The 2027 College Football Hall of Fame has released its preliminary ballot, and among the names drawing attention are four former University of Central Florida standouts. Bernard Ford, Ed O'Brien, Charlie Pierce and David Rhodes each earned first‑team All‑American honors during their collegiate careers and now seek induction into the prestigious hall.
Ford’s Record‑Setting Receiving Year
In 1987 Ford capped his collegiate career with a spectacular season that still stands as a benchmark for UCF. He amassed 1,403 receiving yards in a single campaign, the highest total in school history, and posted 188 yards per game, a mark that remains unmatched. His performance also earned him a finalist spot for the Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded to the nation’s top Division I‑AA player.
O'Brien’s Reliable Foot
Ed O'Brien became the go‑to kicker for the Knights, setting enduring records in the process. He converted 50 of 77 field‑goal attempts, including a 55‑yard effort that remains the longest in UCF annals. His consistency helped the team secure crucial points during tightly contested games.
Pierce’s Punting Prowess
Charlie Pierce distinguished himself as a punter who could flip field position with regularity. He logged 173 punts for a total of 7,111 yards and scored 297 points, all of which rank atop the university’s career leaderboards. His ability to pin opponents deep was a strategic asset for the Knights.
Rhodes’ Receiving Dominance
David Rhodes emerged as the most prolific receiver in UCF history. Over his career he recorded 213 catches for 3,618 yards and 29 touchdowns, the latter two figures still standing as records. He is also the sole player in school history to achieve three consecutive 1,000‑yard receiving seasons, underscoring his sustained excellence.
The quartet’s contributions date back to UCF’s inaugural football season in 1979, when the program competed at the Division III level before ascending through the divisions. Their early achievements helped raise the university’s profile and laid groundwork for future successes. As the 2027 ballot unfolds, the former Knights will face stiff competition from 80 FBS players and nine coaches, as well as 99 athletes and 39 coaches from the lower divisions.