Houston Oilers Hall-of-Fame guard and Tennessee Titans offensive line coach Mike Munchak is the new head coach of the Tennessee Titans.
The man known as “Johnny Oiler” during his playing days (actually, Munchak and teammate Bruce Matthews were both tagged with the slightly-derogatory nickname which hinted at their dedication to their craft and to the team — thanks, John McClain) has spent his entire professional career with the franchise.
Munchak by the numbers:
- 1: Number of touchdowns scored (1986)
- 2: Number of times names First Team All-Pro (1987, 1991)
- 8 (pick number of the Houston Oilers in the first round of the 1982 NFL draft)
- 9: Number of Pro Bowl appearances
- 15: Number of Oilers/Titans head coaches preceding Munchak
- 63: Munchak’s jersey number
- 156: Number of games started
Drafted out of Penn State in 1982, Munchak was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his exemplary play as an offensive guard. Munchak is also a member of the National Polish-American Sports Hall of Fame.
Munchak has received ringing endorsements from former teammates, coaches and colleagues. Last week, Oilers legend Earl Campbell said he had not paid much attention to the Titans since the team moved from Houston, but he would like to get involved with the team if Munchak is hired.
I recall reading about Munchak and Matthews in 1983, as a local sports article described how the two men would be cornerstones of the Oilers’ offensive line for many years. I support Mike Munchak as he attempts to establish unity, stability, discipline, and a winning culture in Nashville.
Go Titans!
Sources:
John McClain, Houston Chronicle
Pro Football Hall of Fame
Pro-Football-Reference.com
Will Leon 