— College football legend Tom Osborne has officially been crowned the greatest college football coach of all time, receiving a prestigious lifetime achievement award in honor of his unparalleled career and historic 292-71-1 record. The ceremony, hosted by the National College Football Legacy Foundation, took place Thursday evening in Lincoln, where Osborne coached the Nebraska Cornhuskers for 25 remarkable seasons.
The award, titled the Gridiron Immortals Award, was created to recognize the most transformative and successful figure in college football history. A panel of 50 sports historians, former players, and coaching legends voted unanimously to name Osborne the inaugural recipient, citing his dominance on the field, leadership off it, and lasting impact on the game.
Osborne, now 88, accepted the honor with humility and gratitude. “I’ve always believed that coaching is about building young men into leaders, not just winning games,” Osborne said during his speech. “This honor isn’t mine alone—it belongs to all the players, assistants, and fans who made Nebraska football a family.”
During his tenure from 1973 to 1997, Osborne led Nebraska to three national championships (1994, 1995, 1997), 13 conference titles, and 25 consecutive bowl appearances. His 1995 team is widely regarded as one of the greatest in college football history, outscoring opponents by an average of 39 points.
Beyond wins and titles, Osborne earned national respect for his sportsmanship and integrity. He was instrumental in pioneering academic support programs for student-athletes and remained committed to community service, both during and after his coaching career. His post-football work as a U.S. Congressman and founder of the TeamMates Mentoring Program further cemented his legacy as a role model in leadership.
The announcement reignited pride across Nebraska and sparked tributes nationwide. Former players, including Heisman winner Eric Crouch, praised Osborne’s discipline, wisdom, and unwavering belief in his team. “Coach Osborne changed lives,” Crouch said. “He taught us to be winners in football—and in life.”
The Gridiron Immortals Award now sets a new benchmark in honoring coaching excellence, and Osborne’s name will be permanently etched in its foundation. As the football world salutes him, one truth is clearer than ever: Tom Osborne isn’t just a legendary coach—he’s a cornerstone of college football history.
