Top 10 Pass Combos in NFL History

****** Note: This week's top Tuesday was actually posted on Wednesday, due to unforeseen responsibilities bestowed on the blogger. I'll promise to be more prompt in the future ********


Today's top 10 Tuesday list will explore the marvelous pass combos throughout NFL History. Quarterbacks and wide receivers need each other to have a successful passing attack on the football field. But, there is something spectacular and magical about the QB and WR combos that have become so prolific that no defense can contain their production. Every player, coach, and fan knows that the two players will seek a way to find each other; yet no one can stop them from connecting. These are my top 10 pass combos of all-time:

10) John Hadl and Lance Alworth (San Diego Chargers: 1962-1970)

John Hadl was the starting quarterback for the San Diego Chargers in the American Football League (AFL) before the merger and before the Super Bowl era. His favorite target was Lance "Bambi" Alworth; a stocky, doe-eyed, wide receiver that was drafted in both the NFL and the AFL in 1962. Hadl and Bambi Alworth would become one of the most accomplished passing combos in Chargers history.

Together the pair connected for 56 touchdowns. That total is 6th all-time for NFL pass combos and 1st in the AFL record books. Hadl and Bambi would go on to win the 1963 AFL championship game over the Boston Patriots. They would connect for a 48 yard touchdown in the game. Much of the credit for their success belonged to coach Sid Gilman. His offensive ideology was to to stretch the field by having the quarterback throw deep passes downfield; a notion that has morphed the game of football into the sport we see today.

9) Arnie Herber and Don Hutson (Green Bay Packers: 1935-1940)

Arnie Herber and Don Hutson was the first prolific passing combo in Pro Football history. Long before the Super Bowls and Pro Bowls, Herber and Hutson were shaking up the game by taking the offense from a one dimensional running attack and airing out the football before baffled defenses around the league.

Herber had success before the arrival of Don Hutson. The NFL started keeping statistics in 1932 and Herber immediately topped the passing numbers with 639 yards and 9 touchdowns. But it was the arrival of Hutson that changed everything. Don Hutson was known as the "Alabama Antelope". He became the NFL's first true wide receiver. Hutson dominated defenders with his graceful speed and sure hands.

As featured players of Curly Lambeau'a Green Bay Packers, Herber and Hutson were dangerous from the very start. Herber's expertise was throwing the deep, long pass downfield and Hutson loved to out run the defense and use his hands to finish the play. Their first pass and catch was an 83-yard touchdown bomb. That first season they quickly set records for passing yards, receiving yards, and touchdowns. They easily advanced to the NFL championship game and beat the Boston Redskins 21-6 for the title.

8) Ken Stabler and Fred Biletnikoff (Oakland Raiders: 1970-1978)

Ken "the Snake" Stabler did not have the rocket arm that most quarterbacks had in their arsenals. But, he did have the accuracy and the tenacity to be successful in the National Football League. Fred Biletnikoff did not have the speed that most wide receivers had in their arsenals. But, he had the hands and the route running to catch anything thrown his way. Together, Stabler and Biletnikoff would become one of the most dangerous passing combos of the 1970's.

Stabler and Biletnikoff complemented each other well. Biletnikoff would always find a way to get open. Even when double teamed, Biletnikoff had a knack for running the route that would get him the space he needed. Biletnikoff was also known for his use of "Stickum", a sticky substance used by wide receivers to increase their chances of making the catch. Whatever Stabler threw in his direction, Biletnikoff would find a way to catch the ball. Their performance in Super Bowl XI set an offensive record for 429 yards in the game with a record 288 yards in the first half. Biletnikoff would be the game's MVP.

7) Tom Brady and Randy Moss (New England Patriots: 2007 - Present)

This may be a hard sell for most folks. The reason being is that New England quarterback Tom Brady and wide receiver Randy Moss only had one full season together thus far. My reason for having them on this list? It was one heck of a season. In the 2007-2008 NFL season, Brady and Moss connected to break two of the most coveted records in NFL history. And, they did it while winning every single regular season game in a 16 game season; something no other passing combo has ever accomplished.

Moss was traded to the Patriots in April 2007, on the weekend of the NFL draft. He had an immediate impact on the Patriots offense and actually made future Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady even better. With Moss as his wide receiver, Brady was able to break the record for touchdown throws in a single season. He threw an astonishing 50 touchdowns breaking Colts' quarterback Peyton Manning's record of 49. On his 50th touchdown throw, Brady helped Moss break another highly regarded record. With the catch, Moss broke the record for single season touchdown catches for a wide receiver; a long standing record previously set by the legendary Jerry Rice in 1987. Both records were broken on the final game of the Patriot's undefeated 16 game season.

Brady and Moss would falter in the championship that year, losing to the Giants in what was arguably the best Super Bowl ever played. But their historic season is unprecedented and with a bright future on the horizon, Moss and Brady will continue their record breaking combo.

6) Troy Aikman and Michael Irvin (Dallas Cowboys: 1989-1999)

Troy Aikman and Michael Irvin were the passing combo for the dominant Dallas Cowboys dynasty of the 1990's. If success in the NFL is measured in Super Bowl rings, then Aikman and Irvin was one of the most successful duos in NFL history. They won 3 Super Bowl championships together: Super Bowls XXVII, XXVIII, and XXX. From 1991 to 1995, Aikman and Irvin each made it to the Pro Bowl every season. Their chemistry and timing were undeniable and many times it was also unstoppable.

Aikman wore the #8 jersey and Irvin wore the #88. Both were known for their off season work ethic at the Cowboys training facility known as Valley Ranch. Michael Irvin was known as "the Playmaker" and the moniker was fitting. Troy Aikman knew he could throw the ball down field and Michael Irvin would come up with the ball more often than not. Whatever the defensive coverage, whether double teamed or not, Michael Irvin would find a way to make the play. The Aikman-to- Irvin passing combination connected for 49 touchdowns. Both players were subsequently inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame.

5) Johnny Unitas and Raymond Berry (Baltimore Colts: 1956-1967)

Johnny Unitas and Raymond Berry were an unlikely duo. First off, Berry had poor vision and lacked the speed of most receivers in the NFL. As for Unitas, his first start was shaky at best. His first pass was intercepted and returned for a touchdown. Even though these guys didn't make the best first impression, they have left a lasting impression that is still a major influence on the NFL decades later.

As players for the Baltimore Colts, Unitas and Berry connected for an amazing 63 touchdowns together. Their connection helped create the concept of timing passes and the two-minute drill. They found their bond in their work ethic. Both Unitas and Berry would practice endlessly; with the goal of getting their passing game timed perfectly. Berry would actually game plan those practices with a list of routes taped to his wrist.

But, it was the 1958 NFL Championship game that saw the duo at their best. Dubbed the "greatest game ever played" by fans, players, and NFL analysts alike, Johnny Unitas and Raymond Berry connected repeatedly on the final drive of regulation. Using the first two-minute drill ever, Unitas hit Berry over and over again for first downs. The Colts then tied the game with a field goal to send it into overtime. They would win the game 23-17 in sudden death and become the 1958 NFL Champions. Unitas and Barry are now in the NFL Hall of Fame and their two-minute drill is still used in the sport today.

4) Jim Kelly and Andre Reed (Buffalo Bills: 1986-1996)

Andre Reed took the NFL by surprise. Drafted in the 4th round as the 86th pick overall, Reed came out of Kutztown University of Pennsylvania; hardly a well-known football school. But once he paired up with Jim Kelly, Reed became part of a very dominant passing duo for the Buffalo Bills. Their partnership would appear in an NFL record 4 straight Super Bowls.

