Charles McClendon

Charles McClendon was born on October 17th, 1923

Full Name: Charles Leo McClendon

Nationality: American

Profession: Football player and coach

Country of Birth: United States

Notable Work: LSU Tigers coach

Birth Date: October 17, 1923

Death Date: December 6, 2001

Awards: College Football Hall of Fame

Legendary coach who led LSU Tigers to national championships and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, known for his innovative tactics and dominant teams.

Written by:

Victor Malone

Charles McClendon: The Legendary Coach Who Shaped LSU Football

A Lasting Legacy in College Football

Known affectionately as "Cholly Mac," Charles McClendon is a coaching icon in the world of college football. With a storied career that spanned over three decades, McClendon is perhaps best remembered as the head coach of Louisiana State University (LSU) from 1962 to 1979, amassing an impressive record of 137-59-7.

Early Life and Coaching Career

Born on October 17, 1923, in Lewisville, Arkansas, McClendon played college football under the legendary Bear Bryant at the University of Kentucky. He began his coaching career as an assistant at Vanderbilt University in 1952, before joining LSU as an assistant coach in 1953.

Rise to Prominence

In 1958, McClendon played a crucial role in LSU's first recognized national championship under coach Paul Dietzel. When Dietzel left for Army in 1961, McClendon was handpicked as his successor, marking the beginning of a remarkable era in LSU football history.

Coaching Achievements

LSU's record under McClendon: 137-59-7 (.724 winning percentage)
Nine appearances in the final AP Poll, with an average rank of 9.22
Five consecutive nine-win seasons from 1969 to 1973
Two Sugar Bowl appearances (1965 and 1968)
Two Cotton Bowl Classic appearances (1963 and 1966)
Two Orange Bowl appearances (1971 and 1974)

Notable Moments and Controversies

In 1964, McClendon's LSU team defeated arch-rival Ole Miss 10-9 through an unexpected two-point conversion attempt, showcasing his innovative coaching style. However, his tenure was not without controversy, including LSU's refusal to participate in the 1969 Cotton Bowl Classic, citing a desire for a more prestigious matchup.

Lingering Impact and Legacy

McClendon's contributions to LSU football were recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame as a coach in 1986. His influence continues to shape the program, and his legacy extends beyond the gridiron, inspiring countless coaches, players, and fans.

Personal Milestones and Honors

Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame (1986)
Named National Coach of the Year (1970)
Received the Amos Alonzo Stagg Award (1984)

A Lasting Imprint on LSU and College Football

Charles McClendon's remarkable coaching career, marked by innovation, success, and controversy, has left an indelible mark on LSU football and the broader world of college athletics. As "Cholly Mac," he will forever be revered as a coaching legend, shaping generations of players, coaches, and fans alike.

Timeline

1923

Charles McClendon Born

Charles McClendon was born on October 17, 1923, in Pineville, Louisiana.

1945

College Football Player

McClendon played college football at Notre Dame, where he was an All-American tackle.

1952

Assistant Coach

McClendon became an assistant coach at LSU, helping the team win the 1958 national championship.

1962

Head Coach

McClendon became the head coach at LSU, leading the team to a 12-5-1 record in his first season.

2001

Passed Away

Charles McClendon passed away on December 6, 2001, at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy in American college football.

Charles McClendon Quiz

What college football team did Charles McClendon coach to national championships?

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FAQ

What was Charles McClendons coaching style?

Charles McClendons coaching style was known for its emphasis on discipline, hard work, and flexibility. He was praised for his ability to adapt his coaching to the strengths of his players.

What were Charles McClendons most notable accomplishments as a coach?

Charles McClendons most notable accomplishments as a coach include leading the Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers to a national championship in 1958 and winning multiple SEC championships.

How did Charles McClendon get his start in coaching?

Charles McClendon got his start in coaching as an assistant coach at LSU under legendary coach Bernie Moore. He later became the head coach at LSU and went on to have a successful career.

What awards did Charles McClendon win for his coaching?

Charles McClendon won numerous awards for his coaching, including the Walter Camp Coach of the Year award and the Amos Alonzo Stagg Award.

How did Charles McClendon impact the sport of college football?

Charles McClendon had a profound impact on the sport of college football, both through his innovative coaching style and his influence on future generations of coaches.

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