ESPN has officially ranked West Virginia legends Pat White and Steve Slaton as the No. 3 greatest playmaking duo in college football history. To celebrate their legacy, the iconic pair announced a multi-million dollar endowment dedicated to the WVU football program. The initiative will focus on youth development, player wellness, and leadership education. Their impact on and off the field continues to shape Mountaineer football. Forever Mountaineers. Forever Legends. Their legacy lives on in gold and blue.

‎Pat White and Steve Slaton: Forever Mountaineers, Forever Legends
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‎In the rich history of college football, few duos have left a mark as bold and unforgettable as Pat White and Steve Slaton. Recently honored by ESPN as the No. 3 greatest playmaking duo in college football history, the legendary West Virginia University pair continues to inspire—not just through their historic on-field achievements, but now through their remarkable commitment to shaping the future of the sport they love.
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‎White and Slaton lit up the field in the mid-2000s, leading the Mountaineers to national prominence with their electric chemistry, speed, and unrelenting will to win. Pat White, the elusive quarterback with a magician’s touch, paired perfectly with Steve Slaton, the explosive running back with breakaway speed and incredible vision. Together, they didn’t just break records—they redefined what a dynamic backfield could be in college football. They thrilled fans, terrified defenses, and carried WVU to multiple BCS bowl appearances, including a memorable victory in the 2006 Sugar Bowl and a dominant win in the 2008 Fiesta Bowl.
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‎But true greatness extends beyond the scoreboard. Now, years after their last snap in Morgantown, White and Slaton have returned to give back to the program and state that gave them so much. Announcing a multi-million dollar endowment for the WVU football program, the duo has committed to funding initiatives focused on youth development, player wellness, and leadership education.
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‎Their gift isn’t just about football—it’s about investing in people.
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‎The endowment will create new opportunities for young athletes across West Virginia, providing them with resources and support to grow as both players and individuals. From mental health and physical wellness programs to mentorship and leadership development, the initiative is designed to prepare student-athletes for success well beyond the field.
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‎What makes this moment especially powerful is that it’s not just about nostalgia—it’s about legacy. White and Slaton are showing that being a Mountaineer isn’t just a four-year experience. It’s a lifelong commitment to excellence, community, and the next generation. Their success story continues to inspire not just current players, but also fans, alumni, and young athletes dreaming of wearing the gold and blue.
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‎West Virginia football has always stood for grit, resilience, and heart. Pat White and Steve Slaton embodied that spirit during their time in Morgantown, and they continue to do so now as mentors, leaders, and benefactors. Their journey—from Saturday heroes to impactful philanthropists—serves as a blueprint for what it means to leave a legacy.
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‎As the Mountaineers look to the future, they’ll do so with the strength of a past powered by two of the greatest to ever do it. White and Slaton will forevgreatest to ever do it. White and Slaton will forever be etched in the hearts of Mountaineer Nation—not just for their unforgettableer be etched in the hearts of Mountaineer Nation—not just for their unforgettable touchdowns, but for their unwavering dedication to the program’s future.
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‎Forever Mountaineers. Always Legends.
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