly sets White apart is the combination of leadership, poise under pressure, and consistency he demonstrated throughout his collegiate career. He wasn’t just a stat machine—he was a winner. Under head coach Frank Kush, White helped the Sun Devils achieve a staggering 32–4 record during his time as the starting quarterback. He was a consensus All-American and finished in the top ten of Heisman Trophy voting, cementing his place among the elites of his era.
Comparatively, Michael Crabtree brought electric energy to Texas Tech, redefining the wide receiver position with his acrobatic catches and knack for clutch plays. His unforgettable game-winning touchdown against Texas in 2008 remains one of college football’s most iconic moments. Meanwhile, Herschel Walker’s power and speed revolutionized the running back position. He won the Heisman Trophy in 1982 and left Georgia as the school’s all-time leading rusher. Joe Montana, though better known for his NFL greatness, also had a noteworthy career at Notre Dame, highlighted by his comeback in the 1979 Cotton Bowl—often referred to as the “Chicken Soup Game.”
Yet, while each of these players left indelible marks on college football, ESPN’s panel of analysts and historians emphasized White’s influence not only on his program but also on the sport’s evolution. His play in the early 1970s helped usher in a more dynamic, pass-oriented offensive style that would shape the future of the game. His achievements were all the more impressive given the era he played in, when quarterbacks had less protection, and passing attacks were far less sophisticated than they are today.
White’s post-collegiate career also adds luster to his legacy. Though he is best known for his years as a quarterback and punter with the Dallas Cowboys, it was his unwavering dominance and leadership at Arizona State that laid the foundation for this accolade. He remains a revered figure in Tempe, and his number 11 jersey is forever etched in Sun Devils lore.
In declaring Danny White the greatest college football player of all time, ESPN has honored not only an exceptional athlete but also a pioneer whose contributions helped shape the modern college game. For Sun Devils fans and college football purists alike, it’s a moment of validation and celebration—a tribute to a legend whose greatness has finally received its due recognition.
