Lovie Smith

Football, 1976-79

Class of 1999

Lovie Smith was a defensive standout who started every game for three seasons, compiling 367 career tackles … began his career as a linebacker, but was quickly moved to safety … was a three-time All-Missouri Valley Conference performer … earned second-team All-America mention in 1978 after posting 92 tackles as a junior … was named MVC Newcomer of the Year after registering 90 tackles his freshman season … had a career-high 120 tackles his sophomore season, including five tackles for -16 yards … was a longtime assistant coach in college and professional football … was the head coach of the Chicago Bears and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.