Hall of Fame
Builder. Proven "Cradle of Coaches" winner. One of only four men at NCAA Division 1-A level to take four schools to major bowl games with Earle Bruce, Lou Holtz, and Larry Smith. One of six coaches to reach Top 20 at three programs with "Bear" Bryant, Dan Devine, Bowden Wyatt, Ken Hatfield, and Holtz. Ranks on all-time NCAA longevity (301 games) and win (168) lists. Involved in 30 winning seasons, 11 bowl games, 10 league titles, and two National Championships during career (1958-96). Posted 168-129-4 won-lost-tied record in 27 years as head coach at Miami (OH) (39-12-0 in 1969-73), Colorado (35-21-1 in 1974-78), Northern Illinois (25-19-0 in 1980-83), and Indiana (69-77-3 in 1984-96). Became only coach in MAC to win loop crowns and Coach of Year honors at two schools (Miami in 1973 and NIU in 1983). Made Big Ten history as first back-to-back league Coach of Year recipient (1986-87). Inducted into three halls of fame (Miami, NIU, and Indiana). Coached 10-2 Hall of Fame Northern Illinois team that (1) upset Kansas for school's first win vs. Big Eight (12), (2) produced seven NFL draft picks and 19 pro players overall, (3) finished No. 30 in final AP poll, plus (4) won MAC and California Bowl III (1983). Recruited 11 members of All-Century Team, 11 All-America picks, and four Hall of Famers at NIU. Served as aide at Bowling Green State (1960-64), Yale (1965), and Ohio State (1966-68). Named All-MAC end at Miami (1956). Began sideline career at East Palestine (OH) High (1958-59). Prepped at Sandusky (OH) Senior High.
