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The Men Behind Some Of Tom Brady’s Firsts

It is easy to talk about the Tom Brady that everyone knows now. The records have all been set and more remain within reach, but at one time, Brady was not a record holder. Brady was not arguably the greatest in the world.

In 2001, Brady stepped into the starting quarterback spot for the Patriots after Drew Bledsoe was injured during a week two matchup against the Jets. The young quarterback was just given an opportunity to make a name for himself in the league.

Most know the story of Brady’s rise to football stardom, but many do not some of the people that were first to contribute or try to get in the way of it.

First Touchdown Pass: Terry Glenn, Wide Receiver

Week 5, 2001

Tom Brady and Terry Glenn, coming from opposing Big Ten schools, came together to help lift the Patriots out of a 1-3 start to the season. The pair had an unusual beginning to their season before that play. Glenn came off the bench from a four-game substance-abuse suspension. And Brady, well, everyone knows how that story goes. In this game, Glenn caught a 21-yard pass to record Brady’s first touchdown pass.

Born in Columbus, Ohio, Gleen played at home for The Ohio State Buckeyes. The walk-on received the Biletnikoff Award for being one of the top college receivers. He was the Patriots seventh pick in the first round of the 1996 draft. Once in the league, he played 11 seasons for the Patriots, Packers, and Cowboys.

The wide receiver had a troubled personal life outside of football. He often found himself in trouble with the law, issues spawning from domestic violence to public intoxication and auto theft. Glenn’s life came to a tragic end in 2017 at age 43 in a rollover car accident. He left behind children and a fiance, who was injured in the accident.

First Sack: Brad Scioli, Defensive End

Week 6, 2001

Another first, another former Big Ten player. Scioli was in his third season with the Colts. The defensive end was up against a young, seemingly unknown quarterback who just stepped into the position. And when it was time to make a big play, it was Scioli that got that first sack.

Originally from Bridgeport, Pennsylvania, Scioli stayed in-state to play at the college level, playing for a tough Penn State program headed by Joe Paterno. He finished his degree in hotel, restaurant, and institutional management and was then drafted in the fifth round by the Colts in 1999. His NFL career was spent in Indianapolis before injuries forced his retirement in 2004.

Following his exit from the league, Scioli went into teaching. He received a teaching certification from West Chester University and received a master’s from Wilkes University. Eventually, Scioli moved back home and is now working for the Upper Merion Area School District.

First Interception: Denard Walker, Safety

Week 6, 2001

This 2001 Patriots team was on the edge of turning their season around, and up next on their to-do list was Denver. While the Patriots maintained a lead to start the game, the Broncos won it in a strong second-half effort. Many big plays helped the mile-high team secure their comeback, including the play made by Walker, causing Brady’s first interception of his career.

Denard Walker was born in Dallas Texas and attended LSU. He was drafted in the third round of the 1997 NFL draft to the Tennessee Oilers and was with the team as they became the Tennessee Titans. Walker bounced from the Titans to the Broncos, next to the Vikings and ended his career with the Raiders in 2005.

The parity of NFL quarterbacks

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The NFL released their top 100 players of the year list, with Brady coming in first. Aaron Rodgers came in tenth despite missing time with an injury. It got me thinking about the parity of NFL quarterbacks, and other than the big three of the past 18 years, you can play quarterback roulette to predict a season.

The Big Three

The Big three quarterbacks of the past 18 years are Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, and Peyton Manning. They all had some down years or years they were injured, but you can always count on them to dominate the NFL. For MVP’s, Brady has won three, Manning has won five, and Rodgers has won two. If you are not good at math, that is ten out of 18 years, or 55% of the time since 2000, one of the big three has won an MVP. For Super Bowls, Brady has won five, Manning has two and Rodgers has one. That is eight out of 18 years, or 44% of the time since 2000, one of the big three has won a super bowl.

Via hubwav

The Others

Other than the big three, there has been a lot of parity among NFL quarterbacks. Since 2000, there have been no two-time winners of MVP outside of the big three. A player gets hyped up after one outlier season and is never the same player after. The greatest show on turf only lasted for three years, and the Rams have not been back to the Super Bowl since. Rich Gannon won the MVP in 2002 and has not been heard from since.

Steve McNair won the award in 2003, and Shaun Alexander won it in 2005. McNair’s team, the Titans, have not been very relevant afterward. Alexander’s team, the Seahawks, were not relevant until 2013. Adrian Peterson won the award in 2013, and his career fell off after that. Cam Newton won it in 2015 and has been mediocre ever since. Matt Ryan won the award in 2016, but Steve Sarkisian did not do him any favors last year.

Other than the big three, the only repeat Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks since 2000 are Eli Manning and Ben Roethlisberger. For Manning, he has not been good outside of those years. Roethlisberger has not been good enough to reach the promised land. Brad Johnson was the winning quarterback in super bowl 37, not to be heard from again. Drew Brees won Super Bowl 44 and has not been good enough to get back. Joe Flacco turned into Jesus for a year and won Super Bowl 47. Then, he got a huge contract and has been awful since then. Russell Wilson won Super Bowl 48, and the Seahawks have gradually fallen off every year since then.

