Mike White, a revered figure in college and professional football, has passed away at the age of 89. His family confirmed he died on Sunday in Newport Beach, California.
White had a remarkable coaching career. He led the California Golden Bears to a co-championship in the Pac-8 in 1975 and took the Illinois Fighting Illini to their first Rose Bowl in two decades during the 1983 season. His NFL journey included coaching the Oakland Raiders in their early years back in Oakland from 1995 to 1996.
In addition to being a head coach, White served as an assistant coach with notable teams like the San Francisco 49ers. He was part of the coaching staff when the St. Louis Rams won the Super Bowl in 2000 under Dick Vermeil.
Burl Toler Jr., a linebacker who played for White at Cal, shared his admiration, saying, “Mike treated us like men and with a lot of respect. He was a gifted and smart coach.”
White was a four-sport athlete at Cal in the 1950s and started his coaching journey at his alma mater in 1972. Over six seasons with the Bears, he achieved a record of 35-30-1. His standout year was in 1975, when his team finished 14th nationally, led by stars like Chuck Muncie and quarterback Joe Roth. He also guided quarterback Steve Bartkowski, who became the first overall pick in the 1975 NFL Draft.
White transitioned to the NFL, where he spent two seasons with the 49ers before returning to coaching college football in 1980 at Illinois. He maintained a record of 47-41-3, accomplishing three bowl appearances, including a trip to the 1984 Rose Bowl.
Remarkably, his 1983 Illinois squad went 9-0 in the Big Ten, becoming the first team in conference history to beat every opponent in a single season. White returned to the NFL in 1990 and had a stint as Raiders head coach with a record of 15-17 before parting ways with the team in 1996.
Mike White’s legacy continues to influence coaches and players today. His approach emphasized respect and character, qualities that resonate throughout the sport. As sports continue to evolve, the values he championed remain relevant, reminding us of the importance of integrity in coaching and the impact one individual can have on young athletes.
For more insights into coaching and leadership in sports, you can explore resources from organizations like the NCAA.
