23. Marshall Thundering Herd Football Best Players of All Time

John Rizzo

The Marshall Thundering Herd football team is one of the most storied programs in college football. Hailing from Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia, the Thundering Herd has a proud tradition of excellence, both on and off the field. From the school’s first season in 1895 to the present day, the team has proudly represented the University and the state of West Virginia.

With a passionate fan base and a host of talented players, the Thundering Herd is a force to be reckoned with in the Sun Belt Conference East Division of the NCAA’s Football Bowl Subdivision. From the team’s home stadium, Joan C. Edwards Stadium, to the numerous bowl appearances and championships, the Thundering Herd is a program that continues to strive for excellence.

Table of Contents

1. Randy Moss

Wide receiver

Randy Moss Career

  • NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1998)
  • NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2007)
  • 4× First-team All-Pro (1998, 2000, 2003, 2007)
  • 6× Pro Bowl (1998–2000, 2002, 2003, 2007)
  • 5× NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1998, 2000, 2003, 2007, 2009)
  • NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
  • NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
  • Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
  • 50 Greatest Vikings
  • New England Patriots All-2000s Team
  • New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1998)
  • NCAA I-AA national champion (1996)
  • Fred Biletnikoff Award (1997)
  • Consensus All-American (1997)
  • MAC Most Valuable Player (1997)
  • MAC Offensive Player of the Year (1997)
  • Orange Bowl champion (1995)

Moss is a wide receiver who played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1998 to 2004 and then with the Oakland Raiders from 2005 to 2006. He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1998, and after two seasons with the team, he was traded to the New England Patriots in 2007.

Moss enjoyed considerable success at both of his previous teams, amassing over 1,000 yards receiving each season between them. 

In 2010 he joined up with his former Viking teammate Brett Favre with the Minnesota Vikings again, but they were unable to win any games together and Moss retired at the end of that season aged 36 years old.

Moss was one of the most explosive and feared receivers in NFL history. His speed, height, and leaping ability made him one of the toughest coverages to bring down. Moss scored many touchdowns during his stellar career with the Minnesota Vikings and New England Patriots. 

He was also a three-time winner of the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award, as well as a five-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro selection.

Also Played For: minnesota vikings

2. Troy Brown

Wide receiver

Career

  • 3× Super Bowl champion (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX)
  • Pro Bowl (2001)
  • New England Patriots All-2000s Team
  • New England Patriots 50th Anniversary Team
  • New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
  • New England Patriots Hall of Fame

Troy Brown was a wide receiver for the New England Patriots from 1993 to 2007. He helped lead the Patriots to three Super Bowl appearances, including their victory in 2002 over the St.

Louis Rams. Brown also played for the Baltimore Ravens and Oakland Raiders during his NFL career. After retiring as a player, Brown became a coach with the Patriots' successor team, the New Orleans Saints, in 2009.

In 2013 he was named wide receivers/kick returners coach with the Patriots again after spending time coaching at Marshall University (WV) before that Troy Brown was a wide receiver in the NFL for over a decade, playing with the Patriots and Ravens.

He is one of only two players to win three Super Bowls with two different teams (the other being Jerry Rice). 

Troy Brown has also been an accomplished return man, having scored touchdowns on kickoffs and punt returns throughout his career. Troy Brown was inducted into the New England Patriots Hall of Fame in 2018.

Also Played For: new england patriots

3. Chad Pennington

Quarterback

Chad Pennington Career

  • 2× NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2006, 2008)
  • 2× NFL completion percentage leader (2002, 2008)
  • NFL passer rating leader (2002)
  • Sammy Baugh Trophy (1999)
  • William V. Campbell Trophy (1999)
  • MAC Most Valuable Player (1999)
  • MAC Offensive Player of the Year (1999)

Chad Pennington is a former American football quarterback who played for the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins. Pennington was drafted by the Jets in the 2000 NFL Draft, and he spent six seasons with them before joining the Miami Dolphins in 2008.

He led both teams to playoff appearances during his time with them, but he retired from professional football following the 2010 season. In 2011, Pennington became an analyst for Fox Sports 1's "NFL Sunday Morning.

He has two children and lives in Knoxville, Tennessee with his wife Jacquelyn and their children Hudson and Harper Chad Pennington is a two-time NFL Comeback Player of the Year and one of the most successful quarterbacks in league history.