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – SEPTEMBER 11: Everson Griffen #97 of the Minnesota Vikings sacks quarterback Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints in the third quarter of the game on September 11, 2017, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

It’s fun

There is a lot of parity in the NFL, and I really enjoy it. Not knowing who the elite quarterbacks are going to be for a given year is fun. You have no idea who is going to win awards, go deep into the playoffs and fall off or make a name for themselves. In the NBA, you know who is going deep in the playoffs and who will contend for awards which is quite boring.

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl XLVIII

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The Super Bowl is just 4 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 4 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion!

MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey hosted Super Bowl XLVIII on February 2, 2014. The game pitted the NFC champion Seattle Seahawks and their top-ranked defense against the Denver Broncos and their #1-ranked offense of the American Football Conference. It was the immovable object against the irresistible force! But, as we will read, the matchup turned one-sided early and the rout was on.

Seattle Seahawks 4 Years Ago

The Seahawks came off a dramatic loss in Atlanta to end the 2012 season. Their rookie quarterback Russell Wilson led a desperate comeback as they actually took the lead with less than a minute remaining only to see the Falcons kick a long field goal to eliminate them. The Seahawks and the 49ers were the two favorites in the NFC in 2013 and they battled all season for that all-important NFC west title. In week 2, the Seahawks made a statement by clobbering San Francisco in a nationally televised game. On offense, the Seahawks rode the powerful legs of Marshawn “Beast mode” Lynch.

On defense, the Seahawks fielded a great squad with Pro Bowlers all over the place. Their “Legion of Boom” defense featured three phenomenal players on the back end in Kam Chancellor, Earl Thomas and Richard Sherman. Sherman was as brash a player the NFL had seen in quite some time, but he really could back it with superb corner play. In the week 2 win over the Niners, Sherman celebrated with the cheerleaders to the roar of the Seahawks’ crowd known as the “12th man.”

Seattle finished the 2013 regular season at 13-3 just ahead of the 49ers. That meant the Niners had to start on the road in the Wild Card round at Green Bay. In five-degree temps, Colin Kaepernick and Frank Gore led the Niners back to a thrilling win over the Pack. In the divisional round, San Fran won at Carolina and Seattle held off New Orleans setting up the NFC championship game everybody wanted. It did not disappoint.

Seahawks vs. 49ers

Wilson fumbled on the very first play of the game setting up a San Francisco field goal. Early in the second quarter, Kaepernick ran one for 58 yards setting up a touchdown. Seattle responded with a field goal drive and a third quarter touchdown by Marshawn Lynch. Lynch’s 40-yard scamper set the home crowd into a frenzy. To their credit, the 49ers came right back with Kaepernick hitting Anquan Boldin for a 26-yard score and a 17-10 lead. Again, the Seahawks answered with a field goal.

The fourth quarter got off to an awesome start for the Seahawks when Wilson connected with Jermaine Kearse for a go-ahead touchdown. You could cut the tension in the fourth quarter with a knife. Seattle forced a Kaepernick fumble and had a golden opportunity to put the game out of reach. They reached the 1-yard line when NaVorro Bowman forced a Kearse fumble. Seattle was given the recovery, but Bowman was lost for the game with a terrible ACL injury. On the very next play, Wilson fumbled, and the 49ers were still alive.

Seattle added one more field goal for a 23-17. Kaepernick drove the Niners into Seattle’s territory with less than one minute to play. However, Kaepernick threw to Michael Crabtree in double coverage. Sherman made a great defensive play knocking the ball back to Malcolm Smith for a game-clinching interception. Sherman spouted off to Fox’s Erin Andrews about the way the 49ers and particularly Crabtree disrespected him. Whatever the case was, Seattle qualified for their second Super Bowl.

Denver Broncos 4 Years Ago

The Denver Broncos made an early season statement as well. They annihilated the World Champion Ravens on opening night. Peyton Manning threw for a ridiculous 7 touchdowns. The offensive record book was about to be revised courtesy of Manning, offensive coordinator Adam Gase and a group of receivers including Wes Welker, Eric Decker, Demaryius Thomas and tight end Julius Thomas. When it was all said and done, the Broncos broke league records for points scored, yards, passing yards and passing touchdowns.

They followed their 49-27 win over Baltimore with a 41-23 victory for Peyton over Eli in New York. In week 4, they scored 52 against the Eagles, then 51 in a comeback win over the Cowboys. However, the Broncos were not perfect. They had a lackluster season on defense. That was on display in their 39-33 loss in Peyton’s return to Indianapolis. The Patriots stunned the Broncos in the game of the season 34-31 in overtime. The Broncos blew a 24-0 halftime lead that night. Late in the season, Denver lost at home to San Diego on a Thursday night.

