University of Illinois Athletics

FOOTBALL COACH • 1913-41

Robert Zuppke is a charter member of College Football Hall of Fame after leading the Illini to four national titles in 1914, 1919, 1923 and 1927, along with seven Big Ten championships. Zuppke is Illinois’ all-time winningest football coach with his 131-81-13 record. The playing field at Memorial Stadium was dedicated as "Zuppke Field" in 1966. Known as "The Little Dutchman," Zuppke was known as an innovator and trend-setter as a coach. He is credited with introducing the offensive huddle, the screen pass, the long snap to the punter, the linebacker position and the flea flicker play. Along with George Huff, was a driving force behind the construction of Memorial Stadium. He died in 1957 at the age of 78.