Hal Herring, American football player and coach (d. 2014)

Harold Moreland "Hal" Herring, a name etched into the annals of American football, lived a life dedicated to the sport, first as a formidable player and later as an influential coach. Born on February 24, 1924, and passing away on February 9, 2014, Herring’s storied career spanned pivotal eras of both college and professional football, leaving an indelible mark on every team he touched, from the collegiate gridiron of Auburn University to the professional fields of the NFL.

From Alabama Prep to Professional Gridiron

Hal Herring's journey began in Alabama, where he honed his skills in high school before enrolling at Auburn University in 1942. However, like many young men of his generation, his academic and athletic pursuits were put on hold by the tumultuous call of duty during World War II. After serving his country, Herring returned to Auburn in 1946, demonstrating remarkable resilience and dedication to his sport.

His return saw him become a cornerstone of the Auburn Tigers' football program through the 1948 season. His leadership and talent were undeniable; he was named team captain and earned the coveted title of an All-Southeastern Conference (SEC) player by sportswriters, a significant honor in one of college football's most competitive leagues. After graduating in 1949, Herring transitioned to the professional ranks.

His professional playing career kicked off with the Buffalo Bills in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC). He played one season as a center and linebacker for the Bills before the AAFC, a rival league to the NFL, dissolved. Following this, the burgeoning National Football League (NFL) orchestrated a special dispersal draft to reassign talented players left team-less. The Cleveland Browns, a dominant force from the AAFC, selected Herring, bringing his talents to a new stage.

In Cleveland, Hal Herring became an occasional starter at linebacker for three seasons, contributing to one of the most successful franchises of the era. His first year with the Browns culminated in an NFL championship, a testament to the team's prowess and Herring's contribution. The Browns continued their formidable run, reaching the NFL title game in his second and third seasons, though they ultimately fell short of repeating their championship success.

A Master Strategist: Herring's Coaching Legacy

After a commendable playing career, Hal Herring made a seamless transition to coaching, accepting a position at his alma mater, Auburn University, in 1953. For the next 13 years, Herring oversaw Auburn's defense, transforming it into one of the nation's most formidable units. His defensive schemes were legendary, with his defenses ranking first in the nation an astounding six times and consistently staying within the top 10 every single season. This period culminated in the Auburn Tigers winning the coveted college football national championship in 1957, a remarkable achievement underscored by Herring's defense, which allowed an astonishingly low 28 points throughout the entire season. This success cemented his reputation as a defensive mastermind.

However, Herring's coaching tenure at Auburn was not without its challenges. In 1956, the program faced scrutiny when the SEC fined Auburn $2,000, and the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) placed the team on a three-year probation. This came after allegations that Herring had provided $500 each to two halfback recruits, a stark reminder of the intense pressures and ethical tightropes walked in collegiate recruiting during that era.

Following his impactful years at Auburn, Herring moved to the professional coaching ranks. In 1966, he made history as the Atlanta Falcons' first defensive coordinator, a pioneering role for the newly formed NFL franchise. He served in this capacity for three seasons, laying the groundwork for the team's defensive identity. Later, in 1970, he served as the linebackers coach for the San Diego Chargers, further showcasing his expertise in defensive strategy and player development. After his stint with the Chargers, Herring chose to step away from the rigorous demands of professional football, taking on a role overseeing sports at a junior college outside of Atlanta, bringing his extensive experience and passion for athletics to a new generation of students.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hal Herring

Who was Hal Herring?

Hal Herring was an American football player and coach, known for his impactful career as a center and linebacker in college and professional football, and later as a highly successful defensive coach for Auburn University, the Atlanta Falcons, and the San Diego Chargers.

What college did Hal Herring play for?

Hal Herring played college football for Auburn University, where he returned after serving in World War II, eventually becoming a team captain and an All-Southeastern Conference (SEC) player.

Which professional football teams did Hal Herring play for?

Professionally, Hal Herring played for the Buffalo Bills in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) for one season, and then for the Cleveland Browns in the National Football League (NFL) for three seasons.

What was Hal Herring's coaching career like?

Hal Herring had a highly successful coaching career, most notably as the defensive coach for Auburn University for 13 years, where his defenses ranked first in the nation six times and won a national championship in 1957. He also served as the first defensive coordinator for the NFL's Atlanta Falcons and later as linebackers coach for the San Diego Chargers.

Was Hal Herring involved in any controversies during his career?

Yes, during his time as a coach at Auburn, the program was fined by the SEC and placed on probation by the NCAA in 1956 due to allegations that Herring had given money to two halfback recruits.