The College Football Hall of Fame ballot for 2027 has been released, and it's a doozy. With over 200 names up for consideration, the task of narrowing it down to just 10 FBS players is a brutal one. But that's the assignment, and the writers at Sports Illustrated have taken it on, each bringing their own unique perspective to the table. Let's dive into the debate and see who makes the cut, and who gets left out, in this year's Hall of Fame discussion.
The Toughest Calls
The writers all agree that certain players are near-locks for induction. Cam Newton and Robert Griffin III, both Heisman Trophy winners, are in almost everyone's top 10. Kellen Moore, the winningest FBS quarterback in history, also gets a unanimous nod. But beyond these three, the choices become more contentious.
Pat Forde, for instance, includes Terrell Suggs and Elvis Dumervil on his ballot, citing their game-wrecking pass-rushing abilities. Bryan Fischer, meanwhile, highlights Manti Te'o's relentless linebacker play and Casey Hampton's dominance on defense. Patrick Andres, however, opts for A.J. Hawk, a ferocious two-time All-American linebacker, and Jeff Bregel, a two-time All-American guard.
Tim Capurso takes a more quarterback-heavy approach, including Colt McCoy and Ken Dorsey, while also recognizing the versatility of Tavon Austin. Forde, on the other hand, includes Melvin Gordon III and Percy Harvin, citing their unique roles in their respective offenses.
The Toughest Player to Leave Off
The writers all have their own tough calls. Forde, for instance, includes Kansas cornerback Aqib Talib, who was the best player on the best Kansas team ever. Fischer, meanwhile, highlights Marshawn Lynch's smooth ability to pick up yards between the tackles, and Ray Mickens' intimidating presence on the Texas A&M defense.
Andres, meanwhile, is intrigued by quarterback Bill Borchert's role in Mount Union's dynasty, while Capurso is drawn to Peter Catan's Division II national title and his production in the USFL. The writers all have their own unique insights and perspectives, and it's clear that the Hall of Fame ballot is a hotly debated topic.
The Coaches' Debate
The writers also have their own takes on the nine FBS head coaches nominated this year. Forde includes Mike Leach, whose body of work was significant enough to force a rule change that puts him on the ballot. Fischer, meanwhile, highlights Ralph Friedgen's success and entertaining style, while Andres sees a three-horse race between Larry Coker, Friedgen, and Tommy Tuberville.
Capurso, meanwhile, includes Jim Carlen, who had just three losing seasons in 16 years as a coach and somehow left three different programs in better shape than he found them. The writers all have their own takes on the coaches, and it's clear that the Hall of Fame ballot is a hotly debated topic.
The Non-FBS Names
The writers also have their own takes on the notable non-FBS names up for consideration. Forde includes Mount Union's Nate Kmic, while Fischer highlights Jahri Evans and Claude Mathis. Andres, meanwhile, is intrigued by Valdosta State quarterback Dusty Bonner, and Capurso is drawn to Peter Catan's Division II national title and his production in the USFL.
The Takeaway
The College Football Hall of Fame ballot for 2027 is a hotly debated topic, with writers bringing their own unique perspectives and insights to the discussion. From the toughest calls to the coaches' debate and the non-FBS names, the writers all have their own takes on who should be inducted. But in the end, it's the fans who will decide, and the debate will continue until the final vote is cast.
