Paul Wiggin: College Football Hall of Famer Dies at 91
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Paul Wiggin, stanford Coach Who Endured ‘The Play,’ Dies at 91
IRVING, Texas – Paul Wiggin, a former Stanford University and Cleveland Browns star and the head coach during the infamous “the Play” game, died Friday at the age of 91.The declaration of his passing came from the Cleveland Browns, the Minnesota Vikings, and the National Football foundation, noting he was the fourth-oldest living National Football Foundation Hall of Famer.
A Career Spanning decades
Wiggin’s football journey began as a player. He was a standout offensive lineman for the Cleveland Browns from 1957 to 1965, earning Pro Bowl selections in 1960 and 1961 Pro-Football-Reference. He helped the Browns win NFL championships in 1964 and 1965.
After retiring as a player, Wiggin transitioned into coaching. He served as the head coach at Stanford university from 1980 to 1983, compiling an 11-24 record Sports-Reference. He was dismissed during the 1977 season.
Prior to his time at Stanford, Wiggin was the defensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints for two years. He returned to his alma mater, Stanford, as head coach in 1980.
“The Play” and Its Legacy
Wiggin is perhaps most remembered for being the Stanford coach during the 1982 “Big Game” against the university of California, Berkeley. The game concluded with one of the most controversial and iconic finishes in college football history – “The Play.”
With Stanford leading 20-19, California attempted a series of laterals on the final kickoff return. Five laterals later, Kevin Moen ran into the end zone as time expired, giving California a 25-20 victory.The stanford band prematurely entered the field,believing their team had won,and partially obstructed the path of the Cal players.The touchdown stood after a lengthy review, sparking decades of debate and cementing “The Play” as a legendary moment in sports history.
“I think it’s the most remarkable finish to a college football game,” said former Stanford Athletic Director Andy Geiger, as reported by the ESPN.
Later Career and Vikings Tenure
Following his tenure at Stanford, Wiggin spent eight seasons (1985-1991) as the defensive line coach for the Minnesota Vikings. He then transitioned into various roles within the Vikings’ front office, remaining with the institution for nearly 40 years. He