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Buffalo Bills: Top 5 Head Coaches in Franchise History

By Paul Taylor

Sep 17, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Wade Phillips watches before the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Denver won the game 31-24. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Wade Phillips watches before the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Denver won the game 31-24. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 8, 2015; Canton, OH, USA; Bill Polian (right) poses with bust and presenter Marv Levy during the 2015 Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

1) Marv Levy

Regular season record: 112-70-0

Achievements: 6 AFC East titles, 8 playoffs appearances overall, 4 AFC Championships

And finally, we come to the man who enjoyed the most sustained success as Bills’ head coach. If you’re not a fan of what Levy achieved during his time in Buffalo, that’s on you.

Somewhat ironically, despite all the accolades, you could argue the Hall of Famer wasn’t fully appreciated during his tenure in Western New York. All critics wanted to talk about were “The Bickering Bills” and four straight Super Bowl defeats.

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However, what some people failed to realize was the momentous task Levy oversaw, attempting to mold all the superstars and egos into a winning unit. It’s safe to say he succeeded, relying on his coaching and ability to challenge each player individually, to create a roster which persevered and repeatedly bounced back, despite suffering the ultimate heartbreak four consecutive times.

The Chicago native oversaw a phenomenal period of success between 1988-96. The Bills won six AFC East titles and qualified for the playoffs eight out of nine seasons.

While the World War II veteran was never one for personal praise and accolades, he was twice named NFL Coach of the Year. In addition, he was voted to the NFL 1990s All-Decade team.

If you want a clue of what Levy means to his players, consider that Jim Kelly, Thurman Thomas and Andre Reed all asked him to be their presenter for enshrinement into the Hall of Fame. Still going strong at 91, as far as we’re concerned, he’s the best head coach in Bills history.

Next: Top 5 Bills safeties in franchise history

What’s your take on our choices? Do you agree with the rankings? Would you include someone else in the top five? Let us know in the comments section below.

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