College Football 2011: What One Player Best Embodies Each FBS Team?

Who symbolizes your favorite team?

When people say "the best that ever played for ___" who do you think of?

From old-school to new school, hard hitting defensive players to elusive, explosive scorers on the offensive side of the ball, here you will find a list of every school's most beloved, easily remembered player.

Some of these guys went on to stellar careers on Sundays, some road the pine in the NFL, but all made an impact at the collegiate level.

No matter the direction their careers took, in college they were "it", that rising star that each team hitched it's wagon to.

The one who worked his way into the record books and the lore of his particular school.

No conversation about the best of all-time at your favorite school is complete without mention of these guys...

Lawrence Brame: Western Kentucky Hilltoppers

Back in the day when WKU was part of the Ohio Vally Conference, defensive end Lawrence Brame was  one-man wrecking crew.

During Brame's time with the team from '67-'70, the 'Toppers were runners up in the conference his first three years, and won a conference championship his senior season.

Brame was the heart and soul of the 1970 defensive squad that was top ten in the country in scoring defense and total defense.

"Mean" Joe Greene: North Texas Mean Green

In Greene's first game as a sophomore, the  North Texas defense held Texas Western University (now University of Texas at El Paso), to only -40 yards on the ground.

The wife of the North Texas sports information director thought her husband should come up with a catchy name for the overpowering defense.

Given that the school colors were bright green and white, she suggested "mean green."

The next week the name began appearing in North Texas press releases and it stuck, soon replacing Eagles as the team's official nickname.

 It was a natural step to apply the label to the team's All-American, and Joe Greene became "Mean Joe" Greene.

Hence, Greene bears a nickname given also to his alma mater.

Jake Delhomme: La. Lafayette Ragin' Cajuns

Delhomme led the Ragin' Cajuns to two big West Conference Titles, and a huge upset over Texas A&M in his senior season.

He finished his career as the school's all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns.

Jared Allen: Florida Atlantic Owls

Allen was the first quarterback in the history of FAU football.

He played from their inaugural season of 2001-2004, and led FAU to their first win in school history.

He was also instrumental in the upset of Hawaii on the road in 2004, which was the Warriors' only home loss on the season.

Rusty Smith deserves a mention here for his exploits as well.

Doug Pederson: Louisiana Monroe Warhawks

Pederson played for the Warhawks when the school was named Northeast Louisiana University.

The team mascot was the "Indians" back then but has since been changed to Warhawks.

Pederson Played for the Warhawks from 1987-1990, amassing 6,315 yards and 33 touchdowns in his time there.

Ken Jones: Arkansas State Red Wolves

Ken Jones was a monster of a guard that played at ASU from '72-'75.

Jones went on to be drafted in the second round of the 1975 NFL draft.

Mike Caldwell: Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders

Caldwell started every game he played at MTSU, and finished his career with ten interceptions, five fumble recoveries and three touchdowns.

While there, he demonstrated his versatility by playing point guard on the basketball team for one year and also right field for the Blue Raider's baseball squad.

DeMarcus Ware: Troy Trojans

Ware spent his career terrorizing Sun-Belt quarterbacks.

At the end of his time at Troy, Ware had collected  27.5 sacks, 195 tackles (57 for losses), 74 quarterback hurries, ten forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, and one interception.

Nick Turnbull: FIU Golden Panthers

Turnbull is still FIU's all time interception leader with 17 in his college career.

He played in the defensive secondary, mostly at corner, and was very active.

Turnbull contributed on special teams as well.

Sheldon Canley: San Jose State Spartans

From '88-90, Canley's drive for excellence and excellent work ethic contributed to major successes on the field.

When he left school, he held the records for most rushing yards, kickoff returns, all purpose yardage and touchdowns scored at San Jose State.

Bob Gaiters: New Mexico State Aggies

In 1960, Gaiters set the record for most rushing touchdowns (23) by an Aggie that still stands today.

Gaiters, along with QB Charley Johnson, was an integral part of the Aggies only perfect season, and part of the team that won two straight Sun Bowls.

Merlin Olsen: Utah State Aggies

Olsen played defensive tackle for the Aggies, and was named to several All-American teams in both his Junior and Senior season.

He won the Outland Trophy in his senior year, and was part of the only Aggies team to finish inside the top ten.

John Friesz: Idaho Vandals

From '86-'89, Friesz was a part of the best Vandals' teams ever.

He became the starter in '87, and tossed 28 touchdown passes.

He ended his collegiate career with over 10,000 yards passing, and was conference player of the year for three straight season.

Troy Edwards: La. Tech Bulldogs

Edwards was a tough choice over QB Terry Bradshaw, but he was just amazing, so here goes.

Edwards played receiver, and when he left La. Tech, he held NCAA records for single season touchdown catches, career touchdown catches and yardage gained in one game by a WR.

He gained 405 yards in a game against Nebraska.

David Carr: Fresno State Bulldogs

Carr played QB for the Bulldogs from 1997-2001.

Whith him at the helm, the Bulldogs became the first potential "BCS-Busters" defeating Colorado, Oregon State and Wisconsin in Carr's senior season en route to their highest ranking of 8th in the polls.

