Washington State head coach Mike Leach
Nine coaches are on the ballot for the 2025 College Football Hall of Fame, including renowned figures like Urban Meyer and Nick Saban. However, the late Mike Leach, who significantly impacted Texas Tech and Washington State and revolutionized the game, is notably absent.
Leach is not eligible because coaches can only be considered three years post-retirement unless they are 70 years old. Leach, who passed away at 61 in December 2022 due to a heart condition, does not meet this requirement. Steve Hatchell, president of the National Football Foundation (NFF), which manages the Hall of Fame, confirmed there is no process for posthumous fast-tracking.
Furthermore, the Hall of Fame criteria stipulate that coaching nominees must have a minimum .600 winning percentage. Leach, despite his 158 wins over 21 years, falls just short with a .596 winning percentage, as the Hall of Fame does not round up.
Leach’s exclusion is controversial given his transformative influence on football. His Air Raid offense has left an indelible mark on high school, college, and even NFL football. Leach produced numerous successful seasons at Texas Tech, Washington State, and Mississippi State, mentoring future prominent coaches like Josh Heupel, Dave Aranda, Sonny Dykes, and Lincoln Riley.
Despite his considerable contributions and success, the Hall of Fame’s stringent criteria prevent his immediate induction. Hatchell noted, “If you don’t qualify under one of the criteria, it’s tough… These are the rules.” While some coaches with sub-.600 records, such as Hayden Fry, were inducted before the criteria were tightened, the current standards are unwavering.
However, Leach’s case might prompt reconsideration of the rules. The timing of his death while still an active coach could lead to a rule change, or he might be inducted as an outstanding contributor, a category for those whose impact extends beyond traditional coaching success.
Texas Tech, Washington State, or Mississippi State could nominate Leach for induction in 2026. Given his unparalleled success and profound influence on the sport, many believe Leach deserves immediate recognition once eligible. His legacy in college football is undeniable, and his induction into the Hall of Fame would be a fitting tribute to his remarkable career.
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