If there is an iconic image of NFL Films, it has to be “The Autumn Wind.” The piece was the NFL Films’ version of Sandy Koufax pitching a perfect game.

Legendary talents all delivering peak performances.

The ode to the Oakland Raiders was written by Steve Sabol, who died today. I printed the words below. Read them to feel their power in another way.

The film was narrated by John Facenda, whose great voice and delivery enhanced the drama of Sabol’s poem. Sam Spence wrote the music that made you feel that “Autumn Wind.”

Keep in mind: The original film was made in 1974. The art was beyond cutting edge back then and it stands the test of time nearly 40 years later.

The Autumn wind is a pirate

Blustering in from sea

With a rollicking song he sweeps along

Swaggering boisterously.

His face is weatherbeaten

He wears a hooded sash

With a silver hat about his head

And a bristling black mustache.

He growls as he storms the country

A villain big and bold

And the trees all shake and quiver and quake

As he robs them of their gold.

The Autumn wind is a Raider Pillaging just for fun

He’ll knock you ’round and upside down

And laugh when he’s conquered and won.