Posted on 07/01/2010 7:00:16 PM PDT by Borges
Multiple reports are emerging from San Diego that former Chargers coach Don Coryell has died at the age of 85.
Coryell coached the Chargers from 1978 through half of the 1986 season, compiling a record if 72-60. He resigned after eight games in his final year on the job.
A finalist for induction in the Pro Football Hall of Fame earlier this year, the coach took full advantage of rules changes aimed at opening up the passing game to create Air Coryell, an attack that turned quarterback Dan Fouts and tight end Kellen Winslow into Hall of Famers -- and the Chargers into perennial contenders.
Coryell had been ill for months. Eventually, he passed due to complications from pneumonia.
He also served as head coach of the Cardinals from 1973 through 1977. Before that, Coryell coached at San Diego State for more than a decade.
A friend of mine who had season tickets from day 1 invited me many times (her husb. wasn’t a football fan) during the
years Coryell was Coach. Saw several games throughout
those years.
He was really focused and intense.
RIP
Coryell was a terrific coach.
His Chargers were always a fun team to watch.
RIP
So did Bill Walsh when you consider that his Masters' thesis at SJSU was entitled, "Defensing the Pro Set Formation".
Interesting.
Thanks for the informative post. The Coryell’s were neighbors of ours when he coached the Chargers.
Yes, sure the flip side for what he was known for
OK...I checked the facts: In 76-77 SDSU football had identical 10-1-0 records although Don Coryell had already left to coach the Chargers.
Guess those tailgaters at The Murph were even more potent than even I remember!
The last time I watched a football game (1981) it
was “Air Coryell” with Dan Fouts at QB. He was a
good coach. RIP.
I think you are talking about Ted Lietner! He was Channel 8 sports.....I think his gig is now Padre announcer.
Don Coryell was immensely popular with San Diego fans dating from his San Diego State days. RIP.
Coryell was one of the true pioneers of the modern game. Kind of a shame that he never won a SB. He used to wear the ugliest polyester pants in the world. Bright red ones when he was with the Cards, and some houndstooth check ones, also.
Yes, Ted is one of the radio announcers
It was Ted Leitner.
I could only find it in B&W. You need color to get the full effect.
He made football fun.
Part of the greatest game in the history of the NFL, the 1982 classic playoff game between Miami and San Diego.
I’m shocked that he isn’t already in the Hall of Fame, considering his contributions to the sport.
RIP.
RIP AIR CORYELL!!
The 80-81 playoff games should be shown to future generations as exhibits on how foottball should be played....
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