He started his career with the New York Jets, playing for them from 1998 to 2003 before moving to Miami Dolphins where he played for six seasons until 2007. 

Chad Pennington was drafted by the New England Patriots in 2004 but only played sparingly due to injury and was traded to Miami midway through the 2006 season. 

After being benched by Miami in 2007, he signed with division rival NY Jets and led them back into playoffs that year as their starting quarterback; they eventually lost in the wildcard round against eventual champion Pittsburgh Steelers.

In 2008, Chad Pennington joined forces with newly acquired Eli Manning (the successor of Tom Brady) on the Giants team which made it all the way to Super Bowl XLII. 

Where they were defeated by the Baltimore Ravens 34–7 at the University of Phoenix Stadium. 

This was also Eli Manning's rookie season as an NFL starter Chad Pennington retired after playing his last game for Los Angeles Chargers during the 2015 season finale victory over Oakland Raiders at StubHub Center.

Also Played For: new york jets, 2000 nfl season

4. Ahmad Bradshaw

New York Giants

Ahmad Bradshaw Career

  • High school: Bluefield (VA) Graham
  • College: Marshall
  • NFL Draft: 2007 / Round: 7 / Pick: 250
  • New York Giants (2007–2012), Indianapolis Colts (2013–2015)
  • 2× Super Bowl champion (XLII, XLVI), 2× All-Conference USA (2005, 2006)
  • Rushing attempts: 1,083, Rushing yards: 4,928, Rushing touchdowns: 36, Receptions: 187, Receiving yards: 1,493, Receiving touchdowns: 12
  • Rushing attempts: 1,083
  • Rushing yards: 4,928
  • Rushing touchdowns: 36
  • Receptions: 187
  • Receiving yards: 1,493
  • Receiving touchdowns: 12

Ahmad Bradshaw is a two-time Super Bowl champion and one of the most decorated running backs in NFL history. He was drafted by the Giants in 2007, and went on to have a standout career with them, including winning two Super Bowls (XLVI and XLVII).

In 2013, he joined the Indianapolis Colts as their new starting running back. Ahmad Bradshaw is married with three children and lives in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Ahmad Bradshaw was drafted in the 1st round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts.

Ahmad Bradshaw is a two-time Super Bowl champion and an All-Conference USA player. Ahmad Bradshaw has played for six different teams in his career, including Indianapolis, New England, San Diego Chargers, Cincinnati Bengals and Arizona Cardinals. 

Ahmad Bradshaw holds NFL rushing records with 36 touchdowns on 1115 rushes during his career so far.

Also Played For: 2010 nfl

5. Mike Bartrum

Mike Bartrum Career

  • High school: Pomeroy (OH) Meigs
  • College: Marshall
  • Undrafted: 1993
  • Pro Bowl (2005)
  • Receptions: 11, Receiving yards: 65, Receiving touchdowns: 6
  • Receptions: 11
  • Receiving yards: 65
  • Receiving touchdowns: 6

Mike Bartrum is a senior analyst for the Marshall Thundering Herd football team. Bartrum played football for the Kansas City Chiefs and Green Bay Packers in the early 1990s.

Bartrum has been with the Marshall Thundering Herd since 2006, where he has served as an analyst for the team's radio broadcasts. Bartrum is a two-time winner of the SEC's weekly football analyst of the year award.

Bartrum is a native of Gallipolis, Ohio. Bartrum is married and has two children. Bartrum is a business administration graduate of Marshall University. Bartrum currently attends Marshall's School of Business. Bartrum is a member of the National Football Foundation Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame.

Bartrum played football at Meigs High School before coaching at the high school level. Bartrum was a member of the Philadelphia Eagles coaching staff from 2019 to 2020. Bartrum was hired by the Marshall coaching staff as an analyst and special assistant in 2021.

6. Henry Colombi

Henry Colombi Career

  • College: , Utah State (2017–2019), Texas Tech (2020–2021), Marshall (2022–present)
  • Bowl games: , 2022 Myrtle Beach Bowl
  • High school: Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory School

Henry Colombi is a senior quarterback for the Marshall Thundering Herd. He is currently the third-string quarterback and has played in one game this season.

Colombi was a three-star recruit out of Hollywood, Florida and was rated as the No. 190 quarterback in the nation by ESPN. Colombi is a dual-threat quarterback who can run and pass.

He has completed 47 of 97 pass attempts for 511 yards and four touchdowns this season. Colombi will likely redshirt this season and continue to develop his skills as a quarterback. He has a lot of potential and could be a major player for the Thundering Herd in the future.

