Jump to content

Guy Morriss: Difference between revisions

Add links
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
 
(36 intermediate revisions by 22 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
⚫
{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2022}}
{{Short description|American football player and coach (1951–2022)}}
{{Short description|American football player and coach (1951–2022)}}
{{Use American English|date=August 2022}}
⚫
{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2022}}
{{Infobox college coach
{{Infobox college coach
| name = Guy Morriss
| name = Guy Morriss
| image =
| image =
| alt =
| alt =
| caption =
| caption =
| birth_date = {{Birth date|1951|5|13}}
| birth_date = {{Birth date|1951|5|13}}
| birth_place = [[Colorado City, Texas]]
| birth_place = [[Colorado City, Texas]], U.S.
| death_date = {{death date and age|2022|09|05|1951|05|13|mf=y}}
| death_date = {{Death date and age|2022|9|5|1951|5|13}}
| death_place = [[Danville, Kentucky]]
| death_place = [[Danville, Kentucky]], U.S.
| alma_mater =
| alma_mater =
| player_years1 = 1969–1972
| player_years1 = 1969–1972
| player_team1 = [[TCU Horned Frogs football|TCU]]
| player_team1 = [[TCU Horned Frogs football|TCU]]
| player_years2 = 1973–1983
| player_years2 = 1973–1983
| player_team2 = [[Philadelphia Eagles]]
| player_team2 = [[Philadelphia Eagles]]
| player_years3 = 1984–1987
| player_years3 = 1984–1987
| player_team3 = [[New England Patriots]]
| player_team3 = [[New England Patriots]]
| player_positions = [[Center (gridiron football)|Center]], [[Guard (gridiron football)|guard]]
| player_positions = [[Center (gridiron football)|Center]], [[Guard (gridiron football)|guard]]
| coach_years1 = 1988–1989
| coach_years1 = 1988–1989
| coach_team1 = [[New England Patriots]] (OL)
| coach_team1 = [[New England Patriots]] (OL)
| coach_years2 = 1991
| coach_years2 = 1991
| coach_team2 = [[Mansfield High School (Mansfield, Texas)|Mansfield HS (TX)]] ([[Offensive coordinator|OC]])
| coach_team2 = [[Mansfield High School (Mansfield, Texas)|Mansfield HS (TX)]] ([[Offensive coordinator|OC]])
| coach_years3 = 1992
| coach_years3 = 1992
| coach_team3 = Washington Marauders
| coach_team3 = Washington Marauders
| coach_years4 = 1992–1993
| coach_years4 = 1992–1993
| coach_team4 = [[Valdosta State Blazers football|Valdosta State]] (OL)
| coach_team4 = [[Valdosta State Blazers football|Valdosta State]] (OL)
| coach_years5 = 1994
| coach_years5 = 1994
| coach_team5 = [[Arizona Cardinals]] (OL)
| coach_team5 = [[Arizona Cardinals]] (OL)
| coach_years6 = 1995
| coach_years6 = 1995
| coach_team6 = [[San Antonio Texans]] (OL)
| coach_team6 = [[San Antonio Texans]] (OL)
| coach_years7 = 1996
| coach_years7 = 1996
| coach_team7 = [[Mississippi State Bulldogs football|Mississippi State]] (OL)
| coach_team7 = [[Mississippi State Bulldogs football|Mississippi State]] (OL)
| coach_years8 = 1997–2000
| coach_years8 = 1997–2000
| coach_team8 = [[Kentucky Wildcats football|Kentucky]] (AHC/OL)
| coach_team8 = [[Kentucky Wildcats football|Kentucky]] (AHC/OL)
| coach_years9 = 2001–2002
| coach_years9 = 2001–2002
| coach_team9 = [[Kentucky Wildcats football|Kentucky]]
| coach_team9 = [[Kentucky Wildcats football|Kentucky]]
| coach_years10 = 2003–2007
| coach_years10 = 2003–2007
| coach_team10 = [[Baylor Bears football|Baylor]]
| coach_team10 = [[Baylor Bears football|Baylor]]
| coach_years11 = 2008
| coach_years11 = 2008
| coach_team11 = [[Kentucky State Thorobreds football|Kentucky State]] (OL)
| coach_team11 = [[Kentucky State Thorobreds football|Kentucky State]] (OL)
| coach_years12 = 2009–2012
| coach_years12 = 2009–2012
| coach_team12 = [[Texas A&M–Commerce Lions football|Texas A&M–Commerce]]
| coach_team12 = [[Texas A&M–Commerce Lions football|Texas A&M–Commerce]]
| coach_years13 = 2014
| coach_years13 = 2014
| coach_team13 = [[Warren Central High School (Kentucky)|Warren Central HS (KY)]] (OL)
| coach_team13 = [[Warren Central High School (Kentucky)|Warren Central HS (KY)]] (OL)
| coach_years14 = 2015
| coach_years14 = 2015
| coach_team14 = [[Lexington Christian Academy (Kentucky)|Lexington Christian Academy (KY)]] (OL)
| coach_team14 = [[Lexington Christian Academy (Kentucky)|Lexington Christian Academy (KY)]] (OL)
| overall_record = 37–85
| overall_record = 37–85
| bowl_record =
| bowl_record =
| tournament_record =
| tournament_record =
| championships =
| championships = [[Lone Star Conference|LSC]] North Division (2009)
| awards =
| awards =
* First-team All-[[Southwest Conference|SWC]] ([[1972 All-Southwest Conference football team|1972]])
| coaching_records =
| coaching_records =
}}
}}
'''Guy Walker Morriss''' (May 13, 1951 – September 5, 2022) was an American [[American football|football]] coach and player. He served as the head football coach at the [[University of Kentucky]] for two seasons (2001–2002) and at [[Baylor University]] for five seasons (2003–2007).
'''Guy Walker Morriss''' (May 13, 1951 – September 5, 2022) was an [[American football]] coach and player. He served as the head football coach at the [[University of Kentucky]] for two seasons (2001–2002) and at [[Baylor University]] for five seasons (2003–2007).


Morriss played [[college football]] at [[Texas Christian University]] (TCU) and spent 15 seasons as an [[offensive lineman]] in [[National Football League]] (NFL) with the [[Philadelphia Eagles]] (1973–1983) and the [[New England Patriots]] (1984–1987). Morriss played in over 200 regular season games during his NFL career and started at [[Center (gridiron football)|center]] for the Eagles in [[Super Bowl XV]].
Morriss played [[college football]] at [[Texas Christian University]] (TCU) and spent 15 seasons as an [[offensive lineman]] in the [[National Football League]] (NFL) with the [[Philadelphia Eagles]] (1973–1983) and the [[New England Patriots]] (1984–1987). Morriss played in over 200 regular season games during his NFL career and started at [[Center (gridiron football)|center]] for the Eagles in [[Super Bowl XV]].


