OAKLAND RAIDERS HIGHLIGHTS
1975–1979
1975 SEASON (11–3–0)
On January 4, 1976, the Steelers and Raiders met once again for the American Football Conference Championship. This title game matched the two best teams in professional football, and would be the toughest playoff test under the worst possible conditions.
Two feared and respected football giants hunted and hit for sixty furious minutes. Two champions entered the frozen confines of Three Rivers Stadium. Two champions would leave the dark and frozen battlefield three long hours later. But only one was destined for the Super Bowl and World Championship.
Safety Jack Tatum and linebacker Monte Johnson made key plays, but the Raiders trailed in the fourth quarter. Defying the elements, the odds, and the tough Steelers defense, Oakland stormed goalward.
After Mike Siani scored, Pittsburgh came back and the icy carpet again spelled trouble. Trailing 16–7 with time almost gone, Coach John Madden electrified players and fans alike with innovative strategy. Needing ten to win, he had George Blanda quickly go for three. And with only seven seconds left, the Raiders continued their heroic efforts . . . but it was not to be. The final words on this fiercest football battle in years were indelibly etched on the scoreboard. Suddenly another memorable year of glory ended in a single day of defeat.
But despite pain and heartbreak, these 1975 Oakland Raiders had added much to the organization’s already unrivaled record of accomplishment with another year of triumph and tragedy.
Week 1 @ Miami
The new season opened on a Monday night in Miami, with a classic cross-country challenge—a renewal of the unforgettable 1974 playoffs.
But this was 1975—the Orange Bowl—with the mighty Raiders determined to again establish mastery by snapping Miami’s 31-game home win streak. With Mark van Eeghen and Pete Banaszak leading the charge, the silver and black crashed the end zone with 31 points.
Tony Cline added a sack to Bob Griese’s four interceptions. Then Harold Hart ran a punt back 102 yards to seal the 31–21 win.
Week 2 @ Baltimore
In Baltimore, the Raiders faced the playoff-bound Colts.
Art Thoms led the defensive line with six sacks. And behind explosive blocking by offensive captain Gene Upshaw, the Raiders scored on the ground.
Showcasing three proven wide receivers—Mike Siani, Fred Biletnikoff, and Cliff Branch—the Raiders’ precision passing overpowered Baltimore. A touchdown by tight end Dave Casper helped Oakland rack up 31 points. Meanwhile, the Colts’ hopes were shattered with great plays by rookie cornerback Neal Colzie, another product of great Raider drafting.
In the end, Baltimore was defeated. Final score: Raiders 31, Baltimore 20.
Week 3 @ San Diego
In San Diego, the Chargers were held to just five first downs by the likes of an aggressive Otis Sistrunk. Ray Guy, again the NFL’s leading punter, kept the Chargers down deep all afternoon. With quarterback Kenny Stabler hurt and Fred Biletnikoff sidelined, the offense relied on George Blanda’s field goals with a 6–0 victory.
Week 4 @ Kansas City
While the Raiders were flying high, they were brought down to earth with the Chiefs racking up 42 points against them. And with only one touchdown by Cliff Branch, the silver and black suffered their first loss of 1975. Final score: Kansas City 42, Oakland 10.
Week 5 @ Cincinnati
In rainy Cincinnati, the weary Raiders were on the road for the seventh consecutive weekend (including the preseason). Defense owned the day, and Raiders left linebacker Phil Villapiano owned one of four Raider interceptions, but the Bengals brought one of their own back all the way to squeak out a 14–10 victory.
Week 6 vs. San Diego
Finally the Raiders were back home. With San Diego in town, the Oakland defense raced out bound for glory. This would be the very first time that the Raiders registered two shutouts in one season.
It began when Mike Dennery and Ted Hendricks sacked the Chargers punter for a safety. Hendricks, Sistrunk, and Horace Jones also added a two-pointer, which would be the final points of the game. The spirited Raiders were on their way.
They even relied on dazzling deception, as Ray Guy found Louis Carter on a punt formation pass. Finally, behind blocking by John Vella, Upshaw, Shell, Buehler, and Dalby, Ken Stabler triggered the feared Raider bomb to Cliff Branch as the Raiders celebrated their homecoming, 25–0.
Week 7 @ Denver
In Denver, loyal Raiders boosters saw their conference-leading defense cut down the Broncos. With center Dave Dalby offering protection, Stabler hit Fred Biletnikoff for six of Oakland’s amazing 35 second-half points. Neal Colzie returned three punts for 127 yards en route to an all-time NFL record 655 yards in that category.
Raider depth again overcame a wave of injuries when Marv Hubbard polished off a towering 42–17 conquest.
Week 8 vs. New Orleans
When the Saints came marching in, they ran into a poised Raiders offense primed for points. With Clarence Davis powering for tough yards, the silver and black poured over, around, and through the shocked Saints.
While the offense swiftly moved down field, the defense dealt out mayhem. Relentless pressure on Saints quarterback Archie Manning forced this breakdown.
Versatile special teams captain Warren Bankston scored his first Raider touchdown as one of nine different receivers who contributed to a spectacular 523 yards of total offense.
The afternoon’s two big strikes went to deep threat Morris Bradshaw, as a sellout home crowd cheered a club record 34 first downs and a devastating 48–10 Raiders triumph.
Week 9 vs. Cleveland
When the Cleveland Browns visited the majestic Oakland Coliseum, they found Clarence Davis on the run. He ran for 64 yards on the opening kickoff and added 120 yards rushing to help set up scores like this one broadcasted by Bill King:
“Branch slots left. Stabler back, looking, looking, going to Branch wide open. Touchdown Raiders! Branch committed highway robbery without a gun.”
When Stabler wasn’t hitting passes, Horace Jones was hitting runners. In the air, the Browns met disaster against defensive captain Willie Brown as the Raiders thundered to victory. With the score tied at 17 in the third quarter, Stabler hit Biletnikoff for the score, and then handed off to Davis for two more touchdowns. Final score: Oakland 38, Cleveland 17.
Week 10 @ Washington
Next on the schedule for the Raiders were the Washington Redskins. The huge national audience knew about the pride and poise, drama and excitement that are Oakland traditions. And they saw Oakland roar back like a mighty train with three rushing scores from Pete Banaszak.
With little time left, Oakland led 23–16. However, a last-ditch Washington effort tied the score at 23 and put the Raiders into the first overtime game in their remarkable 16-year history.