Carr finished his time at Fresno State with 70 touchdowns to go with 7,849 yards...

Colt Brennan: Hawaii Warriors

Check out this guy's hair.

That's representing your team and home state.

Brennan set all kinds of records at Hawaii, and now holds 30 Division I records, including most touchdown passes in a season(58).

Colin Kaepernick: Nevada Wolf Pack

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SAN FRANCISCO, CA - JANUARY 09: Colin Kaepernick #10 of the Nevada Wolf Pack looks to pass the ball against Boston College during the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl at AT&T Park on January 9, 2011 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Kaepernick played QB for the Wolf Pack from 2007-2010.

His versatility and accuracy made him doubly dangerous for defenses, and his knowledge of the game made it hard for defensive coordinators to surprise him .

Kaepernick played one fo the best games ever by a redshirt freshman at Boise State in 2007, amassing 243 passing yards and 177 rushing yards to go with five scores in a four OT victory for the Broncos.

He got his revenge in 2010, when a couple of missed field goals derailed BSU's chances at a BCS bowl in Reno.

Ron Johnson: Eastern Michigan Eagles

Johnson was a two-time All-Mid-American Conference player who earned All-American honors at his cornerback position in 1977.

He started for four year, garnering over 330 tackles in his career...

Dan LeFevour: Central Michigan Chippewas

LeFevour currently holds MAC records for career completions, attempts, passing yards, passing touchdowns, total touchdowns, and total offensive yards.

He also holds the NCAA record for most touchdowns scored(150), and was the second player to pass for over 3,000 yards and rush for over 1,000 in a single season.

He is the only player in NCAA history with over 12,000 passing yards and 2,500 rushing yards for a career.

Tim Brown: Ball State Cardinals

Brown was the first player to ever be drafted out of Ball State.

He played running back and kick returner, and set several NFL records before retiring to pursue and acting career.

Jason Babin: Western Michigan Broncos

Babin was a monster in college, finishing his career with 38 sacks.

He started all 12 games at defensive end as a senior and garnered some consideration for various All-American lists.

Bob Beemer: Toledo Rockets

This guy was tough.

He played from 1982-1985, on some fo the most successful teams in Rockets' history.

Beemer was a stellar defensive end, and had he not been injured for part of his junior season, would have had ridiculous career numbers.

As it was, he finished with 73 tackles for loss and 270 tackles.

Garrett Wolfe: Northern Illinois Huskies

In 2004, Wolfe went from unknown to the best back in the country over the course of the season.

He scored 21 times and 1656 yards in '04, and finished his NIU stint in 2006, wowed football fans across the country throughout his entire career with his ability to cut back to find daylight.

Jason Taylor: Akron Zips

Taylor played basketball for the Zips as well, but made his name as a defensive end and linebacker on the gridiron.

He was a two time first team all MAC selection, and only the third person ever to be inducted into Akron's Ring of Honor.

Willie Evans: Buffalo Bulls

Evans was the star running back on the Bulls' '58  team that went 8-1 adn received an invite to the Tangerine Bowl.

The only problem was the Bowl would not allow African-Americans to participate.

Evans teammates took a vote and decided rather than leave he and Mike Wilson behind, they would skip the bowl game...

Bernie Casey: Bowling Green Falcons

Casey led the Falcons '59 championship team in receiving, and was influential rushing the ball as well, scoring key TDs in games against Miami(OH) and Ohio U.

Jack Lambert: Kent State Golden Flashes

Lambert was a member of the "James Gang", the defense that helped head coach Donal James to the Flashes' only MAC championship and a trip to the Tangerine Bowl.

He finished his collegiate career at middle linebacker with 593 tackles...

Nick Saban was also a part of the team that won the MAC championship.

Bill Cosby: Temple Owls

Bill Cosby played for Temple and lettered at the university.

 I know it's brutal, but he fits the bill here because more often than not, the Owls efforts on the field are almost as funny as his routines...

Dion Byrum: Ohio Bobcats

In his senior season in 2005, Byrum led the country in defensive touchdowns with three, and was second in interception return yardage from his cornerback position.

Byrum also returned kicks and punts, and finished as Ohio's seventh leading returner.

Travis Prentice: Miami(OH) Redhawks

"Touchdown Travis" did not start until his sophomore year, and promptly scored 25 touchdowns in that campaign.

In his senior year, a new offense was implemented that did not rely as heavily on the run, and he saw his numbers drop a bit.

His most impressive stat was 862 consecutive touches without a fumble.

Claude Simons Jr.: Tulane Green Wave

Simons scored on rushes of 83 and 75 yards in the inaugural Sugar Bowl in 1934.

He was considered the best athlete on the team, and played both halfback and quarterback.

Trevor Cobb: Rice Owls

Cobb won the 1991 Doak Walker award, given annually to the best running back in the country.

He was the original "shoelace".

Don Maynard: UTEP MIners

Maynard played halfback on offense and safety on defense.

He was known for his ability to change direction and make plays on the ball while it was in the air.

Who would win a jump ball between him and Larry Fitzgerald?

Andre Ware: Houston Cougars

Ware was the first African American Quarterback to win the Heisman trophy when he hauled home the hardware in 1989.