Kelly and Reed combined for 65 touchdowns. Both players were tough. Reed was known to go across the middle of the field and make the catch, even though he was sure to take a big hit for it. Kelly, a linebacker at one point in his early days, was also known to withstand a big hit or two. Andre Reed was also known for his yards after the catch. A five yard pass from Kelly would turn into a 30-40 yard gain courtesy of Reed. Even more impressive, the Bills ran a "no-huddle" offense, which always kept defenses on their heels.

The fast-paced offense was possible because of Andre Reed's ability to change his routes at a moment's notice and Jim Kelly's ability to find Andre Reed. Andre Reed went on to set many receiving records for the Bills and he's near the top of most receiving records in NFL history. Jim Kelly was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame.

3) Joe Montana and Jerry Rice (San Francisco 49ers: 1985-1992)

Joe Montana had already won 2 Super Bowls when the 49ers drafted wide receiver Jerry Rice in 1985. In fact, when Montana won his first Super Bowl in 1981, Rice was just entering college. So when the accomplished Montana was given the young, fast, sure-handed Rice as a new receiver in his already dominating offense, it resulted in one of the most spectacular passing combos in NFL history.

As a part of the San Francisco 49er West Coast Offense, Montana and Rice became household names. Although all their opponents knew Joe Montana would throw the ball to Jerry Rice, no defense could stop them from connecting. Montana and Rice would score 55 touchdowns together. They made the playoffs every year they played together and won 2 Super Bowls. The duo stormed the NFL record books and never looked back. One of the most impressive performances by the combo was against Atlanta in which they connected on 5 touchdowns in one game; still an NFL record.

Montana would win two more Super Bowl MVP trophies with Jerry Rice as a receiver. Rice would go on to set or break almost every single receiving record in league history. Speaking of Jerry Rice.....

2) Steve Young and Jerry Rice (San Francisco 49ers: 1992-2000)

When Joe Montana was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs in 1993, the 49ers went with the left-handed Steve Young as their starting quarterback. Young would inherit a tough fan base that was used to winning with Joe Montana. However, he would also inherit the incomparable Jerry Rice. Rice had already won 2 Super Bowls with Joe Montana. Now it was up to Jerry to find the chemistry necessary to be successful with Steve Young, and Rice had never played with a left handed quarterback before.

Rice hit the off-season practice time with a fierce determination. He and Young would create their own legendary passing combo. Their success legitimized Steve Young in the hearts and minds of 49er fans and further cemented Rice's place in NFL history. Rice would connect on even more touchdowns with Steve Young than he did with Joe Montana. A lot more. The Young to Rice combo scored 85 touchdowns compared to 55 from the Montana to Rice pairing. But for Young and Rice to be truly successful, they would have to win a Super Bowl.

They did so in 1994 at Super Bowl XXIX. The combo connected for 3 touchdowns in that game; the first one came within the first 1:30 of the first quarter. Steve Young was Super Bowl MVP of that game. He also became the first left-handed QB inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame. Jerry Rice is sure to follow him being that he is the best wide receiver to ever play the game.

1) Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison (Indianapolis Colts: 1998-2008)

I guess you can say that Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning and wide receiver Marvin Harrison clicked from the very start. Manning's first NFL throw came in a preseason game in 1998. It went to Marvin Harrison for a 48-yard touchdown. As they say, it was the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Manning and Harrison put in the time, effort and practice to hone their chemistry. The results were phenomenal. They have combined for a record setting 86 touchdowns as a passing combo; beating the record 85 touchdowns held by our #2 passing duo. Their success was due, in part, to their ability to communicate at all times while on the field.

Their game language came in glances, nods, and slight gestures. Manning always knew where Harrison would be during a play and Harrison always knew that Manning would get him the ball. The Manning-to-Harrison combo connected for 664 catches; a record for all combos in NFL history. They also hold the record for most yards for a passing combo in league history.

Not to be outdone by previous passing combos, Manning and Harrison made sure to add Super Bowl champs to their impressive resume. They won Super Bowl XLI, with Manning taking home the MVP trophy. Marvin Harrison was released by the Colts, per his request, in 2008. Peyton Manning continues to show up in the post season each year with the Colts. Both players appear to be headed for the NFL Hall of Fame.



That wraps up this week's countdown and our look at the best passing combos in NFL history. I know some of you will wonder about Zorn and Largent or Marino and Clayton, etc., etc.... and I truly love your debates. I say, keep 'em coming. With the vast talent displayed throughout the history of the league, I'm sure there will be other passing combos out there that need recognition.

Top 10 Best Defensive Teams in NFL History

For this Top 10 Tuesday, we'll take a look at the best defenses in the game. These are the teams that were the stingiest in allowing yards, points, and plays on the field. These were the scariest, most intimidating defensive squads to play the game. Some of them had cool nicknames to add to their persona. Some of them were so fierce that having no nickname was even more intimidating. In any case, I try to count them down here and I welcome your opinions. My top 10 defenses of all-time:

10) 1977 Dallas Cowboys

The 1977 Dallas Cowboys defense was known as the "Doomsday Defense". The nickname was quite fitting. In helping the team comprise a 12-2 regular season record, the Dallas Doomsday D was known for keeping opposing offenses off the field. With Harvey Martin's record setting 20 sack season, and players such as Ed "Too Tall" Jones and Thomas "Hollywood" Henderson, the Dallas defense was a force to be reckoned with.

In Super Bowl XII, Dallas faced another popular team with a prolific defense; the Denver Broncos and the "Orange Crush" defense. While the Orange Crush D was unstoppable versus the run, the team ranked low (27th out of 28 teams) against the pass. This was exploited in the Super Bowl game as Dallas went on to win 27-10. Dallas' star quarterback Roger Staubach threw for 183 yards and a touchdown on the Orange Crush D. The Doomsday Defense stole the spotlight however and the co-MVPs of the game were defensive tackle Randy White and defensive end Harvey Martin.

9) 1969 Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs had their work cut out for them in Super Bowl IV. They were playing the heavily favored Minnesota Vikings and their starting quarterback was plagued by injury and scandal. But, like they say, its the defense that wins championships. Quarterback Len Dawson recovered and became the game's MVP. But it was the Chiefs' defense that made the statement in that game.

Although the Vikings were 13 point favorites, the Chiefs held them to only 67 yards rushing. They would shut out the Vikings completely in the 4th quarter and force three interceptions. The Chiefs would also sack the Vikings tough quarterback Joe Kapp to the point where he had to be helped off the field in the final quarter.

The '69 Chiefs won that Super Bowl 23-7, which capped off their season long defensive dominance. They only allowed 177 points throughout the entire regular season. Defensive players Willie "Contact" Lanier, Bobby Bell, Buck Buchanan, and Emmitt Thomas were all inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame.

8) 1973 Miami Dolphins

The '73 Dolphins entered the season under a lot of pressure. After becoming the first NFL team to go undefeated in 1972, the expectations were quite high the following season. Although the '73 Dolphins lost two games for a record of 12-2, the team faced a much tougher schedule than it did the previous year.

Just like the '72 season, the Dolphins team of 1973 featured their "no-name" defense led by linebacker Nick Buoniconti. Also known as the "53" defense the team would use #53 Bob Matheson as a fourth linebacker in their 3-4 defense. Matheson was to be used as an additional pass rusher or for extra coverage down field. The '73 Dolphins went on to win Super Bowl VIII 24-7 over the Minnesota Vikings for back-to-back championships.

