ESPN REPORT: Pat White & Steve Slaton Named No. 3 Greatest Playmaking Duo in College Football History — Announce Multi-Million Dollar Endowment to WVU Football
Mountaineer Nation, history just echoed through the hills of West Virginia.
In a stunning and emotional twist of legacy, ESPN has officially named Pat White and Steve Slaton the No. 3 greatest playmaking duo in the storied annals of college football history. And just when you thought the headlines couldn’t get any bigger—these two Mountaineer legends shocked the world again by announcing a multi-million dollar endowment to the West Virginia University football program, dedicated to youth development, mentorship, and long-term athletic success.
This isn’t just a tribute—it’s a moment that defines a generation of football, philanthropy, and Mountaineer pride.
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A Dynamic Duo that Electrified the Game
Pat White and Steve Slaton didn’t just play football—they changed it.
From 2005 to 2008, the pair turned Morgantown into a must-watch epicenter of college football. White’s elusiveness and quarterback wizardry, paired with Slaton’s blazing speed and unmatched vision out of the backfield, made the WVU offense nearly unstoppable. Opposing defenses knew what was coming—and they still couldn’t stop it.
Together, they led the Mountaineers to multiple BCS bowl victories, including the legendary 2006 Sugar Bowl domination over Georgia and the unforgettable 2008 Fiesta Bowl win against Oklahoma. They racked up highlight after highlight, etching their names into NCAA record books and WVU hearts forever.
And now, their legacy gets another chapter—one even more powerful than the last.
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The Gift: A Legacy Investment
In front of a packed media room at Milan Puskar Stadium and millions watching online, Pat White and Steve Slaton jointly announced a multi-million dollar endowment earmarked for the development of WVU football and underserved youth programs across West Virginia.
“This isn’t just about football,” said Pat White. “It’s about lifting up the next generation, giving them opportunity, mentorship, and the tools they need to succeed on and off the field.”
Steve Slaton added, “West Virginia gave us everything—love, support, belief. Now it’s our turn to give back in a way that lasts far beyond touchdowns and trophies.”
According to WVU Athletics, the endowment will fund:
Scholarships for student-athletes from economically disadvantaged communities
Upgrades to youth training and development facilities
Academic and life-skills programs for incoming freshmen
Mental health and wellness initiatives for players
Alumni mentorship programs to guide student-athletes during and after their college careers
It’s a holistic approach aimed not only at producing champions on the gridiron but leaders in life.
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ESPN’s Historic Ranking: Why No. 3?
In a special edition of ESPN’s “Greatest of All Time” series, analysts and former players compiled and ranked the Top 25 Playmaking Duos in College Football History.
Coming in at No. 3, White and Slaton were praised for their game-changing synergy, versatility, and impact on winning. Analysts cited their ability to take over games, their chemistry, and how they elevated WVU into a national powerhouse despite being underdogs.
“Few duos were as electrifying and fearless,” said ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit. “Pat and Steve weren’t just great athletes—they were revolutionaries in the college game.”
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Mountaineer Nation Reacts
The moment the news dropped, #WhiteAndSlaton and #MountaineerLegends began trending across social media platforms. WVU fans, alumni, former teammates, and college football junkies from all across the country flooded timelines with tributes and tears.
Dana Holgorsen, former WVU coach, tweeted:
“They made magic. They gave WVU fans dreams. And now they’re giving back to the next generation. Respect and love to Pat and Steve.”
WVU President Gordon Gee called the endowment a “milestone moment in Mountaineer history,” saying, “Their gift will echo through the lives of thousands. This is more than football—it’s a legacy of heart.”
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Cementing Immortality
Pat White and Steve Slaton were already Mountaineer royalty. They were already legends on the field. But with this gesture—a mix of humility, gratitude, and vision—they’ve ascended to something even greater.
They’ve become pillars of the WVU community. Not just remembered—but everlasting.
This isn’t the end of their story. It’s the beginning of a new era where their greatness is no longer confined to highlight reels and game-day glory—but measured in impact, opportunity, and hope.
As the Mountaineer faithful say—once a Mountaineer, always a Mountaineer.
And thanks to Pat White and Steve Slaton, the future of WVU football—and the future of countless young lives—has never looked brighter.