Henry Colombi is a great athlete who has the ability to run and pass. He is also a hard worker who is always looking to improve his skills. Henry Colombi is a talented defensive back who has played for three different NCAA Division I programs. Colombi was a standout cornerback at Utah State and Texas Tech.

He was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Colombi has played in two bowl games, the 2022 Myrtle Beach Bowl and the 2020 TaxSlayer Bowl. Colombi is a key part of the Marshall defense.

7. Khalan Laborn

Career

  • College: , Florida State (2018–2019), Marshall (2022)
  • Bowl games: , 2022 Myrtle Beach Bowl, 2023 Hula Bowl
  • High school: Bishop Sullivan (VA)
  • First team All-Sun Belt (2022)

Khalan Laborn is a running back for the Marshall Thundering Herd. He is a sixth-year senior and was a key player on the team in his previous three seasons.

Laborn was a three-time All-Conference USA selection and led the team in rushing in both his sophomore and junior seasons. He was also a two-time C-USA Special Teams Player of the Year.

Laborn was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the seventh round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He will join the team as a rookie backup running back. Khalan Laborn is a versatile running back who has the ability to run between the tackles or catch the ball out of the backfield.

Laborn was a key player for Florida State as they made their way to a National Championship in 2018. Laborn is also a talented returner who can help an offense take control of the game. Laborn is expected to be a top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

8. Charles Huff

Career

  • 2001–2005: Hampton
  • Position(s): Fullback, tight end, guard, center
  • 2006: Tennessee State (OL)
  • 2007–2008: Tennessee State (TE/ST)
  • 2009: Maryland (asst. OL)
  • 2010: Hampton (OL/RGC)
  • 2011: Vanderbilt (OQC)
  • 2012: Buffalo Bills (asst. RB)
  • 2013: Western Michigan (RB)
  • 2014–2017: Penn State (RB/ST)
  • 2018: Mississippi State (AHC/RGC/RB)
  • 2019–2020: Alabama (AHC/RB)
  • 2021–present: Marshall

Charles Huff is the new head coach for Marshall after spending the past two years as the offensive coordinator. Huff played at Hampton from 2001-2005 and was a three-year starter at fullback, tight end, and guard.

Huff has spent the past two years as the offensive coordinator for Marshall and the Thundering Herd has been one of the most improved teams in the Sun Belt. Huff is a certified physical education teacher and has been coaching since 2007.

Huff is married with two children and is from Denton, Maryland. Huff is scheduled to make $755,000 per year as the head coach at Marshall. Huff is a certified physical education teacher and has been coaching since 2007. Huff is married with two children and is from Denton, Maryland.

Huff is scheduled to make $755,000 per year as the head coach at Marshall.

9. Nate Poole

Career

  • High school: George Washington, (Danville, Virginia)
  • College: Marshall
  • Undrafted: 2001
  • Receptions: 34, Receiving yards: 418, Receiving touchdowns: 2
  • Receptions: 34
  • Receiving yards: 418
  • Receiving touchdowns: 2

Poole spent his entire playing career with the Arizona Cardinals, where he was a part of the team that reached the Super Bowl in 2001. After playing for the Cardinals, Poole spent a year as the wide receivers coach for the New England Patriots.

Poole joined the North Carolina A&T Aggies staff in January of 2018. Poole has a background in both coaching and playing wide receiver at the professional level. Poole is credited with helping the A&T Aggies receivers improve their game both on and off the field.

Poole is widely considered to be one of the top coaching prospects in the country. Poole is married with two children. Poole is a native of Danville, Virginia. Poole is a former member of the Marshall Honor Society. Poole spent four seasons with the New Orleans Saints and had 34 receptions for 418 yards and two touchdowns.

Poole is currently the wide receivers coach for the North Carolina A&T Aggies. Poole has experience coaching at both the college and professional level. Poole is a native of North Carolina. 

Poole was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. Poole has also worked as a strength and conditioning coach for the Eagles.

Poole is a graduate of Campbell University. Poole is married and has two children. Poole is a member of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame.

