George Allen, Sr.

Date of Birth: April 29, 1918

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: December 31, 1990

Biography

George Herbert Allen, Sr. was a renowned American football coach who left an indelible mark on both college and professional football. Known for his defensive acumen, meticulous preparation, and innovative strategies, Allen’s coaching career spanned several decades, and he is often credited with transforming teams into formidable units. Born in Nelson County, Virginia, Allen began his coaching career at the high school level before moving on to college football and eventually the National Football League (NFL). Allen first gained significant recognition as the head coach of the Los Angeles Rams from 1966 to 1970, where he turned the team into a consistent playoff contender. However, he is perhaps best known for his tenure with the Washington Redskins from 1971 to 1977. Under his leadership, the Redskins reached the Super Bowl in 1972 and appeared in multiple playoffs. Allen was known for his “Over-the-Hill Gang,” a group of veteran players he recruited to bring experience and resilience to the team. Throughout his career, Allen was celebrated for his ability to turn teams around quickly, earning him the reputation of a master tactician and motivator. His contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002. Allen’s legacy continues to influence the game, and his innovative approaches to team management and preparation remain relevant to this day.

5 Interesting Facts about George Allen, Sr.

1. George Allen, Sr. was a two-time NFL Coach of the Year, winning the award in 1967 and 1971.

2. He never had a losing season during his 12-year NFL coaching career.

3. Allen was famous for his emphasis on special teams and often said, “Special teams win games.”

4. He was known for his intense work ethic and attention to detail, often working 16-hour days during the season.

5. Allen’s coaching tree includes several successful NFL coaches, demonstrating his lasting influence on the sport.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Allen, Sr.

1. “The future is now.”

2. “Every day you waste is one you can’t get back.”

3. “You can’t win without good players, but you can lose with them if you don’t coach them right.”

4. “Losing is like dying.”

5. “Football isn’t a contact sport; it’s a collision sport. Dancing is a contact sport.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, George Allen, Sr.’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.

Children

George Allen, Sr. had six children, including George Allen Jr., who became a notable politician, serving as the Governor of Virginia and U.S. Senator.