Published on Tuesday, April 21, 2009

No. 35: Howard Fletcher

By NORTHERN STAR STAFF

Howard Fletcher led the Huskies to a 10-0-0 NAIA and AP national title in 1963 and posted a 74-48-1 career record in 13 seasons, second to only George ‘Chick’ Evans. “Fletch” was an innovator of the ‘Blitz-T’ passing game, teaching it to notable understudy Tom Landry.

He led NIU to three Mineral Water Bowls and was a two-time District Coach of the Year in 1962 and 1963. He coached two NFL draftees including NIU’s third round pick John Spilis. He also coached 10 NFL free agents and nine Little All-Americans which included NIU great George Bork.

Under Fletcher, the Huskies also won three IIAC crowns.

As his career wrapped up, Fletcher helped lead over 80 former NIU players into coaching.