==Early years and playing career==
==Early life and playing career==
Morriss was born in [[Colorado City, Texas]], on May 13, 1951.<ref name="PFR player">{{cite web|title=Guy Morriss Stats|url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MorrGu20.htm|work=Pro-Football-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference LLC|access-date=September 7, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=The Eagles Encyclopedia|url=https://books.google.ca/books?id=yV7lvstPuqgC&pg=PA59|publisher=Temple University Press|year=2005|last1=Didinger|first1=Ray|last2=Lyons|first2=Robert S.|page=59|isbn=9781592134540}}</ref> He attended [[Sam Houston High School (Arlington, Texas)|Sam Houston High School]] in [[Arlington, Texas]],<ref name="PFR player"/> where he played [[tight end]] for the school's team.<ref>{{cite news|title=Luke Joeckel will make Arlington history Thursday|url=https://www.star-telegram.com/sports/article3834636.html|first=Charean|last=Williams|date=April 24, 2013|access-date=September 7, 2022|newspaper=Fort Worth Star-Telegram}}</ref> He later earned a scholarship to [[Texas Christian University]] (TCU) in [[Fort Worth, Texas]], graduating in 1973 with a bachelor's degree in secondary education.<ref name="stepping down">{{cite news|title=Guy Morriss stepping down as A&M-Commerce; head football coach|url=https://www.heraldbanner.com/news/local_news/guy-morriss-stepping-down-as-a-m-commerce-head-football-coach/article_070f3105-1d56-5758-afb4-3a86ae0fdc60.html|date=November 12, 2012|access-date=September 7, 2022|newspaper=Herald-Banner|location=Greenville, Texas|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220907110308/https://www.heraldbanner.com/news/local_news/guy-morriss-stepping-down-as-a-m-commerce-head-football-coach/article_070f3105-1d56-5758-afb4-3a86ae0fdc60.html|archivedate=September 7, 2022|url-status=live}}</ref> He played as a [[guard (American football)|guard]] for the [[TCU Horned Frogs football|TCU Horned Frogs]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/181836183/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20%22texas%20christian%22&match=1 |title=27 Oct 1973, Page 21 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=1973-10-27 |accessdate=2022-09-09}}</ref>
Morriss was born in [[Colorado City, Texas]], on May 13, 1951.<ref name="PFR player">{{cite web|title=Guy Morriss Stats|url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MorrGu20.htm|work=Pro-Football-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference LLC|access-date=September 7, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=The Eagles Encyclopedia|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=yV7lvstPuqgC&pg=PA59|publisher=Temple University Press|year=2005|last1=Didinger|first1=Ray|last2=Lyons|first2=Robert S.|page=59|isbn=9781592134540}}</ref> He attended [[Sam Houston High School (Arlington, Texas)|Sam Houston High School]] in [[Arlington, Texas]],<ref name="PFR player"/> where he played [[tight end]] for the school's team.<ref>{{cite news|title=Luke Joeckel will make Arlington history Thursday|url=https://www.star-telegram.com/sports/article3834636.html|first=Charean|last=Williams|date=April 24, 2013|access-date=September 7, 2022|newspaper=Fort Worth Star-Telegram}}</ref> He later earned a scholarship to [[Texas Christian University]] (TCU) in [[Fort Worth, Texas]], graduating in 1973 with a bachelor's degree in secondary education.<ref name="stepping down">{{cite news|title=Guy Morriss stepping down as A&M-Commerce; head football coach|url=https://www.heraldbanner.com/news/local_news/guy-morriss-stepping-down-as-a-m-commerce-head-football-coach/article_070f3105-1d56-5758-afb4-3a86ae0fdc60.html|date=November 12, 2012|access-date=September 7, 2022|newspaper=Herald-Banner|location=Greenville, Texas|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220907110308/https://www.heraldbanner.com/news/local_news/guy-morriss-stepping-down-as-a-m-commerce-head-football-coach/article_070f3105-1d56-5758-afb4-3a86ae0fdc60.html|archivedate=September 7, 2022|url-status=live}}</ref> He played as a [[guard (American football)|guard]] for the [[TCU Horned Frogs football|TCU Horned Frogs]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/181836183/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20%22texas%20christian%22&match=1 |title=27 Oct 1973, Page 21 – The Philadelphia Inquirer at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=October 27, 1973 |accessdate=September 9, 2022}}</ref>


The [[Philadelphia Eagles]] selected Morriss in the second round of the [[1973 NFL draft]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/185020323/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20%22second%20round%22&match=1 |title=31 Jul 1973, Page 57 - Philadelphia Daily News at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=1973-07-31 |accessdate=2022-09-09}}</ref> As a [[rookie]], the Eagles transitioned Morriss into a [[center (American football)|center]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/109083592/ |title=Clipping from The Philadelphia Inquirer |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=1980-11-16 |accessdate=2022-09-09}}</ref> He played with the Eagles from 1973 to 1983, and started in 151 out of their 158 games in that period.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/437734296/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22&match=1 |title=1 Aug 1985, 60 - The Boston Globe at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=1985-08-01 |accessdate=2022-09-09}}</ref> In March 1984, the Eagles [[Waivers (American football)|waived]] Morriss.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/161995000/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22&match=1 |title=16 Mar 1984, Page 35 - The News Journal at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=1984-03-16 |accessdate=2022-09-09}}</ref> He signed with the [[New England Patriots]] that offseason,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/437567519/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20patriots&match=1 |title=1 Aug 1984, 39 - The Boston Globe at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=1984-08-01 |accessdate=2022-09-09}}</ref> and he played center and guard for the Patriots through the 1987 season.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/180635522/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20eagles&match=1 |title=5 Nov 1987, Page 66 - Courier-Post at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=1987-11-05 |accessdate=2022-09-09}}</ref> The Patriots waived Morriss before the 1988 season.<ref name=waivedpats>https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/186237470/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22&match=1</ref> He played in [[Super Bowl XV]] for the Eagles and as a backup to [[Pete Brock (American football)|Pete Brock]] in [[Super Bowl XX]] for the Patriots.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/440680856/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20eagles&match=1 |title=24 Jan 1986, 48 - The Boston Globe at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=1986-01-24 |accessdate=2022-09-09}}</ref>
The [[Philadelphia Eagles]] selected Morriss in the second round of the [[1973 NFL draft]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/185020323/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20%22second%20round%22&match=1 |title=31 Jul 1973, Page 57 – Philadelphia Daily News at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=July 31, 1973 |accessdate=September 9, 2022}}</ref> As a [[rookie]], the Eagles transitioned Morriss into a [[center (American football)|center]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/109083592/ |title=Clipping from The Philadelphia Inquirer |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=November 16, 1980 |accessdate=September 9, 2022}}</ref> He played with the Eagles from 1973 to 1983, and started in 151 out of their 158 games in that period.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437734296/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22&match=1 |title=1 Aug 1985, 60 – The Boston Globe at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=August 1, 1985 |accessdate=September 9, 2022}}</ref> In March 1984, the Eagles [[Waivers (American football)|waived]] Morriss.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/161995000/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22&match=1 |title=16 Mar 1984, Page 35 – The News Journal at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=March 16, 1984 |accessdate=September 9, 2022}}</ref> He signed with the [[New England Patriots]] that offseason,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437567519/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20patriots&match=1 |title=1 Aug 1984, 39 – The Boston Globe at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=August 1, 1984 |accessdate=September 9, 2022}}</ref> and he played center and guard for the Patriots through the 1987 season.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/180635522/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20eagles&match=1 |title=5 Nov 1987, Page 66 – Courier-Post at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=November 5, 1987 |accessdate=September 9, 2022}}</ref> The Patriots waived Morriss before the 1988 season.<ref name=theboot/> He played in [[Super Bowl XV]] for the Eagles and as a backup to [[Pete Brock (American football)|Pete Brock]] in [[Super Bowl XX]] for the Patriots.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/440680856/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20eagles&match=1 |title=24 Jan 1986, 48 – The Boston Globe at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=January 24, 1986 |accessdate=September 9, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Super Bowl XX - Chicago Bears vs. New England Patriots - January 26th, 1986 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198601260chi.htm |access-date=2023-11-16 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Magliocchetti |first=Geoff |date=2022-09-09 |title=Obit: Patriots Blocker, Coach Guy Morriss Passes at 71 |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/patriots/news/new-england-pats-guy-morriss-super-bowl-kentucky-obituary |access-date=2023-11-16 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |language=en}}</ref>


