Vince Tobin, the coach who led the Arizona Cardinals to their first playoff victory in over five decades, has passed away at the age of 79. He died Monday morning at his residence in Arizona.

Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill expressed his condolences, highlighting Tobin's consistent leadership and its contribution to the team's achievements during his time as head coach. Tobin was appointed in 1996, succeeding Buddy Ryan, and inherited a team featuring future Hall of Fame defensive back Aeneas Williams and quarterback Jake Plummer.

In a remarkable turnaround, Tobin guided the Cardinals to their first playoff appearance since 1982 by securing victories in the final three games of the 1998 season. The team then achieved a historic win against the Dallas Cowboys, marking their first playoff victory since 1948. Tobin's overall record with the Cardinals stands at 28-43 over four seasons.

Originally from Burlington Junction, Missouri, Tobin played defensive back at the University of Missouri and later returned to serve as the university's defensive coordinator from 1971 to 1976. His coaching career also included time in the Canadian Football League and the USFL. Before joining the Cardinals, he held the position of defensive coordinator for the Chicago Bears from 1986 to 1992 and for the Indianapolis Colts from 1995 to 1996. Following his tenure in Arizona, Tobin continued his coaching career with the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers.