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Dennis Franchione passes away at age 75; legacy in college football noted

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 7, 2026, 3:06 AM

Last updated Oct 7, 2026

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Summary

Dennis Franchione, a notable college football coach, passed away on Tuesday at age 75. Over 28 seasons, he led seven programs including the University of New Mexico, where he stayed longest for six years. Known for rebuilding struggling teams, he achieved notable successes at TCU and Alabama before moving on to other coaching opportunities. Franchione’s impact on college football is remembered and celebrated within the sport's community.

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By the Numbers

•Franchione died on October 6, 2026
•Coached for 28 seasons at seven schools
•Longest tenure at University of New Mexico from 1992-1997
•Known for rebuilding struggling football programs
•Coached at TCU and Alabama, leaving a lasting impact

Latest Updates

3:06 AMYahoo Sports — Wright: Coach Fran wasn't a keeper and didn't want to be

What they're saying

"
He’ll come to your town, he’ll fix your football program, and then he’ll leave. There are other programs that need fixing. Dennis Franchione, who died on Tuesday at age 75, was not one to let the grass, or the artificial turf, grow beneath his feet. A college head football coach for 28 seasons at seven schools, he never stayed longer than six years — continuously, at least — at any of them. ...
— Yahoo Sports

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