Former Chicago Bears quarterback Bob Avellini, who started 42 consecutive games from 1975 to 1978, passed away at the age of 70 on Saturday after battling cancer. Avellini, although overshadowed by the legendary Walter Payton, left an indelible mark on Bears history with a miraculous touchdown pass that sparked a six-game winning streak and led the team to the playoffs in 1977.

Avellini joined the Bears as a sixth-round draft pick from Maryland in 1975, the same year Payton was selected fourth overall. Despite living in Payton's shadow, Avellini had his moment of glory during the 1977 season when the Bears found themselves on the brink with a 3-5 record. In a game against the Kansas City Chiefs, trailing by a point with just 10 seconds left, Avellini threw a 37-yard touchdown pass to tight end Greg Latta, who was inexplicably wide open, giving the Bears a miraculous 28-27 victory.

This dramatic win proved to be a turning point for the Bears, igniting a remarkable six-game winning streak that propelled the team into the playoffs for the first time since 1963. While Payton's heroics on the field, including a 192-yard rushing performance that day, dominated the headlines, Avellini's resilience and composure in a critical moment cannot be overlooked.

Avellini, often described as a gritty and overachieving player from Queens, New York, played a significant role in providing stability at the quarterback position during his tenure with the Bears. His ability to make plays at crucial moments earned him respect among teammates and fans alike. In a Monday Night Football showdown against the Rams, Avellini outdueled Joe Namath, throwing three touchdown passes, including two long strikes to James Scott.

As the Bears sought a playoff spot in their season finale against the Giants, Avellini once again showcased his steady hand. In a desperate last-minute drive in overtime, he delivered a 19-yard pass to Latta and calmly dumped a pass to Payton under pressure, setting up the game-winning field goal by Bob Thomas. The victory sparked yet another wild celebration, solidifying Avellini's place as the Bears' most established quarterback in years.

Throughout his career, Avellini faced challenges and struggled to maintain his initial success. In 1977, he threw for 2,004 yards and 11 touchdowns but was plagued by interceptions, throwing 18 that season. His performance declined in 1978, leading to his eventual replacement by Mike Phipps and Vince Evans. Avellini served as a spot starter in six games over his final five seasons with the Bears before retiring.

After his football career ended, Avellini pursued a career as a real estate broker in the Chicago area. However, he faced personal struggles in retirement, filing for bankruptcy protection in 2012. In 2014, he was sentenced to 18 months in prison after pleading guilty to felony DUI, having been arrested for DUI multiple times since 2002. Avellini attributed his depression and drinking problems to head injuries suffered during his football career.

Despite his personal difficulties, Avellini remained a beloved and supportive former teammate, actively participating in charity events and golf outings in the Chicago area. Most recently, he joined in celebrating the 69th birthday of former teammate Revie Sorey, who suffered a stroke in 2012.

Avellini's legacy as the last Bears quarterback to start every game in back-to-back seasons remains intact. His tenacity on the field and memorable moments, such as the miraculous pass to Latta, will forever be cherished by Bears fans. Though his career had its ups and downs, Avellini's contributions to the Bears' success and his enduring impact on the franchise's history will always be remembered.