Nevertheless, Denver earned the top seed. In the playoffs, they survived a gutty effort by the Chargers in a rematch. In the AFC championship game, the Broncos were never threatened in a 26-16 win over the Patriots. Peyton passed for 400 yards in one of the least compelling Brady-Manning matchups. John Fox’s Broncos qualified for the franchise’s seventh Super Bowl.

Seahawk Shellacking

Like many of their previous appearances, this was a nightmare for Denver. They were out of their usual extraordinary rhythm from the outset causing their own safety on the game’s first play. Seattle poured it on to the tune of a 15-0 lead late in the second quarter. The game got completely out of hand when Smith picked off Manning and ran it back for a touchdown. Then, Percy Harvin ran back the second half kickoff. It was 29-0 with 29 minutes to go. The rest of the game was a coronation.

Pete Carroll’s Seahawks won the Super Bowl almost effortlessly. It is hard to put this defensive performance into perspective. Denver averaged 38 points per game during the regular season. They finished on the tail end of a 43-8 score in the Super Bowl. Therefore, Seattle’s defense does not have to take a back seat to anybody in league history.

Tomorrow, we’ll discuss their shocking loss in Super Bowl XLIX.

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl 50

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The Super Bowl is just two days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from two years ago to honor this not-that-significant occasion!

Santa Clara, California hosted Super Bowl 50 on February 7, 2016. The game pitted the NFC champion Carolina Panthers against the Denver Broncos of the American Football Conference.

Carolina Panthers Two Years Ago

The 2015 Panthers kept winning and winning and winning. Yes, there were other guys on Ron Rivera’s offense. But, this team started and ended with quarterback Cam Newton. The Panthers led the NFL in points scored. Their QB, in this, his fifth season in the NFL, was by far the league’s best player. Newton threw for almost 4,000 yards and 35 touchdowns. He rushed for more than 600 yards and another 10 touchdowns. He was the most fun player in the league and the fiercest competitor. This was his season.

On defense, Carolina had three first-team All-Pros, an almost unheard-of achievement. Luke Kuechly, Thomas Davis and Josh Norman joined the underrated Kawann Short on the Pro Bowl team. Carolina won their first 14 games, some in nail-biters like their last-second comeback victory over Seattle or their Monday night win in the pouring rain over the Colts. Others were laughers like their Thanksgiving Day destruction of the Cowboys or their 38-0 win over the Falcons. The Panthers became the first team to start a season 14-0 since the 2009 Colts and first team with at least 15 regular-season wins to make the Super Bowl since the 2007 Patriots.

They lost their undefeated season at Atlanta 20-13. But, they still had the top seed in the NFC. In the Divisional round matchup with the Seahawks, Carolina got off to an enormous start. But, the Seahawks never quit and clawed their way back within 31-24. Russell Wilson was brilliant. However, it wasn’t enough as the Panthers prevailed 31-24. The following week, Carolina blasted Arizona 49-15. The Panthers were on to their second Super Bowl.

Denver Broncos 2 Years Ago

Their opponent would be the Denver Broncos. The Broncos brought with them one of the worst offenses we have ever seen to the big game. The good news is they had one of the greatest defenses of all time. They had five Pro Bowlers including the NFL’s Defensive MVP Von Miller. Chris Harris was an outstanding cornerback while Aqib Talib, T.J. Ward and Demarcus Ware brought great skill and leadership.

The Broncos’ road to the Super Bowl was not an easy one. Peyton Manning had a lot of trouble throwing the ball. His mobility, which was never great to begin with, was compromised by injury. Finally, he had to miss some time due to a foot injury. Enter Brock Osweiler. In his second start, he had to take on the undefeated Patriots. He kept his team in the game long enough for C.J. Anderson to score a game-winning touchdown in overtime.

That game in the snow opened the door for Osweiler and the Broncos to finish with the best record in the AFC. Manning was back in time for the playoffs. In the Divisional round, Denver found themselves in a tussle with Pittsburgh. The Steelers came off a brutal win at Cincinnati. Roethlisberger was somewhat limited while Le’veon Bell and Antonio Brown were out. Still, the Steelers led most of the way. Manning led one touchdown-scoring drive all night, but it was enough to help Denver edge Pittsburgh 23-16.

The Last Brady-Manning Game

The AFC championship game was a very tense affair with New England. The Brady-Manning rivalry came to its conclusion in dramatic fashion. Manning actually outdueled Brady in the first half. But by the second half, it was obvious that Peyton’s best stuff was gone. Still, Denver’s terrifying defense whipped the Patriots. So, the score was 20-12 Broncos heading into the last few minutes. Stephen Gostkowski had missed an extra point that loomed large. Because Brady and Gronk hooked up a few times down the stretch, the Patriots had the opportunity to tie the game if they converted fourth and goal. They did that much but could not make a two-point conversion or recover an onside kick. The Broncos took a knee on the clock and they were on to Super Bowl 50 to face the Panthers.