==Coaching career==
==Coaching career==
===Early career===
===Early career===
Morriss got his coaching start in 1988 as the offensive line coach for the Patriots under [[Raymond Berry]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/109146037/philadelphia-daily-news/|newspaper=[[Philadelphia Daily News]]|via=[[Newspapers.com]]|date=August 24, 1988|page=80|title=Pats Give Franklin the Boot}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 1992, after a brief stint as the head coach of the Washington Marauders of the [[Professional Spring Football League]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.si.com/college/2022/09/06/guy-morriss-dies-football-coach-kentucky-baylor|website=[[Sports Illustrated]]|title=Former Baylor, Kentucky Football Coach Guy Morriss Dies|author=Lyons, Dan|date=September 6, 2022}}</ref> Morriss coached at [[Valdosta State University]] under [[Hal Mumme]], who developed the modern [[air raid offense]], and alongside [[Mike Leach (American football coach)|Mike Leach]]. He later re-joined Mumme and Leach in 1997 at Kentucky, where he was offensive line and assistant head coach. Morriss was given national recognition for his pass blocking schemes that helped turn Kentucky's offense into one of the best in the nation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://cdispatch.com/sports/2020-10-09/fight-club-the-inside-story-of-mike-leach-hal-mumme-and-guy-morriss-boxing-offensive-linemen-and-the-1997-kentucky-wildcats/|title=Fight club: The inside story of Mike Leach, Hal Mumme and Guy Morriss' boxing offensive linemen and the 1997 Kentucky Wildcats|first=Ben|last=Portnoy|date=October 9, 2020|website=The Dispatch}}</ref>
After he was waived, Morriss accepted a position with the Patriots as the offensive line coach for the 1988 season under [[Raymond Berry]].<ref name=theboot>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/109146037/philadelphia-daily-news/|newspaper=[[Philadelphia Daily News]]|via=[[Newspapers.com]]|date=August 24, 1988|page=80|title=Pats Give Franklin the Boot}} {{Open access}}</ref> In 1992, after a brief stint as the head coach of the Washington Marauders of the [[Professional Spring Football League]],<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.si.com/college/2022/09/06/guy-morriss-dies-football-coach-kentucky-baylor|magazine=[[Sports Illustrated]]|title=Former Baylor, Kentucky Football Coach Guy Morriss Dies|author=Lyons, Dan|date=September 6, 2022}}</ref> Morriss coached at [[Valdosta State University]] under [[Hal Mumme]], who developed the modern [[air raid offense]], and alongside [[Mike Leach (American football coach)|Mike Leach]]. He later re-joined Mumme and Leach in 1997 at Kentucky, where he was offensive line and assistant head coach. Morriss was given national recognition for his pass blocking schemes that helped turn Kentucky's offense into one of the best in the nation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://cdispatch.com/sports/2020-10-09/fight-club-the-inside-story-of-mike-leach-hal-mumme-and-guy-morriss-boxing-offensive-linemen-and-the-1997-kentucky-wildcats/|title=Fight club: The inside story of Mike Leach, Hal Mumme and Guy Morriss' boxing offensive linemen and the 1997 Kentucky Wildcats|first=Ben|last=Portnoy|date=October 9, 2020|website=The Dispatch}}</ref>


===Kentucky===
===Kentucky===
After a [[Recruiting (college athletics)|recruiting]] scandal forced the resignation of Mumme at Kentucky, Morriss was named the school's interim head coach in 2001.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tampabay.com/archive/2001/02/07/mumme-resigns-at-kentucky/ |title=Mumme resigns at Kentucky |publisher=Tampabay.com |date= |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref> After a 2–9 season, Kentucky named Morriss the school's permanent head coach,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/361801611/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%202-9&match=1 |title=3 Dec 2001, 12 - The Courier-Journal at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2001-12-03 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref> where he led the Wildcats to a 7–5 turnaround season in 2002.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/356798105/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20kentucky%207-5&match=1 |title=30 Dec 2002, 30 - Austin American-Statesman at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2002-12-30 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref>
After a [[Recruiting (college athletics)|recruiting]] scandal forced the resignation of Mumme at Kentucky, Morriss was named the school's interim head coach in 2001.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tampabay.com/archive/2001/02/07/mumme-resigns-at-kentucky/ |title=Mumme resigns at Kentucky |publisher=Tampabay.com |date= |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref> After a 2–9 season, Kentucky named Morriss the school's permanent head coach,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/361801611/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%202-9&match=1 |title=3 Dec 2001, 12 – The Courier-Journal at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=December 3, 2001 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref> where he led the Wildcats to a 7–5 turnaround season in 2002.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/356798105/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20kentucky%207-5&match=1 |title=30 Dec 2002, 30 – Austin American-Statesman at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=December 30, 2002 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref>


Morriss was the losing coach in the "[[Bluegrass Miracle]]" game at [[Commonwealth Stadium (Kentucky)|Commonwealth Stadium]] in 2002. Morriss's Kentucky Wildcats kicked a [[Field goal (football)|field goal]] to take the lead over [[LSU Tigers football|LSU]] with 11 seconds left, only to lose on an 80-yard [[Hail Mary pass]] as time expired. Seconds before the Hail Mary, Morriss was doused with [[Gatorade]] by [[quarterback]] [[Jared Lorenzen]] in (what turned out to be) a premature "victory bath."<ref>{{cite web|author=Barrett Sallee |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1172001-classic-sec-football-lsu-tops-kentucky-in-the-bluegrass-miracle |title=Classic SEC Football: LSU Tops Kentucky in 'The Bluegrass Miracle' &#124; News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors |publisher=Bleacher Report |date=2012-05-04 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/28454233/the-stories-famous-sports-miracles|title=The stories behind famous sports miracles|date=February 19, 2020|website=ESPN.com}}</ref>
Morriss was the losing coach in the "[[Bluegrass Miracle]]" game at [[Commonwealth Stadium (Kentucky)|Commonwealth Stadium]] in 2002. Morriss's Kentucky Wildcats kicked a [[Field goal (football)|field goal]] to take the lead over [[LSU Tigers football|LSU]] with 11 seconds left, only to lose on an 80-yard [[Hail Mary pass]] as time expired. Seconds before the Hail Mary, Morriss was doused with [[Gatorade]] by [[quarterback]] [[Jared Lorenzen]] in a premature "victory bath".<ref>{{cite web|author=Barrett Sallee |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1172001-classic-sec-football-lsu-tops-kentucky-in-the-bluegrass-miracle |title=Classic SEC Football: LSU Tops Kentucky in 'The Bluegrass Miracle' &#124; News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors |publisher=Bleacher Report |date=May 4, 2012 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/28454233/the-stories-famous-sports-miracles|title=The stories behind famous sports miracles|date=February 19, 2020|website=ESPN.com}}</ref>


===Baylor===
===Baylor===
Morriss resigned from Kentucky to accept the head coaching job for the [[Baylor Bears football|Baylor Bears]] in December 2002.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www2.ljworld.com/news/2002/dec/10/baylor_to_hire/|title=Baylor to hire Morriss}}</ref> Morriss took over a Baylor program that had a 17-61 overall record since joining the [[Big 12 Conference]] in 1996.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/646943069/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor&match=1 |title=27 Aug 2003, 45 - Fort Worth Star-Telegram at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2003-08-27 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref> Morriss's first season in 2003 was highlighted by an upset win over [[Colorado Buffaloes football|Colorado]], a 19-point favorite.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/455071490/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor&match=1 |title=7 Oct 2003, 26 - The Daily Oklahoman at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2003-10-07 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref> The team finished 3-9.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/137874080/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%203-9&match=1 |title=St. Louis Post-Dispatch 23 Nov 2003, page Page 65 |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2003-11-23 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref> Morriss's second season in 2004 again only led to three wins and one conference win,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/647823270/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%203-8&match=1 |title=23 Nov 2004, 43 - Fort Worth Star-Telegram at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2004-11-23 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref> but Baylor had a 35–34 [[Overtime (sports)|overtime]] upset win over #16 [[Texas A&M Aggies football|Texas A&M]] (a 25-point favorite), in which Morriss made a gutsy call to "[[Two-point conversion|go for two]]" to win in the first overtime, instead of kicking the [[extra point]] and forcing a second overtime.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/647822803/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor&match=1 |title=3 Nov 2004, 60 - Fort Worth Star-Telegram at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2004-11-03 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref> Morriss's third season in 2005 produced a 5–6 record (BU's best since 1995).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/791291196/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%205-6&match=1 |title=20 Nov 2005, 3 - San Angelo Standard-Times at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2005-11-20 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref>
Morriss resigned from Kentucky to accept the head coaching job for the [[Baylor Bears football|Baylor Bears]] in December 2002.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www2.ljworld.com/news/2002/dec/10/baylor_to_hire/|title=Baylor to hire Morriss}}</ref> Morriss took over a Baylor program that had a 17–61 overall record since joining the [[Big 12 Conference]] in 1996.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/646943069/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor&match=1 |title=27 Aug 2003, 45 – Fort Worth Star-Telegram at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=August 27, 2003 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref> Morriss's first season in 2003 was highlighted by an upset win over [[Colorado Buffaloes football|Colorado]], a 19-point favorite.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/455071490/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor&match=1 |title=7 Oct 2003, 26 – The Daily Oklahoman at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=October 7, 2003 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref> The team finished 3–9.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/137874080/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%203-9&match=1 |title=St. Louis Post-Dispatch 23 Nov 2003, page Page 65 |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=November 23, 2003 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref> Morriss's second season in 2004 again only led to three wins and one conference win,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/647823270/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%203-8&match=1 |title=23 Nov 2004, 43 – Fort Worth Star-Telegram at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=November 23, 2004 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref> but Baylor had a 35–34 [[Overtime (sports)|overtime]] upset win over #16 [[Texas A&M Aggies football|Texas A&M]] (a 25-point favorite), in which Morriss made a gutsy call to "[[Two-point conversion|go for two]]" to win in the first overtime, instead of kicking the [[extra point]] and forcing a second overtime.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/647822803/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor&match=1 |title=3 Nov 2004, 60 – Fort Worth Star-Telegram at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=November 3, 2004 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref> Morriss's third season in 2005 produced a 5–6 record (BU's best since 1995).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/791291196/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%205-6&match=1 |title=20 Nov 2005, 3 – San Angelo Standard-Times at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=November 20, 2005 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref>


