Former Alabama OL and LB Jack “The Governor” Rutledge passed away Thursday after a long battle with multiple illnesses.
Rutledge was a member of Bear Bryant’s first national championship team in 1961, and his nickname “The Governor” was given to him because he closely resembled then-Alabama Governor John Patterson.
After his Alabama playing career, he coached on Bryant’s staff from 1966 through 1982. As a player and coach, he earned five national championship rings and 15 SEC championship rings.
The University of Alabama shared its condolences Thursday night:
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of former player (1959-61) and assistant coach (1966-82) Jack “Governor” Rutledge. Roll Tide pic.twitter.com/IctIHEdbBP
— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) January 25, 2019
Saturday Down South reports and comments on the news around the Southeastern Conference as well as larger college football topics.
