Baker Mayfield's College Football Records & Stats

by Jhon Lennon 50 views

What's up, football fanatics! Today, we're diving deep into the incredible college football journey of none other than Baker Mayfield. This guy was an absolute beast on the field, shattering records and leaving a legacy that still gets talked about today. If you're looking for all the juicy details on his college stats, his standout performances, and the records he set, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know about Baker's time in the college game, from his early days to his Heisman Trophy-winning season. Get ready to reminisce about some epic plays and incredible achievements, because Baker Mayfield's college football record is nothing short of legendary.

Early Career and Transfer to Oklahoma

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of his records, it's crucial to understand how Baker Mayfield landed at Oklahoma, because it wasn't exactly a straight path. This guy started his college career at Texas Tech. Yeah, you heard that right! He walked on there and immediately made a splash, earning the starting quarterback job as a true freshman in 2013. He put up some solid numbers for the Red Raiders, throwing for over 2,300 yards and 17 touchdowns. However, things got a bit complicated off the field, and after a disagreement with the coaching staff, Mayfield decided to transfer. Now, here's where things get interesting: because he transferred from a scholarship at Texas Tech to a walk-on situation at Oklahoma (and eventually earned a scholarship there too), he had to sit out a year. This period of being ineligible to play was tough, no doubt, but it also gave him time to learn the Sooners' system and prepare for his moment. When he finally became eligible to play for Oklahoma in 2015, the floodgates opened. His decision to transfer wasn't just a change of scenery; it was a pivotal moment that set the stage for one of the most electrifying quarterback careers in recent college football history. The resilience he showed during that transfer year only fueled his determination, and he came out firing from day one. It's a testament to his character and drive that he could overcome such a hurdle and then proceed to dominate the Big 12 and beyond. The path less traveled often leads to the greatest stories, and Baker's transfer saga is definitely one for the books.

Dominance in the Big 12: Records Galore

Alright guys, let's talk about the main event: Baker Mayfield's absolute dominance in the Big 12. When he finally got the keys to the Oklahoma Sooners' offense, he didn't just play well; he rewrote the record books. Baker Mayfield's college football record is sprinkled with Big 12 achievements that are truly mind-blowing. Let's start with efficiency. He set the NCAA FBS record for single-season passing efficiency at a ridiculous 204.6 in 2017. Yeah, you read that right – over 200! He also holds the Big 12 career record for passing efficiency, sitting at an insane 176.3. This guy was making incredibly accurate and explosive throws play after play, consistently outperforming his peers. But it wasn't just about looking good on paper; his teams won, and he put up staggering yardage and touchdown numbers. He finished his career with 13,474 passing yards and 129 passing touchdowns, both of which rank incredibly high in NCAA history. What's even more impressive is the context: he often played fewer games than other record-holders because of his transfer year and the era he played in. He completed 68.5% of his passes for his career, another elite mark. He also set records for single-season passing yards (4,627 in 2017) and single-season passing touchdowns (43 in 2016 and 2017). He was a two-time Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and a three-time First-Team All-Big 12 selection. The sheer volume of accolades and records speaks to his unparalleled impact on the conference. He wasn't just a good quarterback; he was a revolutionary force who elevated the game and set a new standard for offensive production in one of the nation's toughest leagues. His ability to dissect defenses, extend plays with his legs, and deliver pinpoint passes made him a nightmare for opposing coaches and a joy for Sooner fans to watch.

The Heisman Trophy Season and Beyond

No discussion of Baker Mayfield's college football record is complete without highlighting his absolutely magical 2017 season, the year he hoisted the coveted Heisman Trophy. This was Mayfield's crowning achievement, a season where he put up numbers that were simply out of this world. He threw for 4,627 yards and 43 touchdowns, but it was his efficiency and leadership that truly set him apart. His passer rating was a staggering 203.7 (which broke his own NCAA record from the previous year!), and he also added 856 rushing yards and 7 rushing touchdowns with his legs. Yes, you read that right – he was a dual-threat dynamo! He led the Sooners to an 11-1 record and a spot in the College Football Playoff. He finished his career with an incredible 134.4 QBR in 2017, a mark that still stands as the highest single-season mark in the sport's history. His performance against rival Texas, where he threw for 339 yards and 3 TDs, earning him the nickname "'$ ext{Texas} $ Killer," cemented his legend status. Beyond the Heisman, Mayfield continued to rack up accolades. He was a unanimous All-American in 2017 and a two-time First-Team All-Big 12 selection. His leadership was undeniable; he inspired his teammates and consistently performed under pressure, especially in crucial rivalry games and conference championships. The impact he had on the Oklahoma program was immense, transforming them into a national powerhouse during his tenure. His transition from a walk-on to a Heisman winner is one of the most inspiring stories in modern college football, showcasing his unwavering dedication, talent, and relentless drive to be the best. He didn't just win games; he changed the perception of what an offensive player could achieve, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

Career Statistics Summary

Let's wrap this up with a solid look at the numbers, guys. When you put all the stats together, Baker Mayfield's college football record paints a picture of one of the most prolific and efficient quarterbacks to ever play the game. Here's a breakdown of his career numbers at Oklahoma:

  • Passing Yards: 13,474
  • Passing Touchdowns: 129
  • Completion Percentage: 68.5%
  • Passing Efficiency: 176.3 (Big 12 Record)
  • Total Touchdowns Responsible For: 153
  • Rushing Yards: 1,027
  • Rushing Touchdowns: 21

These numbers are just insane when you consider he played in a spread offense that often rotated players and that he transferred into the program, meaning he didn't have four full seasons as the starter. He was a four-year player but only started for three seasons. His 176.3 career passing efficiency is the highest in Big 12 history, and his 13 touchdowns in a single game against UTEP in 2016 is tied for the most in FBS history. He also holds the Oklahoma record for single-game passing yards with 545 against Kansas in 2016. He finished his career with 29 games of over 300 passing yards, putting him among the best in NCAA history. His impact wasn't just in the volume of stats but in the quality and efficiency of his play. He was a winner, a leader, and a record-breaker, solidifying his place as one of college football's all-time greats. The way he commanded the offense, made crucial third-down conversions, and consistently delivered in high-pressure situations is a testament to his skill and mental toughness. His legacy is cemented not just by the numbers but by the unforgettable moments he created on the field.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence

So there you have it, folks! Baker Mayfield's college football record is a story of grit, talent, and sheer determination. From a walk-on at Texas Tech to a Heisman Trophy winner and Oklahoma legend, his journey is one of the most compelling in modern sports. He didn't just put up numbers; he redefined what it meant to be an elite college quarterback in the Big 12 and beyond. His records for passing efficiency, touchdowns, and yardage speak for themselves, but it's his leadership, his competitive fire, and his ability to elevate his team that truly make him unforgettable. He proved that with heart and hard work, anything is possible. His impact on the Oklahoma Sooners program was transformative, leading them to multiple College Football Playoff appearances and cementing his status as one of the greatest Sooners of all time. Whether you were a fan or a rival, you couldn't deny the excitement he brought to the game. Baker Mayfield's college career is a masterclass in quarterback play, leaving a legacy that will undoubtedly inspire future generations of players. He's a true icon of college football, and his records are a testament to an era of unparalleled performance. What a ride it was, guys!