1 Day To Steelers Kickoff; A Countdown of the Top 10 Steelers of All Time.

Hello everyone and thank you for stopping by! As we wind down towards the coming of another Steelers Season upon us, there is still quite a ways away from the Official start. As such, I personally thought it would be a good time to share my personal thoughts on the Top 10 players to dawn the Steelers uniform; a list I have been actually been planning for quite some time but sadly was not able to get to..... until today! Now, before I continue, as always, a disclaimer:


These written statements by the author do not reflect nor are shared opinions of members of TheSteelersFans Message Board, Staff Members and/or Site Administrator.




Admittedly... picking only the 10 best players from such a storied Franchise is not even an easy task; doubly so one as successful as the Steelers. More often than not with lists like these, determining "the best" of a specific player has just as much to do with not just how successful that player was but also what qualities that make him the quintessential player of that particular franchise. For Pittsburgh, thankfully, there are special qualities that specify what a Steelers player is. I personally have identified three of them as these qualities encapsulates what being a Steeler means. They are as follows;



1.) Rough 'n' Tough: An aggressive yet stalwart ideology; one that is fully hard wired for nothing but the most absolute, physical and gritty play possible but always will soldier on, come what may.... no matter the position. Belligerence and perseverance at its finest... but some forms of said term are not often so audible for some. While some may argue these two terms should be separated, said terms are apart of the foundation of Southwestern Pennsylvania's history; a blue collar work ethic that never yields to the most arduous of tasks yet going above and beyond to get the job done. Steelers players are no different. However, these ten men were the epitome of this blue collar attitude.



2.) Intimidation: Football will often collide the will of one team versus another. Whomever has the superior ideology shall rule the day. While today's game has heavily taken out the raw, unfiltered form of intimidation from years gone by, the aspect of fear itself still can transform into different aspects for different types of situations. The most modern take of this are players who are high level threats and must be accounted for at all times as said players possess more than enough capability to sway games into that teams favor; dominating games in other cases. Pittsburgh has been adorned with such players for decades (with no sign of slowing down) but the best of the best possessed the fear factor based on their mere presence when walking onto the field alone.




3.) Indomitable Will: Fearlessness of the odds faced against. Joy of the final moments that still represent the victory they will sing. Excitement to ensure the win; the "clutch factor" for short. Having no fear often cites ignorance of the lack of a particular situation. For the terminology we are using, having the will to succeed against all odds pertains to the confirmation of ones resolve. The ability to better themselves by destroying their current limits to unlock a more powerful version of oneself. The wisdom to realize that it is not over until it is over; a tried but true statement. For these ten Steelers players, their mental fortitude were often put to the test and, more often than not, aced the questions to some of the most daunting challenges that befall the team in their darkest hour.






Given that we have covered the criteria for todays kickoff, let me remind you again that, due to the tremendous amount of qualifiers for this list, not every All Time Great will make the cut. However, this is and, again worth noting, more so difficult as the fact the Steelers are not just a successful NFL franchise. Since 1970, no other team has posted more wins than the Steelers. For that matter, only the Steelers remain as the Franchise without a losing decade. As such, merely naming ten players is... well..... controversial... to say the least. Even so, this is simply the opinion of one person and, is in no shape, way or form, the official list as an official list would be impossible.






With all this said, let us kick off the Number 10 Steeler of All Time. His name sadly is often forgotten among the pantheon of Steeler greats due to the lack of success his teams had during his time in the Black 'n' Gold. However, even before the arrival of Mean Joe, he was the first successful Steeler who would lay down the foundation of the three core principles listed above. He may have not won much but would become a major catalyst for what Steelers players soon thereafter would be measured by. Beginning our list at number 10 is.....








Ernie Albert Stautner; Defensive Tackle (1950-1963)


4 Time NFL All Pro

5 Time NFL Second Team All Pro

1950s NFL All Decade Team

9 Time Pro Bowl Selection

Number 70 Jersey Retired

Pittsburgh Steelers 50th Anniversary Team

Pittsburgh Steelers 75th Anniversary Team

Pittsburgh Steelers All Time Team

Pittsburgh Legends Team

First Ballot Hall of Famer (1969)




*** Fun Fact ***


*** Ernie Stautner actually began his NFL Career at the age of 25! As such, he will have the distinction as the oldest rookie to be drafted by the Steelers that is on the list! ***



Young Ernie was born on April 20th, 1925 in Cham, Bavaria Germany. By the time he was three, at some point in 1928, Ernie's family would end up relocating to East Greenbush, New York; one of the more suburban areas in New York at this time. Now, a suburban life should be quite the more accessible lifestyle... except it was not. The Great Depression, Germany's re armament and nearby New York City's Castellammarese War would prove otherwise. Even so, after graduation from Columbia High School, Ernie would first head into the United States Marine Corps and would serve from 1943 to 1946. Such adversity would become critical as it would end up shaping Stautner's character and become a critical component for his playing career.



After being a four year starter as a two way Offensive and Defensive Lineman at Boston College, Stautner would then elect to enter the NFL Draft in 1950. Even for his time though, 6'1 and 230lbs was not something one would expect from a Defensive Tackle; causing him to slip into the second round and to be acquired by the Steelers. However, even at the onset of the 1950 Season, while that team would go on to finish .500 even for the season, Ernie had given the team the key qualities that would begin to lay down the foundation for what would become known as "Steelers Football"; grit, determination and intimidation. These three principles would end up laying out an All Decade selection for the 1950s; nine time All Pro and nine time Pro Bowl selection. Despite such a showcase, sadly, the Steelers never competed for a Championship during the time in which Ernie played in. This does pose an interesting question though; why is Stautner number 10 on the list? Surely, the aspects that made him into the player he was were important....but they did not amount to much in terms of team based success in the end. Well... the devil is in the little details as some things sometimes are not all of what they seem to be.