7) 1963 Los Angeles Rams

The '63 Rams did not boast an NFL Championship or a strong record. But, what they did display was what Dick Butkus himself referred to as "the most dominant line in football history". That year, the Rams acquired defensive tackle Rosie Grier to join Merlin Olsen, Deacon Jones, and Lamar Lundy to form the Rams' original "Fearsome Foursome".

On this line, Deacon Jones coined the phrase "sack" of which he was the master. Jones and the rest of the Foursome made it their business to get after the quarterback and "sacking" became their trademark. These four players became feared around the league as they began to gel as a unit. The team would go on to win 5 of its last 9 games and built the foundation for seasons to come.

Jones went on to unofficially record the first 20 sack season in league history the next year. And, in following seasons, the Rams and the Fearsome Foursome would go on to have better statistics than the 1963 year. In 1968, they would set the record for fewest yards allowed in a 14 game season. But it was the 1963 year that brought these 4 men together to create a defensive line of legendary proportions.

6) Tie: 1962 Green Bay Packers & 1990 New York Giants

The 1962 Green Bay Packers comprised a 13-1 record under the coaching of the legendary Vince Lombardi. But their defense particularly stands out as a dominant force of the era. The unit held opponents to an astonishing 148 points all season; with only 14 points allowed in the first 4 games. When they reached the title game against the Giants they were met with an opponent with a grudge.

The Giants had lost to the Packers in the previous NFL Championship game 37-0 and were bent on revenge in the '62 game. But it was Ray Nitschke's time to shine. The Green Bay Packer middle linebacker recovered 2 fumbles and had a pass deflection in the title game. He would finish the game MVP and go on to be the face of that defense. The '62 Packers would be just the beginning of a dominant legacy that would be displayed for the next several seasons as they went on to win more NFL Championships and the first 2 Super Bowls.

Also at my 6th spot on this list is the 1990 New York Giants. Known as the "Big Blue Wrecking Crew" the 1990 Giant Defense was led by Lawrence Taylor. Taylor started the season as a contract holdout. But, he signed just 4 days before the regular season and immediately made an impact. With 3 sacks and a force fumble in the season opener, L.T. and the Giant defense set the pace for the remainder of the season.

They would win the first 10 games of the season and finish the season 13-3. The defense further proved its relevance in the playoffs. By beating the Chicago Bears 31-3 and holding the 49ers to only 13 points, the defense was the deciding factor in getting the Giants to the 1990 Super Bowl. Lawrence Taylor recovered a fumble late in the 4th quarter to solidify the victory over the 49ers. The 1990 Giants would go on to win Super Bowl XXV and sent three of their star defenders to the Pro Bowl: L.T., Erick Howard, and Pepper Johnson.

5) 2002 Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The 2002 Bucs were all about defense. In Jon Gruden's first season as head coach of the team, the Bucs would go all the way to the Super Bowl and show that defense really does win championships. The dominant unit was the first team to lead the league in total defense, interceptions, and points allowed since the legendary Bears team of 1985.

The team rattled off a 12-4 regular season record and matched it with convincing wins over the 49ers and on the road against the Eagles. In the game against the Eagles, cornerback Ronde Barber intercepted Eagle quarterback Donovan McNabb and ran the ball 96 yards to the end zone. It was safe to say the the Tampa defense was hot entering into Super Bowl XXXVII.

In the big game, the Tampa defense dominated against the Oakland Raiders. They intercepted Oakland quarterback Rich Gannon a record 5 times with 3 of those returned for touchdowns. It was fitting that the MVP of the game was a defensive back; Dexter Jackson would get that honor.

4) 1969 Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings defense left their impressive stamp on the 1969 season with one of the most prolific front lines in NFL history. They were known as the "Purple People Eaters". It was a reference to their jersey colors, as well as a song by singer Sheb Wooley. Included in the ferocious front unit was defensive tackle Alan Page, defensive end Carl Eller, defensive tackle Gary Larsen, and defensive end Jim Marshall. They compiled a 12-2 regular season record on the strength of the dominant defense.

The team only allowed 133 points the entire season. The '69 Viking defense also featured a superb secondary. With players like Bobby Bryant and Paul Krause, the defense could defend in the passing game just as well as the running game. The defense's motto at the time was "meet at the quarterback", which accurately described their mindset. The Vikings went on the win the NFL championship that year, but lost in the Super Bowl in an upset to the Kansas City Chiefs; another historic unit whose defense was #9 on this list.

3) 2000 Baltimore Ravens

Another team to win a Super Bowl ring on the strength of its defense was the 2000 Baltimore Ravens. Frequently compared to as one of the best defensive units in NFL history, the Ravens were led by their ferocious inside linebacker, Ray Lewis. The team set NFL records for fewest points allowed (165) and fewest rushing yards allowed (970) in a 16-game season. They also led the league in both yards and points allowed.

Lewis would win the defensive player of the year and the defense was dominant enough to endure a 5 game span without an offensive touchdown, and still make the playoffs. The Ravens did not allow more than 10 points in any of their playoff games in their 2000 season. They would cap off their run with a 34-7 victory over the New York Giants in Super Bowl XXXV. Ray Lewis was named the game's MVP. His regular season total of 137 tackles also helped him earn a spot in the Pro Bowl.

2) 1976 Pittsburgh Steelers

The 1976 Steelers were intimidating, overpowering, and down right scary. With guys like Jack Lambert (aka Dracula in Cleats), Mean Joe Green, and Jack Ham, the "Steel Curtain" as they were called, were known for their defensive dominance of any offense to cross their path. 8 defensive players from the '76 squad made it to the Pro Bowl that year. They would finish the season 10-4; with 5 shutouts included.

After a 1-4 start and injuries to quarterback Terry Bradshaw and Mean Joe Green, Lambert called for the team to pull together and win the last 9 games. He physically threatened any player on the team who wasn't giving 100% to the cause. They would win them all; only allowing 2 touchdowns and 28 points along the way. Only 138 points were scored on the Steel Curtain the entire '76 season. Lambert was named Defensive Player of the Year.

1) 1985 Chicago Bears

As much as I respect all of these teams listed, I believe that the '85 Bears had the best defensive team of all-time. With a 15-1 record, the team was dominant in every aspect of the defensive side of the ball. Even the coach was intimidating. The team was led by coach Mike Ditka, who would later be named Coach of the Year. His defense comprised of guys like Dick Butkus, William "Refrigerator" Perry, Mike Singletary, and Richard Dent.

Defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan instilled what was called the "46" defense which featured 4 down lineman, 3 linebackers, and 4 defensive backs. Before the West Coast Offense exploited its weaknesses, the 46 defense was hard for quarterbacks to beat. With their opponent's running games also stuffed by the formation, the Bears dominance was staggering. They would defeat their playoff opponents by a combined score of 91-10 and smash their way into Super Bowl XX.

In the championship game, the Bears beat the New England Patriots 46-10. They set Super Bowl records for sacks and the fewest rushing yards allowed in the Super Bowl. The Bears only allowed the Patriots 128 yards of offense the entire game. Richard Dent won the MVP trophy with 1.5 sacks and 2 forced fumbles.




I had a tough time deciding between the '85 Bears and the '76 Steelers. But, in the end the Bears won me over with their dominant play in the playoffs and the Super Bowl. Also, their record of 15-1 made for a good argument. The '77 Atlanta Falcons and the '91 Philadelphia Eagles were also teams that worked their way into my consideration.

They say defense wins championships. I think you need a decent offense to truly make a run for the Super Bowl. But, as these teams have shown, if you have an outstanding defense.... you will always have a shot.

