Foge Fazio, American football player and coach (d. 2009)

Serafino Dante "Foge" Fazio, born on February 28, 1938, was a deeply respected figure in American football, whose life trajectory took him from a standout player to a highly regarded coach. A true native of Western Pennsylvania, Fazio grew up in Coraopolis, where the sport became an early passion. He honed his skills at the University of Pittsburgh, excelling as both a linebacker and a center, showcasing the grit and tactical intelligence that would define his career. Although the Boston Patriots of the American Football League drafted him, Fazio ultimately did not pursue a professional playing career, instead opting to make his mark on the sidelines.

From Local Fields to College Greatness

Fazio's coaching journey began at the high school level in his hometown of Coraopolis, a testament to his commitment to developing young talent. His natural aptitude for strategy and leadership quickly became evident, paving his way to the college ranks. It wasn't long before his alma mater, the University of Pittsburgh, recognized his prowess, bringing him back to the Panthers program. He initially served as a formidable defensive coordinator under the celebrated Jackie Sherrill, a period that laid the groundwork for his future leadership role.

In 1982, Foge Fazio stepped into the demanding role of head football coach for the Pittsburgh Panthers. Over four seasons, he guided the team to a solid 25–18–3 record. While his tenure as head coach concluded in 1985, his impact on the team, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, was profound and enduring. Many of Fazio's defensive units at Pitt have been lauded as some of the most dominant in college football history, embodying a relentless spirit and strategic brilliance.

Architect of Elite Defenses

Perhaps the most celebrated example of Fazio's defensive genius was the #2-ranked 1980 Pitt team. This squad was a veritable factory of future NFL talent, featuring legendary players who went on to achieve significant professional success. Names like Rickey Jackson, Bill Maas, Carlton Williamson, and most notably, Hugh Green, who finished an astonishing second in the 1980 Heisman Trophy balloting, were all products of Fazio's system. Their collegiate performance and subsequent professional careers underscored Fazio's exceptional ability to identify, mentor, and develop top-tier defensive players.

Coaching Beyond Pitt: Notre Dame and NFL

Following his stint as head coach at Pitt, Fazio's expertise remained highly sought after. He was recruited by coaching icon Lou Holtz to serve as the defensive coordinator at the University of Notre Dame, a move that further cemented his reputation as one of college football's premier defensive minds. Throughout his extensive college coaching career, Fazio also lent his talents to other esteemed institutions, including Boston University, Harvard University, and the University of Cincinnati, broadening his influence across diverse collegiate football programs.

In 1988, Foge Fazio transitioned to the pinnacle of professional football, embarking on a distinguished career in the National Football League. He began his NFL coaching journey with the Atlanta Falcons and the New York Jets, gaining invaluable experience at the highest level of the sport. His talent for defensive strategy led him to a significant role as the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings in 1995, where he continued to craft formidable defenses.

After leaving the Vikings in 1999, Fazio spent a year as the linebackers coach for the Washington Redskins before taking on another crucial defensive coordinator position, this time with the Cleveland Browns in 2001. He retired from full-time coaching with the Browns in 2003, but his passion for the game was evident when he returned briefly in 2005, serving as a defensive consultant for the Minnesota Vikings under Mike Tice, a testament to his enduring love for football and his willingness to contribute his vast knowledge.

Later Years and Enduring Legacy

Even after officially retiring from the sidelines, Foge Fazio remained an integral part of the Pittsburgh Panthers football community. He shared his insightful commentary as part of the radio broadcast team for Pitt football games during the 2008 and 2009 seasons, providing fans with expert analysis and a deep connection to the program he so loved. Serafino Dante "Foge" Fazio passed away on December 2, 2009, at the age of 71, after a courageous and long battle with leukemia. His legacy as a player, an astute defensive coordinator, and a dedicated head coach, particularly at the University of Pittsburgh, continues to resonate throughout the football world, remembered for his strategic brilliance and his unwavering commitment to the game.

Foge Fazio: Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Foge Fazio?

Serafino Dante "Foge" Fazio was an American football player and coach, renowned for his expertise as a defensive coordinator and his tenure as head coach at the University of Pittsburgh.

What teams did Foge Fazio coach?

Fazio coached at the University of Pittsburgh (head coach), University of Notre Dame, Boston University, Harvard University, University of Cincinnati at the college level, and in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons, New York Jets, Minnesota Vikings, Washington Redskins, and Cleveland Browns.

When did Foge Fazio coach at Pitt?

He served as head football coach for the University of Pittsburgh from 1982 to 1985. Prior to that, he was a defensive coordinator under Jackie Sherrill.

What was Foge Fazio known for?

Fazio was particularly known for his brilliant defensive strategies, which led to some of the top-ranked college football defenses in history, most notably the 1980 Pitt team that produced multiple NFL stars like Hugh Green.

How did Foge Fazio die?

Foge Fazio passed away on December 2, 2009, at the age of 71, following a long bout with leukemia.