Tennessee head coach Bill Battle, center, is asking an official what going on as his team battles against Texas Tech in the Gator Bowl in Jacksonville, Fla., on Dec. 29, 1973. The Vols comeback bid fell short as Texas Tech won 28-19 before 62,109. Standout freshman Stanley Morgan (21), left, looks on. Bill Battle, former Tennessee football coach and Alabama athletic director, has died at the age of 82.
The University of Alabama, where Battle played for Paul “Bear” Bryant from 1960-62 and served as AD from 2013-17, confirmed his passing on Thursday.
Battle compiled a 59-22-2 record over seven seasons with the Volunteers from 1970-76 and went 4-1 in bowl games before being replaced by Johnny Majors.
The Birmingham native won a national championship in 1961, playing as an end for Bryant’s Crimson Tide.
Before returning to Tuscaloosa in 2013 to lead the athletic department, he founded the Collegiate Licensing Company in 1981 and served as its president and CEO until 2002.
“Bill Battle’s legacy at The University of Alabama is profound and enduring,” university president Stuart R. Bell said. “His generosity and visionary leadership elevated our institution and enriched the lives of countless students and colleagues. His dedication to excellence and steadfast devotion to UA will inspire generations to come. We are forever grateful for his friendship and his lasting impact on our community.”
Former Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban also released a statement.
“Bill Battle was first class in every way. He represented The University of Alabama with tremendous character and integrity,” Saban said. “He was an outstanding football player at Alabama, a successful collegiate head coach and visionary who revolutionized the business of college athletics. I got to know him best when he returned to direct the Alabama athletics department where his vision and leadership were driving factors in the Crimson Tide’s success that resulted in our 2015 national championship. Terry and I are saddened by his passing and our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Mary and their entire family. He will be deeply missed.”
–Field Level Media