Top 10 Quarterbacks in NFL History

Today's top ten list will focus on the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game. It was a daunting task to separate the 10 greatest signal callers from all of the others. However, once I began writing my "Top 10 Tuesdays", I knew that my views on the greatest QBs to play the game, would have to be explored.

I anticipate the inevitable backlash, as it is hard for any two fans to agree on the 10 best quarterbacks. However, I promise that I will have a thoughtful and logical reason for my picks. So, here we go:

10) Steve Young (San Francisco 49ers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

Steve Young does not have multiple Super Bowl rings or multiple Super Bowl MVPs like most of the players on this list. What Young does have to his credit is the best performance ever by a quarterback in the big game. After years of riding the bench behind 49er star quarterback Joe Montana, Young was finally given the reigns as the starter in the 1993 season. No player (probably in the history of sports) had bigger shoes to fill than Steve Young.

Montana had already won 4 championships for the 49ers. After several huge losses to the Dallas Cowboys, multiple injuries, and a skeptical fan base, Steve finally made it to the Super Bowl in 1994. He and the 49ers would enter that game heavy favorites.

In Super Bowl XXIX, Steve Young would show the world that he could take over for Joe Montana and even surpass him. Young would throw 6 touchdowns in that championship game; breaking the record of 5 TDs thrown in a Super Bowl set by Joe himself. He would become the game's MVP and his Super Bowl touchdown record still stands today; some 15 years later.

Steve Young earns my 10th spot not only for his unbelievable performance in that Super Bowl, but for the player he was in every game he ever played. His never-say-die attitude was infectious to the teammates that he loved to lead. He still holds the records for highest career passer rating (96.9), most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback (43), and most passing titles (four consecutive).

9) Brett Favre (Green Bay Packers, New York Jets )

Brett Favre is synonymous with the word "gunslinger". The former Green Bay Packer quarterback is known to go into a game with an innate desire to make every throw and every play; no matter the coverage. For this reason, Favre holds the record for most interceptions thrown by a QB in the NFL. For that same reason, he still holds records for throwing yards, touchdowns, and completions.

Favre has also played in 2 Super Bowls; winning his ring in Super Bowl XXXI. When you add the records, the Super Bowl, and his iron man record of most consecutive starts by an NFL quarterback, Favre had to be represented on my list. His retirement from the Packers and subsequent return to the field with the New York Jets may have tarnished his legacy with some fans. But, his stats, records, and big game performances stand alone and will pave his way to the NFL Hall of Fame.

8) Roger Staubach (Dallas Cowboys)

He was the captain of "America's Team". Roger Staubach, or "Captain Comeback" to some fans, was the leader of the Dallas Cowboys offense for 11 seasons. In that time, he went to 6 pro bowls and appeared in 4 Super Bowls; winning two of them.

Staubach was known for his 4th quarter heroics. He led the Cowboys back to victory 23 times and 17 of those came in the last 2 minutes of the game. It was Staubach who coined the phrase "Hail Mary" as a description for the long, deep pass thrown to the end zone in a last ditch effort to win the game.

The Cowboys teams led by Staubach, set the tone for the franchise. His play making abilities, leadership, and "fight to the end" mentality helped Dallas to make its mark on league history. At the time of his retirement, Roger Staubach had the highest all-time passer rating with 83.4. He retired in 1980 and was in the Hall of Fame by 1985.

7) Bart Starr (Green Bay Packers)

Bart Starr was quarterback for coach Vince Lombardi's Packers. And, that was no joke. He would deliver victory to his team and help them win championships before, during, and after the start of the Super Bowl era. All in all, Starr would win 5 NFL championships by the time he left the game in 1971.

Starr was the quarterback of the team to win the first 2 Super Bowls in NFL History. He was also the MVP for both Super Bowl I and II. Quarterbacks called the plays back in Starr's day. One of his most infamous calls came during one of the NFL's most famous games: The Ice Bowl. Against Dallas, Starr would call the "quarterback sneak" for the winning touchdown to win the Packers third straight NFL championship. Starr even went on to coach the Packers from 1975-1983.

6) Terry Bradshaw (Pittsburgh Steelers)

Terry Bradshaw might have started off his time in Pittsburgh on shaky ground, but he would leave them with 4 Super Bowl rings and a legacy that brought him all the way to the Hall of Fame. In his first year as starter, Bradshaw was interception prone and he seemed lost at the professional level. Once Terry got control of his game, he began to win championships; in bunches.

He also liked to win them back-to-back. Bradshaw and the Steelers won two straight championships... twice. He led the team to victory in Super Bowls IX & X, and again in Super Bowls XIII and XIV. He was also the championship game's best player back-to-back. He was Super Bowl MVP of his last two Super Bowl wins.

Bradshaw also was the quarterback on one of the NFL's most famous plays. The "Immaculate Reception" was a last ditch effort pass by Bradshaw in the 1972 AFC divisional playoff game. The pass was made on a broken play as time ran out in the 4th quarter and miraculously landed to running back Franco Harris who ran in the winning touchdown.

5) John Elway (Denver Broncos)

As a quarterback, John Elway was known for his competitive spirit and his rocket arm. Drafted first overall in 1983, Elway would reach the Super Bowl in just 3 seasons. He orchestrated "The Drive" in the AFC championship game that year in which he drove his team 98 yards in just over 5 minutes to tie the score. Although he reached the Super Bowl in a relatively short time span, winning the Super Bowl was a much more daunting task for Elway. It would take three losses in the big game before he would have a championship ring.

Elway didn't stop at just one Super Bowl win. He won back-to-back championships in Super Bowls XXXII and XXXIII. In his last Super Bowl, Elway became the oldest player to ever score in the big game at age 38. He was also the game's MVP. John Elway still holds many NFL quarterback records including: most total touchdowns (334), most career passing yards (51,475), and most touchdown passes (300).

4) Dan Marino (Miami Dolphins)

Dan Marino never won a Super Bowl. But, his statistics, talent, and overall accomplishments as an NFL quarterback gets him to the 4th spot on this countdown. In his first NFL start, Marino posted a 96.o passer rating; a rookie record at the time. He also made the Pro Bowl that first year and was the first rookie quarterback to start in the Pro Bowl game. But it was in 1984 that Marino had his breakout year. He broke 6 passing records, comprise a 14-2 regular season record, and was named the league's MVP.

In a league where success is measured in Super Bowls, Marino let his numbers do the talking. As of today, he still holds records for: most passing yards in a season (5,084), most 400+ yard games (13), and most games with 4 or more touchdown passes (21), just to name a few. Marino also made 9 pro bowls before his retirement in 2000. He was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 2005.

3) Tom Brady (New England Patriots)

Tom Brady sits at the 3rd spot on my list and he's only 31 years old. That's what happens when you win 3 Super Bowls in 8 seasons. Brady became the youngest quarterback to ever win a Super Bowl in 2001. In that game, Brady put up modest numbers. But, it was his calm, precise drive to put the Patriots in field goal range with :07 seconds left on the clock, that earned him the Super Bowl MVP.

Brady would do it all again in 2003, but this time he posted the numbers to impress as well. Brady threw for 354 yards and 3 touchdowns in Super Bowl XXXVIII. He also set the record for most completions in the championship game (32). Once again, Brady drove the team down field with a methodical and precise drive to place them into field goal range. The Patriots won their second Super Bowl in 3 seasons and Tom Brady was named the game's MVP yet again.

In 2004, Brady won his third Super Bowl for a back-to-back championship. He was not named MVP for that game, but his performance was still stellar with 236 yards and 2 touchdowns. Tom Brady has a lot of NFL football left in him. With his career already at a Hall of Fame level, Brady could win more Super Bowls which could lead to him surpassing all NFL quarterbacks to become the best ever.

