Joe Burrow has made quite a name for himself in the NFL, showcasing his talent as one of the brightest quarterbacks in the league during his five-year career. He has already reached the Super Bowl, a feat achieved by only a select few AFC quarterbacks since 2013, including legends like Patrick Mahomes, Tom Brady, and Peyton Manning. But despite this impressive achievement, Burrow remains driven by a different standard of success.
Reflecting on a Championship Legacy
When asked about his greatest accomplishment, Burrow pointed back to his college days, specifically the national championship he won with LSU in 2020. “Probably the national championship in 2020,” he shared during an interview on “Up & Adams” with Kay Adams. “That felt like a culmination of a lot of different things that came together and worked out well for me. That was an exciting moment.”
The image of Burrow puffing on a cigar after LSU’s thrilling victory over Clemson in the College Football Playoff national title game has become iconic. It embodies the joy and triumph of that season, capturing a moment that fans and players alike will never forget. ESPN noted the moment’s significance, stating, “No one was about to tell him he couldn’t smoke inside. This season, LSU’s newest football hero has done just about whatever he wants.”
Unstoppable Performance in 2019
Burrow’s 2019 season is often regarded as one of the most dominant in college football history. He not only led LSU to its first national championship in over a decade but also secured the prestigious Heisman Trophy, becoming the first Tiger to do so since Billy Cannon in 1959. In that unforgettable season, Burrow threw for an astounding 4,715 yards and set a school record with 48 touchdown passes.
His success was bolstered by an array of game-breaking receivers, including future NFL stars Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson, both of whom were recognized as first-team Associated Press All-Pros this season. With Clyde Edwards-Helaire in the backfield and Thaddeus Moss, the son of NFL legend Randy Moss, at tight end, Burrow had a wealth of offensive weapons at his disposal. “Weapons all over the field,” then-LSU safety Grant Delpit remarked, emphasizing the sheer talent surrounding Burrow.
Dominating the Championship Run
Burrow’s legacy at LSU is firmly established, particularly due to his performance in the final three games of that championship season. Against formidable opponents like Georgia, Oklahoma, and Clemson, he threw for a staggering 1,305 yards and an impressive 16 touchdowns. The Tigers dominated these games, outscoring their opponents 142-63, a testament to Burrow’s skill and leadership on the field.
His head coach at the time, Ed Orgeron, praised Burrow’s contributions, stating, “He’s one of the greatest players in LSU history. He’s done so much for the state of Louisiana and LSU. We are so grateful to Joe Burrow.” Such accolades reflect not only Burrow’s talent but also his impact on the program and the community.
Aiming for More in the NFL
Despite his remarkable college success, Burrow is not one to rest on his laurels. He has expressed a desire for more, particularly a Super Bowl ring to add to his collection of accomplishments. “If we win the division, I’ll smoke one,” he joked about celebrating with a cigar again, but quickly added, “I wouldn’t say I’ll be satisfied after that, but a Super Bowl will definitely satisfy me.” This drive for excellence is what sets Burrow apart as a player and a competitor.
As Burrow continues his journey in the NFL, he remains focused on achieving his ultimate goal. The road to a Super Bowl title is challenging, but with his talent, determination, and the lessons learned during his college career, there’s no telling how far he can go. Now, all Burrow can do is wait for another opportunity to chase that elusive championship ring as he seeks to elevate his professional career to new heights.
In the world of college football, Burrow’s legacy is already cemented, but his story is far from over. With each game, he adds to his narrative, and fans eagerly anticipate what he will accomplish next. Whether on the college stage or the professional field, Joe Burrow has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with, and his journey continues to inspire countless aspiring athletes.
