FORMER LSU TIGERS HEAD COACH LES MILES PASSES AWAY AT 70, REMEMBERED FOR HIS CHAMPIONSHIP LEGACY AND IMPACT ON COLLEGE FOOTBALL…..read more…..

FORMER LSU TIGERS HEAD COACH LES MILES PASSES AWAY AT 70, REMEMBERED FOR HIS CHAMPIONSHIP LEGACY AND IMPACT ON COLLEGE FOOTBALL…..read more…..

The college football world is mourning today as news broke that Les Miles, the legendary former head coach of the LSU Tigers, has passed away at the age of 70. Known for his colorful personality, unconventional play-calling, and championship pedigree, Miles leaves behind a remarkable legacy that will be remembered for generations.

Miles’ family announced that he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones after a brief illness. His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans, former players, coaches, and institutions across the country. Many remember him not just as a brilliant football mind but also as a passionate mentor who cared deeply about his players both on and off the field.

Born on November 10, 1953, in Elyria, Ohio, Les Miles developed a love for football at an early age. He played offensive line at the University of Michigan under legendary coach Bo Schembechler, a connection that would influence his coaching style for the rest of his career. After a successful stint as an assistant coach at various programs, Miles took his first head coaching job at Oklahoma State University in 2001, where he helped turn the struggling Cowboys into a competitive force.

In 2005, Miles accepted the head coaching position at LSU, taking over a program that had recently won a national title under Nick Saban. In his first season, Miles led the Tigers to an impressive 11–2 record, setting the tone for what would become one of the most successful eras in LSU football history.

Miles’ crowning achievement came during the 2007 season when he led LSU to a BCS National Championship victory over Ohio State. Under his leadership, the Tigers became the first two-loss team to win a national title in the BCS era, a testament to Miles’ resilience and ability to rally his team through adversity.

Throughout his 12-year tenure at LSU, Miles compiled a stellar 114–34 record, captured two SEC Championships, and maintained LSU’s reputation as one of the premier programs in college football. Known as “The Mad Hatter” for his daring play calls — including infamous fake field goals and gutsy fourth-down conversions — Miles became a beloved figure not just in Baton Rouge, but throughout the sport.

“Coach Miles brought an energy and confidence to LSU that we all fed off,” said former LSU quarterback Matt Flynn, who played under Miles during the 2007 championship season. “He made you believe that anything was possible, no matter how tough the situation.”

Miles was also known for his quirks, such as eating blades of grass off the field before games for good luck — a habit that became an iconic symbol of his eccentricity and passion for the game. Despite the often tense and high-stakes environment of SEC football, Miles maintained a sense of humor and a focus on building relationships with his players.

In 2016, after a rocky start to the season, LSU parted ways with Miles, ending one of the most celebrated coaching tenures in school history. Following his departure from LSU, Miles later served as the head coach at the University of Kansas from 2019 to 2020, working to rebuild their football program before stepping away from coaching.

Off the field, Miles was known for his commitment to his family and to charitable work. He often participated in events supporting cancer research, children’s hospitals, and military veterans, using his platform to give back to the community.

“Les Miles was more than just a coach — he was a leader, a father figure to many of his players, and a true ambassador for college football,” said LSU Athletic Director Scott Woodward in a statement. “We are deeply saddened by his passing, but we are grateful for the lasting impact he made on our university and the sport we all love.”

In honor of Miles, LSU has announced plans to dedicate a section of Tiger Stadium in his memory, and a moment of silence will be held before this weekend’s spring game. Additionally, former players are organizing a memorial event to celebrate his life and the countless lives he touched.

Les Miles’ career was marked by passion, unpredictability, and excellence. While he may no longer be on the sidelines, his spirit, and the lessons he imparted to his players and colleagues, will continue to inspire future generations. His contributions to LSU, college football, and the lives he influenced will be remembered forever.

Rest in peace, Coach Miles. Thank you for the memories, the championships, and the heart you brought to the game.