Richard Copeland “R.C.” Slocum is the winningest head football coach in Texas A&M University history, compiling a career record of 123–47–2 over 14 seasons (1989–2002). Known for his discipline, integrity, and defensive dominance, Slocum’s teams embodied the toughness and tradition of Aggie football.

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Born and raised in Orange, Texas, Slocum graduated from Stark High School in 1963. He attended McNeese State University, where he was a four-year letterman and standout receiver, setting school records for receptions and receiving yards. He earned his bachelor’s degree and later a Master’s in Education Administration, laying the foundation for his future as a leader and mentor in college athletics.

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Slocum began his coaching career in 1968 at Lake Charles High School before moving to Kansas State University as an assistant coach. In 1972, he joined Texas A&M as an offensive assistant under Emory Bellard. After a brief stint at the University of Southern California (USC) in 1981, where he helped lead the Trojans to a Fiesta Bowl appearance, he returned to Texas A&M the following year as defensive coordinator. By 1985, he had been promoted to assistant head coach, and in December 1988, he was named the head coach of the Aggies.

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Under Slocum’s leadership, Texas A&M’s defense—famously known as “The Wrecking Crew”—became one of the most feared units in college football. During his tenure, the Aggies captured six championships, including three Southwest Conference (SWC) titles, two Big 12 South Division titles, and the 1998 Big 12 Championship. His teams appeared in 11 bowl games and consistently ranked among the nation’s elite.

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Slocum guided A&M to three consecutive perfect conference seasons (1991–1993)—a first in SWC history—and went four straight years without a conference loss. His .865 conference winning percentage (44–6–2) remains the best in Southwest Conference history, ranking ahead of legendary coach Darrell Royal. During his 14-year tenure, the Aggies lost only 12 home games at Kyle Field, which became one of the most intimidating venues in college football. At one point, A&M held the nation’s longest home winning streak, which lasted from 1989 to 1995.

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Slocum was named SWC Coach of the Year three times and developed more than 50 players who went on to the NFL. Ten of his Aggie teams finished ranked in the AP Top 25, with three earning Top 10 finishes. He reached 100 wins faster than any active coach of his era and remains one of college football’s most respected defensive minds.

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Off the field, Slocum was deeply involved in charitable work, supporting organizations such as the Children’s Miracle Network, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and the Special Olympics. After retiring from coaching in 2002, he continued serving Texas A&M as a Special Advisor to the University President, helping guide athletic and institutional initiatives. In 2012, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

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Slocum’s family continued his coaching legacy—his oldest son, Shawn Slocum, served as an assistant coach under him at Texas A&M and later became the special teams coordinator for the Arizona State Sun Devils.