When the Redskins won the toss, the Raiders defense responded to pressure and overwhelmed quarterback Billy Kilmer’s attack. The Raiders continued to march goalward. Finally, it was time for ageless marvel George Blanda and the field goal team to clinch the Raiders’ momentous 26–23 triumph, ensuring an eleventh consecutive winning season for the silver and black.
Week 11 vs. Atlanta
A Raiders victory against Atlanta would mean an unprecedented eighth division championship in nine years.
Despite Oakland’s deluge of points—three touchdowns by Branch and one by van Eeghen—Steve Bartkowski brought Atlanta to the front, 34–31. With just six seconds left, a Blanda field goal tied the game, and this time even the extra period was a nail-biter.
But once again George Blanda was called in. The 36-yard field goal was good, and Oakland beat Atlanta, 37–34.
Week 12 vs. Denver
The following week, a Monday-night TV audience saw the Oakland Raiders, reigning AFC Western Division champions, go for seven wins in a row. The defense was superb as second effort had become first nature.
Rookie Charlie Phillips started for the injured Jack Tatum and grabbed a record-tying three interceptions. Ken Stabler guided the offense for two scores—one by Harold Hart and the other by Pete Banaszak. Final score: Oakland 17, Denver 10. The Raiders record now stood at 10–2.
Week 13 vs. Houston
The rejuvenated Houston Oilers were in Oakland for a game that was fiercely contested. With impenetrable protection from Art Shell, Henry Lawrence, and George Buehler, left-handers Ken Stabler and David Humm hit Branch and Bradshaw for touchdowns and drilled the Oilers for 26 points and a narrow Raiders lead.
But the Oilers rallied and threatened to go ahead. A Raiders victory seemed assured when Skip Thomas intercepted in the end zone, but a phantom call away from the ball nullified the celebration and Houston went on to win a heartbreaker in the last seconds, 27–26.
Week 14 vs. Kansas City
In the season’s final week, top rusher and scorer Pete Banaszak won the coveted Gorman Award as Most Inspirational Raider. Pete then scored three touchdowns against the Chiefs, bringing his season’s total to a club record 16.
Tight end Bob Moore caught a Ken Stabler pass, which was his eleventh completion in twelve attempts. George Blanda then became the only player in pro football history to score 2,000 points.
Near the game’s end, Jess Philips ran 66 yards to help capture Coach John Madden’s 70th win in seven Raiders seasons.
A defense led by Villapiano, Thoms, Gerald Irons, and Horace Jones scalped the Chiefs, 28–20, for win number 11.
Ahead lay the AFC playoffs against the Cincinnati Bengals. There was no doubt that the proud Oakland Raiders were ready.
AFC Divisional Playoffs vs. Cincinnati
As Paul Brown coached his final game, he saw his Bengals overshadowed by an aggressive band of hunters in silver and black.
When the offense took over, Stabler followed Coach Madden’s game plan and went right for the jugular. Mike Siani’s touchdown was only the beginning, as the classy Raiders dominated scoring time after time.
Behind intense power blocking, Raider supremacy was apparent to all.
The Tiger was virtually caged when Dave Casper scored the last of Oakland’s 31 points. The Bengals closed at 28, but the rugged Raider defense met the challenge and brought down the curtain. Final score: Oakland 31, Cincinnati 28.
AFC Conference Championship @ Pittsburgh
On January 4, 1976, the Raiders met their longtime foes, the Pittsburgh Steelers, for the AFC Conference Championship. With no score until the second quarter, the Steelers struck first with a field goal and a 25-yard rush from Franco Harris in the fourth. Later that quarter, George Blanda kicked a 41-yard field goal and Mike Siani scored the only touchdown for Oakland. But the Steelers came back with a John Stallworth touchdown to end the Raiders’ Super Bowl hopes. Final score: Pittsburgh 16, Oakland 10.
In 1975, the Raider organization maintained its total commitment to excellence, winning 12 games in league and postseason play.
In terms of consistent victory, the Raiders continued their complete domination of professional football since 1963, when owner/managing/general partner Al Davis rescued a faltering franchise and pledged to build sports’ most successful organization.
Since 1967, when Oakland won the first of eight division championships, the record was incredible. Now only a World Championship remained to crown this awesome record of achievement; to add the ultimate triumph to professional football’s winningest team.
1976 SEASON (13–1–0)
The Raiders banner had proudly flown atop the sports world throughout an historic decade. And in 1976, the silver and black completed a decade of destiny, adding a crowning glory to their already unrivaled record of excellence.
Week 1 vs. Pittsburgh
On opening day, the Pittsburgh Steelers found the Raiders long on injuries, short on excuses, primed and ready. Ken Stabler’s touchdowns to Dave Casper and Fred Biletnikoff helped earn 440 yards against the Steel Curtain. Still, Oakland trailed by 14 with only 5:35 remaining
Without standout vets Art Thoms, Horace Jones, Marv Hubbard, and others, able Coach John Madden’s Raiders fought back courageously, defying adversity, time, and the Steelers.
Dave Casper capped a brilliant drive with a 10-yard score. The defense controlled Pittsburgh, forcing a punt that special teams captain Warren Bankston blocked and Charlie Phillips recovered.
The great Oakland fans had learned to expect heroic rallies from their Raiders, for these men of the silver and black were veterans of pressure situations and at home with dramatic last-minute victories.
Stabler bootlegged, tying the score at 28 with just 59 seconds left, and then Dave Rowe deflected a pass that linebacker Willie Hall intercepted, bringing on rookie place kicker Fred Steinfort with the go-ahead score.
The 1976 campaign began with another remarkable chapter in the history of daring Raider comebacks. Final score: Raiders 31, Steelers 28.
Week 2 @ Kansas City
In Kansas City for a Monday-night game, the Raiders special teams led the charge. Punter Ray Guy, Neil Colzie, Terry Kunz, Jack Tatum, Ted Kwalick, Rik Bonness, Mike Siani, and Herb McMath relentlessly shadowed the Chiefs.
On offense, Mark van Eeghen and Pete Banaszak surged for big yardage. With overpowering protection from offensive captain Gene Upshaw and Art Shell, Stabler coolly completed 22 passes, but in the fourth quarter, Stabler was hurt after drilling Mike Siani for the final Raiders touchdown in a 24–21 win.
