Benjamin Earl Franklin "Ben" Davidson, Jr. (June 14, 1940 – July 2, 2012 "the original Raiders renegade" 1 played for the Raiders 1964–1971. Seen as a villain by the opposing teams, in Oakland he was considered a hero. He exemplified the Raiders spirit and helped create the mystique of the team. According NFL Films, "he made it possible to root for the bad guys". Davidson took credit for breaking Joe Namath's jaw in the 1967 season, though some say it was actually Ike Keifer. The NFL banned the 'pile on' due Davidson's frequent contact with the quarterback after the whistle.

Known for his handlebar mustache and late hits. After his career ended, he performed in movies, and most famously Miller Lite commercials.

Links and References

  1. Poole, Monty. "The original Raiders renegade." Oakland Tribune. 4. July 2012.
Edit tags