Ernie Stautner sits here at number 10 because of the type of player he was for a franchise that had not yet truly found an identity for itself; a major factor for building a winner. Prior to Stautner's arrival, such a concept.... was non existent as Pittsburgh did not have a talent like Stautner before; including the great Bill Dudley. Once Stautner showcased his talents and mentality to the team, the Franchise would not just take notice but would have a blueprint for what types of players they would need to look for; a blueprint that is, again, still relevant today as it was well over six decades ago. Granted, there is more to becoming a Championship Team than merely finding out what your team is but knowing what your team is remains one of the most essential necessities possible. Stautner's style of play would end up rubbing off on another fellow Steeler and Hall of Famer in Jack Butler; another forgotten All Time Steeler that not many remember. Andy Russell would end up with Stautner during the latter's final season but that one season was impactful for Russell as Russell himself would be a direct "bridge" between the dark days of the Steelers to the Steelers Dynasty itself. Andy would learn quite a bit from Mr. Stautner; later being only one of a handful of players from the 1969 Team who would be on the Super Bowl X team via the rebuilding of Chuck Noll. While Ernie is no longer among the living, I do believe that it is long overdue he does receive the credit he so rightfully deserves.






Well..., quite the unexpected start to the countdown right?! I know, I know, having a pre Chuck Noll player to begin the countdown does seem a bit of a cop out move to some. However, context is critical here. Prior to Chuck Noll and Joe Greene, the tagline of "Same Old Steelers" was just as prominent in the 1950s as the tagline "Super Steelers" was in the 1970s. As such, greatness has to start somewhere; rock bottom included. To conclude the beginning of this countdown, a quote from the great John Thomas Ralph Augustine James Facenda;




"Champions are forged in the crucible of adversity."




Ernie sadly was never a Champion... but his impact and legacy did pave the way so that others could be. No doubt others were better than he was in the Black 'n' Gold soon after the fact the same. That said, he was the first player cut from a different cloth; a cloth that the Steelers have had little trouble finding since.




This will conclude the 10th greatest Steeler of all time everyone!! Now, before we leave for today, I initially wanted to include players who just missed the cut per number. However, as we continue the countdown... you will see as to why I did not. For that matter, do not expect those who missed the cut to be showcased until we hit the top 3!!! As always, thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed! Tune in next time as we continue the quest for the greatest ever Pittsburgh Steelers player.




So long everyone, stay safe and have an awesome day!!!





*** Ten days to Steelers Kickoff ***

 

Best thing that ever happened in his life was his family got the hell out of Germany or his teenage years would have been a living hell.

 

For the sake of continuity everyone, the remaining nine players will reside in this thread!! No point in making ten separate threads really given the fact that the same topic will be done nine times over.



Number 9 will commence later today!! Please be on the lookout for him!!! Quite the shocker indeed!!!

 

Yet another great thread. There have been some enjoyable ones lately.

I've reread your criteria and understand it much better. Really is a great idea. When I see top 10 Steelers immediately I choose the big names, the most recognized but giving some thought to your criteria eliminates some most would expect to see.

I have a few names I think will appear and one name I am 99.9% will make the list.

Jack Lambert? Look forward to the next 9.

 

Hello everyone! Hope you all are having a good day and have stayed safe! I am back so that we can continue our countdown to Steelers Kickoff by ranking the Top 10 Steelers of All Time! Last time on the list, we kicked off the Top 10 Steelers with a Steelers player who may not have won anything but would serve as the progenitor for which all Steelers are measured; Ernie Stautner! Next up on our list though is a player who has won Super Bowls but is also the only Offensive Lineman on the list..... a statement that should not be taken too lightly. Mauling his way onto Number Nine on the list of the Top 10 Steelers of All Time.....








Michael Lewis "Iron Mike" Webster; Offensive Center (1974-1990)


*1974 to 1988 was with Pittsburgh while his final two seasons were with the Chiefs*



7 Time First Team All Pro


9 Time Pro Bowl Selection


1970s NFL All Decade Team


1980s NFL All Decade Team


NFL 75th Anniversary All Time Team


NFL 100th Anniversary All Time Team


Pittsburgh Steelers All Time Team


4 Time Super Bowl Champion


Pro Football Hall of Fame (1997)





*** Fun Fact: Mike Webster's time of transition to become the starting Center is near identical as his teacher in Ray Mansfield, almost three years total!! However, how they got there was different; Webster being a backup while Mansfield switching positions from being a Defensive Tackle to a Center! ***



Born in Tomahawk Wisconsin on a 640 Acre Potato Farm, Mike Webster's early years were one of not just learning and understanding the values of hard work but also the grit and persevere necessary to surmount such tasks. Not only would the arduous work within the fields allow him to obtain his grit and blue collar attitude naturally, it would also serve some of his trademark strength early on in his career; a known weight lifter being the other. Much like his father, William L. Webster, Mike would come to excel and take an interest in Football; something that caught his eye at an early age. Along with his interests in Wrestling, Mike would succeed well in both and, by his Junior Year in Rhinelander High School, he would be offered a Scholarship from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Spending four seasons with the Badgers, Webster would quickly prove his worth; earning the coveted "W" award in three years from 1971 to 1973. In addition, he would become a Second Team All Big Ten in 1972 but would capture First Team All Big Ten in 1973. After a successful Collegiate Career, Mike Webster would first collectively compete in the East/West Shrine Game and Senior Bowl before entering the now exalted 1974 NFL Draft, a Fifth Round Selection.



Being a Fifth Round selection might not sound all that impressive during the beginning of the Steelers Dynasty of the 70s given the immense Defensive Talent the team had at its disposal. That said, Mr. Mike would not only be up to the task but would also quickly become the anchor along the Offensive Line. His initial first week at Steelers Training Camp though was not all flying colors. Ernie "Arrowhead" Holmes and Mean Joe himself would welcome the young Webster into the harsh NFL to remind him of the differences between the College Level and the NFL one. However, after that first week, neither Joe nor Ernie could move him; a major storyline for the many foes that would face him in time. While he would begin to earn the respect of his teammates for the first two seasons, it would not be until 1976 that Mike Webster would become a fully fledged starter within the lineup. This was due in part to Ray Mansfield being the long stalwart of the Offensive Line and one of the few players that Chuck Noll would not cut shortly after Noll's arrival in 1969. Part of that was due to Mansfield's performance. Another aspect was allowing Mansfield to coach Webster up some about basics and fundamentals of playing the NFL Center position. While Webster was no doubt great, to be special, sometimes, it does take a special kind of teacher to fully unlock one's potential. That said, Webster would have some of the best teachers in the game prior to his first official start to educate him on the core principles of playing the game; principles that would permit him to play the next 150 straight after his first start in 1976. Once he started though, he would quickly establish himself as the game's best Offensive Center... and in the nick of time as well. During the latter portion of the 1970s, a defense that would become synonymous with the Steelers, the 3-4, began popping up league wide. While many NFL Offensive Centers would fall victim to this new style of Defense.... Mike Webster stood alone and atop the NFL Mountain; critical as the likes of the emerging Houston Oilers were one of the most successful teams of said Defense during the scheme's early years in the league. However, for all of his strength, another major characteristic that would personify "Iron Mike" would be his trademark sleeveless jersey. This image was often used during the brutal cold winters of Pittsburgh during the closing days of the season; displaying his immense power and strength but also resilience to the elements. Due to his weight lifting background and early upbringings, even the most oppressive winters were no match for "Iron Mike"; opposing Interior Defensive Lineman being the unlucky ones more often than not.