Poorly Played Super Bowl

This is seriously difficult Super Bowl to describe. What’s not difficult? Naming Von Miller as the best player on the field. C.J. Anderson and Demarcus Ware also played well for Denver. Kona Ealy was out of his mind for the Panthers. And Jordan Norwood made a huge play with a 61-yard punt return.

The Broncos finished with less than 200 total yards, 11 first downs and 1 for 14 on third down conversions. Peyton Manning was a shell of his former self in what was the worst offensive performance by a winning team in Super Bowl history. They had two possessions the entire day where they moved the ball…the first one of each half and both ended in three points.

Dominant Denver Defense

The good news for the Broncos is their defense was something fierce. Miller was responsible for the first touchdown in the game when he strip-sacked Newton. Malik Jackson fell on it for the 10-0 lead. The Panthers struck back quickly and scored on a Jonathan Stewart run.

In the second half, Newton hit Ted Ginn for a big play that led to a field-goal miss. He later connected with Corey Brown on a huge gainer that led to a Graham Gano field goal make. The score was 16-10 when the teams traded punts and sacks, then they traded even

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more punts and sacks. Other than not being able to throw, run, catch, block or tackle, Carolina played pretty good ball.

Finally, on a third and nine from their own 25, Miller caused Newton to fumble again. The Broncos recovered as Newton was lambasted by the media for not trying to recover the ball. A few plays later, Anderson punched it in to end the competitive nature of the ball game.

Manning retired after the victory. He went out at top playing his worst. But, Super Bowl victories do not have to come with style points. And, for a fan of defense, this was a beautiful game. Von Miller will someday be in the Hall of Fame and this game will be the signature performance of his career.

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl XXXIII

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The Super Bowl is just 19 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 19 years ago to honor this not-so-significant occasion!

South Florida hosted Super Bowl XXXIII on January 31, 1999. The game pitted the NFC Champion Atlanta Falcons against the defending World Champion Denver Broncos of the American Football Conference. The Broncos, who had a sorry Super Bowl history in the 80’s, came into the 1998 season footloose and fancy free. They won their Super Bowl; they won the AFC their first Super Bowl in 13 seasons. And, in 1998, they were loaded.

Denver Broncos 19 Years Ago

Coach Mike Shanahan realized that he had a confident and fast offensive line, an experienced quarterback and a strong defense coming into 1998. However, his engine was Super Bowl XXXII MVP Terrell Davis. And he rode that workhorse to a 13-0 start. Davis finished the regular season with 2008 on 392 carries! Simply put, it was one of the greatest seasons a running back has ever experienced. Add to that an additional 468 in his three playoff games and there is little wonder Davis was enshrined in Pro Football’s Hall of Fame despite his premature retirement.

One of Denver’s two losses on the season occurred on a Monday night in Miami. The Broncos in return punished the Dolphins in the divisional round of the playoffs, 38-3. In the AFC championship game, the New York Jets coached by Bill Parcells challenged Denver early but ran out of steam in the second half. It was Davis’s 31-yard score late in the third that put the game in Denver’s win column and in their sixth Super Bowl!

Atlanta Falcons 19 Years Ago

There were four standout NFC teams in the 1998 regular season, but none better than the Minnesota Vikings. Their resurgence was keyed by the transcendent Randy Moss. Comeback player of the year QB Randall Cunningham seemed to just throw the ball 60 yards in the air and Moss would come down with it. He broke a litany of rookie receiving marks during the Vikings’ 15-1 season. Minnesota was able to leapfrog Green Bay for AFC central supremacy. However, the Packers qualified for the wild card after another impressive season.

In the NFC West, Atlanta usurped San Francisco with a dynamite 14-2 season. They were led by veteran head coach Dan Reeves and a power running game. Their best player was the Jamal Anderson who carried the ball a whopping 410 times for 1846 yards. He became just as popular for his “Dirty Bird” celebration as he did for his excellent play in 1998.

In the Wild Card game between Green Bay and San Francisco, Brett Favre and Steve Young battled back and forth in one of the best playoff games of all-time. Young hit Terrell Owens on the final play of the game. With the win, the 49ers earned a trip to Atlanta. The Falcons jumped on San Francisco early. Unfortunately for the Niners, they lost running back Garrison Hearst to a torn ACL one play into the ball game. The Niners kept fighting, but fell short in a 20-18 victory for the Falcons. Atlanta’s underrated defense picked off Young three times in the second half to clinch the win.

Atlanta Stuns Minnesota

Matthew Stockman

Atlanta would have to travel to Minnesota for the NFC championship game and were prohibitive underdogs. If they were intimidated, it sure didn’t look that way as they took their opening possession the length of the field for a 7-0 lead. Minnesota responded with 20 consecutive points and looked well on their way to their first Super Bowl in 22 years. But, a funny thing happened in Minnesota that day. The Vikings made just enough crucial mistakes and the Falcons, especially quarterback Chris Chandler, made just enough big plays, to propel Atlanta to the upset.

