Robert Alonzo "Bob" DeMoss (January 27, 1927 – July 23, 2017) was an American football player, coach and college athletics administrator. He is best known for his long association with Purdue University and for his role in developing players and programs within college football. DeMoss's career spanned playing at the collegiate level, a brief professional stint, and decades of coaching and administrative work.

Early life and playing career

DeMoss was born in Dayton, Kentucky. He played quarterback at Purdue from 1945 to 1948 and was regarded as a steady, leadership-oriented signal-caller. Following his college career he was selected in the second round of the 1949 NFL Draft and appeared with the New York Bulldogs during the 1949 season. His playing days established his reputation as a tactically minded and dependable quarterback.

Coaching and administrative career

After his playing career DeMoss returned to Purdue in coaching and support capacities, eventually becoming head coach from 1970 to 1972. During his tenure as Purdue's head coach he compiled a record of 13–18. Beyond the head-coaching years, he continued to serve the university in various coaching and administrative roles, contributing to recruiting, mentoring and program continuity.

Impact and legacy

DeMoss is remembered for his commitment to student-athletes and to the Purdue football program. His background as a former quarterback informed his coaching style, emphasizing fundamentals, decision-making and preparation. Former players and colleagues often cite his steady presence and institutional knowledge as key benefits he brought to the program.

Career highlights

  • Collegiate quarterback at Purdue University (1945–1948)
  • Selected in the second round of the 1949 NFL Draft and played professionally in 1949
  • Head coach at Purdue (1970–1972) with a 13–18 record in college football
  • Long-term contributor to Purdue athletics as a coach and administrator

Bob DeMoss died at his home in West Lafayette, Indiana on July 23, 2017, at the age of 90. He left a legacy of dedication to his alma mater and to the players he coached and advised. For an overview of his life and career see further resources and institutional histories linked by Purdue athletic archives and retrospective articles.