Dick MacPherson

Syracuse, N.Y. -- Former Syracuse football coach Dick MacPherson died on Tuesday at the age of 86.

Beloved for his personality and his connection to the Syracuse community, as well as his ability to win football games, MacPherson coached 10 years at the school, highlighted by an undefeated season in 1987.

Led by quarterback Don McPherson, the Orange finished that year in the Sugar Bowl, tying with Auburn at 16 after Pat Dye famously opted for a field goal instead of going for a touchdown with seconds remaining. MacPherson was named the Coach of the Year by 12 different organizations after the season. He was also on the sidelines in 1984, when Syracuse pulled off a stunning win over No. 1 Nebraska in the Carrier Dome.

He coached the Orange to five bowl games in his decade, setting the foundation for a period of prolonged success. He left the school to coach in the NFL with the New England Patriots, compiling a record of 66-46-4. He was 36-10-3 over the final five years.

MacPherson returned to Syracuse to serve as a color commentator on television and radio broadcasts, where his passion for Syracuse endeared him to his listeners. His grandsons, Macky and Cameron, both went on to play for the Orange. Macky currently works as a graduate assistant on Dino Babers' staff.

MacPherson died of natural causes at Crouse Hospital, surrounded by family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Sandra, his daughters Maureen and Janet, and four grandchildren, Macky, Cameron and Susan MacPherson and Molly Sweeney.