In 2006, Morriss's fourth year, BU had a disappointing 1–3 non-conference mark (including a loss at home to [[Army Black Knights football|Army]]),<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/303266339/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%201-3&match=1 |title=30 Sep 2006, 27 - The Odessa American at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2006-09-30 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref> BU rebounded with a 3–1 start in conference play. However, the momentum was stunted when [[quarterback]] Shawn Bell was injured in a loss to Texas A&M,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/650139136/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%20%22shawn%20bell%22%20%22texas%20A%26m%22&match=1 |title=29 Oct 2006, 76 - Fort Worth Star-Telegram at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2006-10-29 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref> and Baylor lost their final three games, finishing the year at 4–8 (3–5 in the Big 12).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/649428670/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%204-8%20%22shawn%20bell%22&match=1 |title=22 Nov 2006, Z10 - Fort Worth Star-Telegram at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2006-11-22 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref>
In 2006, Morriss's fourth year, BU had a disappointing 1–3 non-conference mark (including a loss at home to [[Army Black Knights football|Army]]).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/303266339/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%201-3&match=1 |title=30 Sep 2006, 27 – The Odessa American at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=September 30, 2006 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref> BU rebounded with a 3–1 start in conference play. However, the momentum was stunted when [[quarterback]] Shawn Bell was injured in a loss to Texas A&M,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/650139136/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%20%22shawn%20bell%22%20%22texas%20A%26m%22&match=1 |title=29 Oct 2006, 76 – Fort Worth Star-Telegram at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=October 29, 2006 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref> and Baylor lost their final three games, finishing the year at 4–8 (3–5 in the Big 12).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/649428670/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%204-8%20%22shawn%20bell%22&match=1 |title=22 Nov 2006, Z10 – Fort Worth Star-Telegram at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=November 22, 2006 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref>


In 2007, Morriss failed again to produce a winning record for the Bears, as Baylor finished with a 3–9 record. The loss of a significant number of seniors, including Bell, was part of the blame for the poor season. In the season opener, Baylor was [[Shutout|shut out]] by [[TCU Horned Frogs football|TCU]], 27–0,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/357354698/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%20tcu&match=1 |title=2 Sep 2007, 40 - Austin American-Statesman at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2007-09-02 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref> but managed to win the next three non-conference games. Afterwards, Baylor did not defeat any of its Big 12 opponents, their last defeat being the 12th consecutive loss in Big 12 play.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/legacy/303661657/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%203-9&match=1 |title=19 Nov 2007, 23 - The Odessa American at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=2007-11-19 |accessdate=2022-09-08}}</ref>
In 2007, Morriss failed again to produce a winning record for the Bears, as Baylor finished with a 3–9 record. The loss of a significant number of seniors, including Bell, was part of the blame for the poor season. In the season opener, Baylor was [[Shutout|shut out]] by [[TCU Horned Frogs football|TCU]], 27–0,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/357354698/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%20tcu&match=1 |title=2 Sep 2007, 40 – Austin American-Statesman at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=September 2, 2007 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref> but managed to win the next three non-conference games. Afterwards, Baylor did not defeat any of its Big 12 opponents, their last defeat being the 12th consecutive loss in Big 12 play.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/303661657/?terms=%22guy%20morriss%22%20baylor%203-9&match=1 |title=19 Nov 2007, 23 – The Odessa American at |publisher=Newspapers.com |date=November 19, 2007 |accessdate=September 8, 2022}}</ref>


On November 18, 2007, Baylor fired Morriss.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://baylorbears.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/111807aab.html|title=Morriss Will Not Return as Football Coach|publisher=Baylor Athleticsdate=November 18, 2007|access-date=November 19, 2007}}</ref> On November 28, 2007, former [[University of Houston]] head coach [[Art Briles]] replaced Morriss.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://baylorbears.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/112807aam.html|title=Art Briles Named Baylor's 25th Head Football Coach|publisher=Baylor Athletics|date=November 28, 2007|access-date=November 30, 2007}}</ref>
On November 18, 2007, Baylor fired Morriss.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://baylorbears.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/111807aab.html|title=Morriss Will Not Return as Football Coach|publisher=Baylor Athleticsdate=November 18, 2007|access-date=November 19, 2007|archive-date=November 21, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071121001833/http://baylorbears.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/111807aab.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> On November 28, 2007, former [[University of Houston]] head coach [[Art Briles]] replaced Morriss.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://baylorbears.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/112807aam.html|title=Art Briles Named Baylor's 25th Head Football Coach|publisher=Baylor Athletics|date=November 28, 2007|access-date=November 30, 2007|archive-date=May 6, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080506104058/http://baylorbears.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/112807aam.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>


===Kentucky State===
===Kentucky State===
In March 2008, Morriss accepted a job as a position coach at [[Kentucky State University]]. Morriss was the first person with coaching experience in a BCS conference to go to work in the [[Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference]] (a division II league consisting of historically black colleges and universities).<ref>{{cite news |title=Kentucky State hires Guy Morriss |url=http://www.wkyt.com/sports/headlines/16769531.html |publisher=[[WKYT]] |date=March 17, 2008 |access-date=October 3, 2009}}</ref>
In March 2008, Morriss accepted a job as a position coach at [[Kentucky State University]]. Morriss was the first person with coaching experience in a BCS conference to go to work in the [[Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference]] (a division II league consisting of historically black colleges and universities).<ref>{{cite news |title=Kentucky State hires Guy Morriss |url=http://www.wkyt.com/sports/headlines/16769531.html |publisher=[[WKYT]] |date=March 17, 2008 |access-date=October 3, 2009 |archive-date=March 10, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120310103226/http://www.wkyt.com/sports/headlines/16769531.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>


===Texas A&M–Commerce===
===Texas A&M–Commerce===
In December 2008, [[Scott Conley (American football)|Scott Conley]] was removed as head coach of the [[Texas A&M–Commerce Lions football]] program after a 24–27 record in five seasons. On January 7, 2009, Morriss was offered the job to succeed Conley by athletic director Carlton Cooper and university president Daniel Jones.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/college-sports/|title=College Sports &#124; Dallas Morning News|website=www.dallasnews.com}}</ref>
In December 2008, [[Scott Conley (American football)|Scott Conley]] was removed as head coach of the [[Texas A&M–Commerce Lions football]] program after a 24–27 record in five seasons. On January 7, 2009, Morriss was offered the job to succeed Conley by athletic director Carlton Cooper and university president Daniel Jones.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/college-sports/|title=College Sports &#124; Dallas Morning News|website=www.dallasnews.com}}</ref>


