The New York Giants today moruned the death of Ron Erhardt, offensive coordinator for the team during their first two Super Bowl victories. Erhardt died Wednesday at the age of 80.

"Ron was a wonderful man and a great coach," Giants President and Chief Executive Officer John Mara said. "He was a big part of our success in the 1980's and was an important contributor to our first two Super Bowl championships."

"We're all saddened by the unexpected news of Ron's death," said Giants coach Tom Coughlin, who was the team's wide receivers coach from 1988-90. "I just sent him a note at the end of the season when he celebrated his 80th birthday (on Feb. 27)."

Coughlin worked with Erhardt from 1988-90, when Coughlin was the Giants' receivers coach.

Erhardt was Giants offensive coordinator from 1982 until the 1991-92 season. He had been head coach of the New England Patriots from 1979-81, compiling a record of 21-27.