By Darin The Architect of “Sullivan to Beasley”
In the history of the Southeastern Conference, few names command as much respect as Pat Sullivan. A hometown hero from Birmingham, Sullivan didn’t just play quarterback for Auburn; he revolutionized the position during an era when the ground game was king. Alongside his legendary target Terry Beasley, Sullivan transformed the Tigers into a national powerhouse, culminating in a senior season that remains the gold standard for Auburn signal-callers. From shattering school records as a sophomore to hoisting the Heisman Trophy, Sullivan’s journey is the stuff of college football folklore.
Football Bio
January 18, 1950 – Birmingham, Alabama – The birth of Pat Sullivan, the fine Auburn University quarterback, is celebrated. Sullivan was a signal-calling standout from 1969 through the 1971 seasons with the Tigers. According to his bio on the National Football Foundation website, as a sophomore, he broke the school’s records for total offense and passing yardage. The next year, he broke them again as a Junior and was named the Southeastern Conference Most Valuable Player while earning All-American honors. In his senior season, Pat was at his best, earning unanimous All-America honors and taking home the Heisman Trophy! Pat Sullivan was honored with the induction of his football legacy into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1991.
A Legacy Beyond the Playing Field
Pat Sullivan’s impact on the gridiron didn’t end with his legendary playing days at Auburn. After a professional career in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons and the Washington Redskins, Sullivan transitioned into a highly respected coaching career. He served as the head coach at TCU and Samford, and returned to his alma mater as an assistant, helping guide a new generation of Tigers. Known as much for his character and leadership as his arm strength, Sullivan remains one of the most beloved figures in Alabama sports history, with his No. 7 jersey forever retired in the rafters of Jordan-Hare Stadium.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- Heisman Trophy Winner (1971)
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (Class of 1991)
- Unanimous First-Team All-American (1971)
- Walter Camp Player of the Year (1971)
- Sporting News Player of the Year (1971)
- 2-Time SEC Player of the Year (1970, 1971)
- SEC Passing Leader (1970, 1971)
- Auburn Tigers Career Records: 6,284 passing yards and 53 touchdown passes.
- NCAA Record (at time of retirement): 71 total touchdowns responsible for.
- NFL Draft: 2nd Round, 40th Overall (Atlanta Falcons, 1972)
- Retired Number: Auburn University Jersey No. 7