Morriss's tenure at Texas A&M–Commerce began with five losses, before the Lions reeled off five straight wins, finishing 5–5 overall with a 5–0 record in their division, winning the North Division of the [[Lone Star Conference]] outright.<ref name="Lions record">{{cite web|title=Football All-Time Records|url=https://lionathletics.com/alltime.aspx?path=football|access-date=September 7, 2022|publisher=Texas A&M–Commerce Lions}}</ref> That gave Texas A&M–Commerce its first division title since 2007 and its first outright title of any kind since 1990.<ref>{{cite news|title=Why stop at a double sweep of Louisville?|url=https://www.kentucky.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/mark-story/article44017656.html|first=Mark|last=Story|date=December 15, 2009|access-date=September 7, 2022|newspaper=Lexington Herald-Leader|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220907175444/https://www.kentucky.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/mark-story/article44017656.html|archivedate=September 7, 2022|url-status=live}}</ref> Morriss also introduced the idea of wearing throwback jerseys that had the moniker "EAST TEXAS" on the front, as homage to the schools previous name, East Texas State University.<ref>{{cite news|title=Traditions Part 7: Throwback East Texas Jerseys|url=https://thelionwire.com/2020/06/10/traditions-part-7-throwback-east-texas-jerseys/|date=June 10, 2020|access-date=September 7, 2022|publisher=The Lion Wire}}</ref>
Morriss's tenure at Texas A&M–Commerce began with five losses, before the Lions reeled off five straight wins, finishing 5–5 overall with a 5–0 record in their division, winning the North Division of the [[Lone Star Conference]] outright.<ref name="Lions record">{{cite web|title=Football All-Time Records|url=https://lionathletics.com/alltime.aspx?path=football|access-date=September 7, 2022|publisher=Texas A&M–Commerce Lions}}</ref> Texas A&M–Commerce had its first division title since 2007 and its first outright title since 1990.<ref>{{cite news|title=Why stop at a double sweep of Louisville?|url=https://www.kentucky.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/mark-story/article44017656.html|first=Mark|last=Story|date=December 15, 2009|access-date=September 7, 2022|newspaper=Lexington Herald-Leader|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220907175444/https://www.kentucky.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/mark-story/article44017656.html|archivedate=September 7, 2022|url-status=live}}</ref> Morriss also introduced the idea of wearing throwback jerseys that had the moniker "EAST TEXAS" on the front, as homage to the schools previous name, East Texas State University.<ref>{{cite news|title=Traditions Part 7: Throwback East Texas Jerseys|url=https://thelionwire.com/2020/06/10/traditions-part-7-throwback-east-texas-jerseys/|date=June 10, 2020|access-date=September 7, 2022|publisher=The Lion Wire}}</ref>


After Morriss's first season, players from his football team coordinated an effort to illegally remove all copies of a student newspaper from campus because it contained an unfavorable article about a teammate who had been arrested on drug charges. Morriss said that he was "proud" of his players for taking the newspapers. He also referred to the theft as "the best team building exercise we have ever done." Morriss was subsequently disciplined by the school administration over the incident.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=4963076 |title=Morriss backs 'team building exercise' |date=March 4, 2010 |work=[[ESPN.com]] |access-date=October 6, 2011}}</ref>
After Morriss's first season, players from his football team coordinated an effort to illegally remove all copies of a student newspaper from campus because it contained an unfavorable article about a teammate who had been arrested on drug charges. Morriss said that he was "proud" of his players for taking the newspapers. He also referred to the theft as "the best team building exercise we have ever done." Morriss was subsequently disciplined by the school administration over the incident.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/news/story?id=4963076 |title=Morriss backs 'team building exercise' |date=March 4, 2010 |work=[[ESPN.com]] |access-date=October 6, 2011}}</ref>


The 2010 season started with much excitement as a massive renovation to Memorial Stadium in Commerce was completed that added 3,500 seats to the east side of the stadium, a second press box, a new scoreboard with a video jumbotron, and new locker rooms.<ref>{{cite web|title=Memorial Stadium|url=https://lionathletics.com/sports/2013/11/7/Memorial%20Stadium.aspx|access-date=September 7, 2022|publisher=Texas A&M–Commerce Lions}}</ref> The Lions christened their newly renovated stadium by routing [[Upper Iowa Peacocks football|Upper Iowa]], 33–10, giving Morriss six straight wins as head coach. However, the Lions only won two more games the rest of the season and finished with a disappointing 3–8 season. The 2011 season only produced one win, a 60–28 win over [[Eastern New Mexico Greyhounds football|Eastern New Mexico]], and the Lions finished 1–9. 2012 produced an identical record of 1–9, the lone victory coming over long time rival [[Texas A&M–Kingsville Javelinas football|Texas A&M–Kingsville]], 21–14 in overtime.<ref name="Lions record"/>
The 2010 season started with much excitement as a massive renovation to Memorial Stadium in Commerce was completed that added 3,500 seats to the east side of the stadium, a second press box, a new scoreboard with a video jumbotron, and new locker rooms.<ref>{{cite web|title=Memorial Stadium|url=https://lionathletics.com/sports/2013/11/7/Memorial%20Stadium.aspx|access-date=September 7, 2022|publisher=Texas A&M–Commerce Lions}}</ref> The Lions christened their newly renovated stadium by routing [[Upper Iowa Peacocks football|Upper Iowa]], 33–10, giving Morriss six straight wins as head coach. However, the Lions only won two more games the rest of the season and finished with a disappointing 3–8 season. The 2011 season only produced one win, a 60–28 win over [[Eastern New Mexico Greyhounds football|Eastern New Mexico]], and the Lions finished 1–9. 2012 produced an identical record of 1–9, the lone victory coming over long time rival [[Texas A&M–Kingsville Javelinas football|Texas A&M–Kingsville]], 21–14 in overtime.<ref name="Lions record"/>


On November 12, 2012, after leading the A&M–Commerce football program for four seasons, Morriss stepped down as head football coach. He stayed on at A&M–Commerce as special assistant to the athletic director. His duties included fundraising, teaching, and oversight of athletic facilities and special projects.<ref>{{cite web |title=Morriss Stepping Down as A&M-Commerce Head Coach |url=http://heraldbanner.com/topnews/x691737899/Guy-Morriss-stepping-down-as-A-M-Commerce-head-football-coach |date=November 12, 2012 |newspaper=[[Herald-Banner]] |access-date=November 12, 2012}}</ref>
On November 12, 2012, after leading the A&M–Commerce football program for four seasons, Morriss stepped down as head football coach. He stayed on at A&M–Commerce as special assistant to the athletic director. His duties included fundraising, teaching, and oversight of athletic facilities and special projects.<ref>{{cite web |title=Morriss Stepping Down as A&M-Commerce Head Coach |url=http://heraldbanner.com/topnews/x691737899/Guy-Morriss-stepping-down-as-A-M-Commerce-head-football-coach |date=November 12, 2012 |newspaper=[[Herald-Banner]] |access-date=November 12, 2012}}</ref>


