Synopsis
Simply Devine: Memoirs of a Hall of Fame Coach is the autobiography of Dan Devine, a revered figure in American football, chronicling his remarkable journey as a coach across college and professional levels. Written with Michael R. Steele and published in 2000, the book offers an introspective look at Devine’s career, personal challenges, and the philosophies that shaped his success. From his early days in Michigan to his induction into the National Football Foundation Hall of Fame in 1985, Devine’s narrative weaves together triumphs, setbacks, and insights into the evolving landscape of football over four decades. With a foreword by Joe Paterno and a prologue by Joe Garagiola, the memoir captures the essence of a coach who, despite being underappreciated at times, left an indelible mark on the sport.
Devine’s story begins with his formative years, detailing the youthful hardships that instilled resilience and a competitive spirit. His coaching career started modestly at East Jordan High School in Michigan, where his teams went undefeated for two years, setting the stage for his ascent. At Arizona State University, Devine achieved a stellar 27-3-1 record, establishing himself as a promising coach. His tenure at the University of Missouri from 1958 to 1970 was particularly significant, where he compiled a 93-37-7 record and led the Tigers to consistent success, including a notable 1969 victory over Michigan. Devine’s deep affection for Missouri shines through, as he reflects on the difficulty of leaving the program. His time there showcased his ability to build competitive teams, with the 1960s Missouri squad being the only major college team to avoid more than three losses in a season during that decade.
The memoir delves into Devine’s high-profile stint at Notre Dame, where he coached from 1975 to 1980, culminating in a national championship in 1977 with an 11-1 record. His six seasons with the Fighting Irish are a focal point, offering vivid anecdotes about coaching legends like Joe Montana, whose development under Devine’s guidance is a highlight. Devine also addresses the iconic “Rudy” episode, providing his perspective on the famous moment immortalized in film. His Notre Dame years were marked by intense pressure, following in the footsteps of coaching giants, yet he led the team to contend for the top ranking on multiple occasions. The book also covers his less successful but impactful tenure as head coach and general manager of the Green Bay Packers, where he secured a division title in 1972, the only one between the Vince Lombardi era and the 1990s. Devine reflects on controversial decisions, like the John Hadl trade, offering context to his time in the NFL.
Beyond game strategies and wins, Devine’s memoir is a deeply personal account. He candidly discusses the challenges he faced, including family struggles and the societal issues of drug and alcohol abuse that affected his teams. His low-key, self-effacing personality contrasts with the competitive fire that drove him to succeed in a cutthroat industry. Devine shares his teambuilding philosophies and winning strategies, emphasizing hard work and discipline, which resonated with players like Johnny Roland and Roger Wehrli. The book also addresses the evolution of football, with Devine as a firsthand witness to major changes in the college and professional game. Despite some noted factual errors in the text, such as inaccuracies about Michigan’s losses under Bo Schembechler or Ara Parseghian’s national championships, the memoir is praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.
Ultimately, Simply Devine is a testament to a coach who achieved extraordinary success while remaining grounded. Reviews highlight its appeal to college football fans, particularly those interested in Notre Dame, Missouri, or the Packers, and commend Devine’s storytelling for adding new layers to well-known events. The memoir is both an inspiring tale of perseverance and a valuable historical record of football’s golden eras, making it a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the sport’s legacy.