West Virginia Football Icon and Coaching Legend Don Nehlen Secures Yet Another Prestigious Honor as He Earns Induction Into Another Hall of Fame, Further Cementing His Legacy as One of the Most Influential and Respected Figures in College Football History
Few names in college football carry the weight and respect that Don Nehlen’s does, particularly within the passionate community of West Virginia University (WVU) football. For decades, Nehlen was not just the face of WVU football—he was the driving force behind its transformation from an unremarkable program into a powerhouse capable of competing with the best teams in the nation. His leadership, coaching acumen, and unwavering dedication to his players made him a revered figure not just in Morgantown, but across the entire college football landscape.
Now, in a fitting tribute to his extraordinary career and impact on the game, Don Nehlen has received yet another prestigious honor—his induction into another Hall of Fame. This latest recognition is yet another testament to the enduring legacy of a man who helped shape not only West Virginia football but the sport of college football as a whole. As fans and former players celebrate this well-earned honor, it is worth taking a closer look at Nehlen’s career, his impact on WVU, and why his name continues to be enshrined among the greatest in football history.
The Coaching Journey of Don Nehlen: From Humble Beginnings to WVU Legend
Long before Don Nehlen became synonymous with West Virginia football, he was just another aspiring coach looking to make an impact in the sport he loved. Born in 1936 in Canton, Ohio, Nehlen developed a deep passion for football early in life. He played quarterback at Bowling Green State University, where he first began to understand the complexities of the game from a strategic perspective.
After finishing his playing career, Nehlen quickly transitioned into coaching, taking on assistant coaching roles at his alma mater and eventually working his way up to a head coaching position at Bowling Green. While his time at Bowling Green was marked by steady improvement, it wasn’t until 1980—when he took over as the head coach of WVU—that he truly cemented his place in college football history.
When Nehlen arrived in Morgantown, West Virginia, WVU’s football program was far from a national powerhouse. The Mountaineers had experienced brief flashes of success, but consistency had eluded them. Nehlen set out to change that. Through disciplined coaching, a commitment to recruiting top-tier talent, and a relentless work ethic, he built WVU into a program that could compete with anyone in the country.
Transforming WVU Football: A Legacy of Success
Under Nehlen’s leadership, WVU football underwent a transformation that would redefine its place in college football history. Over the course of his 21-year tenure as head coach (1980-2000), Nehlen compiled an impressive 149-93-4 record, making him the winningest coach in Mountaineers history at the time of his retirement. But his success went far beyond just the numbers.
Nehlen’s teams were known for their discipline, toughness, and ability to compete at a high level regardless of the opponent. His ability to develop talent and foster a culture of excellence turned WVU into a respected program on the national stage. Some of his most significant accomplishments include:
1. The Undefeated 1988 Season
One of the most remarkable achievements of Nehlen’s career was leading WVU to an undefeated 1988 regular season, finishing 11-0 and earning a trip to the Fiesta Bowl to play for the national championship against Notre Dame. Though the Mountaineers fell short in that game, the fact that they reached that stage was a testament to Nehlen’s ability to build a championship-caliber team. The 1988 squad, led by quarterback Major Harris, remains one of the most celebrated teams in WVU history.
2. Multiple Bowl Appearances and Big Wins
Throughout his tenure, Nehlen led WVU to 13 bowl game appearances, further solidifying the program’s status as a consistent force in college football. His teams secured numerous victories over top-ranked opponents, proving that WVU was not just a regional power but a team capable of competing with the best in the nation.
3. Developing NFL Talent
Under Nehlen’s guidance, numerous WVU players went on to have successful careers in the NFL. From Major Harris to Jeff Hostetler, his ability to develop talent ensured that WVU remained a pipeline for future professional stars. His influence extended beyond the college game, helping shape players who would go on to make a mark at the highest level.
Nehlen’s Coaching Philosophy: A Blueprint for Success
What set Don Nehlen apart from many other coaches of his era was his commitment to doing things the right way. He emphasized discipline, teamwork, and personal accountability, instilling in his players the values that would serve them well both on and off the field.
1. Focus on Fundamentals
Nehlen was a firm believer that football success came down to mastering the fundamentals. He stressed the importance of strong blocking, tackling, and execution—ensuring that his teams were always well-prepared and technically sound.
2. Building a Family Atmosphere
Many of Nehlen’s former players have spoken about the familial environment he created at WVU. He genuinely cared about his players beyond their football abilities, fostering an atmosphere where young men could grow not only as athletes but as individuals.
3. Adapting to Change
While Nehlen had a traditional coaching style, he was also not afraid to adapt when necessary. Throughout his two decades at WVU, he made adjustments to keep up with the evolving nature of the game, ensuring that his teams remained competitive year after year.
Another Hall of Fame Induction: A Fitting Tribute to a Coaching Great
Given his extraordinary career, it is no surprise that Don Nehlen has been recognized with yet another Hall of Fame induction. This latest honor adds to an already extensive list of accolades, which includes:
- Induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2005
- Membership in the WVU Sports Hall of Fame
- Recognition in the Mid-American Conference Hall of Fame
- Numerous coaching awards and lifetime achievement honors
This most recent Hall of Fame induction is yet another confirmation of Nehlen’s lasting impact on the game of football. It serves as a reminder of the countless lives he touched, the program he built, and the legacy he left behind at WVU.
Nehlen’s Enduring Impact on WVU and College Football
Even in retirement, Nehlen has remained an influential figure in the world of college football. His insights, experience, and wisdom are still sought after by coaches, analysts, and fans alike. His presence continues to be felt in Morgantown, where he remains one of the most beloved figures in WVU history.
1. Inspiring Future Generations
Nehlen’s coaching tree includes numerous former assistants and players who have gone on to become successful coaches in their own right. His influence has spread far beyond West Virginia, shaping the game at multiple levels.
2. A Permanent Legacy at WVU
WVU’s football program still bears Nehlen’s fingerprints. From the facilities to the culture of excellence he instilled, his impact is woven into the very fabric of Mountaineer football.
3. A Standard of Excellence
Nehlen set a high standard for what WVU football could be. His success laid the foundation for future coaches to build upon, ensuring that the program remains competitive on the national stage.
Conclusion: A Worthy Honor for a True Football Legend
Don Nehlen’s latest Hall of Fame induction is more than just another accolade—it is a recognition of a lifetime dedicated to the game of football. His contributions to WVU, his impact on the lives of his players, and his influence on the sport as a whole make him one of the most respected figures in college football history.
As fans, players, and the entire WVU community celebrate this latest honor, one thing is clear: Don Nehlen’s legacy is as strong as ever, and his name will forever be synonymous with excellence in college football.
