Lou Holtz, one of college football’s most iconic figures, continues to fight as he faces a serious health battle. On Sunday, his son Skip Holtz offered an emotional update, sharing that the 89-year-old Hall of Fame coach remains resilient despite entering hospice care earlier in the week.
“Dad is 89 and he is STILL fighting the fight!” Skip posted on X.
“Only the man upstairs knows how much time is left on the clock. Cherishing the time we still have together in Orlando.”
The message came just days after Holtz’s other son, Kevin, publicly revealed that the legendary coach was dealing with a significant health issue. Amid a flurry of concern and some premature reports suggesting otherwise, Skip’s update served as both a heartfelt reassurance and a reminder of the strength that has defined Lou Holtz throughout his life-on and off the field.
For fans of college football, Lou Holtz is more than a coach. He’s a symbol of a bygone era-one where grit, discipline, and belief could carry a team to greatness.
His legacy is anchored in his decade-long run at Notre Dame, where he led the Fighting Irish to a perfect 12-0 season in 1988, culminating in a national championship and a Fiesta Bowl win. That season remains one of the most storied in program history.
But Holtz's impact stretches far beyond South Bend. His coaching journey took him through William & Mary, NC State, Minnesota, Arkansas, and South Carolina, where he wrapped up a remarkable career in 2004. His teams were known for their toughness, their preparation, and most of all, their belief in the message Holtz preached: that anything is possible with the right mindset and work ethic.
After stepping away from the sidelines, Holtz brought that same passion to the broadcast booth, joining ESPN as an analyst and quickly becoming a fan favorite. His blend of insight, humor, and storytelling made him a natural on camera. In 2008, he was rightfully enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame-a capstone to a career that shaped generations of players, coaches, and fans.
As news of his health spread, tributes poured in. Among them was FOX Sports broadcaster Tim Brando, who called Holtz “a national treasure” and extended his thoughts to the Holtz family.
Lou Holtz turned 89 on January 6. Even now, as he faces one of life’s toughest opponents, he’s doing it the only way he knows how-by fighting the fight. And for those who’ve followed his career, that comes as no surprise.