Dabo Swinney is the current coach for Clemson University. He began as an assistant coach for the University of Alabama until becoming the head coach for the Clemson Tigers in 2008. From there, he led the Tigers to two national championships in 2016 and 2018. His greatest victory, however, was the 2018 one, in which he finished the season with a perfect 15-0 record.
One of Dabo Swinney's most notable feats is his recruiting success. His ability to attract and find top-level talent has set him apart in the industry. Well-recognized for his abilities, he has earned various awards, including multiple ACC Coach of the Year honors and the Paul "Bear" Bryant Award.
Frank Beamer earned his status as a legendary college football coach for building Virginia Tech into the football powerhouse it is today. During his time at Virginia Tech, his efforts led to more wins than any other head coach in the school's history. He concluded his coaching career with 280 wins after retiring in 2015.
Beginning his career as an assistant coach, he took on his first head coach role at Murray State, working from 1981 to 1986 before finally joining the Virginia Tech Hokies in 1987. Frank Beamer was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2018 in recognition of his contributions to the sport.
Frank Broyles was a legendary figure in the world of college football. As a player, coach, and administrator, his impact on the sport cannot be overstated. Broyles played quarterback at the University of Georgia and went on to have a successful coaching career at both the collegiate and professional levels. However, it was his time as the head coach at the University of Arkansas that solidified his place in history.
Under Broyles' leadership, the Razorbacks experienced unprecedented success, including winning a national championship in 1964. Broyles' legacy extends beyond his coaching accomplishments, as he also served as the athletic director at Arkansas for over three decades. His dedication and passion for the game are unmatched, making him an icon in the world of college athletics.
Born in 1908, Dodd began his football career at the University of Tennessee, where he excelled as a quarterback. After his playing days were over, Dodd transitioned into coaching and became the head coach at Georgia Tech in 1945. Under his leadership, the Yellow Jackets achieved great success, winning four Southeastern Conference titles and capturing a national championship in 1952.
Dodd's coaching prowess was widely recognized, and he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1990. Beyond his accomplishments on the field, Bobby Dodd was also known for his commitment to integrity and sportsmanship, making him a beloved figure in the world of college football.
Darrell Royal was best known for his role as head coach at the University of Texas in Austin, coaching for the Longhorns. However, his first head coach job was with Mississippi State University in 1954. It wasn't until 1957 that he joined the Longhorns and became one of the most beloved coaches in history.
Many credit Royal for popularizing the wishbone offense, a unique and highly successful offensive scheme that became a hallmark of Texas football during his tenure. Under his leadership, the Longhorns won national championships in 1963, 1969, and 1970. he retired in 1976, ending his career with 167 wins, 47 losses, and five ties at Texas.
Known for his exceptional coaching skills, Stoops spent 18 successful seasons as the head coach of the University of Oklahoma Sooners. During his tenure, he led the team to numerous victories and helped them clinch multiple conference championships. Stoops' ability to recruit top talent and develop players was unmatched, resulting in consistent success for the Sooners.
His strategic approach to the game and his passion for coaching made him a beloved figure among players and fans alike. Even after retiring from coaching, Stoops' impact on the sport continues to be felt, as his legacy lives on in the Oklahoma football program.
Jim Tressel is a name that resonates with college football fans. His tenure as the head coach at Ohio State University is particularly noteworthy, as he guided the Buckeyes to three Big Ten Championships and a national championship in 2002. His teams were known for their strong defense and efficient offense, reflecting Tressel's strategic approach to the game. Tressel's coaching style was characterized by discipline, attention to detail, and a focus on building character in his players.
His ability to motivate and inspire his team was evident in their on-field performance and the respect they had for him as a leader. Even though Tressel's coaching career had its fair share of challenges and controversies, his impact on the sport cannot be denied.
Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Dooley's passion for football was evident from a young age. He excelled as a football player in high school and went on to play at Auburn University, where he proved himself as a talented athlete. After his playing career ended, Dooley seamlessly transitioned into coaching, first as an assistant at Auburn and then as the head coach at the University of Georgia.
Under his leadership, the Georgia Bulldogs experienced tremendous success, winning numerous conference titles and a national championship in 1980. In addition to his coaching prowess, Dooley also served as the athletic director at Georgia for over two decades, overseeing the growth and development of the entire athletic program. Even though Vince Dooley has retired from coaching and administration, his legacy continues to inspire future generations of football players and sports enthusiasts alike.
