Richie Petitbon's career in professional football spanned over three decades, during which he established himself as a respected player and coach. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Petitbon attended Tulane University, where he played college football and honed his skills as a defensive back. His performance at Tulane caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the 1959 NFL Draft.
Petitbon began his professional playing career with the Chicago Bears, where he quickly became known for his defensive prowess. As a safety, he was instrumental in the Bears' defensive strategies, contributing to the team's success with his ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions. His tenure with the Bears was marked by a standout performance in the 1963 season, when the team won the NFL Championship. Petitbon's defensive skills were a vital component of the Bears' formidable defense, which was a cornerstone of their championship-winning team.
After his time with the Bears, Petitbon continued his playing career with the Los Angeles Rams and later the Washington Redskins. Throughout his playing years, he was recognized for his intelligence on the field and his ability to anticipate the opposing team's plays. Petitbon's career as a player concluded with the Redskins, where he retired after the 1972 season.
Transitioning from player to coach, Petitbon joined the coaching staff of the Houston Oilers in 1973. His understanding of defensive strategies made him a valuable asset as a coach. Petitbon's coaching career took a significant turn when he joined the Washington Redskins' coaching staff in 1978. Under head coach Joe Gibbs, Petitbon served as the defensive coordinator, where he played a crucial role in shaping the Redskins' defense.
During his time as defensive coordinator, the Redskins won three Super Bowl titles (XVII, XXII, and XXVI). Petitbon's defensive schemes were known for their complexity and adaptability, often confounding opposing offenses. His ability to develop game plans that maximized the strengths of his players was a hallmark of his coaching style.
In 1993, Petitbon was promoted to head coach of the Washington Redskins following Joe Gibbs' retirement. However, his tenure as head coach was short-lived, lasting only one season. Despite the challenges he faced during that season, Petitbon's legacy with the Redskins remained intact due to his previous successes as a defensive coordinator.
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