By Darin 
Born November 24, 1912, Millard “Dixie” Howell secured his place in college football history not just as a star halfback for the University of Alabama, but as the field general for one of the most legendary rosters ever assembled. Playing in the early 1930s, Howell showcased the era’s versatile halfback role, connecting on passes with future icon Don Hutson and the man who would become the coaching titan, Bear Bryant. Howell’s leadership led the Crimson Tide to victory in the 1935 Rose Bowl, cementing his reputation as an elite playmaker before transitioning into a professional player and a successful head coach.
Howell, the halfback from the University of Alabama, back in the early 1930s, it was normal for one of the halfbacks to throw the ball. This was the case for Dixie, who connected on many passes with the Tide’s great receiver, Don Hutson, to win games, including the 1935 Rose Bowl against Stanford. His other favorite target was a guy by the name of Bear Bryant; talk about some legendary names on that roster! The National Football Foundation voted Dixie Howell into its College Football Hall of Fame in 1970. After school was over, Howell played one year with the Washington Redskins, 1937.
He coached Arizona State from 1937-41, with a 20-9-4 record, and Idaho from 1947-50.
Conclusion
Dixie Howell’s career exemplifies the transitional period of early American football. As a player, he orchestrated one of Alabama’s most famous victories, the 1935 Rose Bowl, sharing the field with future Hall of Famers and legends. After a brief professional stint with the Washington Redskins, Howell immediately channeled his gridiron knowledge into a respectable coaching career at Arizona State and Idaho. His legacy—defined by his time with the Crimson Tide and his mentorship of all-time greats—was formally recognized with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1970, confirming his status as an iconic figure of the sport’s golden era.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
College Career (University of Alabama)
- College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1970).
- 1935 Rose Bowl Champion (vs. Stanford).
- Served as halfback/passer on a roster featuring legendary receiver Don Hutson and future coach Bear Bryant.
Professional Career (Washington Redskins)
- Played one season with the Washington Redskins (1937).
Coaching Career
- Arizona State Head Coach (1937–1941) with a career record of 20–9–4.
- Idaho Head Coach (1947–1950).