Joe Gibbs Profile

Washington Redskins coach Joe Gibbs and Joe Theismann

Joe Gibbs is a name synonymous with greatness in the NFL. As the head coach of the Washington Redskins, he led the team to three Super Bowl victories and cemented his legacy as one of the most respected figures in football history. This article explores his incredible journey, from his early coaching days to his legendary status in both the NFL and NASCAR.

Vitals

Position: Head Coach
Born: Mocksville, NC
Date of Birth: November 25, 1940
High School: Santa Fe, California
College: San Diego State
NFL Career: 16 Seasons, 248 Games
Teams: Washington Redskins (1981–1992, 2004–2007)

Career Highlights

3x Super Bowl Champion (XVII, XXII, XXVI)
4 Super Bowl Appearances
Washington Redskins Ring of Fame
Washington Redskins 90 Greatest
Pro Football Hall of Fame (1996)
NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NASCAR Hall of Fame (2020)

Awards

2x AP Coach of the Year
2x PFWA Coach of the Year
3x Sporting News Coach of the Year
UPI Coach of the Year
Street in Ashburn named Coach Gibbs Drive

Joe Gibbs: A Legend in Washington Redskins History

Joe Gibbs isn’t just a name—he’s a part of Washington Redskins history. Across two separate stints as head coach (1981-1992 and 2004-2007), Gibbs became one of the most revered figures in NFL history, leading the Redskins to three Super Bowl victories and solidifying his place among the all-time greats.

Gibbs was born on November 25, 1940, in Mocksville, North Carolina, and later went on to play college football at San Diego State. Little did anyone know back then, this humble beginning would lead to a football empire. Before taking on a head coaching role, Gibbs spent years as an assistant coach with several teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. By 1979, he helped put the “Air Coryell” offense on the map as the offensive coordinator with the San Diego Chargers.

The Road to Washington

After 17 years as an assistant coach, Joe Gibbs landed his first head coaching gig with the Washington Redskins in 1981. It wasn’t the easiest start—Washington dropped their first five games that season—but Gibbs’ leadership turned things around. The team finished 8-8, proving their resilience.

In 1982, during Gibbs’ second season, the Redskins went all the way to Super Bowl XVII and won 27-17 against the Miami Dolphins. The iconic “Riggo’s Run” became one of the defining moments in franchise history. The following year, the Redskins returned to the Super Bowl, though they were defeated by the Los Angeles Raiders.

Joe Gibbs: The Championship Years

Despite the Super Bowl loss, Gibbs’ ability to build a competitive team remained evident. The Redskins were consistently near the top, and his attention to detail, innovative offensive strategies, and leadership set them apart.

In 1987, another strike led to a shortened season, but Gibbs capitalized. Washington went on to beat the Denver Broncos 42-10 in Super Bowl XXII, with a performance in the second quarter that’s still talked about to this day—35 unanswered points in what’s simply known as, “The Quarter.” It was Washington’s second Super Bowl win under Gibbs.

Though the Redskins had some lean years in 1988 and 1989, Gibbs built a powerhouse in 1991. The team dominated, finishing the regular season 14-2 and cruising to their third Super Bowl win in a decisive 37-24 victory over the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXVI.

Joe Gibbs Brought A Legacy of Consistency and Winning

Gibbs’ leadership saw the Redskins to the playoffs eight times over his 12 seasons as head coach, and he secured NFC East titles four times. His .683 winning percentage ranks him among the best in NFL history, only behind legends like Vince Lombardi and John Madden.

But it wasn’t just about the victories. Gibbs was a master at motivating his players, often delivering speeches that would send them onto the field with fire in their bellies. He had a unique ability to get the best out of his team, year in and year out, despite setbacks. His Super Bowl appearances alone are a testament to his ability to succeed on the biggest stage.

A Surprise Retirement and Return to Washington

In 1993, Gibbs shocked the NFL world by retiring. Fans and players were stunned by the announcement. His time away from the game was well-spent with family and in his other passion: racing. Gibbs had founded Joe Gibbs Racing, which would go on to become one of the most successful teams in NASCAR history.

Then, in 2004, the unthinkable happened—Gibbs returned to coach the Redskins. While his second stint didn’t produce the same results as his first, he still led Washington to a playoff appearance in 2005 and helped stabilize a franchise that had fallen on hard times.

Life After Football For Joe Gibbs

Joe Gibbs may have retired from coaching for good in 2008, but his legacy lives on through his charity work, his NASCAR achievements, and his continued impact on the world of sports. His racing team has captured multiple championships, and in 2020, Gibbs was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

He remains an enduring figure in both the football and racing worlds, known not only for his incredible success but for his unwavering commitment to his faith and his family. His contributions continue to inspire athletes and fans alike.

Final Thoughts

Joe Gibbs isn’t just a coach; he’s a legend—one whose name is synonymous with success, integrity, and leadership. Whether on the football field or in the NASCAR garage, Gibbs’ legacy continues to inspire. His impact on the Redskins, the NFL, and sports in general will never be forgotten.olina.