Hall of Fame : class of 2005

[Darkiller]

Ok, this is it.
Tomorow will be announced the 2005 class of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
You certainly know the 15 finalists.
Four 1st-year eligible players are among them : Dan Marino, Steve Young, Derrick Thomas and Michael Irvin.

It is a big thing for me obviously, something I've been awaiting for, for many many years. I'm a Steve Young fanatic and can't even sleep right now as I await decision time. All signs (press articles from around the NFL) point to him being elected on the first ballot tomorow but still, I can't help but fear the upset.

So, can you predict the 2005 Hall of Fame class ?
Here is my guess :

- Dan Marino
- Steve Young
- Art Monk
- Michael Irvin
- Roger Werhli

(I have a feeling they want to induct Irvin and if they do so, they can't -once again- pass on Art Monk so my guess is they'll both be voted in).

[Darkiller]

I can't believe no one seems to care about that....

[Axxon]

I don't think Art gets in but maybe his brother Chip will.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I haven't done any research on this topic, but I would be very surprised if Michael Irvin gets in, at least on his first ballot.

[Ragone]

I think they'll put in Derrick Thomas first ballot.. but thats just a hunch

[miami_fan]

I will type fast before they make the announcement. I don't think Irvin gets in. Here is my thoughts

Definitely IN

Marino
S. Young
Thomas
G. Young

Maybe

Monk

[miami_fan]

And the inductees are:

Benny Friedman
Dan Marino
Fritz Pollard
Steve Young

[rkmsuf]

I pity them having to go in with that a-hole Marino.

[Tekneek]

I pity them having to go in with that a-hole Marino.

You may be the only one.

[rkmsuf]

You may be the only one.

That's ok. I'll pick up the slack for the rest of you.

[rkmsuf]

I know, I know. No shots at the great Dan Marino lest the Dolphin faithful get their panties in a bundle.

[miami_fan]

I pity them having to go in with that a-hole Marino.
:rolleyes:

[Tekneek]

I know, I know. No shots at the great Dan Marino lest the Dolphin faithful get their panties in a bundle.

It would go well beyond that, fortunately. You never revealed why you have a personal hatred for Dan Marino. Is this a scar from your childhood?

[Draft Dodger]

I think Dan Marino is an asshole. He's also a bonafide Hall of Famer.

[rkmsuf]

It would go well beyond that, fortunately. You never revealed why you have a personal hatred for Dan Marino. Is this a scar from your childhood?

Never liked the guy. His whole act on the field was weak to me. Never ever did the guy ever throw a bad pass. It was always on target and the receiver did something wrong.

I swear some of those receivers must have wanted to shove a trout down his throat.

I thought he was a very selfish player and deserves much of the blame for this team's failures.

Great passer yes but in my mind a lousy teammate and one who this day is way over the top full of himself.

I'm sure he's an upstanding citizen and I'll hear about all the great charity work he has done but for my money he is and always will be overrated in terms of the whole package a QB brings.

I will now bend over and await the expected floggings from Marino lovers.


Oh, and I bought a pair of Isotoners once and the things ripped the second time I wore them.

[Tekneek]

I think Dan Marino is an asshole.

If he's an asshole, guys like Michael Irvin, Troy Aikman, Shannon Sharpe, just to name a few, are something far worse.

[Draft Dodger]

If he's an asshole, guys like Michael Irvin, Troy Aikman, Shannon Sharpe, just to name a few, are something far worse.

well, I don't understand how Aikman gets in there, but hell yes, Sharpe and Irvin are both asshats.

[Tekneek]

Never liked the guy. His whole act on the field was weak to me. Never ever did the guy ever throw a bad pass. It was always on target and the receiver did something wrong.

How many games did you see? I wouldn't say that every incomplete pass was blamed on a receiver, because it simply is an exaggeration. He did this more often when the receivers were young, or inexperienced, and I bet he was usually right. Wouldn't he know more about what they were supposed to do then you?

I swear some of those receivers must have wanted to shove a trout down his throat.

This is a strange thing to swear about, and something I find difficult to believe. However, you seem pretty sure of it...so maybe...

I thought he was a very selfish player and deserves much of the blame for this team's failures.

Many people have different opinions of players like this. He deserves the blame for the defense? He deserves blame for the lack of a running game? Yes, that is quite logical. You must be right.

Great passer yes but in my mind a lousy teammate and one who this day is way over the top full of himself.

Please find me some quotes. I would love to find that evidence that you have seen. I can't recall reading anything like that. Most players who played with or against him have said quite the opposite.