The game’s most memorable moment occurred late in the fourth. Minnesota led 27-20 and brought on Gary Anderson to attempt a 39-yard field goal. Anderson had not missed a kick all regular season! This time, however, his kick was wide left. The door was open for Atlanta and just over a minute later, Chandler found Terance Mathis for the tying score. The dirty birds won it in overtime on Morten Andersen’s field goal and the Falcons were about to participate in the franchise’s first Super Bowl.

“This One’s For John”

Atlanta certainly did not play their “A” game in Super Bowl XXXIII. That may have had more to do with the Broncos’ greatness, however. Atlanta was able to generate scoring opportunities over the first three quarters. They just could not take advantage. Andersen missed a chip shot. The Broncos stuffed Anderson on a fourth down. Chandler threw three interceptions that resulted in long returns for Denver. So, this was not a fun day for Falcons’ football.

Denver, on the other hand, got a great day from their venerable quarterback. Elway’s biggest play came in the second quarter when he found Rod Smith for an 80-yard strike that gave the Broncos a 17-3 lead. Atlanta’s highlight came in the second half when they were trailing 31-6. Tough Tim Dwight returned a kickoff to give his fan base something to cheer about on an otherwise dreary Florida night.

This game, this night was the “Football God’s” gift to one its sons, John Elway. While this season and the previous Super Bowl belonged to Terrell Davis, Super Bowl XXXIII was all about the magnificent #7. And team president Pat Bowlen acknowledged this as he accepted the Lombardi Trophy by announcing, “This One’s for John.” Elway retired following the 1998 season.

Tomorrow, we will discuss another remarkable quarterback story, that of Kurt Warner of the 1999 St. Louis Rams.

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl XXXII

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The Super Bowl is just 20 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 20 years ago to honor this not-so-significant occasion!

San Diego hosted Super Bowl XXXII on January 25, 1998. The game pitted the defending World Champion Green Bay Packers against the Denver Broncos of the American Football Conference.

Green Bay Packers 20 Years Ago

Steve Apps

From day one, the Packers were the heavy favorites to repeat. In fact, there was preseason hype that this team could potentially go undefeated. However, they dropped two of their first 5 to temper the buzz somewhat. The Packers were awesome in the second half of the season. Mike Holmgren’s team went undefeated at home for the second straight season and Brett Favre won the league MVP for a third consecutive season.

The Packers were particularly excellent on defense in the playoffs. They defeated Tampa Bay 21-7 and won in San Francisco 23-10. The high-powered 49ers could not get anything going offensively. Indeed, the Niners’ only TD came on Chuck Levy’s kick return with less than four minutes remaining. Hence. Green Bay went into Super Bowl XXXII as an 11.5 favorite to defeat the Broncos.

Denver Broncos 20 Years Ago

Denver suffered a mind-numbing home loss to end the 1996 season to Jacksonville. But, they did not suffer a hangover as they bounced out of the gate with a 11-2 record. The Broncos had the #1 offense in football in 1997 thanks in large part to Terrell Davis’ gigantic 1750 rushing yards. At 37 years old, John Elway looked like he was back in his prime throwing 27 touchdowns against only 11 interceptions. He also had some superb receiving options in Rod Smith and Shannon Sharpe.

The Broncos revamped their defense as well. Under Mike Shanahan, emphasis was placed on complex blitzing schemes and staying in their base defense even as most teams would fall back in prevent mode. Pro Bowlers John Mobley and Neil Smith were keys to the unit leading the squad in tackles and sacks respectively. On the back-end, veteran safeties Steve Atwater and Tyrone Braxton were known for their hard-hitting. The ’97 Broncos were definitely a complete team ready to take the next step.

Wild Card Route

Unfortunately, late in the season, they slumped at Pittsburgh and San Francisco. The Chiefs passed them for the AFC West title. Denver would have to get to the Super Bowl the long way. First, they crushed Jacksonville to get their revenge for ’96. Next, they went into Kansas City and their raucous environment and upset the Chiefs. In the AFC Championship game, although they were on the road, the Broncos were the superior team against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The key score occurred with 13 seconds left in the first half putting Denver up 24-14. They held on to the win by constantly harassing Steelers’ QB Kordell Stewart. They forced into three interceptions and a fumble. That proved to the difference in Denver’s 24-21 win. It was on to John Elway’s fourth-career Super Bowl!

TD’s Heroic Performance

In the Super Bowl, the Packers strolled down the field with the opening kickoff like a bat out of hell. The Broncos responded immediately aided by a third down holding penalty. It was obvious from the outset what Denver was trying to do on this day. Feed TD. Terrell Davis battled through migraines in his hometown to rush for 157 yards and three touchdowns. The Broncos jumped out to a 17-7 lead. Green Bay tied it. Denver regained the lead in the third. The Packers tied it again.

