Colt McCoy, a Texas Longhorns legend, holds the NCAA quarterback win record with 45.
Colt McCoy, a name synonymous with Texas Longhorns football, has etched himself into the annals of NCAA history as one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game. From a small town in Texas to the pinnacle of college football, McCoy’s journey is a testament to perseverance, leadership, and a relentless drive to succeed. His legacy at the University of Texas is marked by impressive records, accolades, and memorable moments that continue to resonate in the world of college football.
Early Life and High School Career
Born on September 5, 1986, in Hobbs, New Mexico, Charles Colt McCoy was raised in a football family. His father, Brad McCoy, was a coach, and Colt was surrounded by the game from a young age. Colt’s passion for football became evident during his high school years at Jim Ned High School in Tuscola, Texas. There, he quickly emerged as one of the state’s top quarterbacks, leading his team to a district championship. McCoy’s skills were undeniable, and by the time he graduated, he had caught the attention of major college programs.
Despite being a highly recruited quarterback, McCoy’s size—standing at just 6 feet 1 inch—led some scouts to question whether he had the physical tools to succeed at the highest level of college football. However, McCoy’s determination and leadership qualities were impossible to ignore, and the University of Texas took a chance on the young quarterback, offering him a scholarship that would shape the future of the program.
The Texas Longhorns Era (2005-2009)
McCoy arrived at the University of Texas in 2005, where he quickly found himself in a quarterback competition for the starting job. Although the Longhorns were coming off a national championship win with Vince Young under center, McCoy was ready to step into a new era for Texas football. By the end of the 2005 season, McCoy had earned the starting quarterback role, a position he would hold for the next four years.
His impact was immediate. As a freshman, McCoy helped lead the Longhorns to an 11-1 record, including a victory in the prestigious Rose Bowl over Michigan. Although he wasn’t the starting quarterback for the entire season, his performance in relief during key moments earned him widespread recognition. This performance set the stage for what would become one of the most prolific careers in college football history.
In 2006, McCoy became the full-time starter for the Longhorns, and his success continued. He led Texas to a 10-3 record, securing another bowl game appearance and proving he was more than capable of leading the Longhorns back to the top. It was clear that McCoy had the poise, vision, and leadership qualities necessary to succeed at the collegiate level.
Breaking Records and Setting Milestones
McCoy’s breakthrough season came in 2008, when he led Texas to an undefeated regular season and a spot in the BCS National Championship game against the University of Alabama. The Longhorns were poised to challenge for their second national title in just a few years, and McCoy was at the heart of it all. He threw for over 3,800 yards that season, with 34 touchdowns and only 8 interceptions, further cementing his status as one of the nation’s elite quarterbacks.
In 2009, McCoy’s final year at Texas, he would have his most remarkable season. He led the Longhorns to an undefeated regular season, and with a stellar performance in the Big 12 Championship game, McCoy secured Texas’ spot in the BCS National Championship game against Alabama. Although the Longhorns would ultimately fall short in the championship game, McCoy’s performance during the 2009 season was nothing short of legendary.
He threw for 3,521 yards, 27 touchdowns, and only 12 interceptions in his senior year. He finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting, behind only Alabama’s Mark Ingram and Stanford’s Toby Gerhart. McCoy was also named a unanimous All-American, an honor that only a few select players receive in a given year. With a career total of 45 wins as a starting quarterback, McCoy set the NCAA record for most wins by a quarterback, a record that still stands today.
His accolades extended beyond the field. McCoy’s leadership and character made him a role model for teammates, coaches, and fans alike. He was known for his humility and work ethic, qualities that endeared him to the Longhorns faithful and earned him the respect of his peers.
Post-College Career and NFL Journey
After his stellar college career, McCoy was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft. His time in the NFL, however, was marked by inconsistency and a series of unfortunate injuries. McCoy spent several years bouncing between different teams, including the Browns, San Francisco 49ers, and Arizona Cardinals. While he was never able to replicate his college success at the NFL level, McCoy’s resilience and commitment to the game earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.
McCoy spent a significant portion of his career as a backup quarterback, providing veteran leadership and mentoring younger quarterbacks. He appeared in several games, including notable performances with the Arizona Cardinals, where he helped lead the team to a win over the Seattle Seahawks in 2021. Despite not achieving the same level of success in the NFL as he did in college, McCoy’s professional career served as a reminder of his unwavering dedication to the game.
Transition to Broadcasting
Following his retirement from playing professional football, McCoy transitioned into a career in broadcasting. His knowledge of the game, combined with his charismatic personality, made him a natural fit for the role. McCoy currently works as a broadcaster for NBC, where he provides analysis and insight into college football games. His deep understanding of the sport, as well as his experience as a former player, has made him a valuable asset to the network.
In addition to his broadcasting career, McCoy has remained involved in the Texas football community. He regularly participates in charity events, mentorship programs, and various activities aimed at giving back to the sport that shaped his life.
Induction into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame
In 2024, Colt McCoy’s legacy was cemented further when he was inducted into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. This honor is reserved for the greatest athletes and coaches in the state’s history, and McCoy’s inclusion is a reflection of his immense impact on Texas football. His induction serves as a testament to his contributions to the game, both on and off the field.
The Texas Sports Hall of Fame induction is a fitting recognition for McCoy, whose career has been defined by breaking records, leading with integrity, and inspiring the next generation of athletes. His place in the Hall of Fame is a reminder of the lasting impact that athletes can have on their communities and the sports they love.
The Legacy of Colt McCoy
Colt McCoy’s legacy as a Texas Longhorn is undeniable. He redefined the quarterback position in college football and left an indelible mark on the University of Texas program. His 45 career wins as a starting quarterback remain an NCAA record, and his leadership on and off the field has become the gold standard for future Longhorns quarterbacks.
McCoy’s accomplishments as a player are well-documented, but it is his character that truly sets him apart. His leadership, humility, and unwavering commitment to the game earned him respect not only from teammates and coaches but also from opponents and fans across the country.
While McCoy may not have won a national championship during his time at Texas, he still achieved greatness. His ability to elevate the Longhorns to new heights and his consistent success on the field made him one of the most respected and beloved figures in college football history.
As he transitions into his post-playing career, McCoy continues to influence the sport through his work as a broadcaster, offering valuable insights to fans and aspiring athletes alike. His story serves as a reminder that success is not solely defined by championships or individual accolades, but by the impact one has on others and the legacy they leave behind.
Colt McCoy may have retired from playing, but his place in the history of Texas football is secure. He will forever be remembered as one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever don the burnt orange, and his contributions to the game will continue to inspire future generations of athletes for years to come.
