Howard Schnellenberger was a transformative figure in American football, known for his extensive coaching career at both the professional and collegiate levels. Born on March 16, 1934, Schnellenberger's coaching journey spanned decades, with notable stints in the NFL and college football. He is perhaps best remembered for his role in building the University of Miami football program, where he led the Hurricanes to their first national championship in 1983. His ability to turn struggling programs into contenders became a hallmark of his career, and his impact on the sport is still felt today.

Schnellenberger's coaching career began as an assistant, where he worked under some of the most legendary figures in football. He was part of the coaching staff for the Miami Dolphins during their historic undefeated season in 1972, serving as the offensive coordinator under Don Shula. His work with the Dolphins helped solidify his reputation as a brilliant football mind. Earlier in his career, Schnellenberger was also instrumental in recruiting Joe Namath to play for Bear Bryant at the University of Alabama, a move that would have a lasting impact on both Namath's career and the history of college football.

After his success in Miami, Schnellenberger took on head coaching roles at several other universities, including the University of Oklahoma, the University of Louisville, and Florida Atlantic University. At Louisville, he famously declared that the program was "on a collision course with the national championship," and while he didn't win a title there, he did lead the Cardinals to their first-ever bowl victory. His final coaching stop was at Florida Atlantic, where he built the football program from scratch, leading the Owls to two bowl victories and leaving a lasting legacy at the school.

Schnellenberger's contributions to football were not limited to wins and losses. He was known for his ability to recruit and develop talent, as well as his innovative offensive strategies. His work ethic, vision, and leadership helped shape the modern landscape of college football, and his influence can be seen in the success of the programs he touched. He passed away on March 27, 2021, but his legacy as a coach, mentor, and football pioneer endures.

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