NFL Fans took to social media Tuesday evening to remember a former Buffalo Bills head coach who died this week. The legendary defensive mind was known for revolutionizing the sport.
Former Denver Broncos DC Joe Collier died
Per GH Media, former Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Joe Collier died at his home at the age of 91. He was known for creating the 3-4 defense:
Joe Collier spent nearly 20 years on the Denver Broncos coaching staff, an incredible 16 of which were as defensive coordinator.
Collier was the architect of the “Orange Crush” 3-4 defense of the mid-1970s, and became most prominent in 1977 when the soda-named defense led the Broncos to Super Bowl XII, where they lost to the NFC Champions, Dallas Cowboys.
Six-time Super Bowl Champion head coach Bill Belichick credited Collier with teaching him much about defense during his one year with the Denver Broncos for the 1978 season.
Collier coached the Buffalo Bills from 1966-68
Before his heroics with the Broncos, Collier was the head coach of the Bills. In his first season (1966) with the team, he led the Bills to the AFL Championship Game, but they lost to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Collier was fired after two games in the 1968 season. He finished with a 13-16-1 record as the head coach of the Bills, which was his only stint as a head coach.
NFL fans remember Collier
NFL fans had a lot to say about Collier following reports of his death.
RIP to a legend. Thanks Joe. 🙏🏼
— The Sports Forum (@DenverForum) May 7, 2024
Bill Belichick owes everything to Joe Collier tbh
— Resting Cliff Booth Face (@urnfndbag) May 7, 2024
He helped shape the identity of the Broncos during a crucial period in their history. His contributions not only led to numerous division titles but also helped propel the team to three Super Bowl appearances.
— amby (@ambi_seke) May 7, 2024
He had no answer for the Washington Redskins in the SuperBowl! 42-10 !!#httr!!
— TIM SMITH (@RIGGODRILL) May 7, 2024
Thank you Joe 🙏🏼
— Kellyv1of1 (@kellyv1of1) May 7, 2024
Still the coolest nickname for a defense in NFL history
— Backbone5 (@backbone5) May 7, 2024
I think he was one of the best defensive coaches in history period. Very sad day. RIP
— Brian Raben (@brian_raben) May 7, 2024
RIP " Mr Orange Crush " you will not be forgotten THANK YOU or putting the Denver Broncos on the map and making them relevant
— Tony Ferguson (@TonyFergus71759) May 7, 2024
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