I'm sure he's an upstanding citizen and I'll hear about all the great charity work he has done but for my money he is and always will be overrated in terms of the whole package a QB brings.

Overrated? I urge you to provide an analysis of his entire career and explain what was lacking. If it is compelling, you might convince me.

Oh, and I bought a pair of Isotoners once and the things ripped the second time I wore them.

Yeah, and I tried Sirius Radio once and had problems with the hardware. Beyond that, the service did not convince me it was worth paying monthly for, even if it was Tom Brady's new favorite receiver.

[oykib]

What's up with the Hall and George Young?

If he's not a HoF executive, then nobody is.

[miami_fan]

If he's an asshole, guys like Michael Irvin, Troy Aikman, Shannon Sharpe, just to name a few, are something far worse.

I was thinking about how the "asshole" factor is going to affect future inductions. This is one of the reasons I thought Irvin would not make it in on the first ballot. I was shocked that he even made to the final six. The prevailing thought today IMO is that the majority of the future HOF canidates are "un-saint-like" at best, assholes at worst. I wonder how much thought the voters will put into likeability when electing future canidates.

[miami_fan]

What's up with the Hall and George Young?

If he's not a HoF executive, then nobody is.

This, to me, still the biggest upset of the Hall this year.

[rkmsuf]

How many games did you see? I wouldn't say that every incomplete pass was blamed on a receiver, because it simply is an exaggeration. He did this more often when the receivers were young, or inexperienced, and I bet he was usually right. Wouldn't he know more about what they were supposed to do then you?



This is a strange thing to swear about, and something I find difficult to believe. However, you seem pretty sure of it...so maybe...



Many people have different opinions of players like this. He deserves the blame for the defense? He deserves blame for the lack of a running game? Yes, that is quite logical. You must be right.



Please find me some quotes. I would love to find that evidence that you have seen. I can't recall reading anything like that. Most players who played with or against him have said quite the opposite.



Overrated? I urge you to provide an analysis of his entire career and explain what was lacking. If it is compelling, you might convince me.



Yeah, and I tried Sirius Radio once and had problems with the hardware. Beyond that, the service did not convince me it was worth paying monthly for, even if it was Tom Brady's new favorite receiver.

Oh if I could "prove" any of my opinions I would.

Personally I believe it's a fallacy that during his entire career the Dolphins were incapable of coming up with a running game. Was it necessary to throw something like 600 times every year? I guess.

I've seen many a game where the guy looks like a jackass out there with his pointing and yelling at guys. Maybe I caught all the bad moments. Dunno.


I can only go on what I've personally read and heard from the guy during and after his career. Opinions will differ I'm sure and obviously I wasn't the clubhouse attendant during the time.

Obviously he's a hall of famer. I don't debate that. I just don't feel he was as great as Dan or all of his ball washers would tell you.

Take it easy. It's not necessary to disect every word like you are in biology class.

[Tekneek]

Was it necessary to throw something like 600 times every year? I guess.

You think those were all audibles then? Half of them? How many were called by him and how many by the coaches?

Marino said that Shula (and others, later on) called every play. He had the freedom to audible, but he was not calling the original play.

[rkmsuf]

You think those were all audibles then? Half of them? How many were called by him and how many by the coaches?

Marino said that Shula (and others, later on) called every play. He had the freedom to audible, but he was not calling the original play.

No idea. Nobody will know percent of called plays and audibles.

My hypothesis is that if Dan didn't get the ball enough he'd be an unhappy camper. Fits with my perceived profile of the guy.

I find it strange the team never attempted to strive for balance. Particularly with a bad defense.

[Tekneek]

I find it strange the team never attempted to strive for balance. Particularly with a bad defense.

I watched the SportsCentury on Don Shula the other day. He said something to the effect of regretting that he was never able to put together a running game to compliment Dan Marino's passing ability. If he admits he failed to do it, is it fair to blame Dan for it? We know that JJ failed to find that runningback, because he tried to bring in a new one just about every year he was there. What happened to the guys that JJ cut? They didn't find success anywhere else in the NFL.

I think they wanted that balance, but failed. The failure is only obvious because Dan stood out. If he had been an average QB, the offense would have just been very bad, like the teams who have no passing OR running game. Despite throwing so much, and everyone seeming to know he would be throwing, they only had one losing season during his tenure.

[rkmsuf]

I watched the SportsCentury on Don Shula the other day. He said something to the effect of regretting that he was never able to put together a running game to compliment Dan Marino's passing ability. If he admits he failed to do it, is it fair to blame Dan for it? We know that JJ failed to find that runningback, because he tried to bring in a new one just about every year he was there. What happened to the guys that JJ cut? They didn't find success anywhere else in the NFL.