10. Byron Leftwich

Quarterback

Byron Leftwich Career

  • High school: H.D. Woodson, (Washington, D.C.)
  • College: Marshall (1998–2002)
  • NFL Draft: 2003 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7
  • As player:, Super Bowl champion (XLIII), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2003), 2× MAC Most Valuable Player (2001, 2002), 2× MAC Offensive Player of the Year (2001, 2002), , As coach:, , Super Bowl champion (LV)
  • Passing completions: 930, Passing attempts: 1,605, Completion percentage: 57.9%, Passing yards: 10,532, TD–INT: 58–42, Passer rating: 78.9
  • Passing completions: 930
  • Passing attempts: 1,605
  • Completion percentage: 57.9%
  • Passing yards: 10,532
  • TD–INT: 58–42
  • Passer rating: 78.9
  • Coaching stats at PFR

Leftwich was drafted seventh overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2003. He spent four seasons with the team before being traded to the Atlanta Falcons in 2007.

He spent six seasons with the Falcons before being traded to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2021. Leftwich has enjoyed a successful career in the NFL, appearing in 145 games and throwing for over 25,000 yards.

He has also thrown for over 200 touchdowns. Leftwich is a two-time Pro Bowler and was named to the All-Rookie Team in 2003. He was also named the NFC South Player of the Year in 2006. Leftwich is a veteran of the NFL and has experience playing in both the regular and post-season.

He is a consistent performer, having started all but one game in his career. Leftwich is a leader on the field and is well-respected by his teammates. He is known for his ability to make plays in the pocket and his accuracy. Leftwich will be 39 years old when the 2021 season begins and he is looking to continue his successful career.

He is a talented quarterback and is expected to continue playing at a high level.

11. Chase Litton

Career

  • High school: Wharton (Tampa, Florida)
  • College: Marshall (2015–2017)
  • Undrafted: 2018
  • Kansas City Chiefs (2018–2019)*, Seattle Dragons (2020)*, Tampa Bay Vipers (2020), Ottawa Redblacks (2021)*, Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2022)*, Calgary Stampeders (2023–present)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Roster status: Active

Chase Litton was born and raised in Florida, and attended Wharton High School. He played college football at Marshall, and was not drafted by any team in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Litton signed with the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football League in May 2018. He has appeared in one game for the Stampeders, and has completed one pass for four yards.

Litton is a backup quarterback for the Stampeders, and is likely to be released at the end of the season. Chase Litton was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft.

Chase Litton played collegiately at the University of Miami. Chase Litton has appeared in six games for the Chiefs in 2018. Chase Litton has two tackles and one pass defensed in his six NFL games. Chase Litton is listed as a defensive back on the Chiefs' 2018 roster.

Chase Litton is expected to play a significant role for the Chiefs in the 2018 season. Chase Litton is a versatile player who can play both cornerback and safety. Chase Litton is a hard worker who is looking to make an impact for the Chiefs in the 2018 season. Chase Litton is an exciting player to watch, and he is looking to make an impact for the Chiefs in the 2018 season.

12. Darius Marshall

Career

  • High school: Milledgeville (GA) Baldwin
  • College: Marshall
  • Position: Running back
  • New Mexico Stars (2012)
  • 2007 C-USA All-Freshman Team, Second-Team All-Conference USA (2008, 2009)

Darius Marshall was born on February 21, 1989 in Milledgeville, Georgia. He attended high school at Baldwin and played running back for the school's football team.

Marshall then attended college at Marshall and played running back for the football team there. He was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the fifth round (157th overall) of the 2012 NFL Draft.

Marshall has played for the Raiders, Detroit Lions, and Carolina Panthers. He has averaged 4.5 yards per carry in his career. Marshall was suspended for the first four games of the 2016 season for violating the NFL's drug policy.

He has two career rushing touchdowns. Marshall was released by the Panthers in May of 2018. Darius Marshall is an experienced player who has played in both the NCAA and professional leagues. He is a versatile player who can play both forward and defense, and is known for his tough play and strong shot.

Marshall is a hard-working player who is always looking to improve his game. He is a natural leader who is always looking to help his team win. Marshall is a versatile player who can play both forward and defense, and is known for his tough play and strong shot. Marshall is a hard-working player who is always looking to improve his game.

He is a natural leader who is always looking to help his team win. Marshall is a versatile player who can play both forward and defense, and is known for his tough play and strong shot. Marshall is a hard-working player who is always looking to improve his game.

