Nickname: “Gentle Ben”
Born: September 1, 1954
Hometown: Yazoo City, MS
Year of Induction: 1997
College Career
University of Mississippi (1972-1975)
• Four year starter at Ole Miss
• Three time All-SEC (1973-1975)
• 377 Career tackles; led team in (’74, ‘75)
• Set Ole Miss record with 18 quarterback sacks (’74)
• Elected Colonel Rebel by Ole Miss student body (’75)
• Ole Miss Co-Captain (’75)
• Ole Miss Team of the Century (’93)
Professional Career
Buffalo Bills (1976-1985)
• 78th player (3rd round) drafted in NFL draft (’76)
• Played 11 seasons in 150 games – starting in 143
• 51 quarterback sacks; 5-time leading defensive line tackler
• Pro Bowl (’82)
• Buffalo Bill’s all-time Silver anniversary Team (’84)
Did You Know?
Williams was nicknamed “Gentle Ben” at Ole Miss based on the television show with the same name. He actually wrestled a bear at halftime of a basketball game at Tad Smith Coliseum.
