Buddy Ryan (American Football Coach)

Profession: American Football Coach

Biography: Buddy Ryan was an American football coach known for his creation of the 46 defense and his time with the Chicago Bears, Philadelphia Eagles, and other NFL teams. As a defensive mastermind, Ryan was part of the coaching staff that led the Jets to a Super Bowl III victory and orchestrated one of the most dominant defenses in NFL history with the 1985 Chicago Bears.

Starting in the high school ranks, Ryan became the defensive line coach for the New York Jets in 1968 and contributed to their Super Bowl III win. He moved on to the Minnesota Vikings, bolstering the "Purple People Eaters," before making a profound impact with the Chicago Bears where he devised the revolutionary 46 defense. Despite tensions with head coach Mike Ditka, they secured a Super Bowl XX victory.

As a head coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, Ryan was known for his aggressive style and memorable events like the "Bounty Bowl." Later, as a defensive coordinator for the Houston Oilers, he was involved in a sideline altercation with offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride. Ryan concluded his NFL coaching career with the Arizona Cardinals, experiencing early success but ultimately being released from his duties.

Ryan had three marriages and was survived by two sons, Rex Ryan and Rob Ryan, who followed in his footsteps with careers in the NFL.

Born: February 17, 1931
Birthplace: Frederick, Oklahoma, USA

Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Goat/Sheep
Star Sign: Aquarius

Died: June 28, 2016 (aged 85)
Cause of Death: Cancer and stroke complications

Coaching Career

• 1985-12-02 Chicago Bears' head coach Mike Ditka and defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan almost come to blows at halftime in a 38-24 loss to the Miami Dolphins at the Orange Bowl, Miami; Chicago's only loss of the NFL season
• 1989-11-23 The "Bounty Bowl": Philadelphia Eagles defeat Dallas Cowboys 27-0 at Thanksgiving in an ill-tempered game, after which Cowboys coach Jimmy Johnson accuses Eagles coach Buddy Ryan of placing bounties on players
• 1990-11-12 "The Body Bag Game" - after Eagles coach Buddy Ryan threatens beating Redskins so badly "they'll have to be carted off in body bags" the Eagles defense score 3 touchdowns winning 28–14, knocking 8 Redskins out of the game

References

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