Raiders legendary defensive lineman Ben Davidson has passed away at the age of 72 of prostate cancer. This according to Mike Lefkow of Bay Area News Group, with the original report came from John Madden.
Davison was a feared attacker from the defensive end spot for the Raiders in the 60's and early 70's. He was the Raiders first great defensive lineman, spending eight seasons on the team while being named an AFL All Star three times and being named All Pro once.
He was big, mean, and intimidating. He was a key part of the Raiders' 11 angry men defense of the late 60s. At 6'8", he stood head and shoulders over his opposition, he took full advantage and punished opponents. His most notorious hit was a spearing of Len Dawson that led to a classic brawl.
Following his playing career, he did some acting where he was known for his stature, as well as his handlebar mustache and gravelly voice.
He made his home in San Diego California, where he grew up and he was known to attend Raider booster events in Southern California. I had to honor of meeting him at one such event in San Diego in 2010.
He passes just a day before Mark Davis was to celebrate the life of Al Davis on his Birthday, July 4.
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