Tributes have poured in from the state of Alabama for Birmingham native and college football legend Bobby Bowden, who has passed away at age 91. The two-time national champion is the second-winningest head coach in the history of major college football.
During his freshman year of college, Bowden played quarterback for the University of Alabama. He later moved back home and transferred to then-Howard College now known as Samford University, where he was a multi-sport athlete. He went on to become captain of the Howard football team and was awarded All-American honors as starting quarterback.
He would take multiple coaching stops throughout his illustrious career until establishing a powerhouse of a program at Florida State University. Bowden led the Seminoles to juggernaut status, racking up twelve Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) championships and two national titles.
Political leaders and football coaches from Alabama took to social media to honor the legendary coach.
Today the nation says goodbye and thank you to not just a legend in college football but one of the best individuals that God has given this earth. God Bless Hall of Fame Coach Bobby Bowden.
Our prayers to his family.
— Coach Tommy Tuberville (@SenTuberville) August 8, 2021
I’m saddened to hear the legendary Bobby Bowden has passed away. He never forgot his Birmingham, AL roots and early days at UA and Samford. He will be missed, and I’ll be praying for his family in the days ahead. #alpolitics https://t.co/R1DYGN4MEq
— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) August 8, 2021
Rest In Peace to a Legend. pic.twitter.com/Iysy2hXtrj
— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) August 8, 2021
Bowden is widely considered to be one of the greatest coaches in the history of the sport. The coach left his mark as a legendary figure for his achievements during his remarkable career. However, his on the field success pales in comparison to the kind of man he was off the field. This fact is evidenced by the outpouring of tributes bestowed upon Bowden’s legacy as not only a coach, but as a friend to so many.
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
