Matt Leinart, the former Heisman Trophy-winning USC Trojans quarterback, has earned yet another honor with his induction into the Orange Bowl Hall of Fame, as announced on October 15th.
He has also been honored in several other Hall of Fames, including the USC Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007, the College Football Hall of Fame in 2017, and the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame in 2019.
Leinart, who was instrumental in USC’s national championship victory at the 2005 Orange Bowl, becomes the first player, coach, or administrator from USC to be inducted into this prestigious Hall.
USC Trojans QB Matt Leinart Inducted Into Orange Bowl Hall Of Fame
Leinart’s 2005 Orange Bowl performance remains legendary, where he threw for 332 yards and set an Orange Bowl record with 5 touchdown passes. His outstanding effort helped USC crush Oklahoma 55-19 in the BCS National Championship, capping an undefeated season and securing their second consecutive national title. His precision and leadership allowed USC to dominate from the start, going up 28-7 by halftime and never looking back.
Joining Leinart in the 2024 Hall of Fame class are two other college football legends. Urban Meyer, who guided the Florida Gators to a 24-14 victory over Oklahoma in the 2009 BCS National Championship, and Vince Wilfork, a standout defensive lineman for Miami who played a pivotal role in the Hurricanes’ 16-14 win over Florida State in the 2004 Orange Bowl.
Leinart’s collegiate career was filled with accolades and success. As a three-time All-American from 2003 to 2005, he compiled a remarkable 37-2 record as USC’s starting quarterback. In 2004, he claimed the Heisman Trophy, and over his career, he set numerous records, including 16 at USC, 11 in the Pac-10, and 2 on the NCAA stage.
His achievements extended beyond the field, as he won the Walter Camp Player of the Year, AP Player of the Year, and Manning Awards in 2004, followed by the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm and Pop Warner Awards in 2005.
Today, Leinart continues to contribute to the sport as a broadcaster for FOX Sports.
Leinart is still involved with USC football and continues to be very passionate about the program. Hopefully, some of his winning ways can spill over to the current iteration and get the team back on track.
The new inductees will be celebrated during a ceremony at the 2025 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl, which takes place on January 9, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium.
This event will mark the debut of the 12-team playoff format, and the inductees will join 136 others who have made significant contributions to the Orange Bowl since its inception in 1935.
Original press release at USCTrojans.com.