Mike Holmgren revolutionized NFL franchises through his mastery of the West Coast offense and exceptional ability to develop Hall of Fame quarterbacks. Born on June 15, 1948, in San Francisco, California, Holmgren attended Abraham Lincoln High School, where he starred as a tight end before becoming a standout quarterback and punter, earning the 1965 Prep Athlete of the Year honors. He played quarterback at the University of Southern California (1966-1969), earning a spot on USC's 1967 national championship team as a backup behind starter Steve Sogge. Selected in the eighth round (201st overall) by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 1970 NFL draft, the 6-foot-5, 245-pound Holmgren attended camp with both the Cardinals and the New York Jets but never played professionally.