LAKE FOREST, Ill. – The coach who’s probably most responsible for Lovie Smith’s ascension in the profession has decided to call it quits.

Tony Dungy on Monday announced his retirement as head coach of the Indianapolis Colts. Dungy led the Colts into the playoffs in all seven of his seasons while compiling an 85-27 regular-season record.

Tony Dungy congratulates Lovie Smith after the Bears beat the Colts in the 2008 opener.

Dungy gave Smith his first NFL job as linebackers coach with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 1996-2000. Smith then served as defensive coordinator with the St. Louis Rams from 2001-03 before becoming Bears head coach in 2004.

Dungy beat Smith in Super Bowl XLI on Feb. 4, 2007 to become the first African-American coach to win the Super Bowl. Dungy is also the only coach in NFL history to produce six straight 12-win seasons and 10 consecutive playoff appearances.

Dungy coached the Buccaneers for six seasons from 1996-2001, compiling a 54-42 regular-season record. He is the all-time leader in coaching wins for both Indianapolis and Tampa Bay.

“I’m happy for Tony and his family, but sad for our league because we are losing one of the all-time great coaches,” Smith said. “He is one of the modern-day pioneers of our game. His résumé includes achievements no other NFL head coach has accomplished, which I’m sure will lead to a spot in the Hall of Fame. And as great of a coach as he is, he’s an even better person.

“I owe Tony a lot. I would not be in my position today if it wasn’t for him providing me with an opportunity and mentorship. I learned a tremendous amount of football in my time with Tony in Tampa and made a friend for life. I’m proud to be a member of his coaching tree.”