Hall Of Fame Coach Lou Holtz Passes Away At Age 89

Lou Holtz, the legendary college football coach who won the 1988 national championship as the head of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, has passed away at 89 years old, his family announced Wednesday.

Per a statement issued by the school, Holtz passed away in Orlando, Florida while being surrounded by family members. A cause of death was not given, according to a spokesperson per ESPN. (RELATED: Colorado’s Dominiq Ponder Tragically Dies In Car Crash At 23)

Marcus Freeman, the current head coach of Notre Dame, stated that Holtz had made an offer of “great support” ever since his arrival at the university, and rained down praise on the values Holtz provided emphasis on: love, trust and commitment.

“Lou’s impact at Notre Dame has gone well beyond the football field,” said Freeman in a social media statement. “He and his wife, Beth, are respected across campus for their generous hearts and commitment to carrying out Notre Dame’s mission of being a force for good. On behalf of the Notre Dame football program, we send our love to Lou’s family, friends and former players, wishing you all comfort and peace during this difficult time.”

From the family of Lou Holtz pic.twitter.com/aYWiXYVnLq

— The Fighting Irish (@FightingIrish) March 4, 2026

In his head coaching career, Holtz coached six colleges: Notre Dame, NC State, South Carolina, Arkansas, Minnesota and William & Mary. All-time, Holtz compiled a record of 249-132-7.

In 1976, he coached in the National Football League, putting up a record of 3-10 with the New York Jets.

Holtz would get into television after his retirement as a coach, which included a decade-plus run with ESPN.