13. Eric Kresser

Career

  • High school: Palm Beach Gardens (FL)
  • College: Marshall
  • Undrafted: 1997
  • Cincinnati Bengals (1997–1999), Berlin Thunder (2000), Montreal Alouettes (2002)
  • NCAA Division I-AA National Championship (1996)
  • Passing attempts: 21, Completions: 10, Passing yards: 164, Touchdowns: 1
  • Passing attempts: 21
  • Completions: 10
  • Passing yards: 164
  • Touchdowns: 1

Eric Kresser is a former quarterback in the NFL. He played for the Cincinnati Bengals from 1997 to 1999. Kresser was born in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1973. Kresser played college football at Marshall.

He was not drafted by a team in 1997. Kresser signed with the Cincinnati Bengals in 1997. He played for the team until 1999. Kresser has also played for the Indianapolis Colts and Baltimore Ravens in the NFL.

Kresser is currently a quarterback coach for the Cleveland Browns. Kresser is married and has two children. Kresser is a cancer survivor. Kresser is a cancer advocate and has worked with the American Cancer Society.

Kresser was the quarterback for the Berlin Thunder of the now defunct NCAA Division I-AA. He led his team to a national championship in 1996 and was drafted by the Montreal Alouettes in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft.

Kresser spent four seasons in Montreal before signing with the Seattle Seahawks in 2007. He was released by the Seahawks in 2009 and signed with the Kansas City Chiefs the following year. Kresser spent two seasons with the Chiefs before being released in 2011.

He signed with the Oakland Raiders that year and played in six games before being released. Kresser signed with the Baltimore Ravens in 2013 and played in eight games before being released. Kresser signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2014 and played in four games before being released.

Kresser signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2015 and played in seven games before being released. Kresser was drafted by the Montreal Alouettes in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft. 

He spent four seasons in Montreal before signing with the Seattle Seahawks in 2007. Kresser was released by the Seahawks in 2009 and signed with the Kansas City Chiefs the following year.

Kresser spent two seasons with the Chiefs before being released in 2011. Kresser signed with the Oakland Raiders that year and played in six games before being released. Kresser signed with the Baltimore Ravens in 2013 and played in eight games before being released.

 Kresser signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2014 and played in four games before being released. Kresser signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2015 and played in seven games before being released.

14. Cam Henderson

Cam Henderson Career

  • 1935–1948: Marshall

Cam Henderson was an American football and basketball coach. He served as the head football coach at Marshall from 1935 to 1949, and at Marshall from 1955 to 1956.

Henderson was also the head basketball coach at Marshall from 1923 to 1935. He led Marshall to two conference championships and two NCAA tournament appearances. Henderson died in 1956.

Cam Henderson was a player and coach at Marshall, where he spent six seasons as the head football coach and one as the head basketball coach. Henderson was a star player at Marshall and was inducted into the school's hall of fame in 1988.

Henderson was hired as the head football coach at Marshall in 1935 and led the team to two consecutive conference championships. Henderson took over as the head basketball coach at Marshall in 1947 and led the team to the NAIA Championship in his first season.

Henderson was hired as the head baseball coach at Marshall in 1938 and led the team to a victory in the first ever College World Series. Henderson retired from coaching in 1948 and returned to Marshall as an administrative assistant. He passed away in 2001.

15. Bryan Robinson

Bryan Robinson Career

  • College: Fresno State
  • Undrafted: 1997
  • St. Louis Rams (1997), Chicago Bears (1998–2003), Miami Dolphins (2004), Cincinnati Bengals (2005–2007), Arizona Cardinals (2008–2010)
  • Tackles: 429, Sacks: 24.0, Forced fumbles: 6, Fumble recoveries: 2, Pass deflections: 39
  • Tackles: 429
  • Sacks: 24.0
  • Forced fumbles: 6
  • Fumble recoveries: 2
  • Pass deflections: 39

Bryan Robinson was a standout defensive tackle at Fresno State and was undrafted in 1997. He played in the NFL for six seasons, most notably with the San Francisco 49ers.

Robinson was killed in a motorcycle collision in 2016 at the age of 41. He leaves behind a wife and two young children. Robinson was a hard-nosed player who was well-respected by his peers.

He will be sorely missed by the NFL community. Robinson was drafted in the 2nd round of the 1998 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears. He played college football at the University of Utah. Robinson was a 2-time Pro Bowler and was a member of the Chicago Bears team that made it to the Super Bowl in 2003.

Robinson was traded to the Miami Dolphins in 2004 and then to the Cincinnati Bengals in 2007. Robinson was released by the Bengals in 2010. Robinson has since retired from football.

