Mike Leach, a transformative figure in college football, has been nominated for the 2027 College Football Hall of Fame class. This nomination comes nearly four years after his passing, thanks to a recent change in eligibility rules by the National Football Foundation (NFF).

Rule Change Opens Doors

Leach, who last coached at Mississippi State before his death in December 2022, was previously ineligible due to the NFF’s requirement of a minimum career winning percentage of .600. The revised criteria, effective with the 2027 class, now allows coaches with a winning percentage of .595 or higher to be considered. Leach’s career record stands at 158-107, with a .596 winning percentage, making him eligible under the new rules.

Leach’s coaching career spanned several universities, including Texas Tech and Washington State, where he was known for his innovative Air Raid offense. His teams achieved 18 victories against Top 25 opponents while being unranked themselves, highlighting his strategic prowess.

Other Nominees

The NFF’s ballot for the 2027 class includes 80 players and nine coaches from the Football Bowl Subdivision, along with 99 players and 39 coaches from lower levels. Among the notable coaches on the ballot are Larry Coker, Dennis Franchione, Ralph Friedgen, Darryl Rogers, Jackie Sherrill, and Tommy Tuberville.

In the players’ category, Heisman Trophy winners Cam Newton and Robert Griffin III are featured, alongside first-time nominees such as Tavon Austin, Melvin Gordon, A.J. Hawk, and Barrett Jones.

The Hall of Fame considers not only a nominee’s college football achievements but also their post-football contributions as citizens. The final class will be announced in January, marking a significant moment for the legacy of Mike Leach and others who have shaped the sport.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.