NFL Loses a Legend
October 9th 2011 01:01
Three words epitomized him, his organization and his legacy: "Just win, baby."
Al Davis, the long-time owner of the Oakland Raiders, passed away this morning. The news hit about mid-day, and it didn't take long for every news outlet to report on it. Certainly tomorrow's pre-game shows will be skewed heavily to Davis coverage. And well it should. Until age began to affect his decision-making ability, Davis was a shrewd businessman and an even shrewder football team owner. He had a concept, he stuck with that concept, and it won him three Super Bowls.
Here in Pittsburgh, the news I'm sure was met with some sadness, some mild humor and a lot of reminiscence. For those fans who ardently watched the Steelers in the 70s, no rivalry burned hotter than the one between Oakland and Pittsburgh. The "criminal element," the Ice Bowl, and the Immaculate Reception all cement the Raiders - and thus Al Davis - into the minds of all 70s-era Steeler fans. Many people will say the same thing. "We loved to hate him. But we'll miss him."
Perhaps the simplest thing to say is that the game was made better by him, and because of him. All NFL fans owe him a debt of gratitude. We will mourn his passing. It is a sad day for the NFL.
Al Davis, the long-time owner of the Oakland Raiders, passed away this morning. The news hit about mid-day, and it didn't take long for every news outlet to report on it. Certainly tomorrow's pre-game shows will be skewed heavily to Davis coverage. And well it should. Until age began to affect his decision-making ability, Davis was a shrewd businessman and an even shrewder football team owner. He had a concept, he stuck with that concept, and it won him three Super Bowls.
Here in Pittsburgh, the news I'm sure was met with some sadness, some mild humor and a lot of reminiscence. For those fans who ardently watched the Steelers in the 70s, no rivalry burned hotter than the one between Oakland and Pittsburgh. The "criminal element," the Ice Bowl, and the Immaculate Reception all cement the Raiders - and thus Al Davis - into the minds of all 70s-era Steeler fans. Many people will say the same thing. "We loved to hate him. But we'll miss him."
Perhaps the simplest thing to say is that the game was made better by him, and because of him. All NFL fans owe him a debt of gratitude. We will mourn his passing. It is a sad day for the NFL.
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