Ken Stabler deserves the Hall

Ken Stabler on the sidelines after winning the 1976 AFC Championship GameKen Stabler, who died Thursday, greatly deserves Hall of Fame recognition. First of all, the former Raiders quarterback excelled in Al Davis’ deep passing system. A sidearm slinger without a great arm, Stabler, nevertheless, won with guile, the ability to adjust in the pocket, feathery touch on deep passes and deadly accuracy.

Stabler would have been a lock as a Hall of Famer had he been born 10 years later. His anticipation, intelligence and accuracy were perfectly suited for a West Coast offense. Bill Walsh’s West Coast was built on timing, quick throws and the incorporation of running backs and tight ends into the…