Step into the annals of Kansas University football, where a rich tapestry of records and achievements unfolds. From the gridiron’s hallowed grounds to the hearts of loyal fans, this storied program has etched its name in the annals of college football history.
Within these pages, we delve into the statistical triumphs, individual brilliance, and coaching prowess that have shaped the legacy of Kansas University football. Join us as we uncover the records that define a proud tradition and inspire generations of Jayhawks.
Overall Program Records
Kansas University football has a rich history dating back to 1890. The Jayhawks have played over 1,200 games, with a total record of 616 wins, 578 losses, and 57 ties.
The Jayhawks have won seven conference championships, including four Big Eight titles and three Big 12 titles. They have also appeared in 15 bowl games, including the Orange Bowl, Sugar Bowl, and Rose Bowl.
National Rankings
Kansas has been ranked in the top 10 of the AP Poll 12 times, including a No. 1 ranking in 1968. The Jayhawks have also been ranked in the top 25 of the AP Poll 34 times.
Individual Player Records
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/61115937/95235240.jpg.0.jpg?w=700 "Football guide ku kansas")
Kansas University has produced numerous talented football players throughout its history. These athletes have left an indelible mark on the program and the sport of college football as a whole. This section will delve into the individual records and accomplishments of the most outstanding players to ever don the crimson and blue.
Kansas University players have achieved remarkable individual accolades, including Heisman Trophy winners, All-Americans, and NFL draft picks. The program’s rich history is filled with legendary players who have showcased exceptional talent and determination on the field.
Passing Records
The Kansas Jayhawks have had several quarterbacks who have etched their names in the record books. Todd Reesing holds the record for most passing yards (10,129) and most touchdown passes (90). Reesing was a prolific passer who led the Jayhawks to numerous victories during his tenure. Other notable quarterbacks include David Jaynes, Carter Stanley, and Montell Cozart.
Rushing Records
When it comes to rushing, Gale Sayers stands as the most dominant player in Kansas football history. Sayers holds the record for most rushing yards (2,675) and most rushing touchdowns (39). He was a dynamic running back who possessed incredible speed and agility. Other notable running backs include Pooka Williams, Tony Sands, and John Riggins.
Receiving Records
The Jayhawks have also had their share of exceptional receivers. Kerry Meier holds the record for most receiving yards (2,584) and most touchdown receptions (26). Meier was a reliable target for Kansas quarterbacks and made numerous big plays throughout his career. Other notable receivers include Mark Simmons, Dezmon Briscoe, and Steven Sims.
Defensive Records
On the defensive side of the ball, John Hadl holds the record for most interceptions (19). Hadl was a versatile player who played both quarterback and defensive back for the Jayhawks. Other notable defensive players include Chris Harris Jr., Aqib Talib, and Dorien Bryant.
Special Teams Records
In the realm of special teams, Ryan Doerr holds the record for most field goals made (63). Doerr was a consistent and reliable kicker for the Jayhawks. Other notable special teams players include Jake Heaps, Shaquille O’Neal, and Chris Blewitt.
Coaching Records
The history of Kansas University football is replete with both highs and lows, and the head coaches who have led the program have played a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory. From the early days of the program to the modern era, several legendary coaches have left an indelible mark on Kansas football.
One of the most successful coaches in Kansas history is Amos Alonzo Stagg, who led the Jayhawks from 1899 to 1907. Stagg, who is considered the “Father of American Football,” compiled a record of 51-19-6 at Kansas and guided the team to its first national championship in 1908. Another legendary coach is Phog Allen, who coached Kansas from 1920 to 1956 and led the Jayhawks to three national championships in basketball. Allen also had a brief stint as the football coach, compiling a record of 14-15-4 from 1920 to 1921.
