Oail Andrew "Bum" Phillips, known for his distinctive cowboy hat and folksy demeanor, became a beloved figure in the world of American football during his coaching career. Born on September 29, 1923, in Orange, Texas, Phillips grew up in the Lone Star State, where football is more than just a sport—it's a way of life. His journey in professional football began after years of coaching at the high school and college levels, which eventually led him to the National Football League (NFL).

Phillips first entered the NFL as a defensive assistant with the San Diego Chargers in the late 1960s. However, it was his tenure with the Houston Oilers that truly defined his career. In 1974, he was hired as the head coach of the Oilers, a position he held until 1980. During his time with the Oilers, Phillips became known for his charismatic leadership and ability to connect with players. His coaching style was characterized by a strong emphasis on defense and a powerful running game.

Under Phillips' guidance, the Oilers experienced a resurgence in the late 1970s. The team reached the AFC Championship Game in both the 1978 and 1979 seasons, largely due to the efforts of star running back Earl Campbell, whom Phillips drafted in 1978. Campbell's bruising running style perfectly complemented Phillips' offensive strategy, and together they brought the Oilers to the brink of the Super Bowl. Despite falling short of a championship, Phillips' Oilers were a force to be reckoned with, and their battles with the Pittsburgh Steelers during this era are still remembered as some of the most intense in NFL history.

Phillips was known for his colorful personality and memorable quotes, often delivered in his trademark Texas drawl. One of his most famous lines was about the legendary coach Don Shula: "He can take his'n and beat your'n, and take your'n and beat his'n." This kind of wit endeared him to fans and players alike, making him a popular figure in Houston and beyond.

In 1981, Phillips moved on to coach the New Orleans Saints, a team that had long struggled to find success in the NFL. While his tenure with the Saints did not yield the same level of achievement as his time with the Oilers, Phillips worked to instill a sense of discipline and competitiveness in the team. He remained with the Saints until 1985, after which he retired from coaching.

Phillips' legacy in football is remembered not just for his coaching record, but for the way he approached the game and his players. He was a coach who believed in treating his players with respect and fostering a sense of camaraderie and loyalty. His influence extended beyond the field, as he became a cultural icon in Texas and a symbol of the rugged, no-nonsense spirit of the sport.

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