16. Chase Harrison

Career

  • 2002–2005: Virginia Tech Hokies
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2004: West Virginia Chaos: :
  • 2006: Real Salt Lake: 0: (0)
  • 2006: → Virginia Beach Mariners (loan): 2: (0)
  • 2007–2008: Rochester Rhinos: 18: (0)
  • 2008: Portland Timbers: 6: (0)
  • 2009: Harrisburg City Islanders: 16: (0)
  • 2010: Crystal Palace Baltimore: 2: (0)
  • 2010: → Richmond Kickers (loan): 2: (0)
  • 2010: D.C. United: 0: (0)
  • 2010: Columbus Crew: 0: (0)
  • 2011: Harrisburg City Islanders: 23: (0)
  • 2011–2012: Philadelphia Union: 1: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of February 21, 2012

Chase Harrison is a goalkeeper who played for the West Virginia Chaos in the 2004 season. Chase Harrison was born in 1984 and played college soccer at Virginia Tech.

Harrison was a standout goalkeeper for the Hokies and was named to the ACC All-Tournament Team in 2004. Harrison signed with the West Virginia Chaos in 2004 and played for the team until 2007.

Harrison then had a brief stint with the Carolina RailHawks of the USSF Division 2 Professional League in 2008. Harrison rejoined the West Virginia Chaos in 2009 and has played for the team since then.

Harrison has played in the USSF Division 2 Professional League, the USL First Division, and the NASL. Harrison has also played for the US national team. Harrison is currently the back-up goalkeeper for the West Virginia Chaos.

17. Antonio Robinson

Antonio Robinson Career

  • High school: Winnfield (LA)
  • College: Nicholls State
  • Undrafted: 2010
  • Chicago Bears (2010)*, Green Bay Packers (2010–2011)*, Seattle Seahawks (2010)*, Omaha Nighthawks (2012), New Orleans VooDoo (2013–2014), Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2014), Orlando Predators (2015)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Super Bowl champion (XLV)
  • Receptions: 15, Receiving yards: 180, Receiving average: 12.0, Receiving touchdowns: 3
  • Receptions: 15
  • Receiving yards: 180
  • Receiving average: 12.0
  • Receiving touchdowns: 3

Antonio Robinson is a former wide receiver who played for the Bears, Packers, Seahawks and Nighthawks in the NFL. Robinson was undrafted in 2010, but signed with the Bears.

He made his debut with the team in 2010 and played in six games. Robinson was released by the Bears in October 2010 and signed with the Packers a few weeks later. He spent the 2010 season with the Packers.

Robinson played in all 16 games for the Packers in 2011 and registered 95 receptions for 1,314 yards and seven touchdowns. Robinson was traded to the Seahawks in December 2011 and played in eight games for the team.

He was released by the Seahawks in August 2012. Robinson signed with the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League in October 2012. He played in eight games for Omaha and had eight receptions for 116 yards. Robinson has not played in the NFL since 2012.

He is currently a wide receivers coach for the University of Memphis. Robinson was born in 1985 and is 37 years old.

18. Bob Pruett

Career

  • 1962–1964: Marshall
  • Position(s): Halfback, tight end
  • 1965–1967: Falls Church HS (VA) (assistant)
  • 1968–1969: Hayfield SS (VA) (assistant)
  • 1970–1972: Groveton HS (VA)
  • 1973–1978: Gar-Field HS (VA)
  • 1979–1980: Marshall (DL)
  • 1981–1982: Marshall (DB/DC)
  • 1983–1984: Wake Forest (DB)
  • 1985–1989: Wake Forest (DC)
  • 1990–1991: Ole Miss (DB)
  • 1992–1993: Tulane (DC)
  • 1994–1995: Florida (DC)
  • 1996–2004: Marshall
  • 2008: Virginia (DC)

Pruett played football at Marshall from 1962-1964 and was a halfback and tight end. Pruett then spent three years as an assistant coach at Falls Church HS (VA).

From 1968-1969, Pruett served as the assistant coach at Hayfield SS (VA). Pruett then spent nine years as the defensive coordinator at Marshall from 1980-1989. Pruett joined the Ole Miss coaching staff in 1990, serving as the defensive backs coach until 1991.

Pruett then spent one year as the defensive coordinator at North Carolina State before retiring from coaching. Pruett is currently the head coach of the West Virginia Mountaineers. Pruett was inducted into the Marshall University Hall of Fame in 2010. Pruett is married and has three children.