While power and strength are integral to an Offensive Lineman, arguably the most underrated trait of Mike was his tremendous Pre Snap Recognition, Overall Processing ability, Football IQ and Instincts; the latter being arguably the best in the Century plus of NFL Centers. Even down to an opponents initial first strike move when engaging him, Mike had the uncanny ability to instantly counteract any initial and follow up rush based moves. His capabilities were not just meant for him being stationary either. Mike Webster was among the first NFL Center's to successfully be used by pulling him from his initial spot. However, Webster was the NFL's First Center that could be called upon to be pulled for different Offensive purposes; a trait that would later be seen by fellow HOF Center Dwight Stevenson. This gave Pittsburgh's Offensive capabilities more ways to score than merely relying on both Franco Harris and the legendary "Bradshaw Bullet" while also being paramount post 1977 after the introduction of the "Mel Blount Rule". In addition, due to Mike's understanding of the game, he would even sometimes assist Terry Bradshaw to audible out of plays or change specific aspects of that play before the snap; a testament to his intelligence and instincts. Add up his 7 First Team All Pro Awards, Nine Pro Bowl Selections and him being arguably a major component in the Steelers 4 Super Bowl runs and it is not hard to see why many repute Mike Webster as the greatest Offensive Center ever to play the game.



The biggest aspects that many of us who saw or have watched him though was no doubt his incredible toughness, indominable willpower and team first mentality; all three hallmarks of what Steelers Centers should be. In fact, during his last season in the Black 'n' Gold in 1988, he would leave behind his own lessons and teachings to the next great Steelers Center in Dermontti Dawson; much like his teacher in Ray Mansfield did for him when he first began his NFL Career. Since Webster, the Steelers have only employed a grand total of six Centers; fewest in the NFL during that span. Even accounting for the likes of Ray Mansfield, seven total starting Centers for one team dating back to the AFL/NFL Merger is still the fewest in the NFL during that span. Mike would not only leave behind what it takes to be a Steeler but also what it means to be one. Mike Webster checks in at Number 9 due to a major focus that the Steelers still employ to this day; continuity. While all teams have longed for or have attempted to obtain such a seemingly simple concept, the Steelers have had an efficient yet effective method to do such; a succession plan that allows the young talents to grow into quality players. This is not just transparent for merely starters the Steelers employ either. Every Steelers player on the 53 is expected to perform above and beyond their abilities but have the necessities to do so. As such, it is only fitting that some of the best Steelers players during or since Webster's retirement were role players or Special Teamers themselves who had to learn the hardships but rewards of the NFL; take your lumps... but get back in the chase.



To conclude, some believe that success is just accidental or merely has some association of luck to it. I personally disagree as there is more to success than just mere coincidences to them. For that matter, a great quote from the legendary Soccer player Edson Arantes do Nascimento (some may know him as merely Pele) defeats the "luck based" narrative of success; something both Webster and the Steelers know all to well. His statement is as follows;



"Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do."




While he sadly is no longer among the living with us, lest we forget his contributions to not just the Steelers of the 1970s but the Steelers Organization as a whole. "Iron Mike" may have played a position rife with peril and hardships. Even so, not only came out triumphant due to his play but also would be the banner for future Steelers that would soon follow him; a team first leader with the qualities to match.





This now concludes the 9th greatest ever Steeler!! Thank you all for reading and I hope you enjoyed! The big hitters are a coming for certain if Mr. Webster here was any indication! Who will be the next one?! Stay tuned as we continue our ascension to find the greatest ever Steelers Player of all time!!




Until next time everyone, stay safe and have an awesome day!!




*** Nine days to Steelers Kickoff ***

 

Webster was on my list. Anybody born on a potato farm in a place called Tomahawk has to be a bad ass.



Still positive we'll see Lambert. Thinking of Steelers after 2000 I'm not sure but Ward and Troy (your avatar) come to mind.

 

Greetings again all! Hope you are all having a safe and fulfilling weekend! Today we continue our ascension to the Top 10 Steelers of All Time to find the greatest Steelers Player of all time. Last time on the top 10, "Iron Mike" pulled his way onto the list; showcasing that his immense tenacity, tremendous toughness and team first attuited where a major foundation upon building not just a quality Offensive Line but also a major blueprint on what a Steelers player should be. I do say the word should as our next player, while a team first one, was far more boisterous and flamboyant but not at the cost of placing his teams in jeopardy. Even accounting for his outspoken nature, this next Steeler rose to the occasion in the games that mattered most. Levitating his way onto the list at number 8;









*** Fun Fact***


*** During the 1974 Draft, the Dallas Cowboys had Lynn Swann on their board and were convinced Lynn would be there; ready to immediately snatch up Swann after Pittsburgh's pick. Had it not been for the collective efforts of Bill Nunn Sr., Dan Rooney, Dick Haley, "The Chief" himself and only five seconds left, Lynn Swann would have been a Dallas Cowboy as Chuck Noll was initially set on picking John Stallworth with that pick and not Lynn!! This event is considered by many to be the beginning of the Steelers-Cowboys Rivalry as Dallas believed they were slighted out of the opportunity; Gil Brandt being reportedly furious at the time. Furthermore, the Rivalry would not just be one of on the field but within the Front Office as well; Gil Brandt vs. Bill Nunn Sr.! ***





Lynn Curtis Swann: Wide Receiver (1974-1982)


1972 CFB National Champion

1973 Unanimous All American

First Team All Pro

2x Second Team All Pro

3x Pro Bowl Selection

4x Super Bowl Champion

Super Bowl MVP (Super Bowl X)

