History of Monte Kiffin in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 13, 2024

Monte George Kiffin is a highly regarded American football coach, particularly known for his exceptional defensive strategies. As the architect of the renowned "Tampa 2" defense, his innovative concepts have had a profound impact on both college and professional football, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest defensive coordinators in NFL history.

February 29, 1940: Birth of Monte Kiffin

Monte George Kiffin was born on February 29, 1940. He would go on to become a highly influential figure in American football.

1959: Kiffin's Time at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln

From 1959 to 1963, Monte Kiffin played as both an offensive and defensive tackle at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

1963: Kiffin's Time at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln

From 1959 to 1963, Monte Kiffin played as both an offensive and defensive tackle at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

1966: Kiffin's Stint with the Continental Football League

In 1966, Monte Kiffin played eight games for the Toronto Rifles of the Continental Football League. He was also briefly a member of the Brooklyn Dodgers in the same league.

1970: Coaching Nebraska's Undefeated National Champion Teams

Monte Kiffin contributed to the success of Nebraska's football team in 1970 and 1971, coaching the defenses of their back-to-back undefeated national champion teams under coordinator Lance Van Zant.

1971: Coaching Nebraska's Undefeated National Champion Teams

Monte Kiffin contributed to the success of Nebraska's football team in 1970 and 1971, coaching the defenses of their back-to-back undefeated national champion teams under coordinator Lance Van Zant.

1973: Tom Osborne Becomes Head Coach at Nebraska

Following the selection of Tom Osborne, the then-offensive coordinator, as the head coach at Nebraska in 1973, Monte Kiffin was promoted to the position of defensive coordinator in 1974.

1974: Kiffin Becomes Defensive Coordinator at Nebraska

Following the selection of Tom Osborne, the then-offensive coordinator, as the head coach at Nebraska in 1973, Monte Kiffin was promoted to the position of defensive coordinator in 1974.

1977: Kiffin's Move to the University of Arkansas

In 1977, Monte Kiffin transitioned from his role at the University of Nebraska to join the University of Arkansas.

1980: Kiffin's Tenure at North Carolina State University Begins

In 1980, Monte Kiffin took on the role of head coach at North Carolina State University, marking the beginning of his tenure there.

1982: End of Kiffin's Time at North Carolina State University

Monte Kiffin's time as head coach at North Carolina State University came to an end in 1982.

1996: Kiffin Becomes Defensive Coordinator for the Buccaneers

In 1996, Monte Kiffin assumed the role of defensive coordinator for the Buccaneers.

2001: Kiffin Stays with Buccaneers After Dungy's Dismissal

Despite the dismissal of Tony Dungy by the Buccaneers' front office after the 2001 season, Monte Kiffin was convinced by incoming head coach Jon Gruden to remain in Tampa and continue leading the defense.

January 26, 2003: Buccaneers Win Super Bowl XXXVII

The Buccaneers achieved a significant victory in Super Bowl XXXVII on January 26, 2003, in San Diego, California, securing the organization's first championship.

2008: Controversy Surrounds Kiffin's Departure from Tampa Bay

Monte Kiffin's departure from Tampa Bay in 2008 was marked by controversy, including the Buccaneers' defensive struggles and Kiffin's decision to join his son, Lane Kiffin, at Tennessee.

2012: Context for Kiffin's Hiring by Dallas Cowboys

Monte Kiffin's hiring as defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys on January 11, 2013, followed the conclusion of the 2012 NFL season.

January 11, 2013: Kiffin Hired as Defensive Coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys

On January 11, 2013, Monte Kiffin joined the Dallas Cowboys as the defensive coordinator.

January 28, 2014: Kiffin Demoted by Dallas Cowboys

Monte Kiffin was demoted from his position as defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys on January 28, 2014, with defensive line coach Rod Marinelli taking over the role.