Week 3 @ Houston
Houston gets hot even indoors, but more fired up was a fierce Raider defense that burned the Oilers.
Newcomers John Matuszak and talented rookie Charles Philyaw, products of football’s premier scouting operation, were overwhelming.
The undefeated Oilers had not yielded a touchdown in 1976, but rookie Mike Rae, playing for Stabler, changed that with scoring passes to Cliff Branch for a 14–13 Raiders triumph.
Week 4 @ New England
A long Raiders trip to New England found the Patriots inhospitable. With scores by Fred Biletnikoff, Mike Rae, and a single field goal from Fred Steinfort, it was too little too late. Final score: New England 48, Oakland 17. But one taste of defeat was all this 1976 Oakland Raiders team would tolerate.
Week 5 @ San Diego
In San Diego, the Chargers challenged the first-place Raiders. Neil Colzie’s punt returns gave Oakland favorable field position. Then Ken Stabler unfolded the game plan developed by head coach John Madden. Cliff Branch scored from 74 and 41 yards out, and Dave Casper scored from 4 yards—as did Pete Banaszak—as Oakland roared back, 27–17.
Week 6 @ Denver
In Denver, punt coverage corralled the Broncos. Van Eeghen powered toward his 1,000-yard season while Fred Steinfort kicked a 34-yard field goal. In the third quarter, Branch and Banaszak each scored a touchdown to seal the Oakland win, 17–10.
Week 7 vs. Green Bay
Home at last. The Raiders hosted Green Bay. A scoreless battle exploded after linebacker Phil Villapiano made a key interception.
In the NFL’s 57-year history, no team ever had a better-completed pass percentage than these 1976 Raiders.
Though Ken Stabler quickly went airborne—striking for three scores in nine minutes—this lightning attack included an 88-yard pass to Cliff Branch, the most feared deep receiver in football at the time. Then a clutch interception by Skip Thomas preserved an 18–14 victory.
Oakland now stood at 6–1.
Week 8 vs. Denver
When Denver invaded Raiders country, Coach Madden’s defensive aides, Tom Dahms, Don Shinnick, and Bob Zeman, unleashed an awesome pass rush that sacked Broncos quarterbacks ten times.
Behind textbook blocking, Clarence Davis went for one score. On third down, Stabler hit Biletnikoff on a leaping catch in the end zone. Then, behind textbook blocking, Clarence Davis went in for another score. Final score: Oakland 19, Denver 6.
Week 9 @ Chicago
Despite bitter cold, the Raiders’ passing stayed hot. Stabler hit Dave Casper on 17-yard score followed by a 75-yard touchdown to Branch with a bomb in the end zone for the second score.
Though held to under three yards per carry, Chicago’s Walter Payton found the end zone three times and the game rocked back and forth. Tough defense made big plays. A Sistrunk deflection and a Hendricks interception set up a 28–27 Raiders lead and victory.
John Madden epitomized coaching greatness. His foresight in taking the win in the fourth quarter helped preserve victory.
Week 10 vs. Kansas City
Oakland, now at 8–1, was at home against Kansas City where Ken Stabler utilized Dave Casper and Fred Biletnikoff for scores, and Pete Banaszak added a third with a one-yard rush as the silver and black thundered toward the playoffs. Final score: Oakland 21, Kansas City 10.
Week 11 @ Philadelphia
In historic Philadelphia, the Raiders rang the bell on both offense and defense to give Coach Madden his 80th win and capture their ninth division championship in ten years.
With touchdowns from van Eeghen, Biletnikoff, and Clarence Davis, a field goal by Errol Mann, and a safety by Hendricks, the Raiders flew by the Eagles, 26–7.
Week 12 vs. Tampa Bay
At home against Tampa Bay, the Raiders rolled to victory number eleven, their eighth in a row. Scores by Pete Banaszak, Warren Bankston, Cliff Branch, Carl Garrett, and two from Mark van Eeghen were scored in the first three quarters alone.
In the fourth quarter, Mike Rae to Mike Siani closed out the Bucs permanently. Final score: Oakland 49, Tampa Bay 16.
Week 13 vs. Cincinnati
In Week 13, a huge TV audience learned an unforgettable lesson about these mighty Oakland Raiders. By losing, Oakland could deny Pittsburgh the playoffs, but the Raiders know only one way to play—to win. Victory is a way of life for the silver and black.
Rick Jennings’s kickoff return started it off. The rest was pride and poise, preparation and performance. There would be no stopping Oakland. These combat-ready Raiders had grown stronger through challenge and adversity. Stabler and Branch connected from 42 yards out which gave Oakland a 28–13 lead and the critics went silent. Two interceptions by Monte Johnson, and one by Jack Tatum destroyed Cincinnati’s offense.
And then the Raiders calmly shattered the Bengals’ playoff hopes as Stabler and Biletnikoff clinched win number twelve. Final score Oakland 35, Cincinnati 20.
Week 14 vs. San Diego
Prior to the game against the Chargers, Ken Stabler was named Most Inspirational Raider. This final game showcased Mike Rae, Dave Humm, Hubert Ginn, Carl Garrett, Manfred Moore, Rodrigo Barnes, Floyd Rice, Steve Sylvester, Henry Lawrence, Dan Medlin, Morris Bradshaw, and others as Oakland triumphed to a 24–0 victory, finishing 13–1 with the best record in football.
The Raiders had proved again that their commitment to excellence was no idle phrase. Together, these gallant Raiders and their magnificent fans were now bound for glory.
AFC Divisional Playoffs vs. New England
Against the Patriots in the AFC playoffs, Stabler received solid protection from Dave Dalby, John Vella, and George Buehler as Oakland marched for an early field goal.
The Raider defense alertly matched razzle-dazzle with readiness and reaction. Trailing 7–3, Oakland forged ahead on a catch by master craftsman Fred Biletnikoff, but the Pats regained the lead 21–10 late in the third quarter.
The valiant Raiders stormed goalward in classic drives. First van Eeghen scored, but Oakland still trailed by four. With only four minutes left and 68 yards to go, every Raider dug deep for that something extra that marks champions.
Then New England was caught belting Stabler in the head. The Raiders relentlessly closed in as the game drew to a dramatic finish. On second down, Stabler rolled to the left and took the ball in himself. Final score: Oakland 24, New England 21.
