Central High School in Phenix City, Alabama has produced a number of student leaders at the University of Alabama, both on and off the football field. One of them died Thursday. It was All-American linebacker Woodrow Lowe.
He passed away at his home in Collierville, Tennessee at age 71.
Lowe played college football for the Crimson Tide under Bear Bryant from 1972 to 1975. He was a three-time All-American, earning consensus honors in 1974.
After a stellar career at Central High, Lowe was recruited by the University of Alabama in 1972. He became one of only two Tide players to be named an All-American three times (the other was Cornelius Bennett). He was named an All-American in 1973, 1974, and 1975. He also played on four SEC championship teams and one national championship team.
Lowe also holds the Alabama record for most tackles in a season, with 134 stops as a sophomore in 1973. He ranks third all-time in tackles at Alabama, with 315 in his career.
After his time at Alabama, Lowe was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the 5th round (131st overall pick) in the 1976 NFL draft.
Lowe played linebacker for the San Diego Chargers from 1976 to 1987.
In eleven years for San Diego, Lowe was known largely for durability and longevity, missing only one game in his entire NFL career. In addition to defending the run, Lowe was adept as a pass defender. He racked up 21 interceptions as a Charger, and four were returned for touchdowns.
After retiring from the NFL, Lowe became a football coach. He worked six years as a defensive assistant for the Oakland Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs. He then returned to his alma mater of Central High in Phenix City as an assistant coach, which included the Red Devils’ 1993 state championship.
Lowe then spent five years with the UAB Blazers.
Lowe moved back to the high school ranks and became head coach for Central High’s rival, Smith Station High School. He then became an assistant coach at Jackson-Olin High in Birmingham.
On December 30, 2009 Lowe was named head coach at his alma mater, Central High School where he served until May 2014.
Lowe then served as head football coach at Selma High School.
He was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame.
His brother Eddie Lowe was elected Mayor of Phenix City.
Funeral arrangements will be announced.
“If you believe in yourself and have dedication and pride – and never quit, you’ll be a winner,” Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant once said.
Jim Zig Zeigler is a contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. His beat includes the positive and colorful about Alabama – her people, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former State Auditor and Public Service Commissioner. You can reach him at [email protected]