2) Johnny Unitas (Baltimore Colts, San Diego Chargers)

Johnny Unitas was as tough as they came and he knew how to win. Many would argue that Unitas is the greatest quarterback of all time and they would have a logical argument. As the quarterback for the Baltimore Colts, Unitas played in what many call "the greatest game ever played" against the New York Giants in 1958.

It was the NFL Championship game, before the Super Bowl era. It was the first overtime game in NFL history. In the "sudden death" format, the first team to score in the overtime would win the game. Unitas would make play after play in the winning drive to give the Colts their first Championship and launch the NFL into worldwide popularity.

Unitas would go on to win a total of 3 NFL Championships and Super Bowl V. Upon his retirement in 1973, he had set records for most completions (2,830), most pass attempts (5,186), and most consecutive games throwing a touchdown pass (47) to name a few. He entered into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1979.

1) Joe Montana (San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs)

Many fans agree that Joe Montana is the best quarterback in NFL history. With 4 Super Bowls and 3 Super Bowl MVPs it is an easy argument to make. He took over as starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers in 1981 and he would finish that first starting year as a Super Bowl champion. With a dramatic win over the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl XVI, in which he led the game winning drive, Joe Montana would also win his first Super Bowl MVP in his first full year as the starter.

He would win another Super Bowl in 1984 against the Miami Dolphins. With three touchdowns and 331 yards passing, he was named the game's MVP once again. However, the road to greatness came with pot holes as well. Montana would suffer injuries and defeat following the 1984 season and it would be 4 years before he made a return to the championship game.

Once there, he would win again. In 1988, Montana led the 49ers to another dramatic finish in the Super Bowl over the Cincinnati Bengals. This time, in Super Bowl XXIII, Montana threw for 357 yards and 2 touchdowns. He still needed to rally back, however and he would lead another dramatic drive from his own territory to beat the Bengals in the final seconds of the game.

Montana and the 49ers went on to win back-to-back Super Bowls in 1989. Super Bowl XXIV was a lot easier for Joe as he and the 49ers beat the Denver Broncos 55-10; which is still the most lopsided Super Bowl win in NFL history. Montana was the game's MVP yet again, with 428 yards and 5 touchdowns. He is still the only player in NFL history to win 3 Super Bowl MVP trophies.



There you have it. My top ten quarterbacks of all-time. I know that many of you will have arguments and opinions about the names missing on this list. Just know that there are several missing names that I wrestled with myself. Fran Tarkenton, Troy Aikman, Joe Namath, and Peyton Manning were all considered as well. But, with so many great players to choose from, you can't please every fan.

Top Ten Best Super Bowl Games of All Time

It is the biggest game in sports and its relevance is undeniable. Every year, everyone in the world tunes in to see who will win the Super Bowl; the National Football League's championship game. The game rarely disappoints. With its heart-stopping moments, intensity, and many times, highest level of play, the Super Bowl brings history and excellence to its world audience. Today, I count down the 10 games that, in my opinion, were the best Super Bowls in the history of the NFL.

10) Tie: Super Bowl X (Pittsburgh Steelers 21, Dallas Cowboys 17) and Super Bowl XIII (Pittsburgh 53, Dallas 31)

I had a tough time with this list from the start. All of these games were so legendary and each have their place in making the Super Bowl, barring the Olympics, the biggest sporting event in the world. The Pittsburgh Steelers and their "Steel Curtain" defense cemented their legacy with these two wins over the Dallas Cowboys.

For Super Bowl X, the CBS broadcast intro featured a light shining over every inch of the Vince Lombardi trophy. It was a fitting prediction to Lynn Swann's performance. After being hospitalized for a concussion following the AFC Championship game, Swann went on to win the MVP of the game setting a Super Bowl record with 161 receiving yards. He would be the first receiver to ever win Super Bowl MVP. But it was the "Steel Curtain" defense that would continue to show up. Particularly at the end of the game with an end zone interception by Steeler safety Glen Edwards. Pittsburgh also went through the entire game without a single penalty.

In Super Bowl XIII, it was Terry Bradshaw's turn to take the title as Super Bowl MVP. It didn't come without adversity. Bradshaw threw one pick and lost 2 fumbles in the game. But, he would go on to throw for 316 yards and 4 touchdowns; both stats set Super Bowl records. He also tied Hall of Famer, Johnny Unitas for the longest pass play in Super Bowl history with a 75-yarder in the 2nd quarter. Bradshaw became the first player to win both league MVP and Super Bowl MVP in the same year. In beating the defending champion Dallas Cowboys, the Steelers became the first team to win three Super Bowls.

9) Super Bowl XXXII (Denver Broncos 31, Green Bay Packers 24)

The 1997 Denver Broncos came into the playoffs as a wildcard team and ended the season as champions. They were the underdog in this game and they entered into the championship having lost all 4 previous Super Bowl appearances. Their star running back, Terrell Davis, left the game in the second quarter after suffering from a severe migraine. But, they somehow managed to pull of a monstrous upset in beating the Green Bay Packers and quarterback Brett Favre, who was in the prime of his career.

This was John Elway's first Super Bowl win and he had a stellar cast to help him. RB Terrell Davis was able to recover from the migraine and went on to become the game's MVP. There was also WR Ed McCaffery and TE Shannon Sharpe to share the offensive load. Defensively, they were led by linebacker Bill Romanowski and defensive back Tyrone Braxton. It was the defense that stepped up in the end and prevented the Packers from tying the game.

8) Super Bowl III (Jets 16, Colts 7)

This was the first game to wear the Super Bowl name. Most people remember this game, not for what happened during it, but for the guarantee made before the game. Jets QB Joe Namath guaranteed victory over the Baltimore Colts three days before the game. It was a bold thing to do in itself, but it was borderline crazy considering the Jets were 18 point underdogs.

Somehow, the Jets played loose and confident in that game. They wore down the Baltimore Colts and shocked the world by winning Super Bowl III. RB Art Snell of the Jets would later say that the Colts walked away from this game tired and confused about the loss. And Namath? He would go on to win the Most Valuable Player trophy without even throwing a touchdown.

7) Super Bowl XXV (Giants 20, Bills 19)

The 1990 Giants were all about toughness. With the "Big Blue Wrecking Crew" defense led by Lawrence Taylor and an offense specializing in long drives, New York was skilled at wearing down and running over opponents. In Super Bowl XXV, they would have to go with Jeff Hostetler in place of the injured Phil Simms. With the Buffalo Bills heavily favored to win the game, head coach Bill Parcells and then defensive coordinator Bill Belichick devised a defensive plan to hold back Buffalo and quarterback Jim Kelly.

With a one point lead and 8 seconds left on the clock, the Giants could only watch as the Bills set up Scott Norwood for a 47-yard field goal. Both sidelines held hands in anticipation as the ball sailed wide right. The Giants won the game with their running back Otis Anderson winning the MVP trophy. Coach Bill Parcells and defensive coordinator Belichick would go on to have long illustrious careers as defensive coaching geniuses in the NFL.

6) Super Bowl XXXVIII (New England Patriots 32, Carolina Panthers 29)

This game started with all defense. In fact, no one scored a single point until late in the second quarter. New England got on the board first with a touchdown to Deion Branch. It took 26 mins. and 55 secs. before the first points were scored in the game. Which, is still the record for the longest elapsed time without a score in the Super Bowl. But when the scoring got going, this game made for a spectacular competition.

