George Allen, American football player and coach (d. 1990)

George Herbert Allen, born on April 29, 1918, and passing away on December 31, 1990, was an iconic figure in American football, whose unwavering dedication to the sport left an indelible mark on both college and professional leagues. He is widely remembered as a meticulous and intense head coach, particularly for his transformative tenures with two prominent National Football League (NFL) franchises. From 1966 to 1970, he helmed the Los Angeles Rams, and subsequently led the Washington Redskins from 1971 to 1977. His remarkable consistency was a hallmark of his career; he guided his teams to winning records in every single one of his twelve seasons as an NFL head coach, culminating in an impressive regular-season record of 116 wins, 47 losses, and 5 ties. This extraordinary feat underscored his exceptional ability to build and maintain competitive programs.

A Distinguished Career in Professional Football

The Los Angeles Rams and Washington Redskins Eras

Seven of Allen’s NFL teams successfully qualified for the playoffs, a testament to his strategic acumen and emphasis on veteran players and special teams excellence. The pinnacle of his NFL coaching career arrived with the 1972 Washington Redskins, a team affectionately dubbed the "Over the Hill Gang" due to its roster featuring many seasoned veterans. Under Allen's leadership, these Redskins reached Super Bowl VII, a monumental achievement for the franchise. Despite their valiant effort, they ultimately fell to Don Shula's undefeated Miami Dolphins, a team that cemented its place in history as the NFL's only perfect season. After his initial run with the Redskins, Allen briefly returned to the Los Angeles Rams in 1978, but his second stint was cut short as he was fired before the regular season even began.

Allen's Coaching Philosophy and Impact

George Allen was renowned for his unrelenting work ethic, meticulous preparation, and a profound belief in the power of veteran leadership. He famously championed the acquisition of experienced players, often trading away draft picks for proven talent, a strategy that earned his Redskins the "Over the Hill Gang" moniker but also delivered consistent winning seasons. His emphasis on special teams was also legendary, viewing it as a third phase of the game crucial for victory. This distinct philosophy, combined with an intense drive, created highly disciplined and competitive teams year after year, earning him the respect of players and peers alike.

The Foundation: Early Coaching Years

College Football Beginnings

Allen’s coaching journey began at the collegiate level, where he honed his craft and developed his foundational principles. His first head coaching role was at Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa, from 1948 to 1950. He then moved to Whittier College in Whittier, California, serving there from 1951 to 1956. This period allowed him to cultivate his coaching philosophy before transitioning to the professional ranks, laying the groundwork for his future success.

Ascension to the NFL Assistant Ranks

In 1957, Allen made his entry into the NFL, joining the Los Angeles Rams as an assistant coach under the innovative offensive mind of Sid Gillman. This experience provided invaluable exposure to the intricacies of professional football. He then spent a significant eight-year period, from 1958 to 1965, with the iconic Chicago Bears organization, serving as both an assistant coach and the head of player personnel. This dual role under legendary owner-coach George Halas was pivotal, allowing Allen to develop a keen eye for talent and a deep understanding of roster management, which later became a cornerstone of his success. It was from the Bears that he returned to the Rams, this time as their head coach, in 1966.

Beyond the NFL Sidelines: New Ventures and Final Chapters

Broadcasting, CFL, and the USFL Challenge

Following his primary NFL head coaching career, George Allen’s passion for football remained undiminished, leading him to explore various roles within the sport and beyond. From 1978 to 1981, he transitioned into broadcasting, offering his insights as an analyst for CBS Sports, providing fans with his unique perspective on the game. He also had a brief executive stint in 1982 with the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League (CFL). However, the allure of the sidelines proved too strong, and Allen resumed coaching in 1983, taking the reins of the Chicago Blitz in the newly formed United States Football League (USFL). This ambitious spring league presented a fresh challenge, and Allen, ever the competitor, embraced it. The very next year, he continued his USFL journey with the Arizona Wranglers, guiding them through a successful season that culminated in an appearance in the league's championship game. Despite their strong performance, the Wranglers ultimately lost the title game to the Philadelphia Stars.

A Return to College Football

After another period away from active coaching, Allen returned to the game one final time in 1990, serving as head football coach for a single season at California State University, Long Beach. Across his ten seasons as a college football head coach, Allen accumulated a respectable record of 53 wins, 38 losses, and 7 ties. This final collegiate chapter underscored his enduring commitment to the game and his desire to mentor young athletes, even in the twilight of his career.

Legacy and Family

George Allen’s profound contributions to the sport were formally recognized in 2002 when he was posthumously inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, solidifying his place among football's all-time greats. His innovative approach, particularly his emphasis on special teams and veteran talent, significantly influenced coaching strategies across the league. The Allen family's legacy extends beyond George's illustrious coaching career. His eldest son, George Allen, embarked on a distinguished political career, serving as Governor of Virginia and later as a United States Senator from the same state. His second son, Bruce Allen, closely followed his father's footsteps into the world of professional football, carving out his own successful path as a coach and executive, notably as a general manager for both the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and, fittingly, the Washington Redskins in the NFL. George Allen’s relentless pursuit of excellence, his innovative coaching methods, and his profound influence on players and the game itself continue to resonate within football history.

Frequently Asked Questions About George Allen

What was George Allen's overall NFL regular-season coaching record?
George Allen compiled an impressive regular-season record of 116 wins, 47 losses, and 5 ties across his 12 seasons as an NFL head coach.
Which NFL teams did George Allen serve as head coach for?
He was the head coach for the Los Angeles Rams (1966-1970, and a brief return in 1978) and the Washington Redskins (1971-1977).
Did George Allen ever win a Super Bowl?
No, George Allen did not win a Super Bowl. He led the 1972 Washington Redskins to Super Bowl VII, where they lost to the undefeated Miami Dolphins.
When was George Allen inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame?
George Allen was posthumously inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002.
What was a notable characteristic of George Allen's coaching philosophy?
Allen was known for his intense focus, meticulous preparation, and a strong preference for veteran players, often leading to his teams being dubbed "The Over the Hill Gang," particularly with the Washington Redskins.
Did George Allen coach in professional football leagues other than the NFL?
Yes, after his primary NFL tenure, he coached in the United States Football League (USFL), leading both the Chicago Blitz and the Arizona Wranglers, guiding the latter to the USFL championship game.