NFL Man of the Year

NFL 1970s All Decade Team

College Hall of Fame

Pro Football Hall of Fame






Born on March 7th in 1952, Lynn Swann's beginnings were actually a bit more subdued than one might believes. Despite being raised in the California Area at the young age of two, Lynn's place of birth actually was from small Alcoa, Tennessee. His mother Mildred was a long time Dental Assistant along with being apart of the San Mateo High School District. His father, Willie, was an Aircraft Maintenance Worker. A critical component of both trades would assist Lynn early in his career regarding the professions of his parents; finger dexterity, hand dexterity, hand-eye coordination, precision and accuracy. Lynn's athletic capabilities would receive yet another improvement though this one of his own labor through his mother in dancing; modern dancing, tap dancing and ballet. Each of these forms of artistic movement would later on become the bedrock of some of Lynn's now know famous moments in his career; stamina, flexibility, reflexes, body control and most importantly, overall balance. While ballet dancing for males during this time was not looked upon with many positive reviews, Lynn would learn early on that the skills acquired from his lessons would bring forth something far greater. In addition, his persistence and determination to improve in all areas would be critical building blocks and would lay the foundation for a very successful High School athletic career; becoming the School Record holder in the long jump as well as multiple records on the Football Team, Track Team and Basketball Team at an all Catholic Boys School known as Serra High School. His biggest accomplishment of his High School career came in the 1970 CIF California State Championship meet, besting a future Gold Medal Long Jumper in Randy Williams. After becoming a Champion at the High School level, the next natural step was College, a scholarship to USC being his alma mater.



Under the College Hall of Fame Coach John Mckay, Lynn would start all but one game in 1971 but was a solid contributor, collaring 27 Receptions for 305 yards and 2 Touchdowns. While these numbers do not sound impressive, keep in mind that John Mckay's I Formation Offense ruled supreme; Receivers not being the focal point of the Offense. Even so, Lynn Swann would quickly establish himself as one of the most electrifying players in College Football; not just as a deep threat receiver but also a Returner (sadly... Pro Football Reference does not have this information on hand for this but there have been multiple sources that refute such). Regardless, Swann was play an important role in both USC's 1972 and 1973 Rose Bowl's; winning both and being a National Champion in 1972. As extoled by John McKay of Swann, "He has speed, soft hands, and grace."



After another successful chapter of his life complete, Lynn would forgo his Senior Season to enter the 1974 NFL Draft. Pittsburgh elected to take him with the 21st Pick of that draft. Now, being the First Round pick has its share of rewards and detriments. The rewards being that said player has now forever engraved in being one of 32 other men to hear their name called on Draft Day. The detriment's now stem from that players new teammates; often wanting to remind the rookie that the NFL is different from the College Level; the tried and true "Welcome to the NFL" moment many of us are very well acquainted with by now. Lynn Swann would not have to wait long as the first day of Steelers Training Camp would prove this point home. During sometime during Training Camp, according to Steelers safety Mike Wagner, Lynn was running an in route to the middle of the field. A Steelers Defensive Back would later deliver a shot to Lynn that it caused Lynn to not only lose control of the Football but also be on the ground longer than even he thought. Thankfully though, nothing serious came of this...... for Lynn anyway. After that incident, a rule was instituted in Steelers Camp that would became known as the Lynn Swann rule. However, this rule would impact Swann's career very little as he would go for the ball.... no matter where the ball was thrown in his direction. That said though, the first Super Bowl Swann participated in was...... non memorable to say the least. Having no catches in that game only fueled Swann to make a better effort upon his next outing.... an outing that would be among the first and, to date, one of the most beloved performances in Super Bowl History in Super Bowl X. However, Swann's performance that day was not only needed but justified as then Cowboys Safety Cliff Harris stated the following;



"I am not going to intentionally hurt anyone. However, being hit must be in the back of Swann's mind."



To say Swann was looking forward to the matchup would have been an understatement. Not only would Swann's performance prove decisive in Pittsburgh's Victory over the Cowboys in Super Bowl X, it would also see to it that Lynn Swann would become the First Wide Receiver named Super Bowl MVP. Swann would later go on to win two more Super Bowl wins; further fulfilling a lifetime achievement of awards that so very few Wide Receivers of his era could. While many remember Lynn's "levitating leap" in Super Bowl X, a lot more that are closer to Pittsburgh will remember the immense toll he took against some of the biggest hitters of his era. The most notorious was George Atkinson; one of the major players of the arch enemy Raiders criminal element of the league at the time. During the 1975 AFC Championship Game, George Atkinson collared Swann; knocking him out of the ball game. Next season, George would perform the same collar move on Swann; concussing him again. Despite this, Swann would always surmount and overcome... no matter the odds; demonstrating his own style of toughness and willpower for even the biggest of hits could not keep Swann down for long. However, even with his accomplishments and, after his illustrious career in Pittsburgh was over, Swann's ultimate ticket to the Pro Football Hall of Fame would be quite the wait. Coincidentally, the biggest roadblock to Swann's induction was Peter King himself; often arguing that having three catches per contest was simply not enough of a Pro Football Hall of Fame invitation. In addition, another common argument was the lack of statistics; namely coming in the form of his All Pro nominations. Paul Zimmerman would often go up for bat for Swann... stating that quality has a quantity of its own. He would become a member of the Hall of Fame in College first in 1993 before being elected into Canton in 2001.





While Wide Receivers who would come after him and even some before him have had better careers as a whole, Lynn Swann was the first Wide Receiver in the Super Bowl Era to showcase the abilities of a game breaking Wide Receiver. No matter in which situation, Terry Bradshaw often would give Lynn the ball as Lynn was at his best during the most intense moments of the game. More importantly though, Swann showed even the likes of Chuck Noll something the same; Wide Receivers can have personalities without becoming a detriment to the team. Even by today's standards and with the increased rise of Social Media, self promotion and influencing capabilities all modern Wide Receivers now have at their fingertips, it is still possible for even some of them to place their team first while retaining their exuberant selves. However, even this was not the most critical aspect that Swann would leave behind for the Steelers; his trademark perseverance to get the job done at all costs coupled with his great toughness made Lynn Swann a model that which the Steelers still use to this day when attempting to find the next generation of Steelers pass catchers. Lynn Swann skydives in at Number 8 as he was the first charismatic Offensive Player on the team not named Terry Bradshaw. Even in a room filled with hard working, blue collar players, tensions within a game and thus, a season can derail a teams chances. Fortunately for the Steelers and Bradshaw, Lynn knew when to act in a flamboyant manner but also how to use such mannerisms to ease the tensions within the field of play. Realistically speaking, no one was more appreciative of this than the aforementioned Bradshaw.... who's early years in the NFL were not very good to say the least. Not just having a great player in Lynn but also having a great form of comic relief to ease any woes was one of the more influential reasons Terry was able to weather his early career storms to then become a Championship Caliber Quarterback. Swann was a master of controlling his own emotions; the ultimate balancing act. How fitting that those ballet lessons would have just as much of an impact from a mentality as it would his on field performance.