Carolina will always be remembered for the valiant effort they displayed in the game. It came right down to the wire as the Panthers tied the game with only 1:08 to play. But, this was classic Tom Brady situational football. He calmly and coolly led the Pats down the field until they were in field goal range. And when you have kicker Adam Vineteri, "Mr. Clutch" himself, there is no doubt that you will win the game if it comes down to a field goal. This win was the second Super Bowl win in three seasons for the New England Patriots.

5) Super Bowl XXXIV (St. Louis Rams 23, Tennessee Titans 16)

This game undoubtedly keeps Titans fans up at night. For most of the game, they kept the high-powered St. Louis Rams offense in check. Known as the "Greatest Show On Turf", the Rams were known for their quick touchdowns and high scoring games. But, at the half, they only held a 9-0 lead over the Titans.

The Rams scored midway throughout the third quarter to go up 16-0, but the Titans came roaring back with 16 unanswered points. It was the biggest deficit overcome in a Super Bowl and there was only 2:12 left on the game clock. Rams QB Kurt Warner immediately responded with a touchdown to Isaac Bruce to take the lead again. Once the Titans regained the ball, they quickly drove down to the 10-yard line.

On the final play of the game, Titans QB Steve McNair threw the ball toward the end zone to wide receiver Kevin Dyson. Dyson was tackled one yard short of the goal line to end the game. Warner received the MVP honor for the game. But the play of the game was made by Rams linebacker Mike Jones who tackled Dyson before he could tie the game.

4) Super Bowl XXIII (San Francisco 49ers 20, Cincinatti Bengals 16)

This one was Joe Montana at his best. It was also Bill Walsh's last game as 49er head coach. The first half was marred by injuries, punts, and errors. At one point, 49er kicker Mike Cofer missed a 19 yard field goal; the shortest missed field goal in Super Bowl history. Alas, this game was not remembered for its great plays during the bulk of the game. It was remembered for the ending drive that would define Joe Montana's legacy.

The drive began on their own 8-yard line. With 92 yards to go until pay dirt, Joe Montana lightened the mood in the huddle by pointing in the stands and saying "Hey! Isn't that John Candy?" It was John Candy and Montana's reputation for nerves of steel in the face of ultimate pressure had just taken its place in sports history. Montana would lead his team down the field and it culminated in a 10 yard touchdown pass to John Taylor to win the game 16-13 over the Bengals. Legendary 49er wide receiver Jerry Rice would win the MVP honors. But, it was Joe Montana who walked away from that game as one of the best of all time.

3) Super Bowl XXXVI (New England Patriots 20, St. Louis Rams 17)

This game could have easily been #1 on this list. Most fans would have to agree that it is at least in the top 3 best Super Bowls of all time. It featured the heavily favored St. Louis Rams against an New England Patriots team that no one really took seriously. For one thing, the starting quarterback was a guy that just showed up out of nowhere.

Tom Brady was the back up QB for veteran Drew Bledsoe, who was injured during the second game of the season. Brady had only thrown 3 regulation passes the year before. Not only did he lead the team to a 11-5 regular season record, he would eventually take them all the way to this Super Bowl game. And, he had the audacity to believe that he could win it.

Shock and awe was the theme of this game. New England's Ty Law intercepted Rams QB Kurt Warner and took the pick all the way to the house to give the Patriots a 7-3 lead in the 2nd quarter. Pat's DB Otis Smith intercepted Warner in the third quarter and that led to a field goal to increase New England's lead 17-3. The Rams would storm back, however and tie the game late in the 4th quarter.

Seeing that the Patriots had no timeouts, legendary commentator John Madden suggested to the viewers that the Patriots should run out the clock and try to win the game in overtime. But, New England head coach Bill Belichick knew he had "Mr. Clutch", kicker Adam Vinateri on the roster. He also had a lot of faith in new quarterback Tom Brady. Brady did his best Joe Montana impersonation and led a Hall of Fame worthy drive to put the Pats in field goal position with 7 seconds left on the clock. Adam Vinateri kicked the 48-yard game winner for the Patriots first Super Bowl win.

2) Super Bowl XLIII ( Pittsburgh Steelers 27, Arizona Cardinals 23)

Our most recent Super Bowl checks in at the #2 spot on our list. The Pittsburgh Steelers were seeking their record 6th Super Bowl and the Arizona Cardinals were seeking their first. Fans were eager to see the match up between a team seeking to improve their dynasty and a team seeking to prove its destiny.

Both teams displayed the highest level of play in the final game of the season. Pittsburgh would jump out to a 17-7 lead at the half. The Cardinals were driving in the final seconds of the 2nd quarter when linebacker James Harrison intercepted Cardinal QB Kurt Warner and took the pick 100 yards to the end zone. It was deemed the longest play in Super Bowl history.

The Steelers were still ahead 20-7 when Arizona rallied with 16 unanswered points. The point fury included a 64-yard touchdown reception by Cardinal star receiver Larry Fitzgerald. But, with only 2:34 left in the game, big Ben Roethlisberger led a drive 78 yards down field that ended in a 6 yard toss to Santonio Holmes for the winning touchdown. Holmes won MVP honors, but Roethlisberger solidified his legacy as one of the best quarterbacks in the Super Bowl era.

1) Super Bowl XLII (New York Giants 17, New England Patriots 14)

The down-to-wire, spectacular Super Bowl from two years ago between the New York Giants and the New England Patriots tops our countdown this week. New England was on their way to an undefeated season. It would have been the first time a team has won every game since the 16 regular season game schedule began. In their final regular season game, New England went to New York to play the Giants in their quest for perfection. For the first time ever, NFL aired the game simultaneously on three networks because of massive fan interest in the game. New England won the game, but had to overcome a 12 point deficit in the third quarter to do so.

When New York and New England met again in the Super Bowl, it was seen as the rematch for the ages. Again, the Pats faced the Giants who stood in the way of their undefeated season. Tom Brady did what he always does and led the team down the field to score late in the game. He threw a touchdown pass to wide receiver Randy Moss to give them a 14-10 lead. It looked as if, once again, Tom Brady and the Patriots would win the Super Bowl with a miraculous drive.

But, the Giants were not ready to quit. In the play that would serve as the highlight of the game, Giants QB Eli Manning kept his own drive alive by escaping a tackle and throwing a 32-yard completion to wideout David Tyree. Tyree balanced the ball against his helmet as he was tackled to the ground. Eli Manning was in the zone. A few plays later he would hit Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress on the "SluGo" route for the winning touchdown. The Giants accomplished one of the greatest upsets in sports history and left the Patriots with an undefeated regular season that ended with a defeat in the Super Bowl.



Those are my top ten Super Bowl games of all time. I know there many more games that could have made this list. After all, we are talking about the Super Bowl; the best game in sports today. All of them are great for the historical and legendary implications each game brings. But, it is the level of play that inspires us and keeps us coming back every year.

League Lowdown

May 16, 2009:

I'm checking in with the latest NFL stories and updates. There has been a lot of league news and team happenings in the past week that will shape the upcoming season. We have everything from salary cap news to possible former quarterback returns to cover. So, without further adieu, here is your league lowdown.

Salary Cap Increase for 2008
NFL teams will not feel the effects of the national recession during the 2008 season; at least not in their salary caps. The cap has been increased by $12 million for the 2009 season, giving teams a total of $128 million to spend on their rosters. This is the largest increase in three years. Much of this is due to a decrease in team spending on players last year. That figure was below 59.5% of the total league revenue.

However, things still remain up in the air for the 2010 season. Owners opted out of the Collective Bargaining Agreement last year and if another CBA isn't agreed upon, the NFL will go without a salary cap next season.