John McKay is a legendary college football coach because of his outstanding work at USC. Upon becoming the head coach for the USC Trojans in 1960, he led the team to unprecedented success. After winning four national championships in 1962, 1967, 1972, and 1974, he coached for the Trojans until 1975, when he left for the NFL - becoming the head coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
During his tenure at USC, he famously coached the Heisman Trophy-winning running back O.J. Simpson. Making a significant impact on college and professional football alike, John McKay changed the playing field of American football. After retiring in 1984, John McKay was posthumously inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988.
Neyland's coaching career spanned over three decades, during which he led the University of Tennessee Volunteers to unprecedented success. Under his guidance, the team won four national championships and amassed an impressive record of 173-31-12. But it wasn't just his winning record that made Neyland a coaching icon; it was his innovative strategies and commitment to discipline that set him apart.
Neyland was a master strategist, always devising new plays and formations to outsmart his opponents. He believed in meticulous planning and preparation, leaving nothing to chance. His famous "Seven Maxims" became the foundation of his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, discipline, and attention to detail. Neyland instilled these values in his players, demanding nothing short of excellence both on and off the field. His strict discipline earned him the nickname "The General," as he commanded respect and obedience from his team. However, many of his former players credit him with teaching them valuable life lessons that served them well in their personal and professional lives.
Robinson began his coaching journey in the late 1960s when he joined the staff of the University of Oregon. His natural talent for mentoring young athletes quickly became evident, and he soon found himself climbing the coaching ladder. In 1976, he was named the head coach of the University of Southern California (USC) Trojans football team, a position he held for nine years.
During his tenure at USC, Robinson led the Trojans to unprecedented success. He guided the team to four Rose Bowl victories and two national championships, establishing himself as one of the most successful college football coaches in history. His innovative offensive strategies and knack for recruiting top talent made USC a powerhouse in the sport.
After leaving USC, Robinson made a brief foray into the NFL as the head coach of the Los Angeles Rams.
Lou Holtz coached for numerous colleges throughout his career, including Iowa State, William & Mary, North Carolina State, the University of Arkansas, and the University of Minnesota. He even had a brief stint with the NFL as the head coach for the New York Jets. However, his most outstanding achievements occurred during his time with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
He served as the head coach of Notre Dame from 1986 to 1996, leading the Fighting Irish to a national championship in 1988. His career concluded after coaching for the University of South Carolina, where his team won multiple bowl games. His greatest strength during his time as a coach is said to be his ability to motivate players.
Parseghian began his coaching career at Miami University, where he quickly turned the struggling team into a formidable force. This success caught the attention of the University of Notre Dame, who hired Parseghian as their head coach in 1964.
Under Parseghian's leadership, the Fighting Irish experienced a renaissance. In his first season, he led the team to a 9-1 record and a national championship. This was just the beginning of an illustrious tenure that would see Notre Dame become one of the most dominant teams in college football. Known for his ability to motivate his players and devise innovative strategies, Parseghian guided the Fighting Irish to two more national championships in 1966 and 1973.
Parseghian retired from coaching in 1974 but continued to be an influential figure in the sport. He served as a television analyst and remained involved with various charitable causes.
Before he became the longtime head coach of the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL, Carroll made his mark in the world of college football. His journey began in the late 1970s when he started his coaching career at the collegiate level.
Carroll's first notable coaching stint was at the University of Pacific, where he served as a graduate assistant. From there, he moved on to the University of Arkansas and then on to Iowa State University. However, it was at USC where Carroll truly made his mark and left an indelible legacy.
As the head coach of the USC Trojans from 2001 to 2009, Carroll led the team to unprecedented success. Under his guidance, USC won two national championships in 2003 and 2004 and claimed seven consecutive Pac-10 titles. Carroll's teams were known for their explosive offense, suffocating defense, and relentless pursuit of victory.
During his time at USC, Carroll developed a reputation as a master motivator and mentor to young athletes. Many of his players went on to successful careers in the NFL, including Reggie Bush, Matt Leinart, and Troy Polamalu. In recognition of his achievements, Pete Carroll was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2020.
Known for his innovative offensive strategies and success in multiple programs, Steve Spurrier found success in Florida and South Carolina. Having started as an NFL quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers and later the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he began his coaching career in 1978. He served as a quarterback coach for the University of Florida.
After moving to Duke, becoming the head coach in 1987, he returned to Florida in 1990. It was with him that the Gators won their first national championship in football. His skills and charismatic personality have made him one of the most unforgettable figures in college football history.
