In the Natural State Razorback football is more than a sport. It's a religion.
Its Vatican is the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. Its cathedral is Donald W. Reynolds Stadium. And for five decades, its unchallenged pope was Frank Broyles.
Broyles, who died Monday at 92, came to the school as head coach in 1958 after a year at the University of Missouri. He would remain at the helm of the Razorbacks until 1976, when he took over the position of athletic director full time, serving until his retirement on the last day of 2007.
What a glorious half-century it was for the University of Arkansas. Broyles compiled an impressive winning record at Fayetteville, including leading the Hogs to a shared national championship in 1964.
He won more games than any other coach in Arkansas history and an impressive seven Southwest Conference titles.
In 1983 he was named to the College Football Hall of Fame.
His accomplishments as athletic director were not as publicized but no less outstanding.
Under his direction, University of Arkansas sports teams won 57 Southwest Conference and 47 Southeastern Conference championships.
He was also known for his ability to garner support for the school's athletic program. He had a gift that led alumni and fans to open their hearts-and wallets-to their beloved Razorbacks.
It's true Broyles could rub some folks the wrong way-especially coaches who worked under him.
He was demanding as head coach and hand-on as athletic director. Broyles was not the kind of guy who just sat in his office and then went to fundraising parties.
He could be blunt. Some didn't like that. But he had the results to back him up.
In death as in life, Frank Broyles will remain a legend in Arkansas. In some ways it's fair to say he put the state on the national map. He was indeed the personification of Razorback football for millions of fans.