Former Texas Coach Mack Brown Shares His Ideals for a Successful Program

Legendary Texas Longhorns football coach and College Football Hall of Fame inductee Mack Brown now offers his advice on how to build a successful football program.

Once one of the top coaches in college football, Brown has learned how to establish more than just a successful program, but a positive culture as well. Brown recently joined the More Than The Scoreboard podcast where he discussed what he believed to be the keys to a winning football team.

“Usually when you come in, there’s not a trusting team, it’s a team that’s down, they’ve been losing, and you’re just another face,” Brown said via On3. “You’ve got to communicate well enough to get them to talk to you so you can build up trust and respect.”

Brown, 73, spent 36 seasons in college football as a head coach including 16 with the Texas Longhorns, where he led the team to its 2005 BCS national championship win. Most recently Brown also served as head coach at North Carolina, where he spent six seasons before being fired in 2024. Brown’s career 288 wins as a head coach rank seventh all-time in FBS history.

Despite his success, Brown does not try to promote his ideals alone, but instead tries to surround himself with a staff that shares the same mentality.

“I learned when I sat out for my five years that I didn’t want to hire any staff member or coach that I didn’t like, that I didn’t respect, that I didn’t admire, because you’re around them all day,” Brown said.

Another part of Browns strategy includes player communication to understand where the problems root themselves in a losing program.

“You’ve got ask them what’s wrong. You’ve got to ask them how to fix it. And then you’ve got to ask them what they need and want,” Brown said. “If you feel like it’s what’s best for the program, you’ve got to do it to get credibility with them and build up some trust.”

Former Texas Longhorns head coach Mack Brown, renowned for his leadership, integrity, and football acumen, has long been regarded as one of the most influential figures in college football. Throughout his career, Brown emphasized core principles and values that contributed not only to his teams’ on-field success but also to creating a positive, sustainable program rooted in character and excellence. His ideals for building a successful program are rooted in a combination of disciplined coaching, fostering a strong team culture, prioritizing academic and personal development, and maintaining integrity both on and off the field. Brown’s philosophy offers valuable insights for aspiring coaches, athletic programs, and student-athletes alike.

At the heart of Mack Brown’s approach is the importance of building a strong foundation based on character and integrity. He believed that a successful program begins with players who possess not only talent but also a commitment to doing things the right way. Brown emphasized the significance of honesty, respect, and accountability in shaping young men into leaders. He often talked about the importance of developing “good people” first, understanding that character off the field translates into discipline, resilience, and teamwork on the field. This focus on integrity helped foster a culture of trust, where players were motivated to uphold high standards, knowing they represented more than just a football team—they represented their families, university, and community.

Another key ideal Brown championed was the importance of teaching discipline and work ethic. He believed that success didn’t come solely from physical talent but also from the relentless pursuit of excellence through hard work. Brown fostered an environment where players learned the value of preparation, focus, and perseverance. His coaching staff prioritized fundamentals and discipline, instilling habits that carried over into every aspect of players’ lives. This emphasis on work ethic created a culture where players were expected to give their best every day, and accountability was non-negotiable. Brown often credited much of his teams’ success to this disciplined approach, which helped them perform under pressure and overcome adversity.

Developing a strong team culture was central to Brown’s philosophy. He believed in building a sense of family among his players and staff, creating an environment where everyone felt valued and responsible for each other’s success. Brown fostered open communication, mutual respect, and a shared vision of excellence. His teams were known for their unity, resilience, and relentless pursuit of success, regardless of the obstacles faced. He understood that culture was the backbone of a successful program, and he worked tirelessly to cultivate an atmosphere of trust, accountability, and camaraderie. This culture empowered players to push themselves beyond their limits and to support their teammates, fostering resilience and mental toughness.

Brown also placed a significant emphasis on academic achievement and personal development. He believed that being a student-athlete at a major university carried responsibilities beyond the game. His programs prioritized education, encouraging players to excel in the classroom and prepare for life after football. Brown maintained that success in college football should not come at the expense of academic integrity or personal growth. He often highlighted stories of former players who went on to successful careers outside of football, underscoring the importance of character, education, and leadership development. This balanced approach helped players develop into well-rounded individuals who could succeed both on and off the field.

Leadership and servant-minded coaching were also integral to Brown’s ideals. He believed that coaches should serve their players and prioritize their well-being. Brown’s style was characterized by mentorship, listening, and guiding young men to realize their potential. He emphasized leading by example—demonstrating humility, discipline, and passion—and inspiring players to emulate those qualities. Brown’s leadership extended beyond football, instilling values such as humility, respect, and perseverance that served his players throughout their lives. He often spoke of the importance of developing leaders within the team, empowering players to take ownership and serve as role models for their teammates.

Adaptability and continuous learning were also part of Brown’s philosophy. He understood that the landscape of college football constantly evolved, requiring coaches and players to grow and adapt. Brown was known for his willingness to learn from others, innovate, and refine his strategies. His openness to new ideas and commitment to self-improvement exemplified his belief that success is a journey, not a destination. This mindset helped him lead his teams through challenging seasons, making adjustments and maintaining resilience in the face of setbacks.

Furthermore, Brown believed that a successful program must have a clear sense of purpose and vision. He emphasized setting high standards and goals, but also ensuring that every player understands and embraces the mission of the team. His leadership was characterized by clarity of expectations, consistent messaging, and a focus on long-term success. Brown’s vision extended beyond winning games; he aimed to develop young men who would be leaders in their communities, responsible citizens, and role models. This holistic approach to program building created a legacy that went beyond the scoreboard.

In addition to these core principles, Brown stressed the importance of community engagement and giving back. He believed that successful programs should serve as a positive influence in their communities and foster pride and unity among fans and residents. Brown’s teams were often involved in community service, charity events, and outreach programs, reinforcing the idea that football is more than just a game—it’s an opportunity to make a difference. This sense of purpose and service further contributed to a positive environment where players grew as individuals and as part of something larger than themselves.

Finally, Brown’s ideals for a successful program highlight the importance of perseverance and resilience. He often spoke about overcoming adversity, staying focused during tough times, and maintaining a positive attitude. His own career was marked by challenges and setbacks, but his unwavering commitment to his principles and his belief in his players kept him going. Brown’s resilience and optimistic outlook served as a powerful example for his teams, teaching them that success is often achieved through perseverance, hard work, and a steadfast belief in oneself and the team.

In conclusion, Mack Brown’s ideals for a successful football program encompass a blend of character development, discipline, teamwork, academic excellence, leadership, adaptability, community service, and resilience. His philosophy emphasizes that winning is important, but it should never come at the expense of integrity and personal growth. Brown’s approach to coaching and program-building has left a lasting legacy, demonstrating that true success is measured not only by championships but also by the positive impact on young men’s lives and their communities. His principles continue to serve as a guiding light for coaches and programs striving to achieve excellence both on and off the field.