Born in 1862, Stagg's love for football began to blossom during his college years at Yale University. It was there that he played as a halfback on the football team, showcasing his natural talent and leadership skills. But it wasn't just on the field where Stagg made his mark. He was also known for his innovative coaching techniques and strategic thinking, which set him apart from his peers.
After graduating from Yale, Stagg pursued his dream of coaching. He started his coaching career at Springfield College, where he introduced new training methods and strategies that revolutionized the game. Stagg's dedication to innovation didn't stop there. In 1892, he became the head coach at the University of Chicago, where he further cemented his legacy as one of the greatest football minds of all time.
Throughout his career, Stagg amassed an impressive record of achievements. He pioneered the use of tackling dummies and blocking sleds in practice, forever changing the way teams trained. He also introduced the huddle formation and the lateral pass, both of which are now staples in modern football.
Bo Schembechler is the legendary football coach who spent 21 seasons leading the University of Michigan Wolverines. With his trademark comb-over and fiery demeanor on the sidelines, Schembechler was a force to be reckoned with.
During his tenure at Michigan, Schembechler built a powerhouse program, winning 13 Big Ten championships and earning 17 trips to the Rose Bowl. His teams were known for their physicality and discipline, and they consistently produced some of the best talent in the country.
Schembechler's coaching style was rooted in old-school principles of hard work and perseverance, and he demanded nothing less from his players.
Sadly, Schembechler passed away in 2006, but his legacy lives on, and his name is synonymous with Michigan football, even today.
Glenn “Pop” Warner is a name that may not ring a bell for many, but his impact on the world of football is truly immeasurable. Born in 1871, Warner dedicated his life to the sport and became one of the most influential figures in its history. He was not only a successful coach but also a visionary who revolutionized the game.
Warner's coaching career spanned over four decades, during which he achieved remarkable success. He coached at several prestigious universities, including Cornell, Stanford, and the University of Pittsburgh. His teams consistently displayed a level of excellence that was unmatched, winning numerous championships and setting records along the way. What set Warner apart from other coaches of his time was his innovative approach to the game.
He was constantly experimenting with new strategies and formations, and Warner is credited with introducing the forward pass to American football, a tactic that revolutionized the sport. His willingness to think outside the box and embrace change helped shape the game into what it is today. Warner was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1951.
Born in 1888 in Norway, Rockne immigrated to the United States at a young age and quickly fell in love with football. His coaching career began at the University of Notre Dame, where he played as a student. After graduating, he returned to the university as an assistant coach and eventually took over as head coach in 1918. Under his leadership, the Fighting Irish became a force to be reckoned with, winning numerous championships and revolutionizing the game with their innovative offensive strategies.
What set Rockne apart from other coaches of his time was his ability to inspire and motivate his players. He understood that football was not just about X's and O's but also about instilling a sense of passion and camaraderie in his team. Rockne’s famous "Win one for the Gipper" speech is a testament to his ability to rally his players and push them beyond their limits.
Tragically, Rockne’s life was cut short at the age of 43 when he died in a plane crash. However, Knute Rockne will always be remembered as a pioneer in the game, a master strategist, and above all, a beloved coach who brought out the best in his players.
With his innovative strategies and unmatched determination, Leahy led the Notre Dame Fighting Irish to an impressive six national championships during his tenure as head coach from 1941 to 1953. His dedication to the game and his ability to motivate his players made him a beloved figure both on and off the field.
Leahy's coaching style was characterized by his attention to detail and his ability to adapt to changing circumstances. His emphasis on teamwork and unity fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among his players, creating a winning culture that propelled Notre Dame to greatness. Leahy's influence extended far beyond the football field, as he taught his players the importance of character and integrity. Leahy was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame as a coach in 1970.
Born in Crossett, Arkansas, Switzer played college football at the University of Arkansas and quickly made a name for himself as a talented quarterback. After his playing career ended, Switzer transitioned into coaching and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1973, he took over as head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners, a position he would hold for an astonishing 16 years.
During his tenure at Oklahoma, Switzer led the team to an unprecedented three national championships and amassed an impressive win-loss record.
He was known for his innovative offensive strategies and his ability to get the best out of his players. Switzer's teams were known for their high-scoring offenses and aggressive defense, and they consistently ranked among the top in the nation. Switzer later would go on to become coach of the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL, where he would win a Super Bowl. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2001.
As a graduate assistant under head coach Bobby Bowden, Mack Brown began his coaching career at Florida State University. His first head coach job, however, was at Tulane University. From 1988 to 1997, he was the head coach at North Carolina before moving to the University of Texas.