In that season, as a junior, Ware threw for 4,699 yards and 44 touchdowns, then left early for the NFL.

Steve Largent: Tulsa Golden Hurricanes

Largent's 14 TD receptions in '74 and '75 led the country.

When Largent left for the NFL after his senior season, he had averaged and amazing 17.5 yards per catch for the Golden Hurricanes.

He went on to play in the NFL and then become a US congressman.

Eric Dickerson: SMU Mustangs

Dickerson initiaaly split carries with fellow RBs Craig James and Charles Waggoner in his first season with the 'Stangs.

After Waggoner went down with an injury, Dickerson adn James took over the hauling duties for SMU.

While he was allegedly part of the recruiting scandal that eventually earned SMU the "Death Sentence", Dickerson was a great talent.

He broke Earl Campbell's Southwest Conference record for yards and attempted with 4,450 yards on 790 carries.

In his senior season, he split time at the position with James, but still earned third place in the Heisman race, and earned All-American honors.

His 48 career TDs ties Doak Walker for most TDs in Mustang history.

Isaac Bruce: Memphis Tigers

Bruce, the dynamic receiver who spent most of his NFL career with the St. Louis Rams, transferred from a Juco to memphis in 1992.

He caught 39 passes for 532 yards and five touchdowns in that first season.

Int he season following, Bruce set Memphis school records for catches (74), receiving yards (1,054) and Tds (10).

The Tigers could sure us him now.

Byron Leftwich: Marshall Thundering Herd

Chad Pennington had slightly better numbers, but nobody remembers Chad Pennington in college except Marshall fans and avid College football watcher.

Everybody remmebers Leftwich.

In a game against Akron, in november of 2002, he broke his left shin.

While mere mortals(Jay Cutler) would immediately bail out for the sideline, Leftwich contninued to play, having his linemen carry him down the field for one of the most iconic sports moments in history.

Leftwich was still an effective QB, evern with the broken plant foot, but the Thundering Herd fell jsut short in that game.

Leftwich, for his career at Marshall completed 939 of 1,442 passes (65.1 percent) for 11,903 yards, 89 touchdowns and only 28 interceptions. He amassed 12,090 yards of total offense on 1,632 plays, ranking second on the school’s all-time record lists behind Pennington.

Bryan Thomas: UAB Blazers

Thomas was one fo the best defensive ends in the history of conference USA.

He spent for years terrrorizing QBs from 1998-2001, amassed a conference record 35 sacks and racking up 56 tackles for loss.

Thomas currently plays for the New York Jets, and posted an interceptino in their loss to Pittsburgh in the AFC championship last season.

Brett Favre: Southern Miss Golden Eagles

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CHICAGO - NOVEMBER 14: Brett Favre #4 of the Minnesota Vikings looks over the Chicago Bear defense before taking the snap from Jon Cooper #68 at Soldier Field on November 14, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bears defeated the Vikings 27-13. (Photo by Jona

Favre left USm holding every record a QB could hold back in 1987.

The Southern Miss coaches wanted to use him as a defensive back, but Favre wanted to throw the ball.

He took over for the Golden Eagles during the second half of a game against Tulane  his freshman year, and never looked back.

He led the Golden Eagles to an improbable upset of Alabama in 1990, just six weeks after suffering severe injuries in a car crash.

His most notable accomplishment was 15 300 yard games, the most by any USM QB.

Chris Johnson: East Carolina Pirates

Talk about all purpose, this guy did it all.

While primarily a running back, his explosiveness and penchant for finding the endzone made it imperative to have the ball in his hands as much as possible.

He was one of the best kick return men in the country, and at one point in his collegiate career had eighteen straight games with a pass reception.

Not bad for a running back.

Daunte Culpepper: UCF Knights

Culpepper showed great skill throughout his college career, and rewrote the UCF record books.

He topped the 10,000 yard passing mark and the 1,000 yard rushing mark in his career, becoming only the third player in history to do so.

He finished his career sixth on the NCAA's all-time total offense list for all divisions with 12,459 yards.

During his stay at UCF, Culpepper was responsible for 108 TDs, 84 of them through the air.

Jay Novacek: Wyoming Cowboys

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CHICAGO - 1991: Tight end Jay Novacek #84 of the Dallas Cowboys looks on during a game against the Chicago Beats in 1991 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Novacek won All-American honors in 1984, and was the record holder at the tight end position for yards receiving yards when he finished school.

He left Wyoming in '84 after four years, and when he did, he had 10 TD receptions to go with 1,536 yards gained.

He was also an All-American in track and field while in college.

Brian Urlacher: New Mexico Lobos

Urlacher did not start for the Lobos in his first two season, but when new head coach Rocky Long hit the scene, Urlacher instantly started improving adn getting more playing time.

He finished his carerr as a "Lobo-Back" a hybrid safety/linbacker with 442 tackles,11 forced fumbles, 11 sacks and threee interceptions.

He also caught six touchdown passes and returned five kicks for touchdowns, and was one fo the most versatile players in the country during his junior and senior campaigns.

Randall Cunningham: UNLV Runnin Rebels

Cunningham, played QB for UNLV from '82-'84.

