One of the great figures and personalities in NFL history has passed on, as former Houston Oilers coach Bum Phillips passed away Friday at the age of 90.
His son, Wade, confirmed the news on Twitter.
Bum is gone to Heaven-loved and will be missed by all -great Dad,Coach, and Christian
— Wade Phillips (@sonofbum) October 19, 2013
Phillips took over as head coach for the Oilers in 1975, and had some memorable battles over the years in the great Steelers Super Bowl runs.
He was part of the 1979 AFC Title game in Pittsburgh between the Steelers and Oilers, and one of the most controversial calls in the history of the game.
He eventually was fired by owner Bud Adams, and in 1981, he took over the Saints head coaching job.
Phillips was best known for his cowboy hat that he wore for road games, but did not do it when his team played in domes because, as the story goes, his mother told him not ever to wear hats while he was indoors.
Thoughts and Prayers to the Phillips family – Bum will be missed. Thanks for the memories and the classic battles with the black and gold.
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Kathy Jones
October 19, 2013 at 3:01 am
I remember when the Steelers and the Oilers played. That was real football.
He was a true gentleman and a great coach.
Rest in peace with the football gods…