Ranking the Top 5 Head Football Coaches in Marshall Football History

The Tony Gibson era is set to begin in the fall of 2025, and fans are eagerly watching to see how his team will come together. Undoubtedly, Gibson feels like the right man for the job, and there’s hope he will restore the proud tradition Marshall fans are used to. Marshall football has always been about more than talent or victories—it’s about playing for the pride of Marshall University.

With that in mind, I decided to reflect on the all-time greats who have led the Thundering Herd into battle, week after week. This inspired me to rank the top 5 head football coaches in Marshall history.

Of course, this list is subjective, and I welcome debate. I encourage Herd fans to share their thoughts—agree or disagree, it’s all part of the fun. So, without further ado, here’s my list of the greatest head coaches in Marshall football history.

Honorable Mentions

Jack Lengyel (1971–1974) | Record: 9–33

Before you dismiss this list, hear me out. Jack Lengyel is the most significant and respected coach in Marshall football history. He took on the impossible task of rebuilding a program devastated by the 1970 plane crash, leading a team of mostly freshmen against established opponents. Winning even one game was a miracle, and Lengyel’s impact goes far beyond his record.

Coach Lengyel laid the foundation for everything Marshall football would become. His resilience and leadership helped the program and its fans heal, making him a legend in Huntington. Some may argue he deserves a spot in the top 5, but I believe Lengyel transcends rankings—his legacy is in a category of its own.

Stan Parrish (1984–1985) | Record: 13–8–1

Stan Parrish ended Marshall’s two-decade streak of losing seasons, bringing excitement back to Huntington. His first season in 1984 saw the Herd finish 6–5—their first winning record in 20 years. In 1985, he led Marshall to a 7–3–1 record and even had the team ranked as high as No. 3 in the nation at one point.

Parrish’s success reignited interest in Marshall football and sparked conversations about building a new stadium—what would eventually become Joan C. Edwards Stadium. Although his tenure was brief, his impact was profound.

Top 5 Coaches in Marshall Football History

5. Charles Huff (2021–2024) | Record: 32–20

Charles Huff evokes mixed emotions among Herd fans. While his tenure had its share of frustrating losses (e.g., Bowling Green, Middle Tennessee, Georgia State), it also included some of the program’s most memorable moments. Victories over Notre Dame and Virginia Tech, a Myrtle Beach Bowl win, and the 2024 Sun Belt Conference Championship stand out as highlights.

Despite the highs, Huff’s struggles against inferior opponents and his controversial departure tarnish his legacy. His time at Marshall was a rollercoaster, and while he brought success, many fans are ready to move on.

4. George Chaump (1986–1989) | Record: 33–16

George Chaump built on the progress of his predecessor, Stan Parrish, and took Marshall to new heights. His tenure included back-to-back 10-win seasons in 1987 and 1988, with the Herd reaching the FCS (then Division I-AA) National Championship game in 1987, where they narrowly lost 43–42 to Northeast Louisiana.

Chaump proved that consistent success was possible at Marshall, laying the groundwork for the program’s transition from underdog to contender. Though he didn’t bring home a championship, his contributions were critical in Marshall’s evolution.

3. Doc Holliday (2010–2020) | Record: 85–54

Doc Holliday will forever be a Marshall legend. Taking over after the Mark Snyder era, Holliday transformed an underperforming program into a perennial contender. His tenure included memorable players like Rakeem Cato, Tommy Shuler, and Vinny Curry, and signature moments like the 2014 C-USA Championship win over Louisiana Tech and the thrilling victory over Purdue at home.

Holliday’s teams were known for their toughness and consistency, with Marshall posting one of the highest bowl win percentages in the FBS during his time. Though his tenure ended in disappointment with a loss in the 2020 C-USA Championship, Holliday’s impact on the program remains undeniable.

2. Jim Donnan (1990–1995) | Record: 64–21

Jim Donnan’s accomplishments speak for themselves: five 11-win seasons, four National Championship appearances, and one National Championship. Donnan coached legendary players like Michael Payton and Troy Brown and helped transition the program into a powerhouse.

Under Donnan, Marshall moved from Fairfield Stadium to Joan C. Edwards Stadium and set the standard for excellence. He didn’t just win games—he redefined what it meant to play for Marshall.

1. Bob Pruett (1996–2004) | Record: 94–23

Bob Pruett is the gold standard for Marshall football. His resume includes a Division I-AA National Championship, five MAC Championships, and victories over programs like Clemson, BYU, and South Carolina. Pruett’s teams were known for their explosive offense, featuring stars like Chad Pennington, Randy Moss, and Byron Leftwich.

Pruett’s connection to Marshall went beyond the field. He famously turned down an offer from Houston to stay in Huntington, cementing his status as a beloved figure among fans. His larger-than-life personality and unwavering loyalty to Marshall make him the greatest head coach in program history.

As Tony Gibson prepares for his first season in 2025, there’s hope that he can bring Marshall back to the glory days. With determination and focus, he might just earn a spot on this list a decade from now.

Go Herd!

Headset Out…