==Personal life==
==Personal life==
Morriss was married to Jackie Morriss until his death. Together, they had two daughters, his two daughters from first marriage, and five grandchildren.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=Hale>{{cite news|title=Guy Morriss, former Kentucky football coach, dies at 71|url=https://www.kentucky.com/sports/college/kentucky-sports/uk-football/article265124516.html|first=Jon|last=Hale|date=September 6, 2022|access-date=September 7, 2022|newspaper=Lexington Herald-Leader|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220907090851/https://www.kentucky.com/sports/college/kentucky-sports/uk-football/article265124516.html|archivedate=September 7, 2022|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite living in Kentucky, he was known to be proud of his [[Texas]] heritage. His first comment to the press when accepting the Baylor job was yelling "It's good to be back in the Lone Star."<ref>{{cite news|title=Morriss Comments Upon Coming to Baylor|url=https://baylorbears.com/news/2002/12/11/Morriss_Comments_Upon_Coming_to_Baylor.aspx|date=December 11, 2002|access-date=September 7, 2022|publisher=Baylor Bears}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=New Baylor coach gets to the point; Morriss says he plans to instill pride in the green and gold|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/456645877|page=1|first=Keith|last=Whitmire|date=December 11, 2002|access-date=September 7, 2022|publisher=Knight Ridder Tribune News Service|id={{ProQuest|456645877}}|via=[[ProQuest]]}}</ref>
Morriss was married to Jackie Morriss until his death. Together, they had four daughters and five grandchildren.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=Hale>{{cite news|title=Guy Morriss, former Kentucky football coach, dies at 71|url=https://www.kentucky.com/sports/college/kentucky-sports/uk-football/article265124516.html|first=Jon|last=Hale|date=September 6, 2022|access-date=September 7, 2022|newspaper=Lexington Herald-Leader|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220907090851/https://www.kentucky.com/sports/college/kentucky-sports/uk-football/article265124516.html|archivedate=September 7, 2022|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite living in Kentucky, he was known to be proud of his [[Texas]] heritage. His first comment to the press when accepting the Baylor job was yelling "It's good to be back in the Lone Star."<ref>{{cite news|title=Morriss Comments Upon Coming to Baylor|url=https://baylorbears.com/news/2002/12/11/Morriss_Comments_Upon_Coming_to_Baylor.aspx|date=December 11, 2002|access-date=September 7, 2022|publisher=Baylor Bears}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=New Baylor coach gets to the point; Morriss says he plans to instill pride in the green and gold|url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/456645877|page=1|first=Keith|last=Whitmire|date=December 11, 2002|access-date=September 7, 2022|publisher=Knight Ridder Tribune News Service|id={{ProQuest|456645877}}|via=[[ProQuest]]}}</ref>


Morriss was inducted into the Kentucky Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018.
⚫
In 2017, Morriss was diagnosed with [[Alzheimer's disease]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |date=May 22, 2017 |title=WKYT Exclusive {{!}} Former UK coach Guy Morriss battling Alzheimer's |language=en |work=[[WKYT]] |url=https://www.wkyt.com/content/news/WKYT-Exclusive-Former-UK-coach-Guy-Morriss-battling-Alzheimers-423711074.html |access-date=November 22, 2021}}</ref> He died in [[Danville, Kentucky]] on September 5, 2022, at the age of 71.<ref name=AP>{{cite news|title=Former NFL lineman, college coach Guy Morriss dies at 71|url=https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-nfl-sports-ron-jaworski-coaching-8d0ea6ab8c487726b39edebc7a2ed17e|date=September 6, 2022|access-date=September 7, 2022|agency=Associated Press}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wymt.com/2022/09/06/report-fmr-uk-football-coach-guy-morriss-dies-71/|title=Fmr. UK Football Coach Guy Morriss dies at 71|work=[[WYMT-TV]]|date=September 6, 2022|access-date=September 6, 2022}}</ref>

⚫
In 2017, Morriss was diagnosed with [[Alzheimer's disease]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |date=May 22, 2017 |title=WKYT Exclusive {{!}} Former UK coach Guy Morriss battling Alzheimer's |language=en |work=[[WKYT]] |url=https://www.wkyt.com/content/news/WKYT-Exclusive-Former-UK-coach-Guy-Morriss-battling-Alzheimers-423711074.html |access-date=November 22, 2021}}</ref> He died in [[Danville, Kentucky]], on September 5, 2022, at the age of 71.<ref name="AP">{{cite news|title=Former NFL lineman, college coach Guy Morriss dies at 71|url=https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-nfl-sports-ron-jaworski-coaching-8d0ea6ab8c487726b39edebc7a2ed17e|date=September 6, 2022|access-date=September 7, 2022|work=Associated Press News}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wymt.com/2022/09/06/report-fmr-uk-football-coach-guy-morriss-dies-71/|title=Fmr. UK Football Coach Guy Morriss dies at 71|work=[[WYMT-TV]]|date=September 6, 2022|access-date=September 6, 2022}}</ref>


==Head coaching record==
==Head coaching record==
⚫
<small>Source: <ref name=CBB>{{cite web|url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/coaches/guy-morriss-1.html|title=Guy Morriss Coaching Record|work=College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference LLC|access-date=September 7, 2022}}</ref></small>
{{CFB Yearly Record Start | type = coach | team = | conf =| bowl = | poll = no }}
{{CFB Yearly Record Start | type = coach | team = | conf =| bowl = | poll = no }}
{{CFB Yearly Record Subhead
{{CFB Yearly Record Subhead
Line 226: Line 229:
| name = [[2009 Texas A&M–Commerce Lions football team|Texas A&M–Commerce]]
| name = [[2009 Texas A&M–Commerce Lions football team|Texas A&M–Commerce]]
| overall = 5–5
| overall = 5–5
| conference = 5–4 / 5–0
| conference = 5–4
| confstanding = T–6th / 1st <small>(North)</small>
| confstanding = T–1st <small>(North)</small>
| bowlname =
| bowlname =
| bowloutcome =
| bowloutcome =
Line 239: Line 242:
| name = Texas A&M–Commerce
| name = Texas A&M–Commerce
| overall = 3–8
| overall = 3–8
| conference = 2–8 / 2–4
| conference = 2–8
| confstanding = T–13th / T–5th <small>(North)</small>
| confstanding = T–6th <small>(North)</small>
| bowlname =
| bowlname =
| bowloutcome =
| bowloutcome =
Line 253: Line 256:
| overall = 1–9
| overall = 1–9
| conference = 1–7
| conference = 1–7
| confstanding = 9th
| confstanding = T–8th
| bowlname =
| bowlname =
| bowloutcome =
| bowloutcome =
Line 266: Line 269:
| overall = 1–9
| overall = 1–9
| conference = 1–7
| conference = 1–7
| confstanding = 9th
| confstanding = T–8th
| bowlname =
| bowlname =
| bowloutcome =
| bowloutcome =
Line 285: Line 288:
| legend =
| legend =
}}
}}
⚫
<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/coaches/guy-morriss-1.html|title=Guy Morriss Coaching Record|work=College Football at Sports-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference LLC|access-date=September 7, 2022}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}
{{Reflist|30em}}


==External links==
==External links==
* {{Sports links}}
* {{Footballstats |nfl=gus-morriss |espn= |cbs= |yahoo= |si= |pfr=M/MorrGu20 |rotoworld= }}

{{Kentucky Wildcats football coach navbox}}
{{Kentucky Wildcats football coach navbox}}
{{Baylor Bears football coach navbox}}
{{Baylor Bears football coach navbox}}
Line 309: Line 314:
[[Category:San Antonio Texans coaches]]
[[Category:San Antonio Texans coaches]]
[[Category:TCU Horned Frogs football players]]
[[Category:TCU Horned Frogs football players]]
[[Category:Texas A&M–Commerce Lions football coaches]]
[[Category:East Texas A&M Lions football coaches]]
[[Category:Valdosta State Blazers football coaches]]
[[Category:Valdosta State Blazers football coaches]]
[[Category:High school football coaches in Kentucky]]
[[Category:High school football coaches in Kentucky]]
[[Category:High school football coaches in Texas]]
[[Category:High school football coaches in Texas]]
[[Category:Sportspeople from Arlington, Texas]]
[[Category:Players of American football from Arlington, Texas]]
[[Category:People from Colorado City, Texas]]
[[Category:People from Colorado City, Texas]]
[[Category:Coaches of American football from Texas]]
[[Category:Coaches of American football from Texas]]
[[Category:Players of American football from Texas]]
[[Category:People with Alzheimer's disease]]
[[Category:People with Alzheimer's disease]]

Latest revision as of 22:30, 22 December 2024

Guy Morriss
Biographical details
Born(1951-05-13)May 13, 1951
Colorado City, Texas, U.S.
DiedSeptember 5, 2022(2022-09-05) (aged 71)
Danville, Kentucky, U.S.
Playing career
1969–1972TCU
1973–1983Philadelphia Eagles
1984–1987New England Patriots
Position(s)Center, guard
Coaching career (HC unless noted)
1988–1989New England Patriots (OL)
1991Mansfield HS (TX) (OC)
1992Washington Marauders
1992–1993Valdosta State (OL)
1994Arizona Cardinals (OL)
1995San Antonio Texans (OL)
1996Mississippi State (OL)
1997–2000Kentucky (AHC/OL)
2001–2002Kentucky
2003–2007Baylor
2008Kentucky State (OL)
2009–2012Texas A&M–Commerce
2014Warren Central HS (KY) (OL)
2015Lexington Christian Academy (KY) (OL)
Head coaching record
Overall37–85
Accomplishments and honors
Championships
LSC North Division (2009)
Awards

Guy Walker Morriss (May 13, 1951 – September 5, 2022) was an American football coach and player. He served as the head football coach at the University of Kentucky for two seasons (2001–2002) and at Baylor University for five seasons (2003–2007).