AFC Conference Championship vs. Pittsburgh
Against Pittsburgh, Ray Guy was fearlessly protected; the Steelers punter was not and Hubert Ginn’s partial block set up a Raider field goal. But then the defense rose up tall. Hall intercepted a deflected Bradshaw pass and ran all the way to the three-yard line as he was run out of bounds.
Behind devastating blocking, Clarence Davis put the determined Raiders ahead, 10–0. The Oakland defense played with controlled fury, growing stronger and tougher as the game went on. Every play was a challenge to be met and conquered. Raiders execution and emotion were at a level that Pittsburgh found unstoppable.
With Pittsburgh’s league leading defense on the ropes, Coach Madden went for the clincher, ensuring the Raiders’ Super Bowl date with destiny.
The Raiders never faltered, casting a giant silver and black shadow across the Steelers’ hopes, No team could deny these Raiders their place in the sun. Final score: Oakland 24, Pittsburgh 7.
Super Bowl XI vs. Minnesota
From the onset, there was never a question about the Super Bowl. This game, this season, this league, this decade belonged to the silver and black.
The Raiders might was undeniable early, but Minnesota got life blocking a punt deep in Oakland territory. But there was no panic, no break in the Raiders’ concentration or intensity. Just stop them now and get the ball back.
Next, Fran Tarkenton handed off to Brent McClanahan, who fumbled the ball, which was recovered by Oakland.
Then 125 million people saw Clarence Davis follow guard George Buehler on route to a 137-yard rushing day.
The Raiders drew first blood after Dave Casper’s catch was ruled out on an Errol Mann field goal.
Next, Oakland boldly drove 64 yards to gain a 10–0 lead. Carl Garrett contributed key yardage and Fred Biletnikoff took the Raiders to the one-yard line. Then a quick throw from Stabler to Casper in the end zone for the score.
The worldwide audience now realized that time alone stood between these Raiders and complete domination of Super Bowl XI.
Meticulous design coupled with devastating blocking by backs and linemen alike powered the Raiders down the glory road.
In the third quarter, Oakland moved farther ahead, 19–0, with an Errol Mann 40-yard field goal. Magnificent special teams, offense and defense, and an electrifying intimidating force in silver and black now stood as history’s best.
After a Minnesota touchdown cut the lead to 19–7 and Oakland punted, Willie Hall intercepted on the Oakland 30, and the turnover turned into a Stabler to Biletnikoff touchdown.
Pete Banaszak scored again as the Raider assault rolled on relentlessly. Then defensive captain Willie Brown finished the scoring avalanche with an interception and a 32–14 Super Bowl win.
Together with their loyal fans, the Oakland Raiders—number one for so many years—now stood alone as the world champions of professional football.
1977 SEASON (11–3–0)
In 1977, the dynamic Raiders organization and their great fans shared a season that began with them as World Champions of professional football—a crowning glory for an already unrivaled record of excellence.
Week 1 vs. San Diego
A thunderous ovation greeted each of the world-champion Raiders as they came out for their season opener. Once the game started, the special teams—led by Lester Hayes and Randy McClanahan—swarmed the Chargers.
Ray Guy’s booming punts set up coverage by Charles Phillips and Morris Bradshaw. Pat Toomay and Otis Sistrunk also limited San Diego’s offense. Ken Stabler hit Cliff Branch and Dave Casper, while Pete Banaszak rushed in from two yards out and the confident Raiders opened with a 24–0 shutout.
Week 2 @ Pittsburgh
The spotlight shifted to Pittsburgh for the rematch of the 1976 AFC Championship. Prior to this dramatic Raiders–Steelers confrontation, two healthy squads calmly exchanged greetings, but hostile Steelers fans wanted no gestures of friendship, for they were on a wartime alert—and war they got.
Rowe, Toomay, Rice, Hall, Kwalick, and Atkinson helped shatter Pittsburgh in a performance labeled “Arson” by the press.
Oakland’s famed precision passing was firing on all cylinders. Stabler’s protectors included Mark van Eeghen and Clarence Davis, while kicker Errol Mann with David Humm holding added ten points and the mighty Raiders never trailed.
On defense, linebacker Monte Johnson delivered headaches for the Steelers. Defensive captain Willie Brown became the first player to ever intercept passes in fifteen consecutive pro seasons. Final score: Oakland 16, Pittsburgh 7.
But tragedy marred triumph. Outstanding starters Phil Villapiano and John Vella were lost for most of the season to injuries.
Week 3 @ Kansas City
In Kansas City, the Raiders were short six key players, but alert safety George Atkinson and a combat-ready defense gave Oakland room to operate.
A huge Monday-night national audience saw a Raiders offensive mastery as the silver and black scored 24 points in thirteen minutes. Touchdowns by Biletnikoff, Banaszak, and two by Davis along with three field goals by Errol Mann routed the Chiefs. Behind crushing blocking, van Eeghen and Davis each topped 100 yards as the defending world champions beat Kansas City, 37–28.
Week 4 @ Cleveland
In Cleveland, 80,000 saw Neil Colzie and the Raiders playing with controlled fury despite a short week and a third consecutive road game.
All scoring was from short yardage. Van Eeghen again rushed for over 100 yards and a pair of touchdowns while kicker Errol Mann scored on four consecutive field goals for the 26–10 romp, which was the Raiders’ 17th consecutive win over two seasons.
Week 5 vs. Denver
When the undefeated Denver Broncos visited Oakland, their league-leading defense proved formidable. After an early score by Dave Casper, the Raiders were denied the end zone. Turnovers became touchdowns as Denver went on to win, 30–7.
Clearly 1977 would severely challenge the class and courage, leadership and loyalty of every member and fan of this Oakland Raiders organization.
Week 6 @ New York Jets
In New York, two ex-Alabama quarterbacks met, but Raiders assistants Tom Dahms and Lew Erber knew well that the Jets provide competition—not conversation.
Stabler to Casper put Oakland up 14–7, but the Jets roared back on an 87-yard score from Richard Todd to Wesley Walker.
The Jets increased their lead to 27–14 and held on till the fourth quarter. Calmly and deliberately, Raiders coach John Madden responded.
Stabler to Fred Biletnikoff brought the Raiders within six with time running out.
This seesaw struggle brought back memories of the Raiders’ last New York visit: in 1970, with seconds to go, Oakland was trailing 13–7. Daryle Lamonica to Warren Wells defied all odds with a last second score to win the game.
