Jim Harbaugh’s Classic Outfit Revealed As Ted Lasso Inspiration

Two of the most well-known coaches in professional sports share an interesting connection that, until now, only one person was aware of. Now, I should preface that only one of the coaches mentioned above is real. Jim Harbaugh, the former national championship-winning coach with the Michigan Wolverines who coached with the school from 2015 to 2024, is very real.

The other coach is Ted Lasso, the titular character of the Apple+ comedy series about a fictional (American) football coach who travels overseas to coach a fictional soccer team called AFC Richmond. He is known for his big mustache and quirky style, but as it turns out, that quirky style was heavily influenced by Jim "Mr. Khakis" Harbaugh.

Jim Harbaugh's Unique Coaching Style

Jim Harbaugh has made a name for himself for being a both an eccentric man and coach, generating unique quotes about comparing himself to a pig in slop to calling steak a "vitamin he takes everyday" and that milk is a "natural steroid". His most iconic odd quote came towards the end of his tenure, however.

He's even been known to have sleepovers with recruits, and after he left the school to coach the Los Angeles Chargers, he lived in a motorhome rather than purchasing a home. All of this was done in his signature khakis. A very unconventional man, to say the least.

Jason Sudeikis Reveals Harbaugh's Ted Lasso Influence

As it turns out, it's this unconventionality was very appealing to Jason Sudeikis, who plays Ted Lasso and is a co-creator of the show. Sudeikis recently appeared at the One Year to Glory event hosted by the Men In Blazers podcast, where they celebrated one year until the World Cup 2026 is set to start in Los Angeles.

READ MORE: Chargers' Social Media Hilarity: Harbaugh's Goofy Profile Picture

During this event, which Jim Harbaugh also appeared at, Sudeikis shared a text interaction he had with Harbaugh. He shared a text interaction he had with Harbaugh, in which he asked about Harbaugh's pre- and post-game outfit routine.

Jim gave a very Harbaugh response:

"I wear the same thing everyday, khakis and a blue sweatshirt. I wear it to and from the game, same thing to the post-interview, and I wear that home...if the weather is bad, the equipment manager has a duplicate pair of everything everything I wear in my locker, so I put that on to wear home if needed."

He went on to describe the routine and stated how he differs from other coaches, explaining that he doesn't bother to wear different outfits just to ride a bus. He also gave this brilliant one liner:

"I pack a toothbrush and a great attitude."

The man is a gem on and off the field. You can view the entire interview via the link above; Sudeikis' portion starts at the 49-minute mark.