Marshall University Thundering Herd

Frequently Asked Questions

What college team is called the Thundering Herd?

The college team known as the Thundering Herd is Marshall University's athletic program, representing Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Most notably, the Thundering Herd is recognized for its NCAA Division I football team, which competes in the Sun Belt Conference. The name "Thundering Herd"

What famous NFL players went to Marshall University?

Marshall University has produced several famous NFL players who have made significant impacts in professional football. The most notable is Randy Moss, a Hall of Fame wide receiver renowned for his incredible athleticism and record-breaking career with teams like the Minnesota Vikings and New England Patriots. Another standout is Chad Pennington, a talented quarterback who played for the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins. Byron Leftwich, a star quarterback at Marshall, also went on to have a successful NFL career with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Pittsburgh Steelers, later becoming an NFL coach. Ahmad Bradshaw, a running back, played a pivotal role in the New York Giants' Super Bowl victories. These players exemplify the high level of talent that has emerged from Marshall University's football program, making the Thundering Herd a respected name in developing NFL-caliber athletes.

Why is Marshall University called the Thundering Herd?

Marshall University is called the Thundering Herd due to a unique blend of history and tradition dating back to the 1920s. The nickname was inspired by a phrase from Zane Grey's popular novel "The Thundering Herd,"

Is Marshall University a D1 school?

Yes, Marshall University is classified as a Division I (D1) school in the NCAA, the highest level of intercollegiate athletics in the United States. The Marshall Thundering Herd compete in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), specifically within the Sun Belt Conference as of recent years. Being a D1 school means Marshall University offers top-tier athletic programs, extensive scholarships, and competes against some of the nation's best college teams. This status attracts talented student-athletes and provides fans with high-quality, competitive sports events. Marshall's D1 designation is especially significant in football, where the Thundering Herd have achieved national recognition through bowl appearances, conference titles, and producing NFL stars. Attending a Marshall University game guarantees the excitement and energy of premier collegiate athletics, making it a must-see for sports enthusiasts.

What famous person went to Marshall University?

Marshall University boasts several notable alumni, but one of the most famous is Randy Moss, an NFL Hall of Fame wide receiver. Moss's exceptional football career began at Marshall, where he set multiple records and earned national acclaim before being drafted into the NFL. Off the field, Moss became a prominent sports analyst, further raising Marshall University's profile. Besides Moss, Marshall has produced other influential figures such as Chad Pennington (NFL quarterback) and Hal Greer, an NBA Hall of Famer. Additionally, author Zane Grey, whose work inspired the university's "Thundering Herd"