Dave Casper, known for his exceptional skills as a tight end, played a vital role in the National Football League during his career. Born on February 2, 1952, in Bemidji, Minnesota, Casper grew up in a sports-oriented family and attended the University of Notre Dame, where he honed his abilities on the football field. His college career was marked by impressive performances, which caught the attention of NFL scouts.

In 1974, the Oakland Raiders selected Casper in the second round of the NFL Draft. Initially, he played as a backup, but his talent soon became evident, and he earned a starting position. Casper's ability to catch passes and block effectively made him a valuable asset to the Raiders' offense. His performance in the 1976 season was particularly noteworthy, as he helped lead the team to a Super Bowl victory against the Minnesota Vikings.

Casper's career is often remembered for his involvement in one of the most famous plays in NFL history, known as the "Ghost to the Post." During a 1977 playoff game against the Baltimore Colts, Casper made a crucial reception that set up a game-tying field goal, leading to an eventual Raiders victory in double overtime. This play not only showcased his athleticism but also his ability to perform under pressure.

Throughout his time with the Raiders, Casper was selected to the Pro Bowl five times and was named an All-Pro four times. His consistency and reliability on the field earned him a reputation as one of the top tight ends of his era. In 1980, he was traded to the Houston Oilers, where he continued to demonstrate his skills and contribute to the team's success.

Casper's tenure with the Oilers was followed by a brief stint with the Minnesota Vikings in 1983. However, he returned to the Raiders in 1984, where he concluded his professional football career. Over the course of his time in the NFL, Casper accumulated impressive statistics, including 378 receptions, 5,216 receiving yards, and 52 touchdowns.

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