Legendary Coach Lou Holtz Enters Hospice Care

The 89-year-old former Notre Dame and Arkansas coach is receiving an outpouring of support from the football community.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 11:39am

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Legendary college football coach Lou Holtz, who led Notre Dame to a national championship in 1988, has entered hospice care at the age of 89. Holtz, who also coached at Arkansas, is receiving an outpouring of support from fans and fellow coaches following the heartbreaking news.

Why it matters

Holtz is considered one of the most successful and influential college football coaches of his era, leading Notre Dame to a 12-0 season and national title in 1988. His entrance into hospice care marks the end of an iconic career that spanned over four decades and impacted countless players and coaches.

The details

Reports surfaced on January 29 that Holtz had entered hospice care. Holtz coached at Notre Dame from 1986 to 1996, leading the Fighting Irish to a perfect 12-0 season and national championship in 1988. He also had a successful stint as the head coach at Arkansas from 1977 to 1983, compiling a 60-21-2 record and winning three bowl games.

  • Holtz coached at Notre Dame from 1986 to 1996.
  • Holtz led Notre Dame to a 12-0 season and national championship in 1988.
  • Holtz was the head coach at Arkansas from 1977 to 1983.
  • Holtz was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008.
  • Reports surfaced on January 29, 2026 that Holtz had entered hospice care.

The players

Lou Holtz

A legendary college football coach who led Notre Dame to a national championship in 1988 and also had a successful stint as the head coach at Arkansas.

Tim Brown

The 1987 Heisman Trophy winner who played under Holtz at Notre Dame.

Raghib "Rocket" Ismail

A College Football Hall of Famer who played for Holtz at Notre Dame.

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What they’re saying

“Oh, at some point I think we all knew we'd be lucky to hold on to Lou and legends like him much longer. So many we've looked up to and many I had the honor and privilege of not only covering, but working alongside eventually head to their next life of eternal glory. My thoughts are with his family, especially my dear friend, his wife Jen and their extended family. His beloved wife Beth awaits.”

— Tim Brando, Fox Sports (X)

“Coach Holtz has inspired and motivated so many for years including me during my battles with cancer. God, please help coach at this tough time.”

— Dick Vitale, ESPN Analyst (X)

What’s next

The Holtz family is expected to provide further updates on his condition in the coming days.

The takeaway

Lou Holtz's entrance into hospice care marks the end of an iconic coaching career that spanned over four decades and left an indelible mark on college football. His legacy of success, inspiration, and tradition at Notre Dame and Arkansas will continue to be felt by the many players, coaches, and fans he impacted throughout his legendary career.