R.I.P. Pat Dye

The coach that brought Auburn into the modern era of success is gone.

As if 2020 couldn’t get any tougher to bear, we’ve just learned that Pat Dye’s passed away.

Auburn coaching legend Pat Dye passed away Monday.

Dye was hospitalized with a kidney issue. He tested positive for COVID-19.

He had a 99-39-4 record and won four SEC titles at Auburn from 1981-92. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2005 pic.twitter.com/jSbJYSRrbK

— Auburn Gold Mine (@AUGoldMine) June 1, 2020

He had been hospitalized with COVID, but seemed to be on the mend barring some kidney issues. Instead, the coach who led Auburn out of one of its darkest ages died at the age of 80 today.

Pat Dye’s impact on Auburn cannot be overstated. In a time when Bear Bryant and Alabama ruled not only the SEC, but the country, he taught Auburn people not to be scared. Not to be afraid. His opening press conference showed that gumption, when asked how long it would take to beat Alabama.

“SIXTY MINUTES.”

He didn’t win his first bout with the Tide, but he ended their nine-year winning streak the following season, in addition to taking the state in the 1980s, winning four SEC titles, and earning Auburn its second Heisman Trophy winner.

Maybe most importantly, he brought Auburn onto an equal level as Alabama when he brought the Iron Bowl to the Plains in 1989.

A giant portion of the Auburn family is now gone, but will never be forgotten. Go wrestle with them angels, coach. See you later. War Eagle.

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