Texas Football: Top 15 all-time Longhorns quarterbacks

Top All-Time Texas Football Quarterbacks – Number 6: Major Applewhite (1998-01)

Career stats: 8,353 passing yards, 60 TDs, 28 INTs, 57.4 completion %, 136.6 passer rating, 3 rushing TDs

One of the biggest fan favorites in Texas history, Major Applewhite epitomized the passionate leader who acted as a coach out on the field. So it should come as no surprise that he passed on pursuing an NFL career to take his talents to the coaching world shortly after his departure.

During his days with the Longhorns, Applewhite looked like a man among boys out on the field. He was extremely efficient throwing the football, minimizing turnovers and making the most of every pass. When he hung up his cleats, he was Texas’ all-time leader in career passing yards and touchdowns before McCoy blew them out of the water.

Most will remember him for his heroic efforts against Colorado in 2001. After a slew of Simms turnovers put the Longhorns in a hole, Applewhite stepped in with his cape boldly flying behind him. Although the comeback attempt fell short, he put that famous leadership on display and kept Texas in it before a failed last-second onside kick snuffed out all remaining hope.

He currently holds the record for the longest passing play in school history and has the best single-game passing performance (473 yards) ever by a Longhorn quarterback. While he may have struggled to keep Simms at bay during their time together in Austin, no one will ever doubt his elite passing abilities.

Even now as the head coach of Houston, Applewhite is still seen as one of the most beloved quarterbacks in program history.