Hall of Fame coach and broadcast icon John Madden passed away Tuesday at the age of 85. His unexpected death has been mourned by countless figures across North American sports, but Madden’s legacy also has taken the spotlight.
“Few individuals meant as much to the growth and popularity of professional football as Coach Madden, whose impact on the game both on and off the field was immeasurable,” the Raiders said in a statement.
Team owner Mark Davis lit the Al Davis Torch at Allegiant Stadium in honor of Madden, who was the first person to ever light it on Oct. 16, 2011.
“Tonight I light the torch in honor of and tribute to John Madden and Al Davis, who declared that the fire that burns the brightest in the Raiders Organization is the will to win,” Mark Davis said.
Retired Los Angeles Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully joined those remembering Madden, referring to the coach-turned-broadcaster as an “all-time” great and reflecting on learning from him while calling NFL games.
I was saddened to hear about the passing of John Madden, at age 85. One the all-time greats, he showed me the ropes during our brief football partnership. He was always kind and delightful. He can now join his former partner, Pat Summerall, in calling Super Bowls in heaven.
— Vin Scully (@TheVinScully) December 29, 2021
Madden led the Oakland Raiders to seven AFC title games and one Super Bowl title during his time as head coach. He finished a career 103-32-7 in the regular season, with a .759 winning percentage that is the best among NFL coaches with more than 100 games.
Madden made a successful transition into broadcasting and also lent his personality and name to the Madden NFL Football video game by EA Sports. It has become one of the best-selling video game franchises of all-time.
All Madden documentary re-airing
In the wake of Madden’s death, Fox Sports announced the “All Madden” documentary would re-air Tuesday night on FS1. The network is showing the special again on Wednesday at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. PT.
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