Red Miller, the Denver Broncos head coach who guided the franchise's iconic 1977 "Orange Crush" team to a Super Bowl, died Wednesday morning at the age of 89.
Miller coached the Broncos for fours seasons from 1977-80. He led Denver to its first three postseason appearances and first Super Bowl. The Broncos' 1977 team, which featured defensive legends Randy Gradishar and Tom Jackson, went 12-2 in the regular season and advanced to Super Bowl XII before falling to the Dallas Cowboys.
Miller finished with a 40-22 record as Broncos head coach. Miller was voted into the Broncos Ring of Fame this year. His name will be revealed on the Ring of Fame on Nov. 19 when the Broncos face the Cincinnati Bengals.
"Our deepest sympathies go out to Red’s entire family, especially his wife, Nan," Broncos president and CEO Joe Ellis said. "Red was a beloved member of the Broncos’ family. He left a great impact on this franchise by laying the foundation for our championship tradition and was so proud to be part of our first Super Bowl team 40 years ago.
“You could tell how much the Broncos meant to Red, and he’s meant so much to everyone here. Red was overjoyed to get that phone call in May notifying him of his Ring of Fame selection, and we’re all very saddened that he won’t be able to join us when we honor him in November."
Miller died of complications from a stroke, Mike Klis of 9 News reported. He is survived by his wife, Nan; his son, Steve; his stepson, Jeff; and five grandchildren.
A funeral service date has not yet been set.
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