John Stiegelmeier, perhaps the best football coach you've never heard of, is retiring

If you're a fan of the South Dakota State Jackrabbits then you undoubtedly know who John Stiegelmeier is. If you're one of those college football fans who only keeps an eye on the bluebloods, though, Stiegelmeier is probably not a familiar name.

He should be for all football fans, though, because know him or not, he's a college football legend.

After a head coaching career at SDSU that started way back in December of 1996, that legend has decided to "hang 'em up". 

"(Wife) Laurie and I, with our family, want to thank South Dakota State University and SDSU Athletics for being blessed to serve as the head football coach," Stiegelmeier said in a statement. "During our 26 years in this role, a lifetime of memories have occurred. The support of so many, including three university presidents, numerous assistant coaches, countless student-athletes, two athletic directors and the Jackrabbit fan base has been so special. Thank you to each and every one who have believed in us."

Coach Stig will leave SDSU with a 199-112 overall record. Though he's been head coach of the Jackrabbits for 26 seasons, this past one was arguably his best. He led the Jackrabbits to a 14-1 season and the program's first FCS national championship. 

He was named the AFCA national coach of the year and will walk away from the job having led the Jackrabbits to the FCS playoffs for 11 straight seasons. 

Defensive coordinator Jimmy Rogers, who played at SDSU under Stiegelmeier, will take over as head coach moving forward.