He led the Runnin' Rebels to their only ten win season in history in 1984, finishing 11-2.

He left school after his junior year, but still holds UNLV records for passing yards with more tha 8,000, and TDs(59).

He also holds the school record for averaging 45.6 yards per kick as a punter.

Joey Porter: Colorado State Rams

Porter played running back and wide receiver in high scool, and was a halfback his first season in college who did not see much playing time.

In his junior season, Porter switched to defensive line, and things began to shake loose for him.

He recorded seven sacks his junior season, and 15 in his stellar senior outing.

He was drafted in th ethird round of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers, adn went on to be part of a Super Bowl winning squad.

Marshall Faulk: San Diego State Aztecs

In just his second collegiate contest, Faulk rushed for 386 yards and seven touchdowns.

Pretty good way to burst on the scene.

He finished his collegg career in 1993 and went on to great success in the NFL.

At SDSU, set records for most TDs in a game and most yards by a freshman, as well as scoring 62 TDs which is eighth all time in the NCAA.

He was the consummate all-purpose back.

Beau Morgan: Air Force Falcons

As a senior quarterback in 1996, Morgan figured out the triple option, and ran it to almost machine like perfection.

He finished that season, with the most rushing yards by a quarterback ever, a record 1484 yards and 18 touchdowns.

His yardage record stood for 15 years.

LaDainian Tomlinson: TCU Horned Frogs

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16 Sep 2000: A close up of La Dainian Tomlinson #5 of the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs as he looks on from the sidelines during the game against the Northwestern Wildcats at the Amon Carter Stadium in Forthworth, Texas. The Horned Frogs defeat

Tomlinson led the NCAA in rushing during his junior and senior seasons in 1999 and 2000.

Although he did not play running back until his senior year in high school, LT was able to lead TCU to as many bowl games in the years he started (2) as they had gone to in the previous 34 years.

He had his best performance of his college career against UTEP in 1999, when he gained 406 yards rushing and scored six touchdowns against the Miners.

Kellen Moore: Boise State Broncos

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LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 22: Quarterback Kellen Moore #11 of the Boise State Broncos warms up before playing against the Utah Utes in the MAACO Bowl Las Vegas at Sam Boyd Stadium December 22, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Boise State Won 26-3. (Photo by Et

This is how good htis guy is.

In three seasons at BSU, he has lost two games, only one in the regular season.

In 2010 he bacame the first ever Boise State player to be a finalist in Heisman voting, and has a better than good chance to win it in 2011.

His 10,867 passing yards already leads the Broncos record books, and he still has an entire season to play.

Ryan Leaf: Washington State Cougars

Before he was the biggest NFL bust in the history of mankind, Ryan Leaf was an outstanding QB at Washington State.

He played only three years at WSU, forgoing his senior seaon for his ill-fated NFL career, but he left a huge mark on the face of WSU football.

Leaf led the Cougars to their first Rose Bowl in 67 years, which they lost to Michigan, and aslo to their first win in Washington's Husky Stadium in more than a decade.

He finished third in the 1997 heisman voting behind Charles Woodson and Peyton Manning.

Maurice Jone-Drew: UCLA Bruins

MJD played at UCLA from 2003-2005, and led the Bruins in rushing all htree seasons.

He also was a pivotal part of the passing game and returned kicks.

His first quarter against Washington in 2004 was one for the record books, as he scored on three of his first four toucehs in the first quarter and gained 169 yards.

He remains second on the NCAA punt return list, averaging over 22 yards per return for his career, adn set the single season mark averaging 28.5 per in 2005.

Harold "Brick" Muller: Cal Golden Bears

Muller played during one of Cal's best season ever, back in the 1920's.

He was a quarterback, as well as defensive lineman, and was famous for the immense size of his hands, which enabled him to throw the football better than most.

In 1921, the bears flew under the radr to the Rose Bowl, and Muller absolutely served notice to the rest of the country that they could play with anyone.

The Bears played Ohio State, and on OSU's first two drives, Muller forced fumbles that resulted in scores.

His pass after a lateral to Brodie Murphy for a TD is the stuff of legend, and was featured on Ripley's "Believe it or Not" for the sheer improbability of the play.

Ricky Hunley: Arizona Wildcats

From 1980 to 1983, hunley anchored the 'Cats linebackers.

in '82 , he became the first Wildcat to earn consensus All-American honors, and duplicated that feat in '83.

Jake Plummer: Arizona State Sun Devils

Plummer led the 1997 Sun Devils to an undefeated season, but lost in the Rose Bowl to Ohio State 20-17.

He earned the nickname "Jake the Snake" for his ability to elude defenders in the pocket.

At the end of his college career, he had set the record for most passing yards in ASU history, which was promptly broken, but he remains the player most identified with ASU football.

Terry Baker: Oregon State Beavers

Baker was the starting QB for the Beavers from 1960-1962.

He won the Heisman in '62, the same year that he played on the Beavers' Final Four basketball squad.

He threw for 23 TDs and ran for 15 more during his time in Corvallis.

Marcus Allen: USC Trojans

Allen was possibly the most exciting back to watch in the history of the game.

He played running back for the Trojans from 1978-1981.

