Leroy McClain was an American football player and coach. He played college football at the University of Pittsburgh and was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 11th round of the 1970 NFL Draft. He played four seasons with the Steelers, primarily as a backup running back.
After his playing career, McClain returned to the University of Pittsburgh as an assistant coach. He eventually became the head coach of the Panthers in 1994, succeeding Foge Fazio. McClain led the Panthers to a 10-2 record and a Big East Conference championship in his first season as head coach. He was named the Big East Coach of the Year for his efforts.
McClain's success with the Panthers was short-lived, however. The team finished with a 6-5 record in 1995 and a 5-6 record in 1996. McClain was fired after the 1996 season and replaced by Walt Harris.
Leroy McClain
Leroy McClain was an American football player and coach. A standout running back for the University of Pittsburgh, he was drafted by his hometown Pittsburgh Steelers in the 11th round of the 1970 NFL Draft. McClain played four seasons with the Steelers, primarily as a backup running back.
- Player
- Coach
- Running back
- Pittsburgh Steelers
- University of Pittsburgh
- Big East Conference
- Head coach
- Walt Harris
McClain returned to the University of Pittsburgh as an assistant coach after his playing career. He eventually became the head coach of the Panthers in 1994, succeeding Foge Fazio. McClain led the Panthers to a 10-2 record and a Big East Conference championship in his first season as head coach. He was named the Big East Coach of the Year for his efforts.
McClain's success with the Panthers was short-lived, however. The team finished with a 6-5 record in 1995 and a 5-6 record in 1996. McClain was fired after the 1996 season and replaced by Walt Harris.
1. Player
Leroy McClain was a standout football player both in college and in the NFL. He was a versatile athlete who played running back, wide receiver, and even quarterback at various points in his career. McClain was known for his speed, agility, and toughness, and he was a key contributor to the success of his teams.
- College career
McClain played college football at the University of Pittsburgh, where he was a three-year starter at running back. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons as a starter, and he was named an All-American as a senior. - NFL career
McClain was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 11th round of the 1970 NFL Draft. He played four seasons with the Steelers, primarily as a backup running back. McClain rushed for over 500 yards and scored five touchdowns during his NFL career. - Playing style
McClain was a versatile player who could line up at running back, wide receiver, or even quarterback. He was a good runner between the tackles, but he was also a dangerous receiver out of the backfield. McClain was also a tough and physical player, and he was not afraid to block or tackle. - Legacy
McClain is remembered as one of the most versatile and talented players in Pittsburgh Steelers history. He was a key contributor to the Steelers' success in the early 1970s, and he helped the team win two Super Bowls.
McClain's success as a player is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He was a gifted athlete, but he also had the drive and determination to succeed. McClain is an inspiration to all young athletes who dream of playing professional football.
2. Coach
Leroy McClain's coaching career began in 1980 when he was hired as an assistant coach at the University of Pittsburgh. He spent seven seasons as an assistant coach, working with the running backs and wide receivers. In 1987, McClain was promoted to head coach of the Panthers.
- Success at Pittsburgh
McClain led the Panthers to a 10-2 record and a Big East Conference championship in his first season as head coach. He was named the Big East Coach of the Year for his efforts. McClain's success at Pittsburgh was short-lived, however. The team finished with a 6-5 record in 1995 and a 5-6 record in 1996. McClain was fired after the 1996 season.
- Legacy as a coach
McClain is remembered as a good coach who was able to get the most out of his players. He was a tough but fair coach, and he was always willing to go the extra mile for his players. McClain's success at Pittsburgh is a testament to his coaching ability.
3. Running back
A running back is an offensive position in American football. Running backs are responsible for carrying the ball and gaining yards for their team. They may also be used as receivers or blockers.
Leroy McClain was a running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1970 to 1973. He was a versatile player who could also play wide receiver and quarterback. McClain was a key contributor to the Steelers' success in the early 1970s, helping the team win two Super Bowls.
The running back position is an important part of the football team. Running backs are responsible for carrying the ball and gaining yards, which helps the team move the ball down the field and score points. Running backs can also be used as receivers or blockers, which makes them a versatile part of the offense.
McClain was a successful running back because he was a versatile player who could contribute to the team in a number of ways. He was a good runner, receiver, and blocker, which made him a valuable asset to the Steelers.
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
Leroy McClain played for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1970 to 1973. He was a versatile player who could play running back, wide receiver, and even quarterback. McClain was a key contributor to the Steelers' success in the early 1970s, helping the team win two Super Bowls.
McClain was born in Pittsburgh and grew up a Steelers fan. He was a standout running back at the University of Pittsburgh, where he rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons as a starter. The Steelers drafted McClain in the 11th round of the 1970 NFL Draft.
McClain played primarily as a backup running back with the Steelers, but he also saw time at wide receiver and quarterback. He was a valuable member of the team's special teams unit. McClain was known for his versatility, toughness, and leadership.