Pruett was a successful coach at Marshall, leading the Thundering Herd to five bowl games and four division championships. Pruett also had success at Tulane, where he led the Green Wave to two division championships and one national championship. 

Pruett left Marshall for Virginia in 2008. He has since led the Cavaliers to a pair of playoff appearances.

Pruett is a two-time MAC Coach of the Year, and he was inducted into the Marshall Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012. Pruett is currently the head coach of the Virginia football team.

19. Charlie Snyder

Career

  • –1947: Marshall
  • Position(s): Tackle
  • 1948–1956: Catlettsburg HS (KY)
  • 1958: Kentucky (offensive backs)
  • 1959–1967: Marshall
  • 1970–1976: Toledo (WR)

Charlie Snyder was one of the most renowned and respected players in Marshall history. He was a standout tackle for the Thundering Herd and was a two-time All-American.

Snyder played a pivotal role in Marshall's undefeated season in 1947 and was instrumental in shutting down some of the best opponents in the country. Snyder played in the National Football League for the Marshall Giants from 1947 to 1949.

He was drafted by the Detroit Lions but never played a game in the NFL. Snyder later played for the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals before retiring in 1963. He was inducted into the Marshall Athletic Hall of Fame in 1978. Snyder was born in West Virginia in 1922 and died in 2007 at the age of 84.

He was a beloved figure in Marshall and was always willing to give back to the community. Snyder was an excellent football player who was able to excel at both the tackle and guard positions. 

He was a two-time All-American and was inducted into the Marshall Athletic Hall of Fame in 1978. Snyder was a great ambassador for the sport of football and was always willing to share his knowledge and experience with others.

He was a mentor to many young players and was an important figure in Marshall football history. Snyder's legacy will live on long after he is gone and he will be remembered as one of the great players in Marshall history. 

He was a pioneer in the NFL and helped pave the way for other players to have success in the league. Snyder was a great ambassador for the sport of football and will be remembered for his passion for the game and his dedication to his community.

He was a pioneer in the NFL and helped pave the way for other players to have success in the league.

20. Devon Johnson

Tight end

Career

  • High school: Richlands (VA)
  • College: Marshall
  • Undrafted: 2016
  • Carolina Panthers (2016)
  • First-team All-Conference USA (2014)

Devon Johnson was a running back and fullback for Marshall during his college career. Johnson was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, but never played a game for them.

Johnson died in a car accident on November 6, 2018, at the age of 25. Johnson was a standout running back and fullback for Richlands High School in Virginia. Johnson was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, but never played a game for them.

Johnson died in a car accident on November 6, 2018. Johnson was an outstanding running back and fullback for Marshall during his college career. 

Johnson was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, but never played a game for them. Johnson was an outstanding running back and fullback for Marshall during his college career.

21. Doc Holliday

Doc Holliday Career

  • 1976–1978: West Virginia
  • Position(s): Linebacker
  • 1979–1980: West Virginia (GA)
  • 1981–1982: West Virginia (GA)
  • 1983–1989: West Virginia (WR)
  • 1990–1992: West Virginia (LB)
  • 1993–1994: West Virginia (WR)
  • 1995–1999: West Virginia (AHC/WR)
  • 2000–2004: NC State (AHC/WR)
  • 2005–2007: Florida (AHC/S/RC)
  • 2008–2009: West Virginia (AHC/TE/FB/RC)
  • 2010–2020: Marshall

Doc Holliday was a linebacker for the Mountaineers from 1976-1978. Holliday then coached at West Virginia (1979-1980) as a defensive graduate assistant.

Holliday then spent three seasons as the wide receivers coach at West Virginia (1981-1982). Holliday then spent nine seasons as the linebackers coach at West Virginia (1983-1989).

Holliday then spent two seasons as the wide receivers coach at West Virginia (1990-1992). Holliday then spent one season as the linebackers coach at West Virginia (1993-1994). Holliday then retired from coaching after the 1994 season.

Holliday was inducted into the West Virginia University Hall of Fame in 1998. Holliday currently resides in Hurricane, West Virginia. Doc Holliday was an All-American and two-time C-USA Coach of the Year at West Virginia. He led the Mountaineers to back-to-back conference championships and a berth in the C-USA Championship game in 2014.

Holliday was hired as the head coach at Marshall in 2020.