The best usage of controlling emotions could be summed up no better than by American Poet and Novelist Josiah Gilbert Holland;




"Calmness is the cradle of Power"





Lynn Swann definitely took quite possibly the most unorthodox path from his early years to becoming a Steelers player. That said, sometimes, what the path is or how it is constructed matters very little. How that person elects to not only navigate that path but overcome the dangers within their journey is paramount... as that difference matters.




Three down, seven remaining!! This will conclude number 8 of the Top 10 Steelers of All Time!! Thank you all for reading and I hope you enjoyed!! Next time, we will continue our ascension atop the mountain for the quest to find the greatest ever Steeler!




Until next time everyone, stay safe and have an awesome day!!





*** Eight Days to Steelers Kickoff ***

 

He was probably my favorite Steeler from the 70s, his jersey is one of two Steelers that I have.

 

Thought Swann. That is 3 before 1980. Pretty sure Lambert, Green and Blount will be on it.

 

Greetings again all! Hope you are having a great start to your day!! Today will shall continue the Top 10 Greatest Steelers of all time on our quest to find the Greatest Ever Steelers player. Last time on the list, Lynn Swann's daring and grace not only captivated the hearts and minds of Steelers faithful everywhere, it also became a major catalyst for the Steelers wins against some of their biggest foes.



Next up on our list we shall continue our ascension while continuing on with, I know, yet another Steelers Player from the 1970s. This next player was arguably the most reserved Defensive Player on the now famed "Steel Curtain". However, without his impeccable athleticism and transcendent Football IQ as well as instincts; the "Steel Curtain" might not have been nearly as successful as it would have been. Reading his keys coming in at number 7 on the list;








Jack Raphael Ham Jr.: Linebacker (1971-1982)


Consensus All American

8x Pro Bowl Selection

2x Second Team All Pro

6x First Team All Pro

NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1975)

1970s NFL All Decade Team

Pro Football Hall of Fame 50th Anniversary All Time Team

NFL 75th Anniversary All Time Team

NFL 100th Anniversary All Time Team

4x Super Bowl Champion

First Ballot Hall of Fame Induction




*** Fun Fact ***


*** Jack Ham is a legend at Penn State but this almost was not the case! Initially, East Carolina was the only school that offered Jack Ham a scholarship; only $300 or $400 dollars only in school materials which is not exactly a full ride. Had it not been for his High School friend in Steve Smear's recommendation of Ham to the Penn State coaches, Jack Ham would have been playing at East Carolina and not Penn State!!! ***





Jack Ham Jr. was born on December 23rd of 1948 in small town Johnstown Pennsylvania; nearly 67 miles to where he would embark on a legendary career. That said, being from a small town presented his own unique set of challenges; a lack of notoriety being one of them. Despite this, Jack Ham would carve out and forge his own path throughout his early years, a standout linebacker at Bishop McCort High School. Long after spending some time at Bishop McCort, Ham later would go to Massanutten Military Academy; a Prep School in Virginia as a post graduate. After earning All State Honors at Bishop McCort and attending Massanutten, Ham would then enroll at Penn State for what was to become a storied career in Happy Valley. However, due to NCAA rules at the time barring Freshman from playing, Ham would have to redshirt his 1967 season; using this time to not only get stronger but more knowledgeable in the time that he was given. However, from 1968 to 1970; few linebackers in the Country were as athletic yet instinctive as the 6'1, 220lbs Ham. His two most notable achievements during his time in addition to winning 29 games were is standout performances in the 1969 and 1970 Orange Bowl games, becoming a critical component in stopping the high scoring Kansas Jayhawks Offense at the time and being a major counter to Jayhawk and fellow NFL Hall of Famer John Riggins. After his Orange Bowl performance, Jack Ham would later head to the East/West Shrine Game where he was named the games Outstanding Defensive Player.





Now, heading into the 1971 NFL Draft and, much like his early years to get enrolled at Penn State, Jack Ham, while being considered within first round discussion... never got drafted. Both the New York Giants and then San Diego Chargers contacted him about picking him the First Round days leading up to the draft.... but said plan never materialized. Realistically speaking though, Jack Ham actually did not want to be a Steeler but not so much because of the team's history but rather where he believed he would fit; an AFL Team. That is correct; the Steelers were actually an NFL Team prior to the AFL/NFL Merger. The Steelers, along with the Browns and Colts, would later migrate to said Conference; a Conference that had not had many linebackers of Ham's skillset at the time; Outside Linebackers doubly so. In the AFL however, such players were plentiful due to the high octane and speed of the game within that conference. Jack Ham's skillset would have fit hand in glove in that arena.... an arena though that would still lead him to Pittsburgh. Given the fact that the Steelers where going to head to the AFL Conference, a fast, instinctive yet complete Outside Linebacker would be needed; Jack Ham fitting the bill. While it was not the ideal team for him, Jack Ham would quickly dispel this notion later on leading up to the 1971 NFL Preseason. His first form of redemption was his standout performance against one of the teams that were to take him in the San Diego Chargers. Jack Ham became a major force during that game after capping off a successful Training Camp. One more team though was on his mind and it would not be long for Ham to face them.



During the Preseason finale against the very same New York Giants, Jack Ham sought to showcase as to why the Giants should have selected them with their first round pick. That day, Ham picked off three passes and was a major component in the Steelers win over the Giants. After that day, Chuck Noll would entrench Jack Ham as the starter; remaining there from his Rookie Season all the way to his final game in 1982. Even as a Rookie, Jack Ham showed flashes of brilliance and was a revolution that the likes of the NFL had never seen before. Even with players like Bobby Bell and Ted "Mad Stork" Hendricks, Jack Ham was cut from a different cloth than the rest. Not just his athleticism but his pre snap processing and instincts that could match his tremendous speed were major reasons as to why Jack Ham was a critical component of the Steel Curtain Defense. Few running backs dared to rush toward Jacks side as attempting to outrun "Jackhammer" was all but impossible for most. Even Running Back legends like O.J. Simpson, Tony Dorsett, Earl Campbell and even Franco Harris himself in practice would often fall to Jack Ham's impeccable speed coupled with his sound tackling; among the best in not just his generation but among all time in the century plus history of the NFL. However, what separated Jack Ham from other Linebackers, even Jack Lambert himself, was his uncanny and unusual penchant to make plays when they were needed most; doubly so in the big games. His first moment in all actuality came on an immaculate day, an interception during the now famous 1972 AFC Divisional Game against what would become a major enemy in the Oakland Raiders. His finest moment though was the Steelers rematch against the arch rival Oakland Raiders in 1974 after losing to them not only earlier in the season but also in the 1973 AFC Divisional Round.