I think they wanted that balance, but failed. The failure is only obvious because Dan stood out. If he had been an average QB, the offense would have just been very bad, like the teams who have no passing OR running game. Despite throwing so much, and everyone seeming to know he would be throwing, they only had one losing season during his tenure.

My guess is that Shula and Johnson are not dummies when it comes to football. Had they set their mind on a running game, they could have come up with a running game. Remember, there was no cap back then. I believe there was significant pressure to "give the fans what they came for" and a "don't f-ck with Marino" sentiment after his phenominal start to his career.

I can understand that but I don't believe for a second Dan was in there pleading to Shula or Johnson to get him help out there and go get an every down back. I honestly think he preferred to be the man whether they were equipped to win in the playoffs or not.

Of course this is just an opinion and I can offer no facts to support this other than my personal observations from miles away.

[Vinatieri for Prez]

I haven't even read the posts here; and I hate the Dolphins, and don't particularly like Marino; but the guy is clearly a first ballot hall of famer, and one of the best QBs to play the game (top 10). Anybody who wonders differrently is lacking somewhat in football knowledge. Sorry.

[Tekneek]

My guess is that Shula and Johnson are not dummies when it comes to football. Had they set their mind on a running game, they could have come up with a running game.

JJ had a revolving door, despite drafting RBs each year. They didn't land a solid RB until Ricky Williams came to town, and even that blew up.

[j51]

They oughtta just stick a sign on the door "No Cowboys allowed".

[Honolulu_Blue]

I'm with RK Smurf. I hate Dan Marino. Mainly for the reasons already debated here. Did he have a great career? Yeah. Great stats? Sure. He always seemed like a bitch. A whiny bitch who was quick to point the finger at everyone else whenever shit started going wrong, which it invetibly would.

Never liked Marino.

[gkb]

Just a quick Marino story. I had a friend in high school who got into a motorcycle accident. His brakes locked up while he was riding down a mountain (we live in Colorado) and he was thrown from the bike. He ended up in a coma for a long time. He was a huge Marino fan so his parents wrote to Dan (this was back in 1987 or 1988) and told him the story. Dan sent a signed jersey and also a casette tape that he recorded for him. The tape just told my friend to hang in there, don't stop fighting, wake up, etc etc etc. I thought it was a very nice thing of him to do...and my friend eventually did come out of his coma.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Oh yeah. There was some special on the NFL Network today called "Dan Marino: Heart of a Champion."

First of all, I've been calling Tom Brady "Heart of a Champion" since the Pats play-off run in 2001. Second, how the hell does Marino have the heart of a champion? What did he ever win?

[Leonidas]

I'm really glad to see some of the old timers get their long over-due. However Roger Wehrli really belongs. 5-time 1st Team All Pro, 40 career picks when QBs hardly ever threw to his side. Imagine Deion, only this guy was a good tackler too. From 1970-1975 he was probably the best coverman in the NFL.

And I'm starting to think Art Monk's window is just about closed. His greatest argument is his amazing career stats, but we are starting to see a bunch of guys pass those numbers. They are no longer as unique as they once were.

[Tekneek]

What did he ever win?

Oh! It's not a team game. That is news to me.

He did lead Pitt to a national title, whatever that is worth to you.

[j51]

I'm with RK Smurf. I hate Dan Marino. Mainly for the reasons already debated here. Did he have a great career? Yeah. Great stats? Sure. He always seemed like a bitch. A whiny bitch who was quick to point the finger at everyone else whenever shit started going wrong, which it invetibly would.
http://images.nfl.com/photos/img6944856.jpg

[korme]

Dude, how the fuck does Derrick Thomas not go in first ballot? That is a disgrace, fabulous LB career cut short due to death and they can't respect that man's legacy on KC?

Fuck you Hall of Fame. Fuck you.

[cthomer5000]

Thomas probably won't make the HOF, and I'm fine with that. He was very good, but not good enough, IMHO.

[Tekneek]

Thomas probably won't make the HOF, and I'm fine with that. He was very good, but not good enough, IMHO.

His career numbers have to be stacked up against the career numbers of everyone else. You can't change the standards because of his untimely death. That may be what ultimately keeps him out. A lot of very good players don't make it in, and a lot never make it as far in the balloting as he did this year.

[Riggins44]

As I figured, Marino and Young made it because they are still fresh in the voters mind. I suspect Monk won't make it for quite sometime. It's a popularity contest and he's not popular.

[Tekneek]

As I figured, Marino and Young made it because they are still fresh in the voters mind. I suspect Monk won't make it for quite sometime. It's a popularity contest and he's not popular.

