Former coach Mike White, who led Cal and Illinois, passes away at 89

Mike White, a storied figure in college and professional football coaching, has passed away at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy that shaped several prominent programs and teams.

Why it matters: White's contributions to football spanned over five decades, influencing countless players and coaching systems along the way. His approach not only emphasized tactical prowess but also personal development and respect for athletes.

• His coaching career began with the California Golden Bears, where he led the team to a share of the Pac-8 title in 1975.
• Known for developing star talents like Steve Bartkowski, who became the No. 1 overall pick in the 1975 NFL Draft, White’s impact on player careers is notable.

What’s new: Confirmed by his family, Mike White died on Sunday in Newport Beach, marking the end of an era for many who admired his coaching philosophy.

• White’s tenure at Cal (1972-1978) concluded with a record of 35-30-1, including a pivotal year in 1975 when he was named Coach of the Year after achieving conference honors.
• He later coached the Illinois Fighting Illini from 1980 to 1987, leading them to three bowl appearances and a historic undefeated Big Ten season in 1983.

The big picture: White’s coaching branches extended into the NFL, where he served as head coach of the Oakland Raiders during their return to Oakland in the mid-1990s.

• Under his leadership, the Raiders had a record of 15-17, a period marked by transition for the franchise.
• Notably, he was also part of Dick Vermeil's staff with the St. Louis Rams when they captured the Super Bowl following the 1999 season.

Yes, but: While White’s coaching records reflect a mixed bag of successes and challenges, his ability to foster relationships with players was unparalleled.

• Former player Burl Toler Jr. remarked on White's respectful engagement with athletes, stating, “Mike was special. He treated us like men and with a lot of respect.”
• This sentiment underscores the importance of coaching beyond mere statistics, focusing on mentorship and player development.

Zoom In: At Cal, White cultivated a dynamic offense that featured standout players such as Chuck Muncie and Joe Roth, both keys to the team's success during his tenure.

• His strategies laid the groundwork for offensive schemes that would evolve in subsequent years, contributing to modern interpretations of the game.

The bottom line: Mike White's passing marks a significant loss for the football community, yet his legacy will endure through the players and coaches he influenced. As fans and colleagues remember him, the values he instilled in the sport will continue to resonate across generations.