Career
He served as the head football coach at California State University, Fullerton from 1975 to 1979 and at University from 1991 to 1996, compiling a career college football record of 38–80–4. Colletto was the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League, replacing Mike Martz, who was fired on January 2, 2008. He was hired as the Lions" offensive line coach on January 29, 2007 after spending a year as the University of California, Los Angeles offensive line coach under Karl Dorrell.
Prior to that he was offensive line coach for the Baltimore Ravens from 1999 thought 2005.
Colletto was previously the offensive coordinator at the University of Notre Dame for the 1997 and 1998 seasons and was the head coach at University from 1991 to 1996. During his six seasons at, Colletto"s teams compiled a 21–42–3 record.
Colletto was named University"s head coach in December 1990, accepting the position while he was serving the offensive coordinator for Ohio State. Colletto came to with the goal of recruiting kids from the Chicago area, and keeping "s quarterback tradition trending onward.
During his introduction press conference, he stated that at the practice field, he planned to install a small cemetery in which he would place a tombstone for every school upset or beat on the road.
Colletto also provided up change on offense, as he brought his I formation with him from Ohio State. During his first season as head coach, the Boilermakers improved winning two more games than they had the year before, and freshman tailback Corey Rogers was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year. In 1992, Colletto lost Rogers to academic ineligibility, and was forced to use a new running back.
The Rogers suspension opened the door for what would become "s all-time leading rusher, Mike Alstott.
In 1993, Colletto was in some hot water when former player, Ryan Harmon sued, claiming that Colletto had physically and mentally abused him. In 1994, the Boilermakers got out to a 4–1–1 start, and were starting to gain national attention.
With Rogers and Alstott leading the way out of the backfield, racked up 1,206 and 17 rushing touchdowns in 6 games. However stumbled down the stretch, finishing the season 0–4–1.
(1-3-1 due to Michigan state forfeiting all their 1994 games)
Colletto resigned in November 1996.
Colletto was hired in December as Notre Dame"s offensive coordinator in December 1996.