Coaching for the Longhorns, he led the team to a national championship in the 2005 season, defeating USC in a memorable Rose Bowl game. Under Brown's leadership, Texas became a consistent contender, making 10 bowl appearances in his 16 seasons and regularly finishing in the top 25 nationally. In 2019, he returned to North Carolina but retired just a few years later.
Nick Saban has become the Alabam Crimson Tide's next big name in college football. As the current head coach for the University of Alabama, he has been leading his team to victory since 2007. During his career, he has led his teams through seven National Collegiate Athletic Association victories, making him one of the all-time greatest names in college football.
Nick Saban has also had experience in the NFL, which has undoubtedly helped his career. Saban served as the defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns from 1991 to 1994, and later, became the head coach for the Miami Dolphins from 2005 to 2006.
Woody Hayes is best known for his significant impact at Ohio State University. Upon becoming the Ohio State head coach, a position he held for 28 seasons, he was dismissed in 1978. His achievements included five national championships and numerous Big Ten titles. During the '70s, his biggest competition was against Michigan.
For Hayes, toughness and discipline were the name of the game. Despite his success as a coach, his career came to a quick end after he assaulted a Clemson player who had intercepted a pass. Nevertheless, he's still considered one of the greatest football coaches in history, especially when considering his record of 238 wins, 72 losses, and 10 ties.
Joe Paterno had spent his entire coaching career at Penn State University before his eventual dismissal in 2011. But it wasn't due to his coaching strategies that led to his firing. On the contrary, he had two national championship victories under his belt and had coached five undefeated teams during his career. Indeed, it was due to a scandal involving defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky that led to his demise.
Joe Paterno also emphasized what he called The Grand Experiment, a policy of his that required his athletes to be academically successful. Nevertheless, his inability to protect his athlete's well-being was his greatest failure as a coach, which is why this coach ranks last on our list of legendary coaches. He had been coaching since 1966.
Jim Harbaugh serves as the coach for the University of Michigan. He's recognized not only for his college football feats but for his NFL successes, as well, having led the 49ers to three consecutive NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl appearance. After retiring as a player, he had his first coaching job as an unpaid assistant at Western Kentucky University.
But it wouldn't be long before he became a coach at the University of San Diego and later Stanford University, where he achieved a 12-1 record in 2010. After his stint at the NFL, he returned as head coach in 2015, leading the Wolverines to many victories and, hopefully, many more to come.
Robert Cleckler Bowden was best known for his long and successful career at Florida State University. He began coaching as an assistant coach for Howard College before joining Florida State University as an offensive coordinator. It was there that won two national championships and helped build the Florida State football program into what it is today.
Additionally, Bobby Bowden had served as head coach for West Virginia University from 1970 to 1976, leading the Mountaineers to numerous victories. It was after his tenure there that he moved to Florida State University. His success at Florida was unmatched when he retired in 2009. He had a total of 300 victories under his belt.
Tom Osborne served as the head coach for the University of Nebraska from 1973 to 1997, where he became one of the most well-respected figures in college football history. There, he led the Cornhuskers to three national championships during the 1990s. Additionally, he led the Cornhuskers to 13 conference championships and 25 consecutive bowl appearances.
Tom Osborne wasn't just a great coach. He was also an innovator whose offensive strategies redefined American football. After retiring in 1997, he became the Athletic Director at Nebraska 10 years later until he retired in 2013. In 1999, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Urban Meyer began his coaching career at Ohio State before becoming a head coach at Bowling Green State University from 2001 to 2002. After leading his team to a Mid-American Conference Championship victory, he moved to the University of Utah, delivering an undefeated season that ended with a Fiesta Bowl victory in 2004.
His most tremendous success came with the Florida Gators, with whom he won two national championships in 2006 and 2008 - a team that included Tim Tebow. After a brief hiatus, he returned to Ohio State, coaching until 2018. During his tenure, his teams earned multiple Big Ten titles.
The legendary Bear Bryant coached for the Alabama Crimson Tide of the University of Alabama from 1958 to 1982 - nearly 25 years! During that time, he won six national championships and thirteen conference championships, making him one of the most iconic figures in college football history. Some of his most notable players include Joe Namath and Johnny Musso.
Born in Moro Bottom, Arkansas, Bear Bryant was raised on a farm where he developed a strong work ethic that would help define his career as a coach. While Bryant worked most of his years at Alabama, he coached for other universities, such as Texas A&M University, where he established a rigorous training camp known as"Junction Boys."