With two minutes remaining, Davis burst to the left for a 17-yard gain. It was second and goal from the one. So, Holmgren instructed his defense to allow Davis to score. On the strength of four consecutive completions to Levens, Favre had the Pack in position to tie it. But, he threw three straight incompletions while dealing with serious pressure and the Broncos won the Super Bowl! It was the AFC’s first championship in 14 years. Elway was carried off the field. It was a terrific moment for football lovers as the 16-year veteran thanks in large part to his running back finally got his ring.

Favre would never get back to the Super Bowl despite his own illustrious career. Elway, though, would be back one season later!

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl XXIV

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The Super Bowl is just 28 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 28 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion!

Louisiana’s Superdome hosted Super Bowl XXIV on January 28, 1990. The game pitted the NFC champion San Francisco 49ers against the Denver Broncos of the American Football Conference. The 49ers were looking to defend their World Championship and attempting to win their fourth Super Bowl in nine seasons. The Broncos captured their third AFC championship in the last four seasons. However, they were still seeking that elusive first Super Bowl championship.

San Francisco 49ers 28 Years Ago

The 1989 49ers were simply awesome. In fact, it could be argued that they were one of the five greatest teams in NFL history. This team had no weaknesses. Their top-ranked offense and third-ranked defense only lost twice on the season (by a combined 5 points). They were undefeated on the road and they embarrassed their two playoff opponents. When they beat the LA Rams in the NFC Championship game 30-3, they went to the Super Bowl for more of a coronation rather than a game.

Denver Broncos 28 Years Ago

While the NFC was a cakewalk, the AFC was ultra-competitive. Denver earned the top seed. Once again, Dan Reeves and John Elway led a team full of heart and effort. They were not great on offense. But, when the game was on the line, Elway was clutch city.

They were great on defense, however. Wade Phillips had three Pro Bowlers: safety Dennis Smith, tackle Greg Kragen, and linebacker Karl Mecklenberg. Also, they had a great rookie free safety by the name of Steve Atwater.

In the playoffs, Denver came back to beat Pittsburgh, 24-23 and were never threatened in a 37-21 triumph over Cleveland. It was the third time in four seasons that the Broncos dispatched the Browns from the playoffs.

Destruction

Going into Super Bowl XXIV, nobody gave Denver a chance to win. It turned out worse…much, much worse than could ever been expected. The Dolphins of the ‘70s won their Super Bowls with a boring, soul-sucking attack. The Steelers of the ‘70s won their Super Bowls with a litany of skill-players on both sides of the ball. There were the Cowboys of the ‘90s and their incredible offensive line and speed on defense.

In Super Bowl XXIV, the 49ers brought all of the above to the table and one could never have thought they were watching the TWO best football teams in the league. San Francisco scored 8 touchdowns on the day! Joe Montana pitched a perfect game, throwing for five scores in the process. Jerry Rice scored three times. The defense allowed just 167 total yards and caused four turnovers. The result: 55-10.

John Elway played a terrible game. But, he would be back. He won his first Super Bowl eight years later, a true testament to his character.

Likewise, the 49ers would win their next Super Bowl five years later. But, Montana would not be a part of that team.

Tomorrow, we’ll see how the 49ers’ efforts at a “three-peat” were thwarted. Also, we’ll get to know a feisty group from upstate New York. Super Bowl XXIV was a rout of epic proportions. Super Bowl XXV was an all-time classic.

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl XXII

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The Super Bowl is just 30 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 30 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion!

San Diego hosted Super Bowl XXII on January 31, 1988. The game pitted the NFC champion Washington Redskins against the Denver Broncos of the American Football Conference. The 1987 season was one of the most bizarre and unpredictable campaigns in NFL history due to the players’ strike. One game was cancelled, and three other games were played by replacements.

Washington Redskins 30 Years Ago

When the dust cleared, the Redskins had the jumpstart on the NFC. They finished 11-4 thanks to their replacements. Redskins’ scabs finished a shocking 3-0. That record included a win on Monday Night against the Cowboys where many of the Dallas veterans had already crossed the picket line.

The regular players for the Skins included veteran QB Doug Williams and a superb group of wide receivers on offense. On defense, their strength was in their defensive line. Charles Mann and Dexter Manley were outstanding. Darrell Green was an all-world cornerback.

In the playoffs for the second consecutive season, Washington went into Chicago and knocked off the favored Bears. Green’s punt-return in which he hurdled a Bear and sprained his ribs is a play for the ages. This was Walter Payton’s last game.

In the NFC championship game, Washington survived a valiant Vikings’ team. Minnesota had finished the regular season with an 8-7 record. However, they won at 12-3 New Orleans and 13-2 San Francisco. Their win over the 49ers was so decisive even Joe Montana was benched.

Washington’s defense was up to the challenge. They hammered Vikings’ quarterback Wade Wilson throughout the game. Williams had an awful game, but led Washington on a winning drive. With Washington ahead 17-10, the Vikings had one last shot on 4^th down from the 4-yard line. Wilson’s throw went off the hands of Darrin Nelson and fell incomplete. The Redskins were off to their fourth Super Bowl.

