10 College Football Players With The Most Passing Yards In A Single Game

David

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Post on Aug 11, 2025

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10 College Football Players Who Rewrote the Record Books: Most Passing Yards in a Single Game

College football is a spectacle of athleticism, strategy, and unforgettable moments. While touchdowns and rushing yards often steal the spotlight, the sheer power and precision of a record-breaking passing performance leaves an indelible mark on the sport's history. Today, we delve into the annals of college football, celebrating ten quarterbacks who unleashed aerial assaults, racking up the most passing yards in a single game. These aren't just numbers; they're testaments to exceptional skill, unwavering focus, and the perfect synergy between quarterback and receiving corps.

Methodology: This list considers officially recorded passing yards in NCAA Division I FBS games. While unofficial or disputed numbers exist, we've prioritized verified statistics from reputable sources.

1. Graham Harrell (Texas Tech, 2008): 736 Passing Yards

Harrell's performance against Houston in 2008 stands as a monumental achievement in college football history. 736 yards? That's a number that still makes opposing defenses shudder. This game cemented Harrell's legacy as one of the most prolific passers in the game, showcasing the potent Texas Tech Air Raid offense at its finest.

2. B.J. Symons (Texas Tech, 2003): 704 Passing Yards

Another Texas Tech legend, Symons' 704-yard performance against Texas A&M in 2003 predates Harrell's record but speaks volumes about the offensive firepower consistently produced by the Red Raiders. These games are often cited as examples of high-octane offenses pushing the boundaries of college football.

3. David Klingler (Houston, 1990): 619 Passing Yards

Klingler's explosive game against Arizona State in 1990 demonstrated an era of college football characterized by wide-open offenses and high-scoring games. His performance remains a benchmark for quarterbacks who redefined the position’s capabilities.

4. Colt Brennan (Hawaii, 2007): 605 Passing Yards

Colt Brennan's record-setting performances for Hawaii were a significant part of the team’s rise to national prominence. His 605-yard game showcased his remarkable arm talent and cemented his place in college football history. You can learn more about his incredible college career .

5. Ty Detmer (BYU, 1990): 576 Passing Yards

Detmer's performance against Hawaii in 1990 highlights the enduring legacy of prolific passing attacks in college football. His name consistently appears in discussions about the greatest college quarterbacks of all time.

6. Russell Wilson (Wisconsin, 2011): 551 Passing Yards

While known for his success in the NFL, Russell Wilson’s impressive 551-yard passing game during his time at Wisconsin showcases his versatile skillset even before his professional career began. This highlights the impressive transition many successful college quarterbacks make to the NFL.

7. Casey Thompson (Texas, 2021): 531 Passing Yards

Thompson's performance against Oklahoma State in 2021 reminds us that record-breaking games continue to happen in modern college football. His explosion onto the scene showcased the evolving dynamics of the game.

8. Jordan Palmer (UCLA, 2006): 525 Passing Yards

Palmer’s performance demonstrated the potential for exciting offensive performances even outside of traditionally powerhouse programs. This game exemplifies the unpredictable nature of college football.

9. Heisman Trophy Winners & Notable Performances: Many Heisman Trophy winners have registered impressive single-game passing yard totals. Exploring these individual games offers a fascinating look into the careers of some of college football's most celebrated players. Researching these specific games can be a rewarding endeavor for any college football fan.

10. The Evolution of the Passing Game: This list reflects not only individual brilliance but also the evolution of the college football passing game. From the run-heavy offenses of the past to the increasingly sophisticated aerial attacks of today, these record-breaking performances highlight the ongoing transformation of the sport.

Call to Action: Who do you think is the greatest college football passer of all time? Share your thoughts and favorite single-game performances in the comments below! Let the debate begin!