 |
Steve SpurrierAmerican football player, coach
Date of Birth: 20.04.1945
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Steven Spurrier: Football Star and Coaching Legend
- NFL Career
- Coaching Beginnings
- Duke University
- Florida Gators
- Washington Redskins
- South Carolina Gamecocks
Steven Spurrier: Football Star and Coaching Legend
Early Life and College CareerSteven Orr Spurrier was born in Johnson City, Tennessee, and excelled in football, basketball, and baseball during high school. As a pitcher, he led his team to two consecutive state championships. He attended the University of Florida, where he broke school and conference passing records as the Gators' quarterback.
NFL Career
In 1967, Spurrier was drafted third overall by the San Francisco 49ers. He played 10 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the 49ers and one year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His best game came in 1973 against the Minnesota Vikings, when he completed 31 of 48 passes for 320 yards.
Coaching Beginnings
After retiring as a player, Spurrier became a coach at his alma mater, the University of Florida, under Doug Dickey. However, he had a falling out with the new head coach, Charley Pell, and left. In 1983, he was hired by the Tampa Bay Bandits, becoming the youngest head coach in professional football history.
Duke University
In 1987, Spurrier became the head coach at Duke University. He led the Blue Devils to bowl eligibility for the first time in 25 years, winning the ACC Championship in 1989. He was named ACC Coach of the Year twice.
Florida Gators
On December 31, 1989, Spurrier was named head coach of the Florida Gators. He transformed the team from scandal-ridden to SEC powerhouses, winning four SEC Championships in five years. The highlight of his Gators tenure came in 1997 when Florida upset the undefeated and defending national champion Florida State Seminoles.
Washington Redskins
On January 4, 2002, Spurrier surprised many by abruptly resigning as Florida's head coach. Ten days later, he signed a five-year, $25 million contract to become the head coach of the Washington Redskins. His NFL return was a disappointment, and he was fired after only two seasons.
South Carolina Gamecocks
Speculation ran rampant about Spurrier's next destination, but he eventually settled on the South Carolina Gamecocks. He remains head coach of the Gamecocks to this day.