Now as then, the Raiders’ come-from-behind tradition would be tested, and once again the Raiders would pull another one out of the fire, as Stabler hit Siani in the corner of the end zone to beat the Jets, 28–27.
Week 7 @ Denver
In Denver, the Raiders, now 5–1, met the undefeated Broncos on “Orange Sunday,” but Oakland would be the top dog today.
John Matuszak led the charge as Toomay and Sistrunk helped record eight sacks. Then the Raiders offense went to work—a pass from Stabler to Branch in the end zone drew first blood. Following an Errol Mann 42-yard field goal, the Raiders struck again with an eight-yard score by Clarence Davis and a one-yard score by Mark van Eeghen. Behind offensive captain Gene Upshaw, Clarence Davis ran for 105 yards as Oakland controlled and conquered, 24–14.
After five road games in seven weeks, the Raiders returned to the Coliseum, hopeful their roster would stabilize for the coming playoff drive.
Week 8 vs. Seattle
Against Seattle, Oakland’s special teams were quick and deadly and Lester Hayes was lethal. On defense, Willie Brown, Skip Thomas, and Jack Tatum helped ground the Seahawks.
Van Eeghen followed Henry Lawrence en route to an AFC rushing title. With precision passing by Stabler to Siani, Biletnikoff, and Casper, rushing scores by Clarence Davis and Terry Robiskie, and three field goals from Errol Mann, Oakland triumphed, 44–7.
Next, assistants Oliver Spencer and Tom Flores prepared for Houston.
Week 9 vs. Houston
The Raiders defense pressured early with Dave Rowe and Otis Sistrunk in the forefront. The alert silver and black intercepted four passes as the defense created all the necessary breaks.
Stabler completed 23 passes as the explosive Raiders flashed toward a record 13th consecutive winning season.
But the Oilers hung in and trailed by only five points despite a swarming Raiders secondary. Neal Colzie’s interception stopped one drive, and then safety Jack Tatum ended the drama. Final score: Oakland 34, Houston 29.
But there was no relief in San Diego the following week, as Ken Stabler joined the team’s already lengthy injury list.
Week 10 @ San Diego
Inspired defense allowed the Chargers only 12 points, with Tatum and Thomas teaming up on an interception.
Quarterback Mike Rae scrambled for the Raiders’ only score, as Oakland suffered their second loss of the season. Final score: San Diego 12, Oakland 7.
Week 11 vs. Buffalo
Buffalo was next, and the Monday-night crowd and television audience alike learned again that pride and poise is no idle phrase to the silver and black. Losses and injuries were forgotten, as brilliant Coach John Madden rallied his troops.
Three times Stabler threw for touchdowns—twice to Branch, once to Biletnikoff, and two TD rushes by Banaszak. There could be no doubt why these Oakland Raiders were feared, respected, and imitated. The disciplined offense planned well and executed perfectly, completely dominating the Bills.
The defense led by Toomay, Matuszak, and Hendricks intimidated, controlled, and established superiority. Lawrence and Buehler sprung van Eeghen.
When the smoke cleared, the Raiders were victorious, 34–13.
Week 12 @ Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, photographers and fans awaited the Raiders.
The playoff-bound Rams excelled on defense, but the Raider offense—number one in the AFC—chipped away. Always productive Pete Banaszak scored once and Mark van Eeghen surpassed 1,000 yards for the second straight season.
Late in the game, Casper put the Raiders ahead, 14–13, but the Rams struck back against an Oakland secondary thinned earlier by the loss of George Atkinson with a broken leg.
The Raiders valiantly fought back, but their heroic efforts came up short. Final score: Los Angeles 20, Oakland 14.
Week 13 vs. Minnesota
Week 13 brought the Minnesota Vikings in for a rematch of Super Bowl XI, but Oakland needed victory now to make the playoffs.
Superb blocking by Dalby, Upshaw, Buehler, Shell, and Lawrence enabled Stabler to find Cliff Branch.
Special teams led by captain Warren Bankston, Ray Guy, Steve Sylvester, Terry Robiskie, and Jeff Barnes stunned Minnesota.
Linebacker Willie Hall’s fumble recovery broke the dam and a tidal wave of Oakland points poured through.
Aggressive defenders were everywhere and linebacker Floyd Rice pounced on another Minnesota fumble. Raider fans were ecstatic, but there was still more to come.
With big Art Shell riding the rush harmlessly away, Ken Stabler hit for three scores in the devastating 35–13 win.
Once again the Oakland Raiders had clinched a playoff berth—their tenth in eleven years.
Week 14 vs. Kansas City
Prior to the final game of the season against the Kansas City Chiefs, Mark van Eeghen received the coveted Gorman Award as Most Inspirational Raider.
Despite the three field goals from Errol Mann and a touchdown by Carl Garrett, the Raiders trailed the Chiefs throughout the game until the fourth quarter, when Mike Rae threw to Carl Garrett to give them a 20–18 lead. Mann’s 28-yard field goal gave them the 21–20 victory.
The Raiders were now headed for Baltimore and an unbelievable AFC playoff game.
AFC Divisional Playoffs @ Baltimore
This game would be played before the largest home crowd in the Baltimore Colts’ history. The game itself would soon make history as one of the longest and greatest ever played in fifty-eight years of professional football.
From the beginning, the Raiders’ execution was impressive as Stabler began a classic shootout that would total 345 yards passing as just one phase of a thundering assault.
While Davis left tacklers clutching at air, Baltimore quarterback Bert Jones was sacked by Matuszak. Like a great silver wall, Rice, Matuszak, Hendricks, Johnson, and others rose up.
Then the Raiders struck again with a deep bomb to Branch to the 20-yard line. A few plays later he lobbed one to Casper for the score.
Every play was big. Ted Hendricks got a hand on a Baltimore Colts fumble and Jeff Barnes recovered. The Raiders converted the blocked punt into points and led midway through the third quarter, 21–17.
But the Colts fought back, going ahead 31–28. Time became crucial. The Raiders had to stop the Colts right now, and they did exactly that.
They calmly sent “The Ghost to the Post.” Casper’s catch was a work of art. And then Madden called on Errol Mann to send the game into overtime.
This AFC playoff would go into a fifth period—a period of magnificent defense. In the final 23 minutes of this incredible game, the towering Raider defense did not allow a first down.
Tension and exhaustion tapped the last resources as the fifth period became the sixth. Desire and determination were stretched to ultimate limits, but these Raiders made one more gallant effort.
