Lou Saban was born on October 13, 1921 in Illinois. He was a talented athlete from a young age, excelling in football throughout his high school and college years. Saban played football at Indiana University before going on to have a successful career in the NFL as a player.
After his playing career, Saban transitioned into coaching, where he would make a name for himself in the world of professional and collegiate football. He had stints as a coach in the AFL, NFL, and NCAA, coaching teams such as the Denver Broncos and the Buffalo Bills.
Before making a name for himself as a coach, Lou Saban was a standout football player. He played college football at Indiana University, where he showcased his talent on the field. Saban then went on to play in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns, demonstrating his skills at the professional level.
Despite his success as a player, Saban found his true calling in coaching. He began his coaching career in the early 1960s, working with various teams in different leagues. Saban's coaching style and leadership abilities quickly caught the attention of football enthusiasts and team owners alike.
Lou Saban's coaching career spanned several decades and included coaching positions with some of the most prominent teams in football. He coached the Denver Broncos from 1967 to 1971, where he made a significant impact on the team's performance and success.
One of Saban's most notable coaching stints was with the Buffalo Bills, where he served as head coach for two separate periods. From 1962 to 1965 and again from 1972 to 1976, Saban led the Bills to multiple victories and solidified his reputation as a skilled and respected coach in the NFL.
Aside from his coaching career, Lou Saban was also involved in other ventures within the world of sports. He served as the president of the New York Yankees, a role in which he was highly praised by the team's owner, George Steinbrenner.
Family was an important aspect of Lou Saban's life. He was married to his wife Joyce and together they had seven children. Despite the demands of his coaching career, Saban always made time for his family and valued their support and love.
Lou Saban's legacy in the world of football is one that will be remembered for years to come. His dedication to the sport, his leadership abilities, and his impact on the teams he coached have solidified his place as a legendary figure in football history.
In 1973, Saban had the opportunity to coach star running back O.J. Simpson during his time with the Washington Redskins. Simpson went on to achieve an impressive feat, running for over 2,000 rushing yards under Saban's guidance.
Throughout his life, Lou Saban remained committed to the game of football, always striving for excellence and pushing his players to be the best they could be. His passion for the sport and his unwavering dedication to coaching have left a lasting impression on the football community.