The renowned Baylor Bears head coach Grant Teaff has been formally recognized as the Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.) in college football, a huge honor that has a ripple effect beyond the college football community. This accolade sets him apart from some of the greatest names in sports, such as Florida Gators quarterback Tim Tebow, Texas Tech coach Mike Leach, Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Herschel Walker, Auburn’s Bo Jackson, Oklahoma State’s Barry Sanders, and Texas Longhorns quarterback Earl Campbell.
In addition to celebrating his coaching successes, Grant Teaff’s ascent to this level of fame is a testament to his vision, character, and the revolutionary influence he had on Baylor University and collegiate football in general. During a period when Baylor was frequently disregarded in the fiercely competitive Southwest Conference, Teaff established a culture of excellence, perseverance, and faith that not only improved his program but also served as an inspiration to a new generation of coaches and athletes.
When Teaff took over as head coach at Baylor in 1972, he took over a program that was in disarray and had low expectations. One of the most impressive comebacks in college football history ensued. He led the Bears to eight bowl appearances, which was previously regarded to be unattainable for the school, and accumulated 128 wins during his 21 seasons as head coach (1972–1992). He also won two Southwest Conference crowns (1974 and 1980).
When Baylor shocked the Texas Longhorns in what is now known as the “Miracle on the Brazos” during the 1974 season, it was possibly Teaff’s most memorable moment. After trailing 24-7 at the half, Teaff’s Bears rallied for a 34-24 victory, their first conference title since 1924. It was more than just a victory; it was a testament to Teaff’s capacity to maintain optimism in the face of overwhelming adversity.
However, Grant Teaff’s excellence went well beyond the field. Renowned for his profound empathy, ethical guidance, and intense devotion to his players, he inspired young men to excel not only in football but also in life. Along with his successes, he left behind a positive culture based on discipline, education, faith, and unity.
As the long-serving executive director of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), Teaff maintained his influence on the sport even after he finished coaching. In that capacity, he developed into a spokesperson for coaching ethics, influencing NCAA regulations and coaching a new generation of athletes.
Teaff’s recognition over statistical titans and Heisman Trophy winners highlights a reality that the collegiate football community increasingly embraces: excellence is about more than just winning trophies. It has to do with legacy. It’s about having the power to improve towns, transform lives, and leave the game in a better state than when you arrived.
Fans of the Baylor Bears and collegiate football in general today honor Grant Teaff not only as a coach but also as a pioneer, a legend, and, as of right now, the Greatest of All Time.