Mike White, a renowned football coach, has passed away at the age of 89. His family confirmed he died Sunday in Newport Beach. White’s career spanned both college and professional football, leaving a lasting impact on teams and players alike.
Mike White’s College Coaching Career: Cal and Illinois Achievements and Historic Milestones
White, a former four-sport athlete at Cal in the 1950s, began his coaching career as an assistant at both Cal and Stanford before taking over as head coach of his alma mater in 1972. During his six seasons at Cal, he amassed a 35-30-1 record, with his standout year in 1975 when the Bears shared the Pac-8 title with UCLA. That season, he was named coach of the year, leading an offense that featured Chuck Muncie and quarterback Joe Roth. White also coached Steve Bartkowski, who became the No. 1 overall pick in the 1975 NFL draft.
Mike White (NHL)White moved to Illinois in 1980, leading the Illini to a 47-41-3 record over his tenure. His 1983 team made history by going undefeated in Big Ten play, a feat that remains unmatched, and earned Illinois its first Rose Bowl appearance in 20 years, although they lost to UCLA in 1984. White guided the team to three bowl appearances during his time there.
NFL Journey and Enduring Legacy of Mike White in Football History
White transitioned to the NFL multiple times, first as an offensive line coach for the San Francisco 49ers and later as part of Dick Vermeil’s staff with the St. Louis Rams, contributing to their Super Bowl win following the 1999 season. He also spent five seasons with the Raiders before serving as their head coach in 1995-96, compiling a 15-17 record before being let go.
White was widely respected by players and colleagues alike. Former Cal linebacker Burl Toler Jr. praised him as a gifted and intelligent coach who treated players with respect and instilled a strong will to succeed. White’s legacy endures through the successes of the athletes he mentored and the programs he shaped throughout his remarkable coaching career.
