Kenny Stabler, retired quarterback for the Oakland Raiders — also known as The Snake — has passed away at the age of 69.
From the NFL.com site:
Former Raiders quarterback Ken Stabler dies
by Gregg Rosenthal
Ken Stabler, who quarterbacked the Oakland Raiders to a win in Super Bowl XI has died at the age of 69, the Raiders confirmed Thursday. The University of Alabama passed along a statement from the family, which says Stabler died of colon cancer.
Stabler, nicknamed “The Snake,” was a four-time Pro Bowler in the NFL. He won two NCAA titles as a backup quarterback at Alabama, and led the 1966 team to an undefeated record.
Stabler was known as a pro for being one of the most accurate passers of the 1970s, and one of the best left-handed passers of all time. He twice led the league in completion percentage and touchdowns. He is one of the most well-known, successful quarterbacks that has not made the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
And it’s a shame that Stabler isn’t yet in the Hall of Fame.
Kenny Stabler, right, Fred Biletnikoff, left.
I used to very much enjoy watching the Raiders hold court on Sunday with Stabler at the helm, with other players like Cliff Branch, Fred Biletnikoff, Dave Caspar, Dave Dalby, Ted Hendricks, Errol Mann, Art Shell, Otis Sistrunk, Jack Tatum, Gene Upshaw, Phil Villapiano and the incredible George Blanda. And of course, coach John Madden.
Back when the Oakland Raiders kicked booty and neglected to take any names whatsoever.
Kenny Stabler was diagnosed with colon cancer in February of this year.
God bless you sir. You were a treasure at quarterback.
BZ
Back in his era I worked Security at the Bronco games. That group he was part of were the classiest gentlemen I ever saw, in contrast to most of the teams including the Broncos – scratch that – especially the Broncos. Always polite to the “little people” and the fans who came early. Then the whistle blew and they kicked ass.
Has there ever been a quarterback who took charge like him?
Very few. The game has changed and so have we.
BZ
a joy to watch in a time that football was real. a bronco fan salutes the greatest QB not in the hall. RIP snake.
I truly enjoyed having adult beverages with Kenny at Al’s Cactus Room and other Jack London Square watering holes, also the many card shows we did together in the bay area! R.I.P SNAKE
Raider Steve: I bet those were rip-roaringly good times, sir! Keep the great memories and hold them close. Treasure them.
BZ