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Ray Perkins, former Alabama head coach and player, passes away at 79

As he prepares for the SEC Coaches Teleconference this morning, Nick Saban and Alabama football will be remembering a pioneer and a special coach.

According to various reporters, Ray Perkins passed away today at his home in Northport, Ala. At 79 years of age, he had been dealing with heart conditions. A native of Petal, Miss., Perkins attended and played football for the Crimson Tide under legendary coach Paul W. “Bear” Bryant from 1964-66. He was a dependable wide receiver, totaling 63 catches for 908 yards with nine touchdowns in three years. During his final season, Perkins grabbed 33 passes for 490 yards with seven touchdowns.