Shortly after the Raiders defeat of the Dolphins in a play that would go down as the "Sea of Hands", Raiders Coach John Madden was on record that the two best teams in football will bring forth great things for all to see. This comment was made during the aftermath of what Sports Illustrated called "Super Bowl VIII 1/2". However, while much of the Sports World would agree with such a notion.... the Steelers were not happy. After hearing this from coach Chuck Noll, everyone on the team, Ham included, would play their most complete game in the 1974 Season in the AFC Championship Game; Ham being a major factor in the 1974 Championship just as much as he was two seasons ago. Two interceptions and multiple tackles behind the line of scrimmage played a major role in Pittsburgh's victory over the Raiders that day; winning the game 24-13. Ham would continue his dominance in NFL Playoff Games; adding two more interceptions and three more fumble recoveries to his resume shortly before his career was over. In 1975 however, marked Jack Ham's greatest season and arguably the best season a 4-3 OLB has ever had within the centennial plus history of the game. While he would not play in the 1979 Season due to injury, he still was a major force for the Steelers during their six year run spanning four Super Bowl Victories.





Characterizing Jack Ham's play is simple; calculating yet violent. His nature though, was very much different in comparison to his running mate and fellow Hall of Fame players in Mean Joe and most notably, Jack Lambert. However, this did not mean Ham was a lesser player. If anything, Ham possessed a unique quality that, to this day, rings true for even Steelers defenders that are not of the variety; an enigmatic personality that places actions before words. This is not to say the likes of neither Lambert nor Greene could back up statements they made but Ham's personality was truly cut from a much different cloth on a Defense that was known for their sheer athletic superiority and swarming yet smash mouth mentality. In addition, even among the likes of Greene and Lambert, Jack Ham's determination and will power were much more evident in addition to his enigmatic personality; quality traits that would endear him to many Steelers fans. Furthermore, even when asked, Joe Greene himself once stated that, among all the Steelers defenders of the 70s, Jack Ham was the most important on the team due to his unusual yet tremendous capabilities. This very same statement has been echoed by many others; Chuck Noll even being asked at Jack Ham about if he made any errors. Chuck Noll stated the following;



“There’s no fooling Jack Ham. Really, how can I burn someone who did not make any mistakes?”




Said statement would be continually echoed long during and after his playing career. Maxie Baughan was another who praised Ham; fooling Ham proved useless. While Jack Ham's uncanny yet spectacular play making were of note, his reserved nature would ultimately become a template for future Steelers greats who would place their actions first before their statements. Jack Ham checks in at Number 7 due to his ability to cause immense fear yet respect of others while saying very little. Rashida Costa, an acclaimed and celebrated author, sums up the likes of "Jackhammer" perfectly;



"Words are from the lips. Actions are from the Heart."




Jack Ham's performance matched his intentions; instinctive, calculating and imposing. All without ever saying much of anything. If silence is truly golden, Jack Ham would be the status quo. It would not be until much long after Ham's playing days that yet another Steeler would become his indirect spiritual successor. While Steelers Defense has been historically known to be a ferocious, violent group that couples a swarming style with a destructive mindset, how each defender approaches this mindset can be different... just like how Ham's was when he played.




We have now revealed four Steelers Players in the Top 10! Six more remain here!! How will this list turn out? Who is next? Who are some of the omissions?! All of these questions and more will be revealed later in due time. For now though everyone, a brief farewell as this concludes the countdown for today. Thank you all for reading and I hope you enjoyed!! Tune in next time as we continue our ascension for the quest to find the greatest ever Steelers!




Until next time everyone, please stay safe and have an awesome day!!!




*** Seven Days to Steelers Kickoff ***

 

Dammit, I always overlook Ham. That is 4 now all before 80's. Good read on Ham!!

Lambert, Green and Blount will be 7 (if I'm right) other 3 I'm not so sure. Has to be someone from the Ben era.

 

Love that photo and caption!!!!! Of course he'll be in the big 10.

I'm wondering if any will come from the Ben era.

 

ASQ could make an argument for all the top ten coming from Noll's SB squad.

Ben should be on it imo as well as Hines. He'll have to squeeze Troy in there as well. Good luck AQL...

 

He Dang sure Better. LoL. How Ben could be off anyone's Top 10 Steelers list is Beyond my comprehension, or Bradshaw.

 

Hello again all!!! Hope you all are having a great Labor Day with your family and/or loved ones!! Not to worry though as just because Labor Day is here does not mean this countdown stops!!! Let us continue our count down with Number 6 on our list!! Now and, oddly enough, this next player on the list is the final player that is on the Offensive Side of the ball! Yep, you heard that right! After him, it is truly a one sided affair! However, he does remain the only Offensive Steeler on the list for one important reason; one that connoisseurs of destiny will surely enjoy. Surmounting the odds at number six on the list;












Franco Harris: Running Back (1972-1984)




*** Harris' final season was with the Seattle Seahawks ***



NFL Rookie of the Year

NFL Rushing Touchdowns Leader (1976)

NFL Man of the Year (1976)

9x Pro Bowl Selection

2x Second Team All Pro

First Team All Pro

NFL 1970s All Decade Team

4x Super Bowl Champion

Super Bowl MVP (IX)

Pittsburgh Steelers All Time Team

Pro Football Hall of Fame




*** Fun Fact ***



*** Many, if not all, Steelers fans know of the Immaculate Reception. However, the name was actually not given by the great Myron Cope but by a fan named Michael Ord! In addition, Ord had assistance with his wife by the name of Sharon Levosky! Even after the fact, the NFL would still not fully recognize the name until after the Steelers win in Super Bowl IX despite Myron Cope further coining the term on an 11 P.M. Broadcast shortly after the AFC Divisional Game concluded! ***