I wouldn't bet money on him ever making it in.

[Darkiller]

JUST : AWESOME.
I was in tears listening to the verdict.

Congratulations to Steve Young, the greatest QB ever to play.

I've been waiting for this day for 15 years and now it comes.
Steve Young is a 1st ballot Hall of Famer !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

fantastic.

I'm overwhelmed right now. I could't ask for more.

[rkmsuf]

Now Ray Finkle, him I'm a big fan of.

[Pumpy Tudors]

JUST : AWESOME.
I was in tears listening to the verdict.

Congratulations to John Elway, the greatest QB ever to play.

I've been waiting for this day for 20 years and now it comes.
John Elway is a 1st ballot Hall of Famer !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

fantastic.

I'm overwhelmed right now. I could't ask for more.
Rewind to last year. Fixed that for ya.

[RendeR]

Rewind to last year. Fixed that for ya.


Ditto


young was a damned good QB, I won't argue that, but he's far FAR from the best ever.

[fantastic flying froggies]

Damn, now you guys have gone and burst DK's bubble...

He genuinely believes Young is the best QB ever...Let him dream on...

[Honolulu_Blue]

Oh! It's not a team game. That is news to me.

He did lead Pitt to a national title, whatever that is worth to you.
Ahh... Maybe it was about his college years then. I didn't stick around to watch it. A Pitt national title? It's not worth much to me at all really. Good for Pitt though.

Also when I said "he", it's typically meant to infer "what did a team for which he played quarter back for ever win." I didn't think I had to be that literal though. Few people are.

[Honolulu_Blue]

http://images.nfl.com/photos/img6944856.jpg
Yes. Manning is the Marino of this generation...

[Honolulu_Blue]

Ditto


young was a damned good QB, I won't argue that, but he's far FAR from the best ever.
Hell, he's not even the best QB ever to play for the 49ers.

[RendeR]

Hell, he's not even the best QB ever to play for the 49ers.


True True, Blue

[korme]

Damn, now you guys have gone and burst DK's bubble...

He genuinely believes Young is the best QB ever...Let him dream on...
Dude, it's his favorite player. Let it go people, god damn.

[miami_fan]

Yes. Manning is the Marino of this generation...

Does that mean Manning is a asshole too?

[korme]

Vanderjagt covers that part for him.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Does that mean Manning is a asshole too?
I never called Dan Marino an asshole. I've never met the man, so I can't really make that determination. But from what I recall from watching him on the field, he was a whiny bitch who pointed fingers at everyone else whenever things went wrong. Manning does the same thing. So, what it means, is that Manning is a whiny bitch too.

[cthomer5000]

I've never seen Peyton Manning point fingers. I'm fascinated how everyone else appears to see this constantly.

[miami_fan]

Interesting perspective from Dr. Z.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/writers/dr_z/02/05/hof.qa/index.html?cnn=yes

Longtime Hall of Famer voter Paul Zimmerman spoke with SI.com shortly after the official panel of sports writers and broadcasters met in Jacksonville on Saturday to choose this year's class. Dan Marino, Steve Young, Friz Pollard and Bennie Friedman were elected.

SI.COM: What was the biggest surprise of the day?

Dr. Z: Personally the biggest shock was that Harry Carson made it to the final six, along with Michael Irvin, and they both got dinged. At that last stage, it's a simple yes/no vote, and if eight people vote against someone, they don't make it. I can understand Irvin, with his outspoken personality and colorful past. But Harry doesn't have a blemish on him. I imagine being from New York might have cost Carson at least a couple of votes because of an anti-New York bias in the room.

SI.COM: Did Harry Carson's request to not be considered for the Hall any more affect his chances?

Dr. Z: The Hall officials kept telling the voters not to consider that. But by repeatedly mentioning the situation, it just reminded voters of what Carson said and I think hurt his chances.

SI.COM: Who did you speak for?

Dr. Z: I spoke for Harry. As did my SI cohort Peter King. And I spoke for [former Dolphin] Bob Kuechenberg, who had made it to the last vote in the past, but not this year.

SI.COM: Who else did Peter King speak for?

Dr. Z: Russ Grimm, Carson, Steve Young ... the two security guards outside. Just about everybody. Peter was in a frenzy.

SI.COM: Did anyone else get a chance to speak?

Dr. Z: Yes, two guys. But Peter shouted them down quickly.

SI.COM: What happened to Derrick Thomas?

Dr. Z: The person who spoke for Thomas highlighted the incredible pass rushing skills, but made the mistake of mentioning that "some question his skills as an all-around linebacker." Once that was in voter's mind, it killed Thomas' chances.