He was originally recruited as a defensive back, but head coach John Robinson switched him to tailback, then to fullback during his sophomore season to back up Heisman winning running back Charles White.

In '80, he finally became the starting tailback, and wasted no time leaving his stamp on Trojan football history.

He finished second in the nation in rushing that season, with 1,563 yards, and followed that up with an even more impressive performance in '81.

He became the first player in history to rush for over 2,000 yards, led the nation in scoring, won the Heisman, Maxwell and Walter Camp awards, and was the Pac-10 player of the year.

He is tied with Ron Dayne and Ricky Williams for most 200 yard games with 12.

Steve Emtman: Washington Huskies

At 6'4" 293, Emtman was an imposing figure for quarterbacks to deal with.

In 1990, Emtman led a stout Husky defense, and the team finished 10-2 and won the Rose Bowl.

In '91. he again led one of the bst defensive squads in the nation, adn the team finished undefeated and won the national championship.

He finished fourth in Heisman voting that season, was the Pac-10 defensive player of the year and won both the Outland Trophy and Lombardi Award.

He was the best Husky to ever play the game.

Rashaan Salaam: Colorado Buffaloes

While Salaam did not have a great pro career by any means, he was a very good running back for the Buffs from '92-'94.

During his time at Colorado, he bacame the fourth player in NCAA history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a season, and was a unanimous All- American selection at the end of his junior season.

He helped Colorado to a 41-24 win over Notre Dame in the '95 Fiesta Bowl, adn left a year early for the NFL.

Salaam remains the only player in Colorado history to win the Heisman.

Steve Smith: Utah Utes

Smith was teammates with Chad Ochocinco at Santa Monica College for two years before transferring to Utah.

Maybe some of Smith's stuff rubbed of on 85.

When Smith left Utah, he had averaged over 20 yards per reception for his two year career.

John Elway: Stanford Cardinal

Andrew Luck is poised to take over this spot, but for now it's Elway's.

He finished out his QB career at Stanford with 9,349 yards and 77 touchdowns.

While he never led his team to a bowl game, that was momre from a lack of talent around him than a slight on his ability to get the job done.

As a senior, elway finished second in Heisman balloting to Herschel Walker...

Dan Fouts: Oregon Ducks

Once again, there may be a current Duck or two that is ready to take this position, but it currently sits firmly in the capable hands of ex-OU QB, Dan Fouts.

From 1970-1972, Fouts led the Ducks, adn when he left Eugene, he was famous for a three touchdown comeback against UCLA in 1970, as well as establishing 19 school records.

While many of his records have since been broken, he is the most deserving of a spot on this list for his exploits.

Ray Rice: Rutgers University Scarlet Knights

Rice initially committed to play for Syracuse, but after their head coach was fired, he moved his talents to New Jersey.

In his freshman campaig, Rice rushed for over 1,000 yards and scored five times.

He left Rutgers as the best player to have ever graced the field, and shattered just about every rushing record possible.

Greg Cook: Cincinnati Bearcats

From 1965-1968, greg Cook was the unquestioned leader of the Bearcat's offense.

Cook once threw for 554 yards in a single game, and was a tough, persistent force on the field.

He was drafted by the bengals after Paul Brown witnessed a great come from behind victory over the Miami Redskins...

Johnny Unitas: Louisville Cardinals

Johnny U has had hsi number 16 retired by the Cardinals, and with good cause.

unitas was reportedly a miniscule 145 pounds when he first arrived at Louisville, but wowed coaches with his accuracy and arm strength.

After a four year college career with the Cardinals, the "Golden Arm" moved on to a successful NFL career.

George Selvie: USF Bulls

Selvie was USF's first two time All-American, and spent his days with the Bulls wreaking havoc in opposing backfields.

Selvie was easily the most memorable player in Bulls' history, destroying opposing blockers and blowing up quarterbacks with reckless abandon.

Not only did he make a superb pass rusher, but Selvie excelled at containing the edges and stopping hte opposing run game.

Jim Brown: Syracuse Orange

Brown led the Orangemen in rushing in his junior and senior seasons.

In his final year, he finished fifth in Heisman voting and earned All-American honors.

His physical style and unyielding strength made him difficult to slow down.

He finished third in the nation in rushing yards his senior season, even though Syracuse only played in eight games that year.

Tony Dorsett: Pitt Panthers

Dorsett, a lanky running back from Rochester, Pennsylvania, was a key component of the Panthers' 1976 championship squad.

En route to that national championship, Dorsett earned the Heisman, Maxwell Award, the Walter Camp Award and UPI Player of the Year.

Dorsett's record 6,082 career rushing yards would stand as the record until Ricky Williams came along in 1998.

Pat White: West Virginia Mountaineers

White was part of an absolutely lethal backfield along with RB Steve Slaton and Fullback Owen Schmitt.

With his mobility and arm strength, White shredded opposing defenses from 2005-2008.

he finished his career with 10,531 total yards and 103 touchdowns, but was never granted All American honors, adn so is, sadly, not eligible for the college football halll of fame.

Donald Brown: UConn Huskies

Brown was a dynamic running back for UConn during his four years, and he cemented himself in early UConn FBS history with his tough play and persistence.

