Bum Phillips
The charismatic coach who gave New Orleans its first taste of winning hope.
William "Bum" Phillips stands as a titan of New Orleans Saints lore, serving as the head coach from 1979 to 1983. Arriving after years of franchise futility, he brought an infectious optimism and a distinct personality that resonated deeply with the local culture. His tenure is historically significant for transforming the team into a competitive unit for the first time in its existence.
- Role
- Head Coach
- Tenure
- 1979–1983
- Key Achievement
- Led Saints to first playoff appearance and victory
- Previous Team
- Houston Oilers
- Status
- Deceased (2011)
- Legacy
- Architect of the modern fan culture
Lore & Background
While he did not win a Super Bowl, he delivered what was arguably more valuable at the time: belief. The "Who Dat" chant became synonymous with this era, as fans finally had something to cheer for beyond mere survival.
In Their Own Story
The press conference room hummed with tension, but Bum Phillips just smiled, adjusting his cap. Reporters asked about the upcoming game against a division rival, expecting gloom given the team's history of collapse. Instead, he leaned into the microphone and talked about gumbo recipes and how good it was to be back in New Orleans on a Friday night. The crowd outside began chanting before he even left the podium. He knew that winning wasn't just about points; it was about making the city feel proud again.
Reader's Guide
The Bum Phillips Era represents a crucial bridge between the Saints' early struggles and their eventual modern success. Before his arrival, the franchise was often viewed as a joke in the NFL, plagued by losing records and financial instability. Phillips introduced stability and winning football, guiding the team to back-to-back division titles in 1980 and 1981 (though some sources debate specific divisional standings due to format changes). His leadership culminated in the franchise's first playoff victory against the Minnesota Vikings in January 1983. This period matters because it established the emotional connection between the team and the city. Phillips showed that the Saints could compete, laying the groundwork for future eras of success. Even after his departure, the culture he helped build remained.
Did You Know?
- Phillips previously coached the Houston Oilers to a division title before coming to New Orleans.
- He is often credited with popularizing the "Who Dat" chant during his playoff run.
- His tenure included the Saints' first-ever winning season record.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Bum Phillips?
William "Bum" Phillips served as the Saints' head coach from 1979 until 1983, bringing a charismatic personality that resonated deeply with Louisiana culture. He arrived during a period of franchise futility and injected infectious optimism into the program.
What was his biggest achievement?
Phillips led the team to its first-ever playoff appearance, where they secured their initial postseason victory in franchise history. This milestone transformed the organization from a struggling unit into a competitive force for the first time.
Where did he coach before New Orleans?
Prior to his tenure in New Orleans, Phillips held a head coaching position with the Houston Oilers. His experience there prepared him to stabilize the Saints and build a winning foundation upon arrival.
Why is he considered important today?
He is viewed as the architect of modern fan culture because he provided the city with its first real hope for success after years of losing. His legacy continues to influence how supporters engage with and celebrate the team.
When did his story end?
William Phillips passed away in 2011, concluding a life that significantly shaped the identity of the franchise. Despite his death, his contributions remain a vital part of the club's historical lore.