Franco Harris' story and rise to acclaim is well known. What is not nearly as known is Harris' early years prior to even his superb career in the Happy Valley. Born on March 7th, 1950 in Fort Dix of New Jersey, to say that Harris' upbringing was unique would be quite the understatement. Most players are often born in either rural to suburban areas; urban and even some out of the Country being uncommon but still relevant. To be born on a United States Army base was another unique set of challenges. This stems from Franco's father, Cad Harris, being stationed in Italy during World War II. There, he would meet his wife, Gina Parenti Harris, during his time there. Gina would fall in love with Cad, later becoming what is known as a "War Bride" (woman who married men in active duty during military occupation) and would eventually move to the United States and, subsequently, Fort Dix. Given the time period and, the socioeconomics of the United States during Harris' upbringing, Harris' early years were met with more tribulations and hardships than most children would endure. Despite this, Harris' father, whom already had dealt with hardships of his own, sought to it that his son was well equipped to overcome the shortcomings of the times. Such perseverance and toughness would also extend to the gridiron. The most notable of which occurred during his High School Career; playing Running Back for Rancocas Valley High School in Mt. Holly. Playing for the legendary High School Coach Bill Gordon, who was not just the NFL's First High School Coach of the Year but also High School's All Time winningest coach until 1998, Franco Harris was a standout; earning the attention of another legendary coach in Joe Paterno. After accepting a full ride scholarship to play there, he would mainly be a blocker for the College Hall of Famer Lydell Mitchell. Harris' first season was productive; ending with 115 carries for 643 yard and 10 touchdowns. His Receiving skills were also apparent as well; catching 12 passes for 189 yards. His Sophomore Season though is were his breakout would begin; leading the Lions in scoring. His Sophomore totals would be better rushing wise but his receiving took a hit; 142 carries for 675 yards and 8 touchdowns while amassing 6 catches for 66 yards. More importantly, during his first two seasons there, he would come in contact with, his current Nittany Lion and future teammate, Jack Ham. His final season, a year after Ham went for the NFL, Harris' totals were just as consistent as they were in his Sophomore Campaign but his Receiving totals were better; toting the rock for 123 carries for 684 yards and 6 touchdowns in addition to 10 catches for 97 yards and 1 touchdown. Coincidentally enough, his lone Receiving Touchdown during his final season at Penn State would be the only one of his College Career. Despite this, Franco would forgo his Senior Season and enter the 1972 NFL Draft.



Leading up to that Draft, some GM's league wide thought that Harris' style of running would be suitable for their teams and even some had ended him as a grade no better than a Second Round pick. Dan Rooney, Bill Nunn Jr and Chuck Noll all saw what the most of the NFL was not looking at; a unique specimen who had the power of big back but the agility and athleticism of a smaller back with the instincts and versatility to match. With the 13th pick of the 1972 NFL Draft, not only would the selection of Franco Harris change Steelers History. It would forever alter the course of NFL History as a whole.




Leading up to the 1972 NFL Preseason, Franco Harris' big moment came against the Atlanta Falcons. Among the first of Franco's touches was a long touchdown run. Joe Greene would later comment on the fact that the Steelers finally got a playmaking weapon that the team had long sought for on the Offensive Side of the Football. For the rest of his Rookie Season, Franco would continue his brilliance; racking up 1,055 yards on 188 carries, with a 5.6 yards per carry. He was also efficient in the passing game in catching 21 passes for 180 yards and one touchdown. Along the way though would become one of the NFL's most well known fanbases in "Franco's Italian Army". Being half Italian himself, Franco's abilities on the field were so impressive that even Frank Sinatra was apart of the now famous fanbase; his title being "Brigadier General". However, Frank Sinatra and the Italian Army were merely the tip of the iceberg for Harris' Rookie Campaign; an NFL Rookie of the Year Title also being just merely another accolade within it. As stated in the beginning of the introduction, for connoisseurs of destiny, Franco's Rookie Campaign would be one of great fortune for the future of the franchise.




On December 23rd, 1972, the Steelers would host who would be their future arch nemeses in the Oakland Raiders at Three Rivers Stadium. During this game, then starting Raiders QB Daryle Lamonica was benched in the Third Quarter in favor of Ken Stabler; one of more important players within the Steelers/Raiders Rivalry. While Roy Gerela did score the game's first points in the Third Quarter, Kenny Stabler would give the games First Touchdown in the Fourth Quarter. That said, earlier in that Quarter, after an interception by Terry Bradshaw, Kenny would fumble and would set up another Gerela Field Goal. The score was 7-6, Raiders, with 22 seconds remaining in the game. Chuck Noll had called for a play called 66 Circle Option; designed to go for Barry Pearson. However, as the play commenced, Raiders Defensive Lineman Torey Cline and Horace Jones gave pressure to Bradshaw. After eluding both, Bradshaw would fire to John "Frenchy" Fuqua. What happened next is still considered by many to be the greatest play in North American Sports History. After bouncing off both Fuqua and Safety Jack Tatum, all seemed lost. However, earlier in the play, Franco Harris was initially supposed to block a would be Interior Linebacker. After identifying no Linebacker was blitzing, Harris elected to run down the field to give Terry another receiving option. However, just as the ball left Bradshaw's hands, Harris was in the general net direction of John Fuqua. After the collision, Franco caught the football just before the ball hit the ground and raced across the left sideline, beating then Raiders Defensive Back Jimmy Warren via a Stiff Arm and setting up the game winning touchdown; sparking the not just the Steelers Dynasty of the 70s but a winning tradition that has shown no signs of slowing down. This play would later go down as the Immaculate Reception.



Despite missing the playoffs in 1973, Franco Harris was the engine of the Steelers Offensive Success and would continue to remain so for the rest of the decade. That said, the Steelers realized that even their engine could use some upgrades, so to speak. As such, the Steelers sought to not only give Franco some much needed assistance on the ground but also lay the foundation for the Offense's evolution for the future. In 1974, the Steelers would go on to draft four Hall of Fame players; Lynn Swann, Jack Lambert, John Stallworth and Mike Webster. A fifth Hall of Famer from this class would be added in Donnie Shell though he was an UDFA out of South Carolina State. Be that as it may, Franco Harris would greatly benefit from the likes of Swann, Stallworth and Webster; all three being great contributions to the team. However, it was in the 1974 Season that cemented Franco Harris as the premier Running Back of his era; notching 1006 yards on 208 attempts for 5 touchdowns while racking up 23 catches for 200 yards and one touchdown. However, his 1974 Playoff Run is still considered one of the best performances by a Running Back to this day; averaging 114.3 yards in those three games and racking up six total touchdowns while having a 3.9 per carry average. Harris though saved his best performance for last in 1974; winning Super Bowl MVP along with the Super Bowl for the Steelers; a team who at the time, had never won a Championship. No longer was the tagline "Same Old Steelers" applied anymore. A new tagline "Super Steelers" would ring true for the rest of the decade.