Michael Vick Preparing For Football

Mike Vick has decided to work with a trainer on football related workouts upon his release from prison on May 20th. Vick was convicted of felony dog fighting charges and was sent to prison in the fall of 2007. He still has two months left in his prison term, which he will serve out in home confinement. Still technically a member of the Atlanta Falcons, Vick has eyes on getting back into the NFL. As of now, he is indefinitely suspended from the league and is at the mercy of commissioner Roger Goodell.

Goodell has expressed his views on Vick's return. "Before I make my decision, it will be up to Michael to demonstrate the genuineness of his remorse and how he plans to be a positive influence" the commissioner has said. There is no indication that Vick will make it back to the NFL for the upcoming season. The Falcons want to trade him, but have received no interest from any NFL teams in obtaining Vick thus far.


Favre...... Again.

This story just doesn't want to go away. After reiterating his desire to retire in a phone conversation with Minnesota head coach Brad Childress, former Packer QB Brett Favre is getting his throwing arm checked out; just in case. It has been reported that Favre is seeking the opinion of world renown orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews regarding his throwing arm.

By most accounts, Favre wants to avoid surgery if at all possible. The arm is still giving him trouble though, so Favre and Andrews are implementing an exercise regimen that would allow the arm to naturally heal, sans surgery. Viking team officials are keeping things close to the vest, but do not deny their continued interest in obtaining Favre for their roster. As we the fan (and, of course the media) speculate about Favre's heart and head in making a decision to return to the sport of football, it would appear that the final decision will be made by his arm.


Ocho-cinco On Jersey-O

In the ridiculousness that is Chad Johnson, the league has decided that he can actually wear the name Ocho Cinco on his jersey next season. Johnson legally changed his name to the Spanish number moniker last August. However, when he changed it, he wrote it down as Ochocinco, not the two word phrase he previously (and shamelessly) promoted. So the league is obliging the man formerly known as Chad Johnson. However, his jersey will read "Ochocinco" just as he wrote on his name change form in Florida.

Bruce Smith Charged With DUI

The NFL's all-time sack leader Bruce Smith was charged with driving under the influence on Friday in Virgina Beach. Smith was stopped for speeding and refused a breath test. Smith has been charged for DUI twice before, although he has never been convicted. No news of a hearing date for the hall of famer at this time.



That's the lowdown on the league for the week. You are up to date on most of the league news and happenings. My next post will be on Tuesday for your weekly top ten.

My Top Ten Scariest Players In NFL History

This week's top ten Tuesday will focus on the scariest guys to ever take the field. These are the guys who give quarterbacks nightmares. Most of these guys are pass rushing monsters; players who rack up sacks and tackles with an unforeseen fury. You don't want to meet these players in a dark alley. You don't ever want to get on their bad side. If you ever make them angry, its time to relocate. These are my top ten scariest players in NFL History:

10) Larry Allen, Offensive Lineman (Dallas Cowboys, San Francisco 49ers)

Larry Allen is a sight to behold. At 6'3" and 325 lbs., the veteran offensive lineman could intimidate by simply standing up. The highly competitive guard and tackle was known for protecting his quarterback. Anyone wanting a sack was going to have to go through Larry Allen, and that was nearly impossible.

The man has bench pressed 700 lbs. (assisted) and dead lifted over 900 lbs. (unwitnessed). With 11 pro bowls to his credit and a Super Bowl ring, Allen was good at his job. In a league where getting to the quarterback is highly rewarded, Larry Allen made the notion highly unlikely. The Dallas Cowboys had their greatest success when Allen was on the front line, and he carried his reputation to the 49ers in the last two seasons of his career.

9) Larry Csonka, Fullback/Runningback (Miami Dolphins, New York Giants)

Csonka is synonymous with tough. At 6'3" and 235 lbs., he was big for a full back and even bigger for a running back. But, he loved to run with the ball. You might say it was the game itself that made Larry scary. He started off his professional career with concussions. He also cracked an ear drum and broke his nose about 10 times on the field. But, none of that stopped him from running with the ball. Even with his nose permanently deformed and often with blood pouring out of it, Csonka was a guy who would stay in the game; blood and all.

Csonka was probably the scariest running back in the NFL in the 1970's. He actually received a personal foul once for unnecessary roughness while running with the football. Tackling this fullback was nearly impossible, as he would just drag defenders behind him. The man could dish it out, but he could also take it. During the Dolphins perfect season in 1972, Csonka took a vicious blow from a linebacker and had to crawl off the field. He would later shake off the hit and return to the game to help the Dolphins maintain perfection.

8) John Randle, Defensive Tackle (Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks)

John Randle was scary on purpose. As a Minnesota Viking, Randle was known to take the field with face paint across his eyes like a mask. He would taunt and scream on the defensive line, causing quarterbacks to be distracted and yes, very scared. The man would outright heckle opposing players throughout the game. One player in particular felt Randle's fury. John Randle made his dislike for quarterback Brett Favre public knowledge and Favre would eventually became the defensive tackle's favorite victim.

John Randle went so far as to shoot a commercial in which he chased a chicken wearing a Favre jersey. He was shown barbecuing that chicken at the end of the commercial. Besides his theatrical antics, Randle was always a dominating defensive force in the game. He ended his career with 556 tackles and 137.5 sacks. With 7 pro bowls to his credit, John Randle left a legacy of excellence, as well as fear.

7) Jack Lambert, Linebacker (Pittsburgh Steelers)

Jack Lambert was known as "Count Dracula in Cleats". If that's not scary enough, he was also a linebacker in one of the greatest defenses of all time. Known for his intensity and his ability to intimidate opposing teams, Lambert was a force to be reckoned with. Missing 4 front teeth from an old high school injury, Lambert was known to remove his partial dentures during football games. Wearing his Steelers helmet and displaying "fang" like teeth, earned him the Dracula moniker.

The 1976 "Steel Curtain" defense dominated all defensive NFL statistics. After struggling to a 1-4 start that year, Jack Lambert knew that they were going to have to win the next 9 games to make the playoffs and he physically threatened any teammate who did not give full effort. They went on to win all of those games; allowing only 2 touchdowns and boasting 5 shutouts. It would appear that even his own teammates were afraid of the Dracula in Cleats.

6) Ray Lewis, Linebacker (Baltimore Ravens)

Ray Lewis. You either love him or hate him. If you're a quarterback, you probably loathe the guy. If you're a pure lover of the sport of football.... you adore him. Ray Lewis is pure football, through and through. The unstoppable linebacker out of the University of Miami is known for his relentless pursuit of the QB; or anyone with the ball for that matter. Lewis is the guy you want on your team and the guy you fear the most if he isn't.

With his intimidating pre-game dance and his pension for trash talk, Ray Lewis knows how to put on a show. Opposing teams feared him for the humiliation he would bring almost as much as the hits he would deliver. He has been to 10 pro bowls, has won a Super Bowl and was even Super Bowl MVP. His infamous 2000 Ravens will forever be compared and discussed as one of the best defenses in the history of the NFL.

5) Mike Singletary, Linebacker (Chicago Bears)

Also in the discussion for one of the greatest defenses ever, is the 1985 Chicago Bears. Mike Singletary will always be known as "The Heart of the Defense". That may sound warm and fuzzy, but he was also known as "Samurai Mike". No one matched the intensity of Mike Singletary. Arguably, the best linebacker to play the game, Singletary would eat quarterbacks for lunch. And maybe go back for seconds.

