A coaching icon passes away

Darrell Royal, a mainstay on the Texas sidelines for twenty years, passed away earlier this morning, at age 88 after a long battle with Alzheimer's. Certainly, our staff's thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Coach Royal as they go through this very difficult time.

In coaching circles, Royal was well known for his highly successful wishbone offense, and he compiled an 167-47-5 record at Texas before retiring from coaching .

Despite taking over a one win team when he took the Texas job in 1957, during the next twenty seasons on the Longhorn sideline Royal never had a losing season. The Longhorns collected two national titles, won or shared 11 conference titles, and made 16 bowl appearances under his watch. Royal also earned national coach of the year awards five times and was a shoo-in inductee into the the college football hall of fame in 1983. Very impressive resume.

The Longhorns named their stadium after him in 1996.

Reading a few articles this morning on Royal, it is clear to see that he will remain a valued member of the coaching fraternity forever and will go down as one of the best to ever roam the sideline.

Here's a few of the best written articles that we came across this morning on Royal and the legacy he has left behind.

- Some great quotes and stories from the New York Times. 

- The Houston Chronicle also has a nice take on his legacy, with some good quotes from coaches who knew him.

- ESPN also has a nice take on Coach Royal and his contributions.

- Here's another well done piece from the Houston Chronice with some of Royal's famous quotes.

- Our Zach Barnett chimed in with his impression of Royal's legacy.