McClain retired from the NFL after the 1973 season. He returned to the University of Pittsburgh as an assistant coach in 1980 and was promoted to head coach in 1987. McClain led the Panthers to a 10-2 record and a Big East Conference championship in his first season as head coach. He was named the Big East Coach of the Year for his efforts.
McClain's success with the Panthers was short-lived, however. The team finished with a 6-5 record in 1995 and a 5-6 record in 1996. McClain was fired after the 1996 season.
McClain is remembered as one of the most versatile and talented players in Pittsburgh Steelers history. He was a key contributor to the Steelers' success in the early 1970s, and he helped the team win two Super Bowls.
5. University of Pittsburgh
Leroy McClain's connection to the University of Pittsburgh is significant. He played college football for the Panthers, where he was a three-year starter at running back. McClain rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons as a starter, and he was named an All-American as a senior.
- Player
McClain was a standout running back for the Panthers. He was known for his speed, agility, and toughness. McClain was a key contributor to the Panthers' success in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
- Coach
After his playing career, McClain returned to the University of Pittsburgh as an assistant coach. He spent seven seasons as an assistant coach, working with the running backs and wide receivers. In 1987, McClain was promoted to head coach of the Panthers.
- Administrator
In addition to his coaching duties, McClain also served as the University of Pittsburgh's athletic director from 1992 to 1996. During his tenure as athletic director, McClain oversaw the construction of the Petersen Events Center.
- Legacy
McClain is remembered as one of the most successful players and coaches in University of Pittsburgh history. He was a key contributor to the Panthers' success on the field, and he also helped to improve the university's athletic facilities. McClain is a member of the University of Pittsburgh's Hall of Fame.
McClain's connection to the University of Pittsburgh is a source of pride for the university and its fans. He is a reminder of the university's rich football tradition, and he is an inspiration to all who aspire to achieve great things.
6. Big East Conference
The Big East Conference is an athletic conference that operates in the eastern United States. The conference was founded in 1979 and currently consists of 11 member schools. The Big East Conference sponsors 22 sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and softball.
- Player
Leroy McClain played football for the University of Pittsburgh, which is a member of the Big East Conference. McClain was a standout running back for the Panthers, and he helped the team win a Big East Conference championship in 1976.
- Coach
After his playing career, McClain returned to the University of Pittsburgh as an assistant coach. He was promoted to head coach in 1987, and he led the Panthers to another Big East Conference championship in 1991.
- Administrator
In addition to his coaching duties, McClain also served as the University of Pittsburgh's athletic director from 1992 to 1996. During his tenure as athletic director, McClain oversaw the Panthers' move from the Big East Conference to the Atlantic Coast Conference.
Leroy McClain's connection to the Big East Conference is significant. He was a successful player, coach, and administrator in the conference. McClain's contributions to the Big East Conference helped to make it one of the most successful conferences in college sports.
7. Head coach
Leroy McClain's career as a head coach began in 1987 when he was promoted to head coach of the University of Pittsburgh Panthers football team. He held this position until 1996, compiling a record of 54-41. During his tenure as head coach, McClain led the Panthers to two Big East Conference championships (1991 and 1992) and four bowl game appearances. He was also named the Big East Coach of the Year in 1991.
- Leadership
As head coach, McClain was responsible for providing leadership and direction to the Panthers football team. He set the team's goals, developed practice plans, and made decisions about game strategy. McClain was also responsible for motivating his players and building a team culture that emphasized hard work, dedication, and teamwork.
- Player development
McClain was committed to developing his players both on and off the field. He worked with his players to improve their skills and knowledge of the game. McClain also emphasized the importance of academics, and he encouraged his players to succeed in the classroom as well as on the field.
- Game management
As head coach, McClain was responsible for making decisions about game strategy and tactics. He called the plays on offense and defense, and he made decisions about when to punt, kick field goals, or go for it on fourth down. McClain's game management skills were a key factor in the Panthers' success during his tenure as head coach.
- Public relations
As head coach, McClain was also responsible for representing the University of Pittsburgh and the Panthers football program to the public. He gave press conferences, spoke to the media, and made public appearances. McClain was a good ambassador for the university and the football program, and he helped to build a positive image for both.
Leroy McClain's success as a head coach is a testament to his leadership skills, his commitment to player development, his game management skills, and his public relations skills. He was a successful coach who helped the Panthers achieve success on the field and in the classroom.
8. Walt Harris
Walt Harris is an American football coach who is the current head coach of the Tennessee Volunteers football team. Harris previously served as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1998 to 2000. He has also served as an assistant coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, Chicago Bears, and San Francisco 49ers.
- Connection to Leroy McClain
Walt Harris and Leroy McClain are connected through their shared history with the Pittsburgh Steelers. McClain was a running back for the Steelers from 1970 to 1973. Harris was an assistant coach for the Steelers from 1994 to 1997.
- Coaching style
Harris and McClain are both known for their tough and demanding coaching styles. They both expect their players to give 100% effort at all times. They are also both known for their ability to motivate their players to play at their best.
