3 HBCU coaches, players and teams that changed football forever
By Dante Pryor
Doug Williams, quarterback, Grambling State 1974-1978
Doug Williams has been an influential figure in college and professional football since he stepped on the campus of Grambling State University, playing for legendary head coach Eddie Robinson. Williams is one of the veteran executives in the NFL, serving in various positions for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Washington Commanders since 2004.
Williams began coaching at Morehouse before returning to his alma mater as a football coach. Williams led the Tigers to three consecutive 10-win seasons, four SWAC Championships and a Black College National title.
Perhaps Williams’ most outstanding achievement is as co-founder of the Black College Football Hall of Fame with fellow Grambling alum and quarterback James “Shack” Harris. The Hall of Fame has expanded as a sponsor of the HBCU Legacy Bowl and HBCU Combine to give HBCU football players more exposure.
Williams is also considered one of the greatest HBCU football players ever. The Tigers were 36-7 during his time at Grambling, winning three SWAC titles in the process. In 1977, Williams led the NCAA in passing yards, yards from scrimmage, and touchdown passes.
Most famously, in 1988, Doug Williams became the first black quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl when he outplayed John Elway, leading the Washington Commanders to a 42-10 victory. Williams also set a record for touchdown passes in a quarter (4).