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Phil Villapiano is one of the greatest linebackers in the history of the Oakland Raiders. He played for the Oakland Raiders from 1971-79, and the Buffalo Bills from 1980-83. Villapiano was AFC Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1971, All-NFL in 1975 & 1976, and All-AFC from 1972-1976. Phil also played in four Pro Bowls and was a member of the Oakland Raiders Super Bowl XI championship team.
He first made a name for himself in week 3 of his rookie season when he started a nationally televised game in Cleveland. Howard Cosell made him a household name after raving about his great play in a 34-20 Raider win in front of over 80,000 people in Cleveland.
One of the fastest linebackers of his era, Phil specialized in making big plays either in pass coverage or against the run. No play was ever bigger than his momentum changing goal-line tackle against the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl XI, where he forced the fumble that was recovered by Willie Hall after a blocked punt. He also caught the game ending interception in the famous "Sea of Hands" playoff game against Miami. Equally effective against the run or in pass coverage, Phil deserves a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.