While Franco Harris' stats in the Regular Season were great, Harris' ability to transform into the One Man Army in the Playoffs are what set him apart among other Running Backs in not just his era but in the 100 Year History of the NFL. Harris' 1556 Yards and 16 Rushing Touchdowns were, at the time of his retirement, the most ever by an NFL Running Back in the postseason. Franco however still holds the record for most attempts by a Running Back with 400; a record that will likely never be broken. Be that as it may, one of Franco's greatest assets was his calculating Running Style; a form of movement that was revolutionary at the time. Even great Running Backs like the great Jim Brown were left unimpressed by it as such a style was considered weak and cowardly. What is often in mistranslation however is the amount of toughness and willpower associated with the position itself that goes along with said style. A bruising style of running was often favored and celebrated by many teams, teammates and fanbases of the day... and still is. That said, such contact does yield one massive penalty; time. The more contact a Running Back receives, the shorter the career he has; all the more reason why Franco's style of running prevailed over the likes of Earl Campbell or even John Riggins in the end. To date, among all Running Backs in the centennial plus history of the NFL, no other Running Back has more Super Bowl wins under their belt with the same team as Franco. Being in the playoffs along is a different ball game and, therefore, presents a different mindset. While Franco did not have the classic toughness attitude that most Steelers players of the time exuberated, his ability to chip away and demoralize opposing defenses earned him a fear factor throughout the decade as Franco's running abilities often tired out defenses far more than they initially had planned for. However, this alone is not why Franco Harris sits at number 6 on the list.



Now, at the time of his retirement, Franco Harris was the third leading rusher of all time in every major statistical category; rushing yards, rushing attempts, yards per carry and touchdowns. However and again, that alone would not be enough to justify why Franco Harris is on the list at number 6. Franco Harris is at number 6 due to his importance and impact for an Offense, even featuring Terry Bradshaw, still heavily relied on the tremendous power that Franco Harris provided during the 70s run. For context, after Terry Bradshaw was lost in Week 5 to a sack by Cleveland Browns player Jon "Turkey" Jones; Franco Harris would not only post the best overall rushing season of his career, he and Rocky Bleier would be the last Rushing Duo to combine for 2000 Yards Rushing; 1128 of those to Franco. The best example of Franco's value to the team came in 1978 after the "Mel Blount" rule was instituted. While Terry Bradshaw would post the best season of his career, Franco still posted the second best playoff performance of his career that season. Furthermore, Franco was also responsible for putting away Dallas for good with a 22 touchdown run after Cowboys Linebacker Thomas "Hollywood" Henderson confronted Harris after a whistle blown the previous play dead. Franco would also be important again in Super Bowl XIV after Jack Lambert's interception of Vince Ferragamo. After two missed opportunities, Harris put Super Bowl XIV away for good. Extoled by Mean Joe himself during America's Game: The 1974 Pittsburgh Steelers;



"We had some people together when Franco came.... but we didn't win anything. Didn't win any Super Bowl's before Franco and certainly didn't win any after him."





Most of all though, Franco's story is not one about a man who had clutch runs, could endure the most wicked of punishments, utilize unique methods or even a storied moment in Sports History. For that matter, Franco Harris to the Steelers is not just a Hall of Fame Running Back by neither accomplishment nor impact. He is an ideal; one of which that still rings true to all future Steelers players to this day. Franco Harris was not just merely an inspiration for a Franchise who had not won anything up to that point but was also the beacon of hope turned long standing prosperity that not just the Rooney's but Southwestern Pennsylvania as a whole has enjoyed since December 23, 1972. While most players on that 70s Steelers Squad were out to break any and all limits, Franco's story is one of a man who shouldered the immense weight of expectations while soldering on through the hardships of the NFL's most short lived position in an era where might made right; a fighter and a survivor. Winning was no doubt important to Franco but his unique characteristic to overcome the tremendous obstacles to achieve those wins is what set him apart from any other Steelers Offensive player before or since; position being irrelevant. Such a trait is often coined as "finding a way". I personally call Franco's story of ambition and persistence. Former United States Gold Medalist Bill Bradley, to me, has the best way of coining the aforementioned term;



"Ambition is the path to success. Persistence is the vehicle you arrive in."




Franco's career sadly did not end with the Steelers. Even so, much like "Iron Mike" soon after his retirement, that does not diminish his legacy with the team. Even as the league still evolved to counter the Steelers, Franco was still the heart and soul of the Offense despite relinquishing some of that to the passing game. I also echo Mean Joe's statements but in a different manner; in two questions. They are as follows;



1.) While the Steelers would likely have won Super Bowls, how many would they have won without Franco?


2.) For that matter, would the Steelers even be the same Franchise today had the team not selected Franco in 1972?




Questions that, on surface value, do seem simple to conclude. In truth?! Much more difficult to answer.








That now marks five players down everyone!! Five remaining!! We have officially arrived at the halfway point so look for some serious heavy hitters coming up soon! Not only that, prepare for even more shocks as the list continues!! As such though, all good things must come to an end; today's player concluding our countdown! Worry not though as we will continue our ascension next time and I hope you join me as we continue!! Thank you all for reading and I hope you enjoy!



Until next time everyone, stay safe and have an awesome day!! Happy holidays to all as well!! Take care and I will see you again next time!!!




*** Six Days to Steelers Kickoff ***

 

Troy
Mean Joe
Lambert
Blount

These I'm almost certain are coming.

Troy for the win (#1) is my bet.

 

Did not think Harris. Another great read!!!

That is 5 And I'm pretty sure of 4, Greene, Lambert, Blount and Troy.

Bradshaw or Ben??????????????????

 

Think defense.

 

that write up is out of bounds.

 

My prediction for the final 5 is:
5. Bradshaw
4. Troy
3. Blount
2. Lambert
1. Greene

 

Reminder everyone!


After Franco Harris, no more Offensive players!!! Franco was it!!! The last one!!!



Thank you for your cooperation!!!

 

troy
troy
troy
troy
oh and troy.