Top 10 Marshall Football Players of All Time

Marshall University has a proud football tradition, producing some of the sport’s most iconic athletes. These players have left an indelible mark on both the Thundering Herd and the game itself. Here’s a look at the 10 best Marshall football players of all time:

1. Randy Moss (WR, 1996–1997)

Randy Moss is arguably Marshall’s most famous player and one of the greatest wide receivers in football history. Known for his unmatched speed and athleticism, Moss shattered records during his two seasons with the Herd. He recorded 96 receptions for 1,820 yards and 26 touchdowns in 1997 alone, earning him All-American honors and paving the way for his Hall of Fame NFL career.

2. Chad Pennington (QB, 1995–1999)

Pennington was a leader on the field and the face of Marshall’s rise to prominence in Division I-A. As a quarterback, he set school records in passing yards and touchdowns, guiding the Herd to a perfect season in 1999 and a Motor City Bowl victory. Pennington’s poise and accuracy made him a first-round NFL draft pick.

3. Byron Leftwich (QB, 1998–2002)

Byron Leftwich took over from Pennington and continued Marshall’s dominance. Known for his toughness and strong arm, Leftwich led Marshall to multiple Mid-American Conference (MAC) titles and bowl victories. His memorable performance playing through injury in the 2002 GMAC Bowl remains a legendary moment in college football.

4. Troy Brown (WR, 1991–1992)

Before his long and successful NFL career with the New England Patriots, Troy Brown was a standout wide receiver at Marshall. His versatility and playmaking ability helped the Herd transition into Division I-AA powerhouse status.

5. Carl Lee (CB, 1979–1982)

Lee was a defensive cornerstone for the Herd and one of the best cornerbacks in Marshall’s history. His outstanding college career led to a successful 11-year NFL career, primarily with the Minnesota Vikings, where he became a three-time Pro Bowler.

6. Ahmad Bradshaw (RB, 2004–2006)

Ahmad Bradshaw was a dynamic running back who dazzled fans with his speed and vision. During his junior season, Bradshaw rushed for over 1,500 yards and 19 touchdowns, cementing his place as one of Marshall’s all-time greats before heading to the NFL.

7. Vinny Curry (DE, 2008–2011)

Curry was a dominant defensive end who wreaked havoc on opposing offenses. As a senior, he recorded 11 sacks and was named Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year. His relentless motor earned him a spot in the NFL, where he became a Super Bowl champion with the Philadelphia Eagles.

8. Chris Parker (RB, 1992–1995)

One of the most prolific rushers in Marshall history, Parker amassed over 5,000 career rushing yards and 68 touchdowns. He was a driving force behind Marshall’s 1992 NCAA Division I-AA Championship victory.

9. Aaron Dobson (WR, 2009–2012)

Known for his acrobatic catches and clutch performances, Dobson made significant contributions to Marshall’s passing attack. His “Catch of the Year” against East Carolina in 2011 remains one of the most memorable plays in Herd history.

10. Michael Payton (QB, 1989–1992)

Payton was a key player during Marshall’s early 1990s success. He led the Herd to their first Division I-AA Championship game in 1991 and won the Walter Payton Award as the best player in Division I-AA football.

Honorable Mentions

Players like Doug Chapman, Nate Ruffin, and Lee Smith also deserve recognition for their roles in shaping Marshall football.

These athletes symbolize the spirit and excellence of the Marshall Thundering Herd, etching their names into the program’s storied legacy.