First it was Stabler to Branch for 19. Then on 2nd and 7, a beautifully conceived pass play brought down the curtain. Dave Casper’s touchdown gave Oakland a 37–31 victory after 75 minutes and 43 seconds—the longest game in Raiders history.
AFC Conference Championship @ Denver
In the conference championship against the Denver Broncos, Dave Casper scored both touchdowns on passes from Stabler and Errol Mann kicked a 20-yard field goal. But the 17 points were not enough to stop the Broncos, as Oakland was defeated, 20–17.
1978 (9–7–0)
Week 1 @ Denver
The opener in Denver before a sellout crowd of 75,000 saw the silver and black clash angrily with the Orange Crush.
With linebacker Jeff Barnes and rookie defensive end Dave Browning seeking action, Denver was held to just five pass completions. But all the Raiders could muster that day were two field goals by Errol Mann. In the end, it was an incompletion that would hurt Oakland the most. A questionable interference call set up a Broncos touchdown and Oakland turnovers proved costly.
For Coach John Madden, the 14–6 loss was especially troublesome with the Chargers up next.
Week 2 @ San Diego
Despite over 700 yards total offense in San Diego, unique scoring plays still captured the headlines. Instead of a Raider interception came a Charger touchdown. But Ken Stabler hit Dave Casper and Morris Bradshaw as Oakland trailed, 20–14.
The Raiders stormed goalward again. Action peaked with only ten seconds to play. The ball was fumbled, bobbled, and kicked. And when play ended, Dave Casper had the winning touchdown. The silver and black had their 160th league victory (including playoffs) to add to the legend. Final score: Oakland 21, San Diego 20.
Week 3 @ Green Bay
Green Bay was the third consecutive road game and Mark van Eeghen rushed for a career-high 151 yards. With Clarence Davis on injured reserve, Terry Robiskie started and found pay dirt.
A pass from Stabler to Casper and then a hand off to Terry Robiskie put the Raiders up 14–0.
With Dave Dalby firing off from center and rookie Arthur Whittington following the silver and black convoy to two more scores, the Raiders destroyed the Packers. Final score: Raiders 28, Green Bay 3.
Week 4 vs. New England
For the NFL’s first Sunday-night national telecast against New England, Steve Grogan’s evening wear featured Ted Hendricks and John Matuszak.
Ken Stabler hit Dave Casper for one score, then Whittington followed Pete Banaszak and Gene Upshaw for another as Oakland exploded for 14 points.
A third Raiders score was called back. The Patriots had rallied to gain a winning position. Final score: New England 21, Oakland 14.
The rugged 1978 schedule would severely test the Raiders’ will to win.
Week 5 @ Chicago
In Chicago, the fourth road game in five weeks would soon become the fourth overtime struggle in Raiders history. Chicago had won nine of their last ten, but tenacious defense led by Monte Johnson kept them in check. Terry Robiskie scored the first Raiders touchdown, but the Bears rallied for a 19–16 lead.
With Chicago threatened again, they were forcefully denied. With 60 seconds left, Cliff Branch grabbed his eighth pass of the day. Then when Morris Bradshaw’s TD was called back, Errol Mann kicked his fourth field goal to bring the game into overtime. The Raiders had never lost in overtime, and they weren’t about to start now.
Neal Colzie intercepted a Bears pass and ran it down to the three-yard line. On the next play, Whittington ran it in for the score and the win. Final score: Oakland 25, Chicago 19.
Week 6 vs. Houston
Oakland hosted the playoff-bound Houston Oilers and the NFL’s MVP Earl Campbell.
First-year starters Dave Browning and Rod Martin and the entire defense rose to the challenge. Johnson, Browning, Matuszak, Otis Sistrunk, and company slowed Houston down.
Then Arthur Whittington took the long way around to put Oakland up 7–3. The Oilers fired back to lead 17–7, but their next drive backfired when Browning jarred the ball loose and safety Charles Phillips returned it 96 yards for a score.
Ray Guy’s sky-high punts were skillfully covered by Booker Russell, Larry Brunson, Steve Sylvester, Derrick Ramsey, Joe Stewart, and John Huddleston, and the Oilers found themselves deep in the well with the Raiders relentlessly coming on.
With only 50 seconds to go, Ken Stabler rolled left and fired to Dave Casper, whose one-armed catch meant victory. Final score: Oakland 21, Houston 17.
Week 7 vs. Kansas City
The Kansas City Chiefs came to Oakland for their 39th meeting (including playoffs) and a rivalry dating back to 1960. But this October day, the Chiefs were no match for the Raiders’ precision passing.
Cornerback Monte Jackson led a young secondary in scalping the Chiefs. Two scores by van Eeghen and one each by Casper and Phillips spelled doom for KC. In the end, Kansas City stumbled and Oakland alertly responded for a sweet 28–6 conquest.
Week 8 @ Seattle
In Seattle, things went sour for Oakland. Robiskie and Browning were injured early and versatile Seahawks quarterback Jim Zorn lit up a shocking scoreboard display.
All the Raiders could salvage was their 182-game scoring streak with a late Stabler to Branch touchdown. Final score: Seattle 27, Oakland 7.
Week 9 vs. San Diego
The following week found San Diego in Oakland for a Western Division rematch.
Aggressive linebacker Ted Hendricks forced a fumble that Mike McCoy picked off in midair. Then on a fake field goal, Dave Humm passed to Casper to keep the drive going. The Raiders rolled with van Eeghen and Whittington, utilizing blocking by Dalby, Mickey Marvin, Upshaw, Lawrence, and Shell.
But again, another thrilling San Diego–Oakland game would close in controversy.
On fourth down, Lester Hayes ended Charger hopes, but an official saw it differently than Raider players and John Madden, and San Diego had life. The Chargers’ winning tally created more controversy when the receiver appeared to step out of bounds when making the catch.
Both 1978 finishes in this series would be long remembered. Final score: San Diego 27, Oakland 23.
Week 10 @ Kansas City
As pro football’s winningest team, the Raiders created sellouts and did so again Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium.
The Raiders were on the rebound and safety Jack Tatum turned an alert play into an Oakland plus. All-Pro Dave Casper had seven catches for 112 yards and Arthur Whittington rushed for 134 yards—the first Raider rookie to top 100 yards in a decade.
