Aaron Taylor: The Versatile Powerhouse of Nebraska’s “Pipeline” Dynasty

🏈 The Anchor of a Three-Time Champion

In the mid-1990s, the Nebraska Cornhuskers’ offensive line, famously known as “The Pipeline,” was the most feared unit in college football. At the heart of that dominance was Aaron Taylor. Born in Wichita Falls, Texas, Taylor arrived in Lincoln and immediately became an essential component of Tom Osborne’s power-option machine. Known for his technical precision and punishing “pancake” blocks, Taylor achieved what no other player in the storied history of Nebraska football ever had: earning All-American honors at two different positions. On this day, January 21, we honor the birth of a true trench warrior whose legacy is etched in championship gold.

Football Bio

January 21, 1975 – Wichita Falls, Texas – Aaron Taylor, the former Nebraska offensive lineman, was born. The National Football Foundation selected Taylor for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2018.

The Unmatched Versatility of No. 67

Aaron Taylor’s career is a testament to selflessness and elite skill. After starting his career as a guard, Taylor sacrificed his personal comfort during his junior year to move to center—a position he had never played—simply because the team needed his leadership there. He was so dominant that he earned All-American honors at center in 1996 before moving back to guard in 1997 to win the Outland Trophy as the nation’s best interior lineman.

During his four years on the field, the Huskers achieved a staggering 49–2 record, claiming three national championships (1994, 1995, and 1997). Taylor was the ultimate “pancake” specialist, recording 337 career knockdown blocks and anchoring an offense that led the nation in rushing and scoring. His #67 jersey was retired by the university in 1998, ensuring that “Big Aaron” will always be remembered as one of the greatest to ever wear the scarlet and cream.

Accolades and Football Accomplishments

• College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (Class of 2018)
• Outland Trophy Winner (1997)
• 3-time National Champion (1994, 1995, 1997)
• Unanimous First-Team All-American (1997 – Guard)
• Consensus First-Team All-American (1996 – Center)
• Jim Parker Award Winner (1997)
• 3-time First-Team All-Conference (1995, 1996, 1997)
• Nebraska Cornhuskers #67 Jersey Retired
• 337 Career Pancake Blocks (Nebraska school record at retirement)
• Named to the Walter Camp All-Century Team