Report: Chuck Fairbanks has passed away at 79

[shmessy]

Fairbanks was an innovator of the 3/4 two gap defense....I was fortunate to live through that era in Pats football...and unfortunate....the day Fairbanks left I can still clearly remember...off to Colorado and the Buffs...he was recruiting during the Pats 1976 season and when the Sullivans found out the acrimonious divorce began....ugly. The Pats SHOULD have made their first Super Bowl under Fairbanks...I feel no guilt posting that I wish it was Ben Dreith instead of Chuck....RIP Coach....

Actually, it was 1978. Right before the first ever NFL playoff game at Foxboro against the Oilers. That was my first game at Shaeffer. I remember it clearly, including the sign saying "With or Without You, Chucky, we are going to the SuperBowl". Then dan Pastorini and Earl Campbell destroyed the Pats.

 

[IndyKen]

RIP Chuck- I fondly remember what you did for the Patriots franchise back in the 70's - you built some very solid and highly competitive teams.

 

[italian pat patriot]

very sad

r.i.p. and heartfelt condolences to the family

one of the best coaches in franchise history

1976 one of best Pats team ever