Biography
Howard Schnellenberger (March 16, 1934 – March 27, 2021) was an American football coach and player, renowned for his contributions to college football and the NFL. After playing college football as a wide receiver at the University of Kentucky, he transitioned into coaching, starting his career as an assistant at various colleges before joining the NFL as an offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams. In 1990, Schnellenberger gained fame as the head coach of the Miami Hurricanes, where he led the team to a national championship in 1983, establishing a legacy of excellence at the university.
Schnellenberger’s coaching career spanned several decades, during which he also served as the head coach of the University of Louisville, guiding the program to its first bowl game, and Florida Atlantic University, where he laid the groundwork for the program's eventual success. His innovative offensive strategies and focus on building strong recruiting classes significantly contributed to the growth of college football programs. Over his coaching tenure, he amassed a career record of 158 wins, 151 losses, and 3 ties.
In addition to his accomplishments on the field, Schnellenberger is remembered for his charismatic personality and his role as a mentor to numerous coaches and players. His impact on the sport can be seen in the numerous coaching trees that evolved from his mentorship. Schnellenberger’s legacy endures through the programs he shaped and the championship successes they achieved, firmly cementing his status as a significant figure in American football history.