Kill, Bubba, Kill!!
Michigan State fans have always loved Charles “Bubba” Smith. His relationship with the university has apparently been a little rocky though. Some were even wondering if he’d actually show up to see his jersey number retired during the 40th anniversary of the “Game of the Century” this weekend.
Apparently bad feelings have subsided and Smith will be there in person to see #95 retired. Joe Rexrode of the Lansing State Journal reports that his former teammates are happy to hear that he will make the trip. He will join 45 other players and coaches from the 1966 team on campus this weekend.
“I’m so glad to hear he’s coming. Whatever unhappiness he’s had to MSU in general or to certain people in particular, no one knows, no one can get that out of him,” said Bob Apisa, a teammate of Smith’s on the 1966 team that battled No. 1 Notre Dame to a 10-10 tie in the “Game of the Century.” “Hopefully all that stuff is over now and Bubba’s general overall demeanor is conducive to having a good time.”
Smith, a dominant defensive end on the 1966 team, will have his No. 95 retired as part of festivities honoring the 40th anniversary of the 10-10 tie. He joins Don Coleman (No. 78) and former teammate George Webster (No. 90) as the only players to have their numbers removed from circulation.