NFL legends to appear at local sports bars

As the old saying goes, offense wins games, defense win patrons to casino sports bars.

Two legendary NFL players - William "The Refrigerator" Perry and Jack "The Assassin" Tatum - will be in town Monday night for separate appearances at local casinos.

Tatum will usher in Cocopah Casino's Monday Night Mania Party, signing autographs and taking photos with guests during the Oakland Raiders-Denver Broncos game at 7:15 p.m. Perry will be at Paradise Casinos to kick off their Monday Night Football premier between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. at Sharkey's Lounge. During that time - a Vikings-Packers game - Perry will also be available for autographs and photos.

Tatum played nine years with the Raiders, including on the Super Bowl champion 1972 team. He is known as one of the hardest hitters in NFL history.
 He was also involved with the Immaculate Reception. Tatum collided with the Steelers' intended receiver, John Fuqua, on the play, knocking the ball into the air, which was then caught by Franco Harris. Harris scored the game-winning touchdown on arguably the most famous play in NFL history.

In a 1978 preseason game, Tatum hit Patriots wide receiver Darryl Stingley, who was left paralyzed from the chest down until his death in 2007.

In 2001, Ohio State coach Jim Tressel created the "Jack Tatum Hit of the Week Award," awarding the hardest hitting Buckeyes. Tatum played with the Buckeyes from 1968-1970.

Perry, a defensive lineman with the Bears, helped Chicago win the 1985 Super Bowl. Used all season as a fullback as well on special plays, Perry ran for a touchdown in Chicago's blowout against New England.

"Perry is a remarkable athlete,” said Barrett Defay, marketing director of Paradise Casinos. “His formidable abilities on the football field, coupled with his exuberant personality make “the Fridge” a crowd’s favorite. We’re delighted to have 'The Fridge' meet and greet our members during Paradise Casinos’ first Monday Night Football of the season.”

Both events are free and open to those 21 and older. Paradise offers a discount menu during the game, while Cocopah has the chance to win prizes throughout the season.