New Orleans Saints Flashback: Benny Ricardo

Benito Concepcion "Benny" Ricardo was a place-kicker for the New Orleans Saints for two seasons, from 1980-1981.

Born in Paraguay, Ricardo played his college football at San Diego St., before kicking in two games for the Buffalo Bills, and then ten games for the Detroit Lions in 1976

After being out of football in 1977, Ricardo rejoined the Lions in 1978, when he had his best NFL season, converting on 20-of-28 field goal attempts, and finishing with 92 points, which ranked sixth in the NFL.

After one more season in Detroit, Ricardo joined the Saints in 1980, and went on to convert 10-of-17 field goal attempts in the dismal 1-15 season for the franchise.

In the 1981 NFL Draft, the Saints drafted kicker Morten Andersen, but also kept Ricardo on the roster, mostly as the short field goal kicker. He did not have a good year, hitting only 13-of-25 attempts.

After being out of football in 1982, Ricardo kicked for the the Minnesota Vikings in 1983, before ending his career with the San Diego Chargers in 1984.

In his seven-year NFL career, Ricardo converted 92-of-142 field goal attempts, and 171-of-180 extra points.

Over his two years with the Saints, Ricardo was successful on 23-of-42 field goals, as well as 55-of-58 PAT's.

Now 60-years old, Ricardo is a stand-up comedian and sportscaster.

Ricardo has also done some acting, with parts in "North Dallas Forty" and "Wildcats".

Here's a sample of Ricardo's stand-up routine: