Legendary Coach Lou Holtz, Former Arkansas Razorbacks Leader, Passes Away at 88

Legendary Coach Lou Holtz, Former Arkansas Razorbacks Leader, Passes Away at 88

The college football world is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures. Lou Holtz, the legendary coach who once revitalized the Arkansas Razorbacks football program and went on to become one of the most respected names in sports, passed away Friday at the age of 87.

Holtz, known as much for his razor-sharp wit and inspirational words as for his winning records, leaves behind a legacy that transcends the game. He died peacefully surrounded by family, according to a statement released by his son, Skip Holtz.

A Coaching Icon in Fayetteville and Beyond

Born on January 6, 1937, in Follansbee, West Virginia, Holtz began his coaching journey in 1960 and rose to national prominence after taking over the University of Arkansas Razorbacks in 1977. In just his first season, Holtz led Arkansas to an 11–1 record and a stunning 31–6 upset victory over #2 Oklahoma in the 1978 Orange Bowl—one of the most memorable wins in Razorbacks history.

Over seven seasons in Fayetteville, Holtz compiled a 60–21–2 record, taking the team to six bowl games and restoring national respect to the Razorbacks program. His impact in Arkansas is still deeply felt today, with former players often crediting him for instilling discipline, character, and belief.

National Champion and Hall of Famer

While his time at Arkansas was remarkable, Holtz’s career continued to soar. He later coached at Minnesota, South Carolina, and most famously, Notre Dame, where he led the Fighting Irish to a perfect season and national championship in 1988. Holtz remains the only coach in NCAA history to lead six different programs to bowl games and four different schools to final Top 20 rankings.

In 2008, he was rightfully inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, solidifying his place among the greats.

More Than a Coach: A Mentor and Motivator

Holtz’s influence went far beyond Xs and Os. A best-selling author and nationally sought-after motivational speaker, Holtz was known for delivering timeless life lessons with humor and humility. His core message was simple but powerful: “Do what’s right. Do your best. Show people you care.”