Robert Williams - Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame

Robert "Gentle Ben" Williams

Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame Inductee

Football

Robert Williams Mississippi Hall of Fame Inductee

Robert "Gentle Ben" Williams Stats, Bio

Born: September 1, 1954

Hometown: Yazoo City, MS

Year Induction: 1997

Deceased : May 18, 2020

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.

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Jackson, Mississippi 39216

Exit 98B off I-55 [ map it ]

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