The New Orleans Saints and LSU football are linked by more than just a common sport — each is an important part of modern Louisiana culture, inspiring passion and pride equally.
Saints tight ends coach Terry Malone and his family have been able to experience both from a unique perspective for the last several years.
Two of Malone’s children, Kara and Patrick, are enrolled and in class at LSU while he spends his weeks around some of the most visible athletes in professional sports.
“It’s great to share the work and accomplishments of your job so closely with the fans of south Louisiana,” said the elder Malone, who has coached for the Saints since 2006.
“Whether it’s LSU or the Saints, the people are so passionate and loyal to home.”
Malone said the two schools share more than just large athletic programs.
“A real advantage of being a college coach is your kids get to grow up in a college atmosphere,” said Malone, who also coached at Boston College and Bowling Green. “My kids were drawn to LSU because it has the same feel and passion on campus that is very much present at a place like Michigan, which is also a big school with a large support network in a state that’s been through some tough