Head Coaches
The following table lists all the head coaches in Kansas University football history, along with their tenure, win-loss records, and significant accomplishments:
| Coach | Tenure | Record | Significant Accomplishments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amos Alonzo Stagg | 1899-1907 | 51-19-6 | National Championship (1908) |
| Phog Allen | 1920-1921 | 14-15-4 | – |
| Clarence “Pop” Wilkinson | 1928-1946 | 81-47-10 | – |
| Jack Mitchell | 1947-1951 | 27-23-2 | – |
| George Sauer | 1952-1958 | 33-34-1 | – |
| Pepper Rodgers | 1959-1966 | 45-28-2 | Orange Bowl (1961) |
| Jack Harbaugh | 1982-1989 | 51-41-2 | – |
| Glen Mason | 1996-2001 | 40-32 | – |
| Mark Mangino | 2002-2009 | 50-48 | Orange Bowl (2008) |
| Turner Gill | 2010-2011 | 5-19 | – |
| Charlie Weis | 2012-2014 | 6-22 | – |
| David Beaty | 2015-2018 | 6-42 | – |
| Les Miles | 2019-2021 | 3-18 | – |
| Lance Leipold | 2022-Present | 10-9 | – |
Stadium and Attendance Records
David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, also known as The Booth, is the home of Kansas University’s football team. It was built in 1921 and has undergone several renovations over the years, including a major expansion in 2008 that increased its capacity to 50,071.
The stadium is known for its unique design, which features a horseshoe-shaped seating bowl and a large video board in the south end zone. The Booth is also home to the Kansas Athletics Hall of Fame, which honors the university’s most successful athletes and coaches.
Attendance Records
Kansas football has a long and proud tradition, and The Booth has been the site of some of the program’s most memorable moments. The stadium’s attendance record was set in 1998, when 51,432 fans packed the stands to watch the Jayhawks defeat the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
In recent years, attendance at Kansas football games has declined, but The Booth remains one of the most iconic stadiums in the Big 12 Conference. The stadium’s unique design and passionate fan base create a memorable gameday experience for all who attend.
Historical Rivalries
Kansas University football has a rich history of rivalries with other teams in the Big 12 Conference and beyond. These rivalries have been fueled by a combination of proximity, conference affiliation, and historical significance, and have produced some of the most memorable games in Kansas football history.
One of Kansas’ most notable rivals is the University of Missouri. The two schools are located just a few hours apart and have been playing each other since 1891. The rivalry is known as the “Border War” and is one of the most intense rivalries in college football. The teams have met 128 times, with Missouri holding a 63-56-9 advantage. Some of the most memorable games in the series include a 3-0 Missouri win in 1907, a 69-0 Kansas win in 1911, and a 38-35 Missouri win in 2007.
Another major rival for Kansas is Kansas State University. The two schools are located in the same state and have been playing each other since 1902. The rivalry is known as the “Sunflower Showdown” and is one of the most important games on the Kansas football schedule each year. The teams have met 119 times, with Kansas State holding a 65-49-5 advantage. Some of the most memorable games in the series include a 35-0 Kansas win in 1902, a 59-7 Kansas State win in 1995, and a 41-34 Kansas win in 2008.
Kansas also has a rivalry with the University of Nebraska. The two schools were once members of the Big 12 Conference together, and they have been playing each other since 1892. The rivalry is known as the “Cornhusker Clash” and is one of the most important games on the Kansas football schedule each year. The teams have met 117 times, with Nebraska holding a 86-27-4 advantage. Some of the most memorable games in the series include a 20-19 Kansas win in 1901, a 76-39 Nebraska win in 1984, and a 35-28 Nebraska win in 2010.
Question & Answer Hub
What is the overall win-loss record for Kansas University football?
As of the end of the 2022 season, Kansas University’s overall football record stands at 629 wins, 616 losses, and 54 ties.
Who holds the Kansas University record for most career passing yards?
Todd Reesing holds the Kansas University record for most career passing yards, with 10,984 yards.
Which Kansas University football coach has the highest winning percentage?
John Hadl holds the highest winning percentage among Kansas University football coaches, with a record of 57-34-4.
