Long-time college football coach Rick Lantz, the Virginia defensive coordinator for George Welsh in the 1990s, passed away this week. Lantz also worked at Navy, Notre Dame, and Georgia Tech among other schools in his career.
During the 90’s, Lantz orchestrated a fierce defense for the Hoos. The Cavaliers snared at least 20 interceptions every season from 1993 to 1996, while leading the nation in 1993 and 1994. Virginia set an NCAA record of 39 consecutive games with an interception during those years. The 1994 defense still holds the school’s season interceptions record with 27. That 1994 team led the country in rushing defense as well.
Lantz also devised the defense that led to the historic defeat of Florida State in 1995. That game, of course, produced this iconic moment in Virginia football history.
UVA fans remembered Lantz, a member of the Central Connecticut State Hall of Fame at his alma mater, in some posts on the message board this week.
Have memories of Lantz or the 1990’s Virginia defense? Share in the comments below or on the football message board.
Fan(s) Of The Week
Enjoying UVA basketball from good seats at John Paul Jones Arena.
Student Fan(s) Of The Week
Hoooooos!
Feature Photo Of The Week
Reece Beekman, the ACC Defensive Player Of The Year, has entered his name in the NBA Draft.