He battled for a spot on the field in each of his first two season, finally getting the nod in 2008.

He finished his career at UConn with 4,076 yards and 35 touchdowns...

Roger Staubach: Navy Midshipmen

Staubach won the Heisman in '63 as the quarterback of the Midshipmen.

They lost the championship to Texas in the Cotton Bowl.

Navy did not defeat Notre Dame after that year until 2007.

Staubach moved on to great things in the NFL, but he was a solid QB at Navy for three years before those days.

Pete Dawkins: Army Black Knights

Dawkins was the captain of Army's unbeaten 1958 team.

This guy was good.

He won the Heisman, and was super effective leading his team from the half back position.

His classmates said this about him: "We stood in awe of this man."

Ty Detmer: BYU Cougars

Detmer was a great QB, and his career statistics will confirm that.

Detmer's final college career statistics are 1,530 pass attempts; 958 completions; 15,031 passing yards; 121 touchdown passes; 14,665 yards of total offense; 135 touchdowns responsible for; and 162.7 passer rating, all NCAA records at the time.

In all, he finished his college career with 59 NCAA records and tied for three others.

Johnny Lujack: Notre Dame Fightin' Irish

Lujack interrupted his college football career to serve in WWII, then promptly returned to win titles in 1946 and 1947, taking home the Heisman his senior year.

While there were others who passed better, or tackled harder, there were not any players in the nation, and may never be anyone, who had all of those abilities rolled into one like Lujack.

he had the best all around game of any player in his time, and possibly ever.

Chris Slade: Virginia Cavaliers

Slade played at Virginia from 1989-1992, and was the first Cavalier to earn All American honors in consecutive years.

Slade holds the record for most sacks in a career at Virginia, with 40.

George McAfee: Duke Blue Devils

McAfee played at Duke from 1937-1939.

As a senior in 1939, he led Duke in rushing, receiving, scoring, kickoff returns, punt returns, interceptions and punting en route to earning first team All-America honors as the Blue Devils went 8-1.

Julius Peppers: North Carolina Tar Heels

Julius Peppers won awards for his play ever season.

Starting with freshman All-American and culminating in the Lombardi and Bednarik Awards, Peppers had a stellar career as a pass rushing defensive lineman.

He finished his collegiate career with 30.5 sacks.

Joe Hamilton: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

From 1996-1999, Georgia Tech had one of the best QBs in the nation.

Hamilton set career records for total offense(10,640) touchdown passes(65) and total touchdowns(85).

he finished second in the Heisman ballots his senior season to Wisconsin's Ron Dayne.

Ray Lewis: Miami Hurricanes

Forget the stuff that happened after college, and Lewis is the man that epitomizes Miami Hurricanes football.

From his "swagger" to his hard hitting play, Lewis was an instant contributor to the 'Canes when he joined the team in '93, and led the Big East in tackles for both his sophomore and junior seasons.

Michael Vick: Virginia Tech Hokies

Vick was an absolute anomaly at the time for a QB.

His elusive style flummoxed defenders and usually left them gasping for air.

But Vick was not just a runner, he led the NCAA in passing efficiency his freshman year...

Norm Snead: Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Snead was a stellar QB for the Demon Deacons from 1957-1960.

Known for his accuracy and arm strength, Snead led the ACC in passing and total offense in both his junior and senior seasons.

He was also the first Wake QB to earn All American honors.

C.J. Spiller: Clemson Tigers

Spiller was one of the most dynamic, explosive kick returners/running backs in the history of the ACC.

Spiller returned seven kickoffs for TDs, an FBS record.

He is also one of only fie players to gain 7,000 all-purpose yards.

He was the only player to score a touchdown in every game of the 2009 season.

Doug Flutie: Boston College Eagles

Flutie quarterbacked the Eagles to victory in the famous "Hail Flutie" game, the same year that he won the Heisman Trophy.

The diminutive Flutie became the first QB to win since 1971.

Torry Holt: NC State Wolfpack

Before he was part of the St. Louis Ram's "Greatest Show on Turf", he was the offensive player of the year in the ACC.

He set the ACC record for receptions by a WR in 1998 with 88 receptions and 16 touchdowns.

Boomer Esiason: Maryland Terrapins

Esiason was the best quarterback in Terrapins history.

He led them to the ACC title in his senior year, and left school with 17 Maryland records.

He threw for 6,259 yards and 42 touchdowns in his collegiate career.

Charlie Ward: Florida State Seminoles

Charlie Ward played QB for the Seminoles 1992 and 1993, leading them to their first ever national championship.

He shepherded a young running back by the name of Warrick Dunn, and won the Heisman in his final season.

The margin of victory for his Heisman vote was the second largest in history.

Vince Young: Texas Longhorns

Two time Rose Bowl MVP, BCS national champion, Trojan killer...

Vince young did it all in his career at Texas.

Even though criticized for his unorthodox throwing motion, Young proved to be a solid passer, and his athletic ability made him one of the best players in college football history.

Michael Crabtree: Texas Tech Red Raiders

Texas fans, don't look.

Crabtree was a freak of nature on the field, seemingly grabbing any football within a mile of his long arms.

