Tom Osborne, one of the most revered figures in the history of college football, has added yet another accolade to his storied legacy. The National Football Foundation has awarded Osborne the prestigious Gold Medal, its highest honor, recognizing a lifetime of impact on the game of football, the development of young men, and an enduring commitment to integrity and excellence.
This momentous recognition is not simply a reflection of Osborne’s on-field accomplishments—though those alone would place him among the game’s all-time greats. Over 25 seasons as head coach of the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Osborne amassed an astonishing 255–49–3 record, capturing three national championships and 13 conference titles. He engineered one of the most dominant eras in college football history, with his Huskers frequently appearing in the top 10 and feared across the nation for their discipline, physicality, and relentless preparation.
But what sets Osborne apart—and what makes this Gold Medal award particularly fitting—is the legacy he built far beyond the win-loss columns. Known for his humility, leadership, and moral compass, Osborne turned Lincoln, Nebraska, into a beacon of what college athletics can achieve when guided by principle. His leadership extended into public service as well, where he served three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and later returned to Nebraska as athletic director, continuing to mentor student-athletes and champion academic success.
Even in an age where flash and bravado often overshadow substance, Osborne remained a figure of stoic consistency and quiet excellence. He developed generations of young men into leaders, citizens, and champions—both on and off the field. His teams graduated players at a rate far above the national average and maintained a culture of unity that other programs sought to emulate. Osborne’s influence stretched into every aspect of the Nebraska athletic department, embedding a standard of class and toughness that remains the program’s identity to this day.
The Gold Medal, previously awarded to titans such as Vince Lombardi, Dwight Eisenhower, and Jackie Robinson, now bears the name of Tom Osborne—and rightly so. This is a celebration not just of what he achieved, but how he achieved it. In an era where the sport has evolved dramatically, Osborne’s legacy stands as a pillar reminding us of what college football can represent at its best.
Today, as Nebraska fans and the broader football world rejoice in this recognition, they do so with pride, nostalgia, and gratitude. Tom Osborne’s name will forever be synonymous with excellence, character, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. The National Football Foundation could not have chosen a more worthy recipient. Congratulations, Coach Osborne. The entire football world salutes you