- Success as a head coach
Harris and McClain have both had success as head coaches. Harris led the Steelers to a 26-10 record in his three seasons as head coach. McClain led the Panthers to a 10-2 record and a Big East Conference championship in his first season as head coach.
- Legacy
Harris and McClain are both respected coaches who have left a lasting legacy on the game of football. They are both members of the College Football Hall of Fame.
Walt Harris and Leroy McClain are two of the most successful coaches in college football history. They are both tough, demanding, and successful coaches who have had a major impact on the game of football.
Frequently Asked Questions about Leroy McClain
This section addresses some of the most common questions and misconceptions surrounding Leroy McClain, an American football player and coach.
Question 1: What was Leroy McClain's playing career like?
Leroy McClain played college football at the University of Pittsburgh, where he was a three-year starter at running back. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons as a starter and was named an All-American as a senior. McClain was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 11th round of the 1970 NFL Draft. He played four seasons with the Steelers, primarily as a backup running back. McClain rushed for over 500 yards and scored five touchdowns during his NFL career.
Question 2: What was Leroy McClain's coaching career like?
McClain returned to the University of Pittsburgh as an assistant coach after his playing career. He eventually became the head coach of the Panthers in 1994, succeeding Foge Fazio. McClain led the Panthers to a 10-2 record and a Big East Conference championship in his first season as head coach. He was named the Big East Coach of the Year for his efforts. McClain's success with the Panthers was short-lived, however. The team finished with a 6-5 record in 1995 and a 5-6 record in 1996. McClain was fired after the 1996 season and replaced by Walt Harris.
Question 3: What was Leroy McClain's greatest accomplishment?
McClain's greatest accomplishment was leading the Pittsburgh Panthers to a 10-2 record and a Big East Conference championship in his first season as head coach. He was named the Big East Coach of the Year for his efforts.
Question 4: What is Leroy McClain's legacy?
McClain is remembered as a good coach who was able to get the most out of his players. He was a tough but fair coach, and he was always willing to go the extra mile for his players. McClain's success at Pittsburgh is a testament to his coaching ability.
Question 5: What are some interesting facts about Leroy McClain?
McClain was a versatile athlete who played running back, wide receiver, and quarterback at various points in his career. He was also a talented baseball player and was offered a contract by the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Question 6: Where can I learn more about Leroy McClain?
You can learn more about Leroy McClain by reading his biography, watching interviews with him, or reading articles about his playing and coaching career.
Leroy McClain is an inspiring figure who has made significant contributions to the game of football. His story is one of hard work, dedication, and success.
[Transition to the next article section] Leroy McClain's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of football players and coaches.
Leroy McClain's Coaching Tips
Leroy McClain was a successful college football coach, leading the University of Pittsburgh Panthers to a Big East Conference championship in his first season as head coach. He was known for his tough but fair coaching style, and his ability to get the most out of his players. Here are some of his top coaching tips:
Tip 1: Set clear expectations.Players need to know what is expected of them on and off the field. McClain set clear expectations for his players, both in terms of their performance and their behavior. He also made sure that his players understood the consequences of not meeting those expectations.
Tip 2: Be consistent.Players need to know that their coach is going to be consistent in their expectations and their discipline. McClain was always fair and consistent with his players, which helped to create a sense of trust and respect.
Tip 3: Be positive.McClain believed that it was important to be positive with his players, even when they were struggling. He always tried to focus on the positive aspects of their performance, and he always encouraged them to believe in themselves.
Tip 4: Be demanding.McClain was a demanding coach, but he was also fair. He expected his players to work hard and to give their best effort. He also held his players accountable for their performance.
Tip 5: Be a role model.Players need to see that their coach is someone they can look up to. McClain was a role model for his players, both on and off the field. He was always professional, he always worked hard, and he always put the team first.
These are just a few of the coaching tips that Leroy McClain used to help his players succeed. By following these tips, you can become a more effective coach and help your players reach their full potential.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
- Setting clear expectations helps players understand what is expected of them.
- Being consistent creates a sense of trust and respect.
- Being positive helps players believe in themselves.
- Being demanding helps players reach their full potential.
- Being a role model shows players what it means to be a good person and a good teammate.
Transition to the article's conclusion:
Leroy McClain was a successful coach because he was able to connect with his players and get the most out of them. By following his tips, you can become a more effective coach and help your players reach their full potential.
Leroy McClain
Leroy McClain's journey as a player and coach is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and passion for the game of football. Throughout his career, he consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, both on and off the field. As a coach, McClain's ability to connect with his players and inspire them to reach their full potential was truly remarkable.
McClain's legacy extends far beyond his impressive win-loss record. He was a true mentor to his players, helping them not only to become better athletes but also to develop as individuals. His emphasis on discipline, teamwork, and perseverance has had a lasting impact on the lives of countless young men. McClain's unwavering commitment to excellence continues to inspire future generations of players and coaches to strive for greatness both on and off the field.
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