Did Brady Quinn win the Heisman Trophy? A closer look at former Notre Dame QB’s CFB career
Brady Quinn had a strong career at Notre Dame. A four-year starter, he rewrote the record books for one of the most storied programs in college football history. Quinn set 36 single-season and career records, becoming Notre Dame's all-time leader in passing attempts (1,602), completions (929), yards (11,762), and touchdown passes (95). His 29 career wins as a starter tied the record for the most by a Fighting Irish quarterback.
Following his college football career, Quinn was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft and played seven seasons in the NFL.
Did Brady Quinn win the Heisman?
No, Brady Quinn did not win the Heisman Trophy, though he came close during his college career. In 2005, Quinn finished fourth in the voting; in 2006, he improved to third place.
During the 2005 season, Quinn emerged under coach Charlie Weis's leadership. He increased his passing yards per game by 110 compared to the previous year and elevated his touchdown passes from 17 to 32.
Quinn earned third-team quarterback honors on the AP All-America Team and won the Sammy Baugh Trophy as the nation's top passer in the 2005 college football season. His stats read 292 completions, 450 attempts, 3919 yards thrown, 32 touchdowns and seven interceptions (Bowl numbers included).
A year later, in 2006, Quinn continued his dominance by throwing for 3,426 yards and 37 touchdowns with only seven interceptions. His performances led Notre Dame to the Sugar Bowl, although LSU defeated the Fighting Irish.
Quinn became the first Notre Dame player since 1977 to win the Maxwell Award in 2006, recognizing the nation's best college football player. He also received the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.
Brady Quinn's College Football Career Stats
During his four-season stint with the Fighting Irish, Brady set many records, including career pass attempts (1,602), completions (929), and touchdowns (95). His career yards-per-game average of 239.6 and interception percentage of just 2.43 are among the best in Notre Dame history.
Quinn's senior season was particularly impressive. He completed 289 of 467 attempts for a 61.9 percent completion rate and averaged 7.34 yards per attempt. He ranked 18th nationally in passing efficiency with a 146.65 rating.
Quinn was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated in 2006, highlighting Notre Dame's aspirations to reclaim national glory. Although the Heisman Trophy escaped him, Quinn's impact on Notre Dame football remains undeniable.