Bill Yeoman

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Bill Yeoman was the head football coach at the University of Houston from 1962 to 1986. He is the winningest coach in school history, having compiled a record of 160-108-8. His 160 victories rank 51st on the NCAA all time list. He invented the veer offense in 1964 which quickly helped lead the Cougars to national prominence. Yeoman's Cougars finished the season ranked in the Top 10 four times and 10 times in the Top 20.

On July 11, 1964, Yeoman broke the color barrier for major Texas football programs when the University of Houston signed San Antonio’s Warren McVea to a scholarship.

He guided the Cougars to four Southwest Conference Championships – 1976, 1978, 1979 & 1984 - and a 6-4-1 record in bowl games including Cotton Bowl victories over Maryland in 1977 and Nebraska in 1980. In 1976, Houston’s first year as a member of the SWC, Yeoman was named Texas Coach of the Year and runner-up for National Coach of the Year.

Yeoman was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2001 and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in 2003. He coached 46 All-Americans and 69 NFL players.

However, his career was not without controversy. In 1986, allegations surfaced regarding illegal recruiting inducements and extra benefits for his players. Subsequently, in 1988, the program was placed on probation. Yeoman was alleged to have handed out cash to players and provided them with illegal transportation and lodging.

Today, Yeoman works as a fundraiser for the UH athletic department.

Houston Cougars Head Football Coaches
Wallace • Lee • Meek • Lahar • Yeoman • Pardee • Jenkins • Helton • Dimel • Briles