Morriss played college football at Texas Christian University (TCU) and spent 15 seasons as an offensive lineman in the National Football League (NFL) with the Philadelphia Eagles (1973–1983) and the New England Patriots (1984–1987). Morriss played in over 200 regular season games during his NFL career and started at center for the Eagles in Super Bowl XV.

Early life and playing career

[edit]

Morriss was born in Colorado City, Texas, on May 13, 1951.[1][2] He attended Sam Houston High School in Arlington, Texas,[1] where he played tight end for the school's team.[3] He later earned a scholarship to Texas Christian University (TCU) in Fort Worth, Texas, graduating in 1973 with a bachelor's degree in secondary education.[4] He played as a guard for the TCU Horned Frogs.[5]

The Philadelphia Eagles selected Morriss in the second round of the 1973 NFL draft.[6] As a rookie, the Eagles transitioned Morriss into a center.[7] He played with the Eagles from 1973 to 1983, and started in 151 out of their 158 games in that period.[8] In March 1984, the Eagles waived Morriss.[9] He signed with the New England Patriots that offseason,[10] and he played center and guard for the Patriots through the 1987 season.[11] The Patriots waived Morriss before the 1988 season.[12] He played in Super Bowl XV for the Eagles and as a backup to Pete Brock in Super Bowl XX for the Patriots.[13][14][15]

Coaching career

[edit]

Early career

[edit]

After he was waived, Morriss accepted a position with the Patriots as the offensive line coach for the 1988 season under Raymond Berry.[12] In 1992, after a brief stint as the head coach of the Washington Marauders of the Professional Spring Football League,[16] Morriss coached at Valdosta State University under Hal Mumme, who developed the modern air raid offense, and alongside Mike Leach. He later re-joined Mumme and Leach in 1997 at Kentucky, where he was offensive line and assistant head coach. Morriss was given national recognition for his pass blocking schemes that helped turn Kentucky's offense into one of the best in the nation.[17]

Kentucky

[edit]

After a recruiting scandal forced the resignation of Mumme at Kentucky, Morriss was named the school's interim head coach in 2001.[18] After a 2–9 season, Kentucky named Morriss the school's permanent head coach,[19] where he led the Wildcats to a 7–5 turnaround season in 2002.[20]

Morriss was the losing coach in the "Bluegrass Miracle" game at Commonwealth Stadium in 2002. Morriss's Kentucky Wildcats kicked a field goal to take the lead over LSU with 11 seconds left, only to lose on an 80-yard Hail Mary pass as time expired. Seconds before the Hail Mary, Morriss was doused with Gatorade by quarterback Jared Lorenzen in a premature "victory bath".[21][22]

Baylor

[edit]

Morriss resigned from Kentucky to accept the head coaching job for the Baylor Bears in December 2002.[23] Morriss took over a Baylor program that had a 17–61 overall record since joining the Big 12 Conference in 1996.[24] Morriss's first season in 2003 was highlighted by an upset win over Colorado, a 19-point favorite.[25] The team finished 3–9.[26] Morriss's second season in 2004 again only led to three wins and one conference win,[27] but Baylor had a 35–34 overtime upset win over #16 Texas A&M (a 25-point favorite), in which Morriss made a gutsy call to "go for two" to win in the first overtime, instead of kicking the extra point and forcing a second overtime.[28] Morriss's third season in 2005 produced a 5–6 record (BU's best since 1995).[29]

In 2006, Morriss's fourth year, BU had a disappointing 1–3 non-conference mark (including a loss at home to Army).[30] BU rebounded with a 3–1 start in conference play. However, the momentum was stunted when quarterback Shawn Bell was injured in a loss to Texas A&M,[31] and Baylor lost their final three games, finishing the year at 4–8 (3–5 in the Big 12).[32]

In 2007, Morriss failed again to produce a winning record for the Bears, as Baylor finished with a 3–9 record. The loss of a significant number of seniors, including Bell, was part of the blame for the poor season. In the season opener, Baylor was shut out by TCU, 27–0,[33] but managed to win the next three non-conference games. Afterwards, Baylor did not defeat any of its Big 12 opponents, their last defeat being the 12th consecutive loss in Big 12 play.[34]

On November 18, 2007, Baylor fired Morriss.[35] On November 28, 2007, former University of Houston head coach Art Briles replaced Morriss.[36]

Kentucky State

[edit]

In March 2008, Morriss accepted a job as a position coach at Kentucky State University. Morriss was the first person with coaching experience in a BCS conference to go to work in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (a division II league consisting of historically black colleges and universities).[37]

Texas A&M–Commerce

[edit]

In December 2008, Scott Conley was removed as head coach of the Texas A&M–Commerce Lions football program after a 24–27 record in five seasons. On January 7, 2009, Morriss was offered the job to succeed Conley by athletic director Carlton Cooper and university president Daniel Jones.[38]

Morriss's tenure at Texas A&M–Commerce began with five losses, before the Lions reeled off five straight wins, finishing 5–5 overall with a 5–0 record in their division, winning the North Division of the Lone Star Conference outright.[39] Texas A&M–Commerce had its first division title since 2007 and its first outright title since 1990.[40] Morriss also introduced the idea of wearing throwback jerseys that had the moniker "EAST TEXAS" on the front, as homage to the schools previous name, East Texas State University.[41]

After Morriss's first season, players from his football team coordinated an effort to illegally remove all copies of a student newspaper from campus because it contained an unfavorable article about a teammate who had been arrested on drug charges. Morriss said that he was "proud" of his players for taking the newspapers. He also referred to the theft as "the best team building exercise we have ever done." Morriss was subsequently disciplined by the school administration over the incident.[42]

The 2010 season started with much excitement as a massive renovation to Memorial Stadium in Commerce was completed that added 3,500 seats to the east side of the stadium, a second press box, a new scoreboard with a video jumbotron, and new locker rooms.[43] The Lions christened their newly renovated stadium by routing Upper Iowa, 33–10, giving Morriss six straight wins as head coach. However, the Lions only won two more games the rest of the season and finished with a disappointing 3–8 season. The 2011 season only produced one win, a 60–28 win over Eastern New Mexico, and the Lions finished 1–9. 2012 produced an identical record of 1–9, the lone victory coming over long time rival Texas A&M–Kingsville, 21–14 in overtime.[39]

On November 12, 2012, after leading the A&M–Commerce football program for four seasons, Morriss stepped down as head football coach. He stayed on at A&M–Commerce as special assistant to the athletic director. His duties included fundraising, teaching, and oversight of athletic facilities and special projects.[44]

Personal life

[edit]

Morriss was married to Jackie Morriss until his death. Together, they had four daughters and five grandchildren.[45][46] Despite living in Kentucky, he was known to be proud of his Texas heritage. His first comment to the press when accepting the Baylor job was yelling "It's good to be back in the Lone Star."[47][48]

Morriss was inducted into the Kentucky Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018.