He was a converted QB, who excelled at WR, winning the Biletnikoff Award in both 2007 and 2008, his only years at Tech.

Mike Singletary: Baylor Bears

Singletary earned All-American honors in '79 and '80, and he led the defense of the only Baylor team to finish with ten wins.

In his junior and senior season, Singletary averaged 15 tackles per game before heading off to the NFL to win a Super Bowl with the Chicago Bears.

Dat Nguyen: Texas A&M Aggies

Nguyen led the Aggies famous "Wrecking Crew" defense, in spite of his less than ideal size for a linebacker.

From '95-'98, Nguyen anchored a solid defense, and he still holds the record for most career tackles by an Aggie with 517.

Barry Sanders: Oklahoma State Cowboys

Sanders backed up All-American Thurman Thomas at the RB position in his first two seasons at OSU, but led the nation in return yards in his second season, 1987.

After Munson's departure, Sanders took over the running chores, and quickly provided us with one of the best single season performances in memory.

He led the country in yards per carry  7.8, and scored a ridiculous 39 touchdowns, of which 37 were rushing...

Lee Roy Selmon: Oklahoma Sooners

Along with brothers Lucious and Dewey, Lee Roy made up one of the fiercest defensive lines in history.

He won the Lombardi Award and Outland Trophy in 1975, and posted 18 sacks in his junior season in 1974.

The Sooners were led by Selmon defensively and won back-to-back championships in '74 and '75.

Head coach Barry Switzer stated that Selmon was the best player he ever coached.

Gale Sayers: Kansas Jayhawks

The "Kansas Comet" wowed fans with his open field ability during his tenure at Kansas from '61-'64.

He gained 3,917 all purpose yards in his career as a running back and kick returner, and led the Jayhawks to a huge upset victory of Oklahoma his senior year...

He went on to an injury shortened NFL career.

Troy Davis: Iowa State Cyclones

Davis was an incredible talent on a sub-par team.

In 1995 and 1996, he became the first player in NCAA history to have back-to-back 2,000 yard rushing seasons, and he was also a Heisman finalist both of those seasons.

Terence Newman: Kansas State Wildcats

Newman played for the venerable Bill Snyder from '99-'02.

During that span, he won Big XII defensive player of the year in 2002, and the Jim Thorpe award for the nation's best defensive back in the same season.

Chase Daniel: Missouri Tigers

Daniel had a stellar career at Mizzou from 2005-2008.

He became the first Missouri player to be named Big XII offensive player of the year after his breakout 2007 season, and he finished his career with a whopping 68 percent completion rate and 101 touchdowns...

In 2007, Daniel became only the third Tiger's player to be a Heisman trophy finalist.

Anthony Thompson: Indiana Hoosiers

Before Ricky Williams and Ron Dayne, there was Anthony Thompson.

Thompson played for the Hoosiers from 1986-1989, and was runner up for the Heisman in '89.

When he finished college, he held the record for most rushing touchdowns with 65.

Bruce Smith: Minnesota Golden Gophers

Smith was a thrilling running back in the single wing formation days of the early forties.

He led Minnesota to consecutive undefeated seasons and national title in '40 and '41, and took home the Heisman in '41.

He remains the only Gopher to do so.

Bob Griese: Purdue Boilermakers

Griese was a two time All American while at Purdue, and finished second to Steve Spurrier in the Heisman voting in 1966.

Griese led the Boilermakers to their first Rose Bowl in that same year, where they defeated USC 14-13.

He not only played QB for the football team, but played on the university's baseball and basketball squads as well.

Pat Fitzgerald: Northwestern Wildcats

Fitzgerald currently coaches the Wildcats, and takes on the role of the quiet head coach with the media.

His claim to fame for the Wildcats was in '95 and '96, when he won both the Bednarik and Nagurski awards, becoming the first two time winner of both honors.

From '93-'96, Fitzgerald starred at linebacker for the Wildcats, helping guide them to their first Rose Bowl since 1949.

Charles Woodson: Michigan Wolverines

Woodson was an incredible collegiate athlete, and remains the only primarily defensive player to ever win the Heisman trophy.

He led the Wolverines defense to an undefeated season, and a share of their last national title in '97.

In addition to playing safety, Woodson spent some time returning punts and lined up occasionally at wide receiver.

John Cappelletti: Penn State Nittany Lions

If you haven't read or seen " Something for Joey" you have got to.

Cappelletti won the Heisman in 1973, and dedicated it to his brother, Joey, who passed  away of childhood leukemia in 1976.

Cappelletti average 5.1 yards per carry for his career as a running back, to go with 29 TDs.

Dick Butkus: Illinois Fighting Illini

Butkus was the best linebacker to ever play the game.

He also played center and fullback, but made his name at middle linebacker.

From '61-'64, Butkus played for the Illini, and had a key interception in the '64 Rose Bowl to seal the game for Illinois.

Bob Sanders: Iowa Hawkeyes

Sanders was one of the hardest hitting players to ever play the game, as evidenced by the wonderful imagery we have here.

He summed it up best here:

"If you hit somebody hard enough, they will give up," Sanders told ESPN . "Every time I hit somebody, the goal is to knock myself out. I know that if I hit somebody hard enough that I can feel it, it's hurting them 10 times worse."

