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The chants of “Kill, Bubba, Kill” inside Spartan Stadium would ignite a flame inside defensive end Charles (Bubba) Smith that would rise to the surface and turn him into one of the best players to ever wear green and white for Michigan State.
He excelled. He dominated. He became a legend, possibly the most well-known Spartans football player ever.
Smith, one of only three MSU players to have his jersey number retired, died today at his home in Los Angeles. He was 66.
The Los Angeles Times reported that he died of natural causes. Police told the Associated Press his death did not appear suspicious. Authorities said an autopsy would be conducted. A caretaker discovered Smith’s body.
Smith, who was born in Orange, Texas, earned three letters at MSU (1964-66) and was a part of stellar championship teams under legendary coach Duffy Daugherty.
He became the first pick of the 1967 NFL draft and played nine seasons. He was a part of the 1970 Super Bowl champion Baltimore Colts and played in two Pro Bowls.
After football, Smith went on to a career in acting, most notably as a soft-spoken police officer in the “Police Academy” films and in hilarious Miller Lite commercials.
“Bubba Smith made me feel better about myself whenever I was around him,” MSU athletic director Mark Hollis tweeted. “He is forever a great Spartan. RIP.”
Smith spent five seasons with the Baltimore Colts and two season each with Oakland and Houston.
Michigan State retired Bubba Smith's No. 95 jersey in 2006.
"This could have happened 30 years ago, " Smith told the Free Press from his home in Los Angeles back then. "It's still a proud moment. You know what you did at the time hasn't been duplicated."
The retirement ceremony coincided with the 40th anniversary of the "Game of the Century, " which ended in a 10-10 tie between No. 1 Notre Dame and No. 2 MSU.
Smith called his years at MSU the best time of his life and said that his professional career doesn't compare to his collegiate experience. Smith was part of two national championship teams -- 1965 and 1966 -- and was the first overall pick in the 1967 NFL draft.
