A pioneering figure in the American Football League, he coached the Houston Oilers to the AFL's first championship game and later became a successful college coach. Known for his innovative strategies and player development.
Pop Ivy, born Lee Frank Ivy on January 25, 1916, was an American football player and coach who made history by becoming the only person to serve as a head coach in the National Football League (NFL), the American Football League (AFL), and the Western Interprovincial Football Union (WIFU). He led the Edmonton Eskimos to three consecutive Grey Cup championships in the 1950s, cementing his legacy in the world of American football.
Ivy was a native of Skiatook, Oklahoma, and was part Native American. He earned his nickname "Pop" due to his premature baldness during his playing days. Ivy played college football at the University of Oklahoma, where he was a star player, earning All-American honors in 1939 as an end. He played both offense and defense for the Sooners, and never missed a game due to injury.
Ivy was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1940 NFL Draft but was traded to the Chicago Cardinals. He continued to see action on both sides of the ball throughout his NFL career. In 1942, he had his best season with 27 receptions, second only to the legendary Don Hutson.
Ivy entered the coaching ranks in 1948, serving as an assistant to Bud Wilkinson at the University of Oklahoma. He spent six seasons with the Sooners, during which time the team popularized the Split-T formation, helping the 1950 squad capture the national championship.
In 1954, Ivy became the head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos of the WIFU, where he compiled a remarkable record over the next four years. He led the team to three consecutive Grey Cup championships, making him a beloved figure in Canadian football history.
Pop Ivy's contributions to American football go beyond his impressive coaching record. He was a pioneer in the development of the Split-T formation, and his innovative coaching style influenced generations of coaches to come. His legacy continues to inspire football enthusiasts across North America.
Pop Ivy's remarkable coaching career and his contributions to the world of American football have left an indelible mark on the sport. His legacy continues to inspire and motivate generations of football enthusiasts, solidifying his place as one of the greatest coaches in American football history.
Born in 1913
Legendary college football coach who led the University of Alabama to six national championships and is revered for his iconic houndstooth hat and folksy, no-nonsense demeanor.
Born in 1913
Legendary coach who led the Green Bay Packers to five NFL championships, including the first two Super Bowls, and is revered for his motivational leadership and quotes.
Born in 1895
Legendary football pioneer who coached the Chicago Bears for 40 seasons, winning six NFL championships and shaping the modern game.
Born in 1898
Founded the Green Bay Packers and coached the team to six NFL championships, pioneering the forward pass and revolutionizing the game.
96 Years Old
Legendary coach who led the Miami Dolphins to a perfect season in 1972 and holds the record for most career wins in NFL history. He's a football icon and coaching pioneer.
94 Years Old
Legendary coach who led the Pittsburgh Steelers to four Super Bowl championships, revolutionizing the game with his "Steel Curtain" defense.
Born in 1924
Legendary coach who pioneered the use of game film and introduced the "Doomsday Defense" strategy, leading the Dallas Cowboys to five Super Bowl appearances.
99 Years Old
Legendary coach who led the Minnesota Vikings to four Super Bowl appearances and is known for his stoic demeanor and iconic sideline attire.