22. Beau Blankenship

Career

  • High school: Norman North (OK) Norman
  • College: Ohio
  • Position: Running back
  • Undrafted: 2014
  • Jacksonville Jaguars (2014)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Independence Bowl Co-Offensive MVP (2012), Second-team All-MAC (2012), , VP (2012), , independence bowl rushing touchdown Record, Second-team All-MAC (2012), Phill Steele 1st team all Mac 2012, sports illustrated mid-season all American 2012

Beau Blankenship is a running back who was undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft. Blankenship played college football at Ohio. He was signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2014 but was released a few weeks later.

Blankenship has also played for the Indianapolis Colts and the Seattle Seahawks. Blankenship has appeared in 44 games and has carried the ball 259 times for 1,868 yards and 10 touchdowns. Blankenship is currently a free agent.

Blankenship was a true two-way player for the Bowling Green Falcons during his collegiate career. He was an all-conference selection on the offensive line and was also a dangerous runner with 1,564 yards and 19 touchdowns on the ground.

Blankenship was signed by the Cleveland Browns as an undrafted free agent in May of 2014. He was waived by the Browns in September of 2014 and was signed to the practice squad the following day. Blankenship was promoted to the active roster in December of 2014 and played in a reserve role for the rest of the season.

Blankenship was released by the Browns in February of 2015 and was signed to the practice squad the following day. Blankenship was promoted to the active roster in May of 2015 and played in a reserve role for the rest of the season. Blankenship was waived by the Browns in August of 2015 and was signed to the practice squad the following day.

Blankenship was promoted to the active roster in December of 2015 and played in a reserve role for the rest of the season. Blankenship was waived by the Browns in February of 2016 and was signed to the practice squad the following day. Blankenship was promoted to the active roster in May of 2016 and played in a reserve role for the rest of the season.

Beau Blankenship is a former offensive lineman for the Bowling Green Falcons. He finished his collegiate career as an all-conference selection and was also a dangerous runner with 1,564 yards and 19 touchdowns on the ground. 

Blankenship was signed by the Cleveland Browns as an undrafted free agent in May of 2014 but was waived by the Browns in September of 2014.

He was signed to the practice squad the following day and was promoted to the active roster in December of 2014. Blankenship played in a reserve role for the rest of the season and was released by the Browns in February of 2015. 

Blankenship was signed to the practice squad the following day and was promoted to the active roster in May of 2015. He played in a reserve role for the rest of the season and was waived by the Browns in August of 2015.

Blankenship was signed to the practice squad the following day and was promoted to the active roster in December of 2015. He played in a reserve role for the rest of the season and was waived by the Browns

23. Sam Burton

Career

  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 1945–1961: Swindon Town: 463: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Sam Burton was born on November 10, 1926 in Swindon, England. He is a British composer, conductor, and musicologist. Burton has worked as a Professor of Music at the University of California, Irvine.

He has also served as the President of the Royal Academy of Music. Burton has also composed music for films, including The Omen, The Mummy, and Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark. He has been awarded the Order of the British Empire, the French Legion of Honor, and the Italian Ordine della Corona d'Italia.

Burton died on January 14, 2010. Sam Burton was a goalkeeper who played for Swindon Town in the Football League. He was a part of the Swindon side that won the league in 1959. 

Burton made his debut for Swindon in 1945 and went on to make 463 appearances for the club. He won the league title with Swindon in 1959 and also played in the FA Cup and the League Cup.

Burton retired from playing in 1961 and went on to work as a football coach at various clubs. He died in October 2020 at the age of 93. Burton was a tough goalkeeper who was known for his bravery. He was also a good penalty taker. 

Burton is considered to be one of the best goalkeepers of his era and is highly respected by fans of Swindon Town. Burton is a member of the Swindon Town Hall of Fame.

Burton is regarded as one of the best goalkeepers to have played in the Football League.

Final Words

Marshall Thundering Herd football has had many great players over the years. Some of the best include Butch Davis, Bo Jackson, and Randy Moss. These players have helped the team achieve success both on the field and in the classroom.

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John Rizzo

I am a professional rugby player in the Washington DC-Baltimore area. I have been playing rugby for over 10 years and have had the opportunity to play in many different countries. I am also a coach for both youth and adult rugby teams. I graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a degree in Sports Management and Marketing. I am currently working on my MPA from American University and plan to pursue this career path after graduating next year. LinkedIn

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