Bill McCartney Dies at 84; Legendary Colorado HC Led Buffaloes to 1990 National Title

Legendary former Colorado head coach Bill McCartney died Friday at the age of 84.

His family announced his death “after a courageous journey with dementia” in a statement (h/t ESPN).

“Coach Mac touched countless lives with his unwavering faith, boundless compassion, and enduring legacy as a leader, mentor and advocate for family, community and faith,” his family said in the statement. “As a trailblazer and visionary, his impact was felt both on and off the field, and his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those he inspired.”

McCartney spent all 13 years of his head coaching career with the Buffaloes, finishing with an overall record of 93-55-5 before his retirement at the end of the 1994 season. He helped lead Colorado to its first and only national championship victory in 1990, while the team appeared in nine bowl games during his tenure.

McCartney ranks No. 1 on the Buffaloes’ all-time wins list as well as No. 1 on their all-time games coached leaderboard.

He initially joined Michigan’s staff as a defensive aide in 1974, serving as the team’s outside linebackers coach for three seasons. He eventually took over as Michigan’s defensive coordinator in 1977 before leaving to join the Buffaloes prior to the 1982 season.

Colorado athletic director Rick George, who worked under McCartney, also released a statement.

“I was fortunate to be able to say goodbye to Coach in person last week,” George said, via ESPN. “Coach Mac was an incredible man who taught me about the importance of faith, family and being a good husband, father and grandfather. He instilled discipline and accountability to all of us who worked and played under his leadership.”

“The mark that he left on CU football and our athletic department will be hard to replicate,” he added.

McCartney was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame as part of the 2013 class.