On the final play, Oakland captain Willie Brown and Lester Hayes ensured a 20–10 victory. With the victory, John Madden became the thirteenth head coach in NFL history to win 100 league games and only the second in modern times to achieve this remarkable feat in just ten seasons.
Week 11 @ Cincinnati
The Raiders were in Cincinnati for a Monday-night game, and their defense was punishing.
Kenny Stabler hit Raymond Chester for six and the Raiders were out to maintain an unsurpassed record of only one loss in nine years of Monday-night play. Colzie, Casper, Bradshaw, and van Eeghen added TDs totaling 34 points.
Phil Villapiano intercepted a Bengals pass to keep the Raiders in control, as Oakland raised their season record to 7–4, beating Cincinnati 34–21.
Week 12 vs. Detroit
A hot Detroit team, a short week, rain, and mud all failed to slow the Raiders.
Stabler threw to Branch, who was taken down at the one. The ball was knocked loose, and Mark van Eeghen recovered in the end zone for one of his three scores of the day. Casper scored the other touchdown while Phil Villapiano tackled Lions quarterback Gary Danielson in the end zone for a safety.
Next, Matuszak, McCoy, Hendricks, Hall, Tatum and the rest defeated the Lions by a score of 29–17.
Week 13 vs. Seattle
The only NFL division with four winning teams is the tough AFC West, so the Seattle–Oakland game was a crucial one between playoff contenders.
Otis Sistrunk and the Raiders defense had fire in their eyes. Big Charles Philyaw demolished plays and then Stabler went airborne for a 16–14 lead.
Another cliffhanger: with just two seconds left, a 46-yard field goal downed the Raiders and tightened the playoff race.
Final score: Seattle 17, Oakland 16.
Week 14 vs. Denver
A Sunday-night game against Denver was next with the division lead at stake.
On the first three possessions, the Raiders drove inside the Denver 20, but only got two field goals out of it. Oakland mistakes were Denver breaks as the Broncos closed in on the division title as Raiders fans saw their playoff hopes slipping out of reach. Final score: Denver 21, Oakland 6.
Week 15 @ Miami
In the season’s 15th week, the Raiders traveled cross-country to Miami with a playoff berth still possible for the winner.
A Biletnikoff touchdown was Oakland’s only score as their record dropped to 8–7—far below the level of excellence expected from Oakland. Final score: Miami 23, Oakland 6.
Week 16 vs. Minnesota
Before the final game of the season, Dave Casper received the Gorman as Most Inspirational Raider.
The Raiders dominated the playoff-bound Vikings for pride, respect, and tradition. Scores by Biletnikoff, Phillips, and van Eeghen, along with two field goals by Errol Mann, defeated the Vikings, 27–20.
It was John Madden’s final win before retiring and Mark van Eeghen’s third consecutive 1,000-yard season.
The Raiders’ will to win had now earned 14 consecutive winning seasons—a mark exceeded only once in NFL history.
1979 SEASON (9–7–0)
Week 1 @ Los Angeles
The team’s twentieth season began against the Super Bowl-bound Rams. For new head coach Tom Flores, it was the first of four consecutive road games.
Punter Ray Guy and the Oakland kicking game cornered the Rams and rookie Jim Breech kicked his first Raider field goal aided by the sure-handed Dave Humm.
Defensive tackle Reggie Kinlaw, a twelfth-round draft choice who again proved Raider scouting prowess, blocked a punt to set up a touchdown as Ken Stabler hit Derrick Ramsey for six.
Pro Bowl performer Dave Pear, teamed with John Matuszak, spearheaded a rush that shut out the Rams the entire second half. All-Pro tight end Raymond Chester collected the winning score in a 24–17 Oakland victory.
Week 2 @ San Diego
The defense was without John Matuszak, the offense minus tackles Art Shell and Lindsey Mason (who missed the entire season), and Mickey Marvin went out during the game.
Against San Diego, speedster Joe Stewart helped propel the Raiders toward the 1979 NFL lead in kickoff returns. Wide receiver Rich Martini, one of eleven first-year players on the Oakland roster, recorded his first touchdown.
Dave Pear and Dave Browning pressured the Chargers with support from linebackers Ted Hendricks, Monte Johnson, and Rod Martin. Unfortunately for the Raiders, ten points weren’t enough. Final score: San Diego 30, Oakland 10.
Week 3 @ Seattle
The Raiders were short on points in Seattle. A 12-yard pass from Stabler to Rich Martini and a field goal from Jim Breech was all the scoring that the Raiders would do that day. Final score: Seattle 27, Oakland 10.
Week 4 @ Kansas City
In Kansas City, the Raiders found themselves short on personnel. Out for the year were Morris Bradshaw and Joe Stewart, so the young players had to move to the forefront.
Rookie defensive end Willie Jones took rapid aim at team leadership in sacks. Rookie free agent Rufus Bess blocked the Chiefs’ scoring try and came within inches of breaking loose himself.
Quarterback Jim Plunkett came in late and hit Raymond Chester deep to set up the Raiders’ lone score, but Terry Robiskie was down for the season. Final score: Kansas City 25, Oakland 7.
Week 5 vs. Denver
After four road games, the Raiders finally opened at home against the Denver Broncos.
Short on experience but long on aggressiveness, Raiders rookies met the challenge, as Reggie Kinlaw alternated with Willie Jones to corral the Broncos.
The defense grew stronger as the game grew longer and Charles Philyaw, Willie Jones, Rod Martin, Mike Davis, Monte Johnson, and others sealed the verdict. Defensive coaches Charles Sumner, Willie Brown, Oliver Spencer, and Myrel Moore had their horses ready.
The Raiders’ will to win still endured. Final score: Raiders 27, Denver 3.
The next game would be Miami on Monday night.
Week 6 vs. Miami
All-Pro tackle Art Shell was active again while Steve Sylvester checked in at center for the injured Dave Dalby.
In the third period, Art Shell, Gene Upshaw, Steve Sylvester, Dan Medlin, and Henry Lawrence gave Stabler time to find Chester for a score. The determined Raiders defense gave up only three points while scoring once.
Ted Hendricks proved that he had lost neither instinct nor talent in eleven pro seasons.
When the Dolphins threatened late, Reggie Kinlaw smothered Miami’s scoring drive.
The 13–3 win evened the Raider record at 3–3.
Week 7 vs. Atlanta
Despite a short practice week, the Raider defense returned ready for the Falcons. A push by Jeff Barnes, Pat Toomay, Charles Philyaw, and John Matuszak gave cornerback Lester Hayes a chance to score his first Raider TD on a 51-yard interception.