He terrorized Big Ten offenses from 2001-2003.

Ron Dayne: Wisconsin Badgers

The "Great Dayne" was a sight to see on the football field.

With deceptively quick speed for his size, Dayne set the NCAA rushing record, that still stands, and became the first Big Ten player to win two Rose Bowl MVP award in the 1999 and 2000 Rose Bowls.

Dayne shares the record for most 200 yard rushing games in a career with Marcus Allen and Ricky Williams at 12.

He took home the 1999 Heisman for his efforts.

Bubba Smith: Michigan State Spartans

in 1965 and '66 "Kill Bubba, kill" was a chant heard often on the campus of Michigan State.

Smith was a key part of the Spartans team that tied Notre Dame in '66, and he remains the only player to be drafted number one from MSU.

Archie Griffin: Ohio State Buckeyes

The only two time Heisman winner in history, Griffin remains the bar by which all other running backs are measured.

Griffin was a part of four straight Big Ten Championship teams, and was the first player to start in four Rose Bowls.

Griffin rushed for over 100 yards in 34 total games during his career, including a string of 31 straight.

Mike Rozier: Nebraska Cornhuskers

Rozier went to a Junior college for his freshman year to get his grades up.

Fortunately for Nebraska, he had no trouble doing so, and transferred to play for Nebraska after he was spotted by then assistant coach Frank Solich after one year at Coffeyville Juco.

Rozier soon won the starting RB spot in his sophomore season, and never relinquished his hold.

As a senior, Rozier and the Huskers were virtually unstoppable, and he found the endzone 29 times en route to a Heisman Trophy winning season.

Archie Manning: Ole Miss Rebels

Yes, the elder Manning takes this spot.

Manning's performance in the first nationally televised college football game is still tied for most total yards in a game for the SEC.

He was third in Heisman voting in 1970, and the speed limit on the campus at Oxford is still 18 in honor of his jersey number.

"Jackie" Parker: Mississippi State Bulldogs

Parker was named to two all conference and all American teams while at Mississippi State, and his ability to play both offense and defense greatly contributed to his later success.

Parker played for the Bulldogs in '52 and '53, and was one of the best QBs in the country those years.

Derrick Thomas: Alabama Crimson Tide

From 1985-1988, opposing team were terrorized by the fierce play of Thomas.

He finished his collegiate career with 52 sacks and had 27 in a single season, but the NCAA did not yet recognize such defensive stats, so they remain unheralded.

In 2000, Thomas passed away following some complications after a car accident.

Tommy Casanova: LSU Tigers

Casanova played from '69-'71, and his versatility made him great.

He spent time at RB, kick returner and in the defensive secondary during his three years at LSU.

Casanova was key in a number of LSU's victories over ranked team's in '71.

Ryan Mallett: Arkansas Razorbacks

Mallett is the most prolific passer in Arkansas history.

In his senior season, he finished fifth in the country in passing yards, and led the SEC.

Mallett led the Razorbacks to a Sugar Bowl berth, where they lost to OSU in his only BCS appearance.

Cam Newton: Auburn Tigers

Listen, there have been many great players through the annals of Auburn football, but none has made a bigger impact than the notorious Mr. Newton.

Cam led the Tigers to the national title in 2010, amidst swirling rumors of all sorts of crap.

If one can get past the off field business, you could see he is a once in a lifetime talent.

Jay Cutler: Vanderbilt Commodores

Before he was annoying Chicago Bears' fans with his pout, Jay Cutler was doing the same at Vandy.

Fortunately for him, the Commodore faithful are not used to winning anything, so he got away with it there, even though they only won 11 games out of his 45 played.

That being said, he had a solid college career, finishing with 8, 697 passing yards, and 59 passing TDs.

George Blanda: Kentucky Wildcats

It's difficult to compare numbers across generations, but trust me, Blanda's were good for his time.

He played kicker and quarterback for the 'Cats before launching on his record 26 year NFL career.

Peyton Manning: Tennessee Volunteers

Other than not being able to beat Florida, Manning was everything a Vols fan could ask for in college.

He won 39 of the 45 games he started, and left UT as the leading passer in school history with over 11,000 yards.

In his senior season, he won every major award for quarterbacks, and was second in the Heisman voting to Michigan's Charles Woodson.

Herschel Walker: Georgia Bulldogs

Walker played between the hedges from 1980-1982.

He is the only player to finish in the top three in Heisman voting in every season he played, adn he won the award in 1982.

He was instrumental in the Dawgs undefeated season and national championship in '82.

Tim Tebow: Florida Gators

Tebow was unbelievable.

Even through all the Bible verses on his eye black, motivational speeches and tears, Tebow managed to become the first sophomore to win the Heisman.

He was the first player in college football history to both rush for 20 TDs and pass for 20 TDs in a single season.

George Rogers: South Carolina Gamecocks

Rogers won the 1980 Heisman Trophy by virtue of his NCAA leading 1781 rushing yards, beating out fellow SEC wonder boy Herschel Walker.

He currently is the leading rusher in South Carolina history, amassing 5,204 yards and 31 touchdowns over the course of his college career.