Buffalo Bills: Top 5 Head Coaches in Franchise History

4) Wade Phillips

Regular season record: 29-19-0

Achievements: 2 playoff appearances

Some people may be surprised by Phillips’ inclusion on this list, but they shouldn’t be. He made the playoffs two out of his three seasons as head coach in Western New York and there is even an element of what might have been from his tenure with the Bills.

The Orange, Texas native continued to grow his reputation as a defensive guru during his time in Buffalo, ranking sixth, first and third respectively, for yards allowed. However, it’s on the offensive side of the ball where most attention is focused, from his coaching stint in Buffalo.

Most people are aware of the story, with Ralph Wilson forcing Phillips to play Rob Johnson in the 1999 wild card game, despite Doug Flutie starting all season for the Bills. The move purely came down to money, with Wilson believing Johnson should start, because of how much he was paying him.

Even though it took the Music City Miracle to beat the Bills, Johnson didn’t play particularly well, something which continued into the 2000 season (he went 4-7 as a starter, compared to 4-1 by Flutie). In fact, it was somewhat ridiculous that Phillips lost his job after he missed the playoffs, despite the fact it was the owner who in reality ruined the Bills’ bid for a third consecutive postseason spot.

Ultimately though, this cannot take away from the success the 69-year old enjoyed in Buffalo. Further, he is the last head coach to get the Bills into the playoffs, something which Wilson had to deal with for the remainder of his life.

Next: Should be in the Hall of Fame