The dominating silver and black thundered for 31 points in the second half alone. Mark van Eeghen scored a total of three TDs, while Clarence Hawkins and Larry Brunson scored one TD each for the Raiders and rolled for 50 points for the fifth time in team history. Final score: Oakland 50, Atlanta 19.
Point production was down, however, after the cross-country trip to tangle with the Jets.
Week 8 @ New York Jets
The defense faced a challenge from these longtime rivals. Rod Martin, Pat Toomay, and Phil Villapiano attacked with controlled fury. Second-year pro Mike Davis worked in combination with Monte Johnson and Henry Williams to record his second pro interception.
Despite 459 yards total offense, 25 first downs and two TDs—Stabler to Raymond Chester—the Raiders lost by 9. Final score: New York 28, Oakland 10.
Week 9 vs. San Diego
Primetime football and the Raiders—an unbeatable combination . . .
A national TV audience of fifty million looked on as the Raiders rose to challenge the Chargers.
Charles Phillips and Rod Martin blitzed quarterback Dan Fouts. When Fouts found time, Monte Jackson and Jack Tatum made certain he found little else.
A now-healthy Cliff Branch added another dimension to the varied Raiders passing game. Fullback Mark van Eeghen relentlessly banged away en route to becoming the number-two rusher in Oakland Raiders history.
A highpoint of the game was a kickoff return of 104 yards by Wisconsin rookie Ira Matthews.
Next came Booker Russell, a young player who learned quickly that a second effort is first nature to those in silver and black. Russell’s third rushing touchdown of the game earned congratulations from teammate Todd Christensen. Final score: Oakland 45, Chargers 22.
Week 10 vs. San Francisco
In the Raiders’ third game against NFC opponents, Oakland limited San Francisco to just 10 points.
For offensive position, the Raiders called on the skills of Larry Brunson, who became the NFL’s number-one kickoff return man in 1979.
First-year fullback Derrick Jensen blasted up inside for Oakland while the Raiders’ defense refused to yield to 49er runners with Hayes, Tatum, Hendricks, and Villapiano spearheading a fourth down stance.
The Raiders’ total domination of NFC teams continued at a record pace. Final score: Oakland 23, San Francisco 10.
Week 11 @ Houston
The calm Texas sky above the Houston Astrodome could not conceal the fury within.
With Raider Mark van Eeghen out injured, heavy traffic concentrated on one fullback, Houston’s All-Pro: Earl Campbell. Lester Hayes, Mike Davis, and Jack Tatum zeroed in on #34, but Campbell was too tough to control.
Despite touchdowns from Chester and Casper, Oakland could not get enough points on the board.
The power and precision passing of quarterback Dan Pastorini, who hit for two long scores, were major factors in Oakland’s loss. Final score: Houston 31, Oakland 17.
Week 12 vs. Kansas City
Back home to meet the Kansas City Chiefs, the Raiders would renew a Western Division rivalry that had thrilled fans for twenty seasons.
It would remain for Raider youth to rise to the occasion—quality youth in the form of rookie defender Reggie Kinlaw and in the performance of Arthur Whittington after missing seven games.
With protection by Dalby and van Eeghen, Stabler had time to go to second-year tight end Derrick Ramsey, van Eeghen, and Branch for scores, but when the gun sounded, the Raiders had lost by three. Final score: Kansas City 24, Oakland 21.
Next on the schedule was Denver on the road.
Week 13 @ Denver
There was snow and ice at Mile High Stadium, but Raiders running back Booker Russell stayed hot as he used blocks by Sylvester, Lawrence, Upshaw, and company to break loose for a 72-yard gain en route to his only 100-yard game of his career.
Stabler and tight end Dave Casper combined for one score and the Raiders battled to a 14–10 lead. Twice the Broncos threatened and twice rookie cornerback Henry Williams shut them down with interceptions. Final score: Oakland 14, Denver 10.
Week 14 @ New Orleans
The first Raiders visit to the Louisiana Superdome would provide the huge, national television audience another unforgettable showing of Raiders comeback courage.
For nearly three periods the Saints could do no wrong. After thirty-seven minutes, New Orleans ran up a seemingly insurmountable lead. What remained was totally incredible except to Raiders fans who knew that commitment to excellence, not miracles, key the silver and black.
Kinlaw handcuffed the Saints and the game plan of offensive coaches came alive.
After being down 35–14, the Raiders miraculously scored TDs by van Eeghen, Ramsey, and two from Cliff Branch. The Raiders came back to beat the Saints, 42–35.
The Raiders’ Monday-night record now stood at only one loss in fifteen games.
Week 15 vs. Cleveland
Just six days later, the Raiders were again ready for battle. The enemy this time was the Cleveland Browns.
Browning, Toomay, Martin, and Jones led the defense to two interceptions and five sacks. A pass from Stabler to Branch and four field goals by Jim Breech insured victory. Final score: Oakland 19, Cleveland 14.
The win over Cleveland assured the Raiders a fifteenth consecutive winning season for the organization.
Week 16 vs. Seattle
As the 1979 season closed, Pro Bowler Raymond Chester was awarded Most Inspirational Raider.
Against Seattle, the driving battle to the playoffs continued as Lester Hayes picked off a pass and put up six for Oakland. Arthur Whittington fought his way to the end zone as the Raiders inched back, but even with a late score by van Eeghen, the Raiders ended six points from a chance for another year of playoff glory to add to the already unrivaled record of excellence. Final score: Seattle 29, Oakland 24.
Yet one loss could not alter the decades of greatness that had witnessed the Raiders’ monumental climb to the top.
One man who so symbolized Raiders commitment to excellence was Jim Otto. Otto arrived in Oakland in 1960, the Raiders’ first year, and started every game for fifteen seasons.
A keystone of so many outstanding Raider teams, Otto was a perennial giant among Raider giants, and twice won the Gorman Award as the player who best exemplified the pride and spirit of the organization.
“Double O” contributed much to the respect and national acclaim that came to these proud warriors in silver and black. Interior linemen often go unnoticed by the crowd, but Jim Otto won the recognition of his peers.
On August 2, 1980, Jim Otto was the first Raider enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
His will to win spanned two glorious decades, and as a new decade began, this Raider commitment to excellence still burned fiercely as it has through these decades of destiny.