H96.1.1193

Dec-69
10 in HIGH x 8 in WIDE
(25.40 cm HIGH x 20.32 cm WIDE)
The Oakland Tribune Collection, the Oakland Museum of California. Gift of ANG Newspapers
H96.1.1193

Silver and Black, Raiders Exhibit, September 1995-January 1996

Handwritten, "Jim Otto after game in dressing room." Clipping, "Dec. 23, 1976--A disbelieving Jim Otto reflects after 1969 title game loss to Kansas City." Another clipping, "Jul. 28, 1981--Hall of Fame center Jim Otto no longer runs on the playing fields of the National Football League as he did in 1973 (above) nor does he sit in the clubhouse sipping a soada after a game in 1976 game (right). The former Oakland Raiders' super-star now suffers from permanent damage to the legs which carried him to glory for 14 pro seasons. Otto, living in Yuba City, says the ligaments in both knees are gone and there isn't a muscle left in either leg. Consequently, he faces surgery again early next year to install artificial knee caps." Photo shows Otto still wearing his uniform but without his helmet or shoes. He is sitting in a chair in the locker room with other people around him and he is holding a can of soda. He looks very sad. From exhibition label: "JIM OTTO, December, 1969--Legendary Raider center Jim Otto, perhaps as much as any other player, epitomized the spirit of the Oakland Raiders. Although seen here in a down moment, following the Raiders 1969 playoff defeat, Otto had much to be proud of. He played on the club from 1960 to 1974 with ironman consistency, appearing in 210 consecutive regular season games, despite having six knee operations during his career. 'I was a football player,' he said, 'and I wanted to play.' Although he had been a lightly regarded pro prospect from the University of Miami, Otto was selected for 13 AFL all-star or NFL Pro Bowl games."

Used: Oakland Tribune

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