Professional Football Researchers Association Forum

Yeah I just heard about this. He lived a long life. His kids are probably nearly in their 70's now themselves.

lastcat3 wrote:Yeah I just heard about this. He lived a long life. His kids are probably nearly in their 70's now themselves.

Dave Shula was in his early 30's when he took over as Bengals HC. I had guessed he was in his late 50's, but when I looked it up, he will be 61 later this month. The other children are in their late 50's.

RIP, Don.
For the countless hours of entertainment, for your fire and understanding of the game... for the enrichment you brought to my life over your forty years in the NFL... I am eternally grateful.

Shula was married in July 1958.

Saw an item that the Colts were considering Shula, Buddy Parker and Bill Austin for the head coaching position. Looks like they made the right choice.

He was hired the day before Paul Brown got the ax, so Shula was ready to hire Blanton Collier as an assistant--since Collier had hired him at Kentucky in 1959.

Amazing to think that '66 to '68 he had Noll as an assistant, >500 wins between the two of them!

2020 just keeps on getting worse and worse, don't it?

NWebster wrote:Amazing to think that '66 to '68 he had Noll as an assistant, >500 wins between the two of them!

It is impressive. My understanding is Shula helped Noll get the Steelers head coaching position. What a reference!

sluggermatt15 wrote:

NWebster wrote:Amazing to think that '66 to '68 he had Noll as an assistant, >500 wins between the two of them!

It is impressive. My understanding is Shula helped Noll get the Steelers head coaching position. What a reference!

Noll was also mentioned in coaching searches of the Bills and Raiders, although in the latter case, his past history with Al Davis (with the Chargers) likely gave him enough insight to know he'd never have full authority as HC.

Shula the defensive back is seemingly in every photo of great 1950's receivers. He is like the Rick Adelman of the NFL.