Top 30 Texas Longhorns Quarterbacks of All time: James Street not good enough for Top 5

The Texas Longhorns are one of the most storied programs in college football history, producing countless legendary players who have left indelible marks on the sport. Among these legends are a host of remarkable quarterbacks, whose skill, leadership, and contributions to the team have cemented their places in Texas football lore. Over the decades, the Longhorns have seen a wide range of quarterbacking styles, from dynamic dual-threat players to precise pocket passers, each bringing their unique talents to the field. Compiling a list of the top 30 quarterbacks in Texas Longhorns history is no easy task, but it’s a fascinating exercise that showcases the depth of talent the program has enjoyed.

One quarterback often discussed in such rankings is James Street, a player whose legacy is intertwined with Texas football’s golden era. Street, who led the Longhorns to the 1969 national championship, is undoubtedly a celebrated figure in the program’s history. His leadership and clutch performances are the stuff of legend, most notably in the “Game of the Century” against Arkansas, where he guided the Longhorns to a dramatic comeback victory. However, while Street’s accomplishments are significant, the question of where he ranks among the all-time greats is more nuanced. Some argue that he belongs firmly in the top five, while others contend that his overall body of work, compared to the sheer talent and accomplishments of others, places him just outside that elite group.

When assessing quarterbacks, it’s important to consider not only team success but also individual skill, impact, and legacy. Players like Vince Young and Colt McCoy, for example, have often topped such lists for good reason. Young’s transcendent performance in the 2006 Rose Bowl is widely regarded as one of the greatest individual efforts in college football history, capping off a season that cemented him as a generational talent. McCoy, meanwhile, holds multiple school records and was a model of consistency throughout his Texas career, earning two Heisman Trophy runner-up finishes and leading the Longhorns to the BCS National Championship Game in 2009.

Other names that often dominate discussions of the top Longhorn quarterbacks include Bobby Layne, Major Applewhite, and Sam Ehlinger. Layne, a player from the 1940s, was a trailblazer who set the standard for future Texas quarterbacks. His ability to excel as both a passer and a rusher made him a standout in his era, and his subsequent success in the NFL only added to his legendary status. Applewhite, on the other hand, became a fan favorite in the late 1990s and early 2000s, known for his gritty determination and ability to come through in big moments. Ehlinger, a more recent star, left his mark as a dual-threat quarterback who carried the team through a transitional period and became one of the most statistically productive players in program history.

Street’s omission from the top five often comes down to a combination of factors. While his leadership and ability to perform under pressure are undeniable, his statistical production doesn’t quite match up to some of the other all-time greats. The offense he operated in the late 1960s was heavily reliant on the wishbone formation, which emphasized the run game and limited passing opportunities. This is not to diminish his contributions—indeed, he was the perfect quarterback for Darrell Royal’s system—but it does make direct comparisons to modern quarterbacks more challenging. The game has evolved significantly since Street’s era, and the numbers posted by quarterbacks in more pass-heavy systems often dwarf those of their predecessors.

Despite this, Street’s place in Longhorns history remains secure. Few players have been as synonymous with winning as Street, whose perfect 20-0 record as a starter speaks volumes about his ability to lead and inspire his team. His intangibles—poise, toughness, and an unyielding will to win—are qualities that don’t always show up on a stat sheet but are invaluable in determining a quarterback’s greatness. Street’s contributions to the 1969 national championship team, particularly in high-stakes moments, ensure that his name will always be celebrated in Austin.

The debate over where Street ranks highlights the incredible depth of talent that Texas has enjoyed at the quarterback position. Players like Chris Simms, David Ash, and James Brown have all had their moments of brilliance, contributing to the program’s storied history. Simms, for instance, was a highly-touted recruit who showed flashes of brilliance during his time with the Longhorns, even if his career was occasionally marred by inconsistency. Brown, on the other hand, was a steady presence during the mid-1990s, helping to guide the team to a Big 12 Championship.

What sets the truly elite quarterbacks apart, however, is their ability to elevate their teams in the biggest moments. This is why players like Vince Young and Colt McCoy are often viewed as the gold standard for Longhorns quarterbacks. Young’s ability to take over games with his dual-threat capabilities and McCoy’s pinpoint accuracy and leadership qualities made them generational talents. They not only put up impressive numbers but also delivered when it mattered most, cementing their legacies as two of the greatest quarterbacks in college football history.

As college football continues to evolve, the role of the quarterback has become increasingly central to a team’s success. The Texas Longhorns, with their rich tradition and passionate fan base, will always be a destination for top talent at the position. The program’s ability to attract and develop elite quarterbacks is a testament to its enduring appeal and commitment to excellence. Each era brings new stars, each with their own unique style and contributions, adding to the rich tapestry of Texas football history.

In reflecting on the top 30 quarterbacks in Texas Longhorns history, it’s clear that there is no shortage of deserving candidates. From legends of the past like Bobby Layne and James Street to modern stars like Vince Young and Sam Ehlinger, the Longhorns have been blessed with an incredible array of talent. Each quarterback has left their mark on the program in their own way, contributing to the legacy of one of college football’s most iconic teams. While debates over rankings and all-time lists will always spark passionate discussion, the common thread is a shared appreciation for the greatness that these players have brought to the University of Texas.