11/05/24
September 27, 2010
Raiders legend George Blanda dies at 83: Former Raider quarterback George Blanda, whose passing and kicking exploits during a 26-year NFL career led him to a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, has died. He was 83.
I loved Blanda as a kid. I always considered it a character flaw that other quarterbacks -- with the exception of the great Danny White -- did not kick.
Until reading this, I didn't know he'd ever played for anybody but the Oakland Raiders.
posted by rcade at 04:54 PM on September 27, 2010
Yeah, I always liked and respected Blanda. I was just wondering about how he was doing a week or so ago. Looking at some of his old football cards, the guy looked like he was in his 60s when he was in his early 40s. Rest in peace.
posted by dyams at 05:03 PM on September 27, 2010
I cursed him as a Patriots fan when he was with Houston and Oakland, but I never really lacked in admiration for him. As I grew older, he became the hero of us old farts everywhere.
RIP, George Blanda, may whomever you are now kicking and throwing for stay unbeaten.
posted by Howard_T at 05:04 PM on September 27, 2010
Looking at some of his old football cards, the guy looked like he was in his 60s when he was in his early 40s.
I'm pretty sure it's being involved with the Raiders that does that to you. Al Davis makes Abe Vigoda look like Justin Bieber.
posted by wfrazerjr at 05:07 PM on September 27, 2010
he is the greatest clutch player in the history of this game.\"
I do know he won several games for the Raiders by just being in the game for a few plays. He was definitely one of the greats, no doubt.
Part of an era gone. I couldn\'t agree more, beaverboard
The article didn\'t state cause of death. (old age?) I hope he went in his sleep dreaming of passing one into the end zone for a TD to win the game in the final seconds. RIP George.
posted by steelergirl at 06:05 PM on September 27, 2010
RIP George Blanda. I was never a Raiders fan, but I always respected you. Nobody will ever be in your class.
posted by billinnagoya at 03:31 AM on September 28, 2010
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posted by yzelda4045 at 01:58 PM on September 28, 2010
.
posted by Demophon at 02:35 PM on September 28, 2010
.
posted by tommybiden at 03:33 PM on September 28, 2010
RIP to one of my big childhood idols. He was wonderful to watch. I was an AFL-all-the-way kid, and he was one of the main reasons for it.
Part of an era gone.