Denver Broncos 30 Years Ago

The Broncos were favored to repeat as AFC champions. They had much the same line up that propelled them to the Super Bowl in 1986. However, they added a terrific rookie receiver named Ricky. Ricky Nattiel joined Mark Jackson and Vance Johnson. They were known as “The Three Amigos.” Denver was vastly improved on offense finishing second in the NFL. QB John Elway won the NFL MVP likely because the other two candidates, Jerry Rice and Joe Montana, divided voters. Elway, though, owed no apologies as he performed masterfully in leading Denver back to the Super Bowl.

In the playoffs, Denver routed Houston in the divisional round. Thus, they would face Cleveland in an AFC championship game rematch. In 1986, the Broncos defeated the Browns because of “The Drive.” In 1987, Denver won again because of “The Fumble.”

Denver got off to a great start in the championship game, but Cleveland fought back. Indeed, the Browns were unstoppable in the second half. Trailing 38-31 with one minute to go, the Browns ran Earnest Byner. He appeared to have a gaping hole. But, unheralded Jeremiah Castille swiped the ball away at the one. Denver was on their way to their third Super Bowl.

2nd Quarter Onslaught

The Broncos got off to a blazing start in the big game. Elway hit Nattiel for a 56-yard TD on their first offensive play. On their second drive, they kicked a field goal. It was 10-0 at the end of one. Then, it happened.

In one of the greatest performances in NFL history, the Redskins outscored Denver 35-0 in the second quarter. They scored 5 touchdowns on 18 plays! Williams hit Ricky Sanders for two long strikes as well as Gary Clark and Clint Didier for touchdowns. The other score came from the least likely of heroes.

Running back Timmy Smith rushed for a total of 1000 yards in his career – regular and postseason combined. But, 200 of those yards came in Super Bowl XXII! He scored twice in the Super Bowl and his record 204 yards rushing stands to this day.

Joe Gibbs called the all the right shots in this Super Bowl and has got to be considered one of the greatest Head Coaches in the history of the sport. Broncos’ head man Dan Reeves was no slouch in his time either. Both guys would get back to the Super Bowl. Gibbs won Super Bowl XXVI and Reeves lost Super Bowl XXIV with Denver and XXXIII with Atlanta.

So, tomorrow we’ll look at a much more competitive game between the Bengals and 49ers!

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl XXI

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The Super Bowl is just 31 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 31 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion!

Pasadena’s Rose Bowl hosted Super Bowl XXI on January 25, 1987. The game pitted the NFC champion New York Giants against the Denver Broncos of the American Football Conference.

New York Giants 31 Years Ago

Coming into 1986, the G-men had not won a championship since 1956. In fact, they had not even won a division title in twenty-three seasons. But, this team had very high expectations coming in.

Unlike the ’85 Bears, the Giants won a lot of close games. During the regular season, they went 9-2 in games decided by 7 or fewer points. They were very well-coached by defensive guru Bill Parcells. And this team’s strong suit was their defense led by Lawrence Taylor. Taylor may have been the greatest defensive player in NFL history. However, this was far from a one-man unit. While the defensive backfield was suspect, their front seven was phenomenal.

On offense, they were led by the small, but durable Joe Morris. Morris rushed for over 1500 yards. Phil Simms was the quarterback. He was average at best in 1986 tossing 22 interceptions on the season. Simms, though, was good when he needed to be. That included his heroics on a 4^th and 17 to help the Giants come back against Minnesota.

In the playoffs, the Giants humiliated San Francisco, 49-3. They literally knocked Joe Montana out of the game. In the NFC championship game verse division rival Washington, New York scored 17 points in the first quarter of a very windy game at Giants Stadium. Subsequently, they won 17-0. Thus, the Giants were on to their first Super Bowl of their franchise’s history!

Denver Broncos 31 Years Ago

In the AFC, it was a four-team race between the Browns, Broncos, Jets and Patriots. Denver’s Head Coach was longtime Cowboy Dan Reeves. There was nothing spectacular about his team except quarterback John Elway. The Broncos finished the season 15^th-ranked on offense and 9^th on defense. But, in a season where there was so much parity in the AFC, the Broncos did a great job of staying in ball games and competing hard.

That effort was on full display in their two exciting playoff games. In the divisional round against the defending conference champion Patriots, Denver came back to win 22-17. In the AFC championship game at Cleveland, they made history.

It was a back and forth affair. The Broncos found themselves down 20-13 with five minutes left after Brian Brennan gave Cleveland the lead. Denver misplayed the kickoff. Hence, they started their key drive at their own 2-yard line! The moment was not too big for Elway.

Denver methodically moved the ball down the field. With 39 seconds left, Elway drilled a pass to Mark Jackson from the five-yard line. The PAT tied the score. In OT, Rich Karlis kicked a controversial game-winner and Denver was on to their second Super Bowl.