In 2017, Morriss was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.[45] He died in Danville, Kentucky, on September 5, 2022, at the age of 71.[49][50]

Head coaching record

[edit]
Year Team Overall Conference Standing Bowl/playoffs
Kentucky Wildcats (Southeastern Conference) (2001–2002)
2001 Kentucky 2–9 1–7 5th (Eastern)
2002 Kentucky 7–5 3–5 T–4th (Eastern)
Kentucky: 9–14 4–12
Baylor Bears (Big 12 Conference) (2003–2007)
2003 Baylor 3–9 1–7 6th (South)
2004 Baylor 3–8 1–7 6th (South)
2005 Baylor 5–6 2–6 5th (South)
2006 Baylor 4–8 3–5 T–5th (South)
2007 Baylor 3–9 0–8 6th (South)
Baylor: 18–40 7–33
Texas A&M–Commerce Lions (Lone Star Conference) (2009–2012)
2009 Texas A&M–Commerce 5–5 5–4 T–1st (North)
2010 Texas A&M–Commerce 3–8 2–8 T–6th (North)
2011 Texas A&M–Commerce 1–9 1–7 T–8th
2012 Texas A&M–Commerce 1–9 1–7 T–8th
Texas A&M–Commerce: 10–31 9–26
Total: 37–85
      National championship         Conference title         Conference division title or championship game berth

[51]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Guy Morriss Stats". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved September 7, 2022.
  2. ^ Didinger, Ray; Lyons, Robert S. (2005). The Eagles Encyclopedia. Temple University Press. p. 59. ISBN 9781592134540.
  3. ^ Williams, Charean (April 24, 2013). "Luke Joeckel will make Arlington history Thursday". Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Retrieved September 7, 2022.
  4. ^ "Guy Morriss stepping down as A&M-Commerce; head football coach". Herald-Banner. Greenville, Texas. November 12, 2012. Archived from the original on September 7, 2022. Retrieved September 7, 2022.
  5. ^ "27 Oct 1973, Page 21 – The Philadelphia Inquirer at". Newspapers.com. October 27, 1973. Retrieved September 9, 2022.
  6. ^ "31 Jul 1973, Page 57 – Philadelphia Daily News at". Newspapers.com. July 31, 1973. Retrieved September 9, 2022.
  7. ^ "Clipping from The Philadelphia Inquirer". Newspapers.com. November 16, 1980. Retrieved September 9, 2022.
  8. ^ "1 Aug 1985, 60 – The Boston Globe at". Newspapers.com. August 1, 1985. Retrieved September 9, 2022.
  9. ^ "16 Mar 1984, Page 35 – The News Journal at". Newspapers.com. March 16, 1984. Retrieved September 9, 2022.
  10. ^ "1 Aug 1984, 39 – The Boston Globe at". Newspapers.com. August 1, 1984. Retrieved September 9, 2022.
  11. ^ "5 Nov 1987, Page 66 – Courier-Post at". Newspapers.com. November 5, 1987. Retrieved September 9, 2022.
  12. ^ a b "Pats Give Franklin the Boot". Philadelphia Daily News. August 24, 1988. p. 80 – via Newspapers.com. Open access icon
  13. ^ "24 Jan 1986, 48 – The Boston Globe at". Newspapers.com. January 24, 1986. Retrieved September 9, 2022.
  14. ^ "Super Bowl XX - Chicago Bears vs. New England Patriots - January 26th, 1986". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved November 16, 2023.
  15. ^ Magliocchetti, Geoff (September 9, 2022). "Obit: Patriots Blocker, Coach Guy Morriss Passes at 71". Sports Illustrated. Retrieved November 16, 2023.
  16. ^ Lyons, Dan (September 6, 2022). "Former Baylor, Kentucky Football Coach Guy Morriss Dies". Sports Illustrated.
  17. ^ Portnoy, Ben (October 9, 2020). "Fight club: The inside story of Mike Leach, Hal Mumme and Guy Morriss' boxing offensive linemen and the 1997 Kentucky Wildcats". The Dispatch.
  18. ^ "Mumme resigns at Kentucky". Tampabay.com. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  19. ^ "3 Dec 2001, 12 – The Courier-Journal at". Newspapers.com. December 3, 2001. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  20. ^ "30 Dec 2002, 30 – Austin American-Statesman at". Newspapers.com. December 30, 2002. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  21. ^ Barrett Sallee (May 4, 2012). "Classic SEC Football: LSU Tops Kentucky in 'The Bluegrass Miracle' | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors". Bleacher Report. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  22. ^ "The stories behind famous sports miracles". ESPN.com. February 19, 2020.
  23. ^ "Baylor to hire Morriss".
  24. ^ "27 Aug 2003, 45 – Fort Worth Star-Telegram at". Newspapers.com. August 27, 2003. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  25. ^ "7 Oct 2003, 26 – The Daily Oklahoman at". Newspapers.com. October 7, 2003. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  26. ^ "St. Louis Post-Dispatch 23 Nov 2003, page Page 65". Newspapers.com. November 23, 2003. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  27. ^ "23 Nov 2004, 43 – Fort Worth Star-Telegram at". Newspapers.com. November 23, 2004. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  28. ^ "3 Nov 2004, 60 – Fort Worth Star-Telegram at". Newspapers.com. November 3, 2004. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  29. ^ "20 Nov 2005, 3 – San Angelo Standard-Times at". Newspapers.com. November 20, 2005. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  30. ^ "30 Sep 2006, 27 – The Odessa American at". Newspapers.com. September 30, 2006. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  31. ^ "29 Oct 2006, 76 – Fort Worth Star-Telegram at". Newspapers.com. October 29, 2006. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  32. ^ "22 Nov 2006, Z10 – Fort Worth Star-Telegram at". Newspapers.com. November 22, 2006. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  33. ^ "2 Sep 2007, 40 – Austin American-Statesman at". Newspapers.com. September 2, 2007. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  34. ^ "19 Nov 2007, 23 – The Odessa American at". Newspapers.com. November 19, 2007. Retrieved September 8, 2022.
  35. ^ "Morriss Will Not Return as Football Coach" (Press release). Baylor Athleticsdate=November 18, 2007. Archived from the original on November 21, 2007. Retrieved November 19, 2007.
  36. ^ "Art Briles Named Baylor's 25th Head Football Coach" (Press release). Baylor Athletics. November 28, 2007. Archived from the original on May 6, 2008. Retrieved November 30, 2007.
  37. ^ "Kentucky State hires Guy Morriss". WKYT. March 17, 2008. Archived from the original on March 10, 2012. Retrieved October 3, 2009.
  38. ^ "College Sports | Dallas Morning News". www.dallasnews.com.
  39. ^ a b "Football All-Time Records". Texas A&M–Commerce Lions. Retrieved September 7, 2022.
  40. ^ Story, Mark (December 15, 2009). "Why stop at a double sweep of Louisville?". Lexington Herald-Leader. Archived from the original on September 7, 2022. Retrieved September 7, 2022.
  41. ^ "Traditions Part 7: Throwback East Texas Jerseys". The Lion Wire. June 10, 2020. Retrieved September 7, 2022.
  42. ^ "Morriss backs 'team building exercise'". ESPN.com. March 4, 2010. Retrieved October 6, 2011.
  43. ^ "Memorial Stadium". Texas A&M–Commerce Lions. Retrieved September 7, 2022.
  44. ^ "Morriss Stepping Down as A&M-Commerce Head Coach". Herald-Banner. November 12, 2012. Retrieved November 12, 2012.
  45. ^ a b "WKYT Exclusive | Former UK coach Guy Morriss battling Alzheimer's". WKYT. May 22, 2017. Retrieved November 22, 2021.
  46. ^ Hale, Jon (September 6, 2022). "Guy Morriss, former Kentucky football coach, dies at 71". Lexington Herald-Leader. Archived from the original on September 7, 2022. Retrieved September 7, 2022.
  47. ^ "Morriss Comments Upon Coming to Baylor". Baylor Bears. December 11, 2002. Retrieved September 7, 2022.
  48. ^ Whitmire, Keith (December 11, 2002). "New Baylor coach gets to the point; Morriss says he plans to instill pride in the green and gold". Knight Ridder Tribune News Service. p. 1. ProQuest 456645877. Retrieved September 7, 2022 – via ProQuest.
  49. ^ "Former NFL lineman, college coach Guy Morriss dies at 71". Associated Press News. September 6, 2022. Retrieved September 7, 2022.
  50. ^ "Fmr. UK Football Coach Guy Morriss dies at 71". WYMT-TV. September 6, 2022. Retrieved September 6, 2022.
  51. ^ "Guy Morriss Coaching Record". College Football at Sports-Reference.com. Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved September 7, 2022.
[edit]
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Guy_Morriss&oldid=1264670389"