In that magical 1985 season for the Bears, Singletary recorded 109 solo tackles and 3 sacks. He was easily the NFL defensive player of the year. The Bears went on to win the Super Bowl and Samurai Mike had two fumble recoveries in that game. He went on to have 10 Pro Bowl appearances and has been inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame. Now the head coach for the San Francisco 49ers, Coach Sing (as he is now called) continues to bring his intensity to a new generation of linebackers.

4) "Mean" Joe Greene, Defensive Tackle (Pittsburgh Steelers)

Also a part of that Steel Curtain defense was "Mean" Joe Greene. He had the nickname for a reason. The man could not stand to lose and he would take his anger out on the football field. Needless to say, soon after Joe Green was drafted by the Steelers, they began to win. He won 4 Super Bowls with the Steelers and was defensive player of the year twice. He was intense and could lay the big hit. But, he was also quick and moved through the line with ease.

In the 1970's, quarterbacks shuttered at the thought of Joe Greene. But it was Greene's belief that he was neither the strongest or the fastest player on the field. He truly believed that he had a stronger desire to win than anyone else in the game. Teams needed to double and even triple team Green in order to contain him and he still found a way to get to the QB. With 78.5 sacks to his pro football credit and a bust in the NFL Hall of Fame, one could say that it pays to be mean.

3) Ronnie Lott, Strong Safety, Safety, Cornerback (49ers, Raiders, Jets, Chiefs)

Ronnie Lott was one of the best in the business. And that business was laying hits on offensive players in the NFL. Business was good. Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers, Lott won his starting job in his very first training camp. That first year he brought down 7 interceptions; 3 of which were for touchdowns. He was only the second rookie in history to accomplish that feat. He also managed to win a Super Bowl in his first year in the NFL.

During the 1985 season, Ronnie Lott injured his pinkie finger on the helmet of an opposing player. Legend has it that he had the finger amputated during a game. The truth is, Lott had the tip amputated at the end of the season. What is true, is that Ronnie Lott did it to keep it from hampering his game. Ronnie's love for the sport was almost as scary as his hits. No one on the field wanted to win more than Lott and it showed in his stats. After 10 Pro Bowls and 730 interception yards, Ronnie Lott retired. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.

2) Lawrence Taylor, Linebacker (New York Giants)

The great L.T. was one of the most feared men to ever grace a uniform. As the leader of the Giants defense known as the "Big Blue Wrecking Crew", Taylor put terror in the hearts of offensive players around the league. As a rookie, his reputation started in training camp and spread throughout the NFL. Before he even played a regular season down, L.T. was known as a hard hitting monster and he was to be feared.

One of his biggest and most damaging hits came in the 1985 season on Monday Night Football. Taylor laid a sack on Redskins QB Joe Theisman that resulted in a compound fracture on Theisman's leg. Taylor scared himself with that hit. He was the one to yell for paramedics on the field that night and has never watched the tape of the hit that ended Theisman's career. He continued his defensive dominance and went on to win 2 Super Bowls. He amassed 132 sacks in his NFL career with an astonishing 1088 tackles.

1) Dick Butkus, Linebacker (Chicago Bears)

In 1970, Dick Butkus appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated. The tag line was: "The Most Feared Man In The Game." Basically, if you were a quarterback and Dick Butkus was on the field, you knew with 100% certainty that you were going to end up on your back. Then, you would pray that afterward, you would be able to get up. Butkus wouldn't just tackle you. He would slam you to the ground with emphasis to make sure that you knew you were tackled.

Butkus once stated that during warm-ups he would "manufacture things to make me mad. If I saw someone on the other team laughing, I would pretend he was laughing at me...". Fierce and tough were the words Butkus would use to describe his childhood views on what he thought a football player should be. Those are words used to describe him to this day.

Butkus even has an award named after him. Created in 1985, the Dick Butkus award is given every year to the top linebackers in college football. In 2008, the award also expanded to the high school and pro football levels in an effort to discourage steroid use.



Although these players are deemed scary, they helped make the game what it is today. Guys like "Mean" Joe Green and "Samurai" Mike brought intensity, fierce competition and heart to the game of football. These are the guys I grew up admiring and yes, fearing. I would fear for the offensive players that had to face them on the field. But, mostly I would fear that I would miss even a glimmer of brilliance that each of them displayed in the games on Sunday.

What To Expect From The 2009 Detroit Lions

One of the hardest things for an NFL team to accomplish in a season is to go from worst to first; that is to turn a dismal season around and go from last in the division to the divisional winner and earn a playoff berth. It was accomplished by the 2008 Miami Dolphins who narrowly escaped infamy in 2007 by winning just one game, but then somehow turned things around the following year and won the AFC South. The 2008 Detroit Lions did not escape infamy; they became the only team in league history to lose 16 regular season games in a row and end the season winless. The Lions have made some major changes, from the front office to the field in an effort to turn the organization around. But can they realistically win their division and make a playoff run?

It all starts in the division in question; the NFC North. It is made up of 4 NFL teams: the Chicago Bears, the Green Bay Packers, the Minnesota Vikings, and Detroit. The last time the Lions won the division was in 1993. Back then it was called the NFC Central and included the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Out of the 4 current NFC North teams, Detroit has the fewest divisional titles and no Super Bowl wins or appearances.

I cannot think of any team that would have a tougher time going from worst to first than Detroit. But for argument's sake, lets discuss their chances. They started off the rebuilding by firing GM Matt Millen and head coach Rod Marinelli. Martin Mayhew replaced Millen and Jim Schwartz, the former Tennessee Titans defensive coordinator, was hired as head coach. The Lions received the #1 pick in the 2009 draft and used it to acquire QB Matthew Stafford, out of Georgia. Other notable picks from the draft include TE Brandon Pettigrew from Oklahoma State and Louis Delmas from Western Michigan University.

The Lions also are trying to ignite a tired and weary fan base in Detroit. In addition to the heart break of a 0-16 season, the city of Detroit and the entire state of Michigan has been in economic peril for the past few years. With the auto industry suffering a downward spiral, many citizens are struggling to recover from financial difficulties and football tickets are not in their agenda. The Lions had 4 blackout games last season due to low attendance at Ford Field. A new campaign to get fans fired up again is underway. New uniforms and the heavy promotion of the new head coach and their #1 draft pick Stafford is hitting the airwaves. But, Stafford's hefty rookie contract (almost $42 million guaranteed) is getting major backlash from fans who have continued to suffer in Michigan's long economic recession.

In order for the Lions to have any chance at winning the division, they would have to win some games vs. their divisional competition. Last season's divisional winner was the Minnesota Vikings with a 10-6 record. The Vikings have the best running back in football in Adrian Peterson. Their defense, led by Jared Allen, was ranked 13th last season. By most accounts, the Vikings look like the team to beat in the NFC North. However, the Chicago Bears added QB Jay Cutler in the famous trade made with the Broncos. Cutler adds a component to the Bears that most feel was needed for them to make another Super Bowl run. The Green Bay Packers are always a tough opponent for any team they play and Detroit has always struggled to beat them.

The Lions must also find a way to win on the road. Detroit has become notorious for having long road win droughts. They went 3 straight seasons without a road win (2001-2003). The 24 game streak was the longest in NFL history. Of course with their winless season last year, Detroit again failed to win one on the road.

With a lackluster fan base, a new front office, and a new coaching staff, Detroit's chances of going from worst to first are very slim. However, both the Lions and the state of Michigan have the characteristics to turn things around; toughness and resilience. It may take a few seasons and a few more key position changes, but the Lions will find a way to bounce back and make a return appearance to the playoffs. Just don't look for that to happen next season.