Giants Pull Away

The Giants were favored to win Super Bowl XXI by 9 points. But, Denver fought tooth and nail as they had all season in the first half. The Giants’ defense hung tough in the red zone in the second quarter during a pivotal part of the game. The Broncos were leading 10-7 and had first and goal. They were stuffed, though. Taylor made an amazing speed play tracking down Elway on a run. Karlis, then, missed a twenty-one-yard field goal.

That was the closest Denver came to the shocking upset. Simms could not miss. He finished the game 22 of 25 passing and the G-men scored 26 consecutive points to pull away. Zeke Mowatt, Mark Bavaro, Phil McConkey, Ottis Anderson and Morris scored touchdowns for NY in a 39-20 victory. The only thing left was for the Giants to do was douse Parcells with Gatorade. Harry Carson did the honors and the Giants had their first World Championship!

New York came back four years later to win Super Bowl XXV. Denver lost two of the next three. At this point in NFL history, the NFC was dominating the Super Bowl. They won every big dance from Super Bowl XIX through XXXI.

Tomorrow, we’ll discuss how the Redskins won Super Bowl XXII.

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl XII

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The Super Bowl is just 40 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 40 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion!

Super Bowl XII was played in the Louisiana Superdome on January 15, 1978. The game pitted the NFC champion Dallas Cowboys against the Denver Broncos of the American Football Conference.

Dallas Cowboys 40 Years Ago

The Cowboys had much the same cast as the one that brought them their surprising Super Bowl X berth with one notable exception. They traded up in the 1977 draft with the expansion Seattle Seahawks and grabbed Heisman Trophy winner Tony Dorsett out of Pitt. Dorsett emerged in late-October and so did Dallas.

Innovative Tom Landry rode the talents of Roger Staubach and Dorsett to a 12-2 record. The Cowboys ran the most advanced offense of the era. They threw on first down, ran on third down and tossed in a trick play or two every week.

On defense, the Cowboys were tops against the run. Add to that the Defensive Player of the Year, Harvey Martin, and this Dallas team was the most complete club in football in 1977.

They embarrassed Walter Payton and the Bears in the playoffs and were not tested in the championship game as they faced a Vikings’ team without Fran Tarkenton. In one of the easiest marches a team has had to the Super Bowl, the Cowboys qualified to take on Denver two weeks later.

Denver Broncos 40 Years Ago

Denver’s road to the Super Bowl was far more unexpected. To be sure, they benefited from the Steelers having a down year. But, the AFC was by no means a breeze. Baltimore and Oakland were every bit as good as the Broncos were.

Where the Broncos held an edge was defense. The “Orange Crush” was third in scoring defense. Lyle Alzado, Tom Jackson and Randy Gradishar were stars on a team that played fundamental football under first year coach Red Miller.

On offense, it was old Cowboys’ QB Craig Morton who emerged to win Comeback Player of the Year. Kick returner Rick Upchurch was another stud on this club.

In the playoffs, Denver overpowered the vaunted Steel Curtain. They won going away in a game which introduced them to a national audience. The following week, they would face Oakland. The Raiders had just survived a double-overtime thriller over the Colts in Baltimore.

Veteran wide receiver Haven Moses stole the show on this day. He tallied 5 catches for 168 yards and two touchdowns. Still, this game came down to a controversial call. Rob Lytle fumbled on the goal-line, but was ruled down. It turned into a 14-point swing and the Broncos prevailed 20-17.

Doomsday Dominates

Dallas was a prohibitive favorite. However, the first half of this game featured two of the zaniest quarters ever seen in a championship game. Dallas’ doomsday destroyed Denver. In possibly the greatest mismatch in the history of the Super Bowl, the Cowboys overwhelmed their old quarterback. Morton threw four interceptions in the first half. The Broncos also lost two fumbles.

Denver’s defense was game. The Cowboys had numerous opportunities to blow their doors off, yet settled for five field goal attempts. Their only first-half TD occurred on a fourth down play from the one by Dorsett. The Cowboys fumbled four times in the first half themselves, but only lost one of those. Those missed opportunities haunted the Broncos.

Cowboys Clinch It

The second half was a much more normal football game. Dallas was still superior. Harvey Martin was unstoppable on the pass rush. Likewise, Ed Jones and Randy White were all over the field. Finally, they knocked Morton from the game.

After a dramatic TD reception from Butch Johnson, Broncos’ back up Norris Weese led Denver to their only touchdown. The score was 20-10 in the fourth.

Amazingly, the Cowboys caused yet another turnover. They forced Weese to fumble. On the next day, Landry went to his bag of tricks. Fullback Robert Newhouse ran a sweep, pulled up and launch a beauty for Golden Richards. That score closed the door.

Martin and White were the co-MVPs of Super Bowl XII. But, realistically, the award could have gone to the entire defense. Dallas came back one year later for another shot. However, their defense could not duplicate this effort against the Steelers.

The Steelers also knocked the Broncos out of the 1978 playoffs. Denver would not get back to the Super Bowl until the ‘80s when they had a quarterback named Elway.

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills