Cole Pennington, the son of former Jets quarterback Chad Pennington, made an impressive debut in Marshall’s season opener against Stony Brook. Despite being the team’s third-string quarterback, Cole managed to throw a 16-yard touchdown to Bralon Brown late in the fourth quarter, contributing to Marshall’s dominant 45-3 victory.
In his limited playing time, Cole showcased his talent by completing four out of five passes for 80 yards. Although he currently stands in the shadows of his father’s legacy, Cole is determined to forge his own path at Marshall University.
Chad Pennington, a renowned figure in Marshall’s football history, led the team to the 1995 NCAA Division I-AA Football Championship Game. Although they lost to Montana, Chad’s leadership and skills were evident. The following year, he was redshirted in favor of Eric Kresser, who guided Marshall back to the I-AA Championship game in 1996, resulting in a victory for the team.
Returning as Marshall’s starting quarterback from 1997 to 1999, Chad Pennington played a crucial role in the team’s success. He even had the opportunity to throw to Randy Moss, a star receiver, during Moss’s two years at the school. Pennington’s impressive performance earned him a place in Marshall’s Hall of Fame, alongside Moss. His career culminated in a perfect 13-0 record in 1999, with the team achieving a program-high No. 10 national ranking.
In addition to his college success, Chad Pennington had a notable NFL career, playing for the New York Jets and the Miami Dolphins. As a Jets quarterback, he led the team to three playoff appearances, including a division title in 2002. Pennington’s tenure with the Jets solidified his reputation as a skilled and reliable quarterback.
While Chad Pennington’s NFL achievements are well-documented, this narrative focuses on his son Cole’s journey at Marshall. Cole is determined to create his own legacy and build upon his father’s success. With his first college touchdown under his belt, Cole is ready to make his mark and prove himself as a valuable asset to the Marshall Thundering Herd. As he continues to develop as a quarterback, football fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for Cole Pennington.
