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A Family Legacy of Football: The McClendons at Georgia

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The University of Georgia has a special place in the hearts of the McClendon family, with two generations playing and coaching for the Bulldogs. Willie McClendon, a record-breaking running back, and his son Bryan, a standout coach, have left an indelible mark on the program. As Bryan McClendon prepares to lead the Bulldogs against Penn State in the TaxSlayer Bowl, he reflects on his family's rich history at Georgia.

Key Takeaways:

  • **Willie McClendon's legacy:** The former running back played for the Bulldogs from 1976 to 1978, setting a single-season rushing record in 1978 with 1,312 yards and 13 touchdowns. He was also a respected player who frequently led the team in postgame prayers and was voted captain by his teammates.
  • **Family ties:** Willie McClendon's mother wanted him to attend the University of Georgia, and he met his future wife, Susan, while at the school. This gave the McClendon family a strong connection to the University.
  • **Bryan McClendon's college career:** The younger McClendon played for the Bulldogs from 2002 to 2005, catching 56 passes for 830 yards and six touchdowns. He later became a graduate assistant and was promoted to running backs coach, wide receivers coach, and passing game coordinator.
  • **Willie McClendon's advice:** The elder McClendon advised his son to be sure coaching was what he truly wanted to do, as it requires a significant time commitment and balance with personal life.
  • **Reflecting on priorities:** Vince Dooley, former Georgia coach, recalled an incident where Willie McClendon pointed out his English Literature teacher in a parade, highlighting his priorities and values. Bryan McClendon has similarly prioritized his family life as a coach.
  • **Lessons learned:** The younger McClendon emphasized that Willie's lessons were not about football, but about striking a balance between coaching and personal life, and being mindful of who he is as a person and a family man.

Statistics:

  • **Willie McClendon's college statistics:** 2,228 yards rushing, 22 touchdowns, 5.02 yards per carry (1976-1978).
  • **Bryan McClendon's college statistics:** 56 catches, 830 yards, 6 touchdowns, 14.8 yards per catch (2002-2005).
  • **The number of years Willie McClendon coached:** 4 years (1989-1993).
  • **The number of years Bryan McClendon has coached:** 10 years (2007-present).
  • **The percentage of games the Bulldogs won with Bryan McClendon as coach:** 44 games, two SEC titles, three SEC East titles, and 3-1 in bowl games.

Sources:

  • "Bulldogs coach Bryan McClendon ready for TaxSlayer Bowl" by Garry Smits, Jacksonville Times-Union
  • "McClendon's legacy continues on" by David Goldstein, Associated Press
  • "Georgia's Bryan McClendon: Lessons from his father" by Garry Smits, Jacksonville Times-Union

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