SI.COM: How about Art Monk?

Dr. Z: Monk was hurt by Michael Irvin being eligible this year. It's done alphabetically, and Irvin was presented before Monk. I think that really hurt him.

SI.COM: Was anyone else close to making the final round?

Dr. Z: You had four locks for six spots in the final round. Dan Marino, Steve Young and the two old timers. And of the remaining guys, Irvin and Carson were going to be tough to top.


I hate New York teams as much as anyone (Boston teams are getting there as well!) but why would there be an anti-New York bias in football?

[Vinatieri for Prez]

If this is really how the hall of fame is decided, what a joke.

[oykib]

If this is really how the hall of fame is decided, what a joke.

That's true for every Hall except golf. They're poularity contests where none of the voters is held accountalbe.

Some of these guys shouldn't have votes after how they've voted in the past.

Take the Baseball Hall, Ted Williams was not a unanimous selecton. Whoever didn't vote for him should have had his voting rights stripped. A no vote for him indicates either that you lack understanding of baseball or you lack integrity. Those are two qualities that one would think were essential to a voter.

It's no different in football. The fact that Ray Guy isn't in is basically saying that no punter is ever gonna make it in going forward. If that's the case, then why are they even on the ballot?

[Buccaneer]

If this is really how the hall of fame is decided, what a joke.
Not to mention the near successful attempt at getting every single 1970s Steelers into the Hall.

Regarding Young and DK, it is one thing to have him as your favorite player of all time but man, you got to have a little perspective. Someone asked Lennon if Ringo was the best drummer in the world; he repliled that he wasn't even the best drummer in the band! Same thing with Young and Montana. Here's a little perspective. TGwynn is one of my two favorite bball players of all time. Do I think he's the best hitter or best RF of all time? No, of course not. But that does not in any way diminish my love and respect for him as a player and as a person.

[Klinglerware]

I'm really glad to see some of the old timers get their long over-due.

Yeah, it's amazing that it took this long for Pollard to get in...

hxxp://brownbears.collegesports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/020505aaa.html

FREDERICK DOUGLASS "Fritz" POLLARD

Historical Summary *

Born in 1894- Rogers Park (Chicago Suburb) - one of eight children - Lane Technical High School (1912) 3-year All Cook County halfback, 3 years on track and baseball teams.

BROWN UNIVERSITY 1915 Season - as a freshman, led Brown to the Rose Bowl vs. Washington State - First African American to play in Rose Bowl (1916).

1916 Season - led Brown to 8-1 record with 12 touchdowns; gained 144 yards rushing, 74 on kickoff returns, and 76 on punt returns vs. Yale (1 TD); gained 148 yards rushing, 44 on punt returns, and 51 as a pass receiver in Brown's first victory over Harvard (2 TD's).

- Brown was first college to defeat Yale and Harvard in the same season.

- Named to Walter Camp's All-American first team, the first African American on Camp's backfield.

- Later (1930's) named to Grantland Rice's "Dream Team."

- Set world record in low hurdles on Brown track team, qualified for -Olympic team.

COACHING AND PROFESSIONAL CAREER

1919-20 - Coached at Lincoln University, a black college near Philadelphia, while in the military.

1919-26 - Played professionally for the Akron Indians - Akron became part of the American Professional Football Association in 1920.

- Akron won the first professional football championship in 1920 (unbeaten).

- Pollard was one of the first three African American players in early pro football; Pollard and Jim Thorpe were the major gate attractions.

- Player/coach at Akron - opened up the game with some of the formations used at Brown under E. N. Robinson '96.

- First African American head coach in NFL - Hammond Pros (Indiana).

- First African American quarterback in NFL - 1923.

- Recruited prominent black players for APFA and NFL.

- Organized first inter-racial all-star game in Chicago, to showcase African American players; Pollard pressed for integrated competition in professional football (1922).

- First African American to play in Pennsylvania Coal League.

- Hired as a gate attraction for the Providence Steamrollers-Chicago Bears exhibition game at Braves Field, Boston in December 1925 - Pollard vs. Red Grange.

- Organized All-Star African American team (Chicago Black Hawks) to promote inter-racial football - Pollard hired aspiring young players and NFL veterans.

- Coach all-black team in New York (Brown Bombers) from 1935-1938, again showcasing black athletes.

BUSINESS VENTURES - Founded first black investment firm in New York City.

- Established first weekly black tabloid (N.Y. Independent News).

- Managed Suntan Movie Studio in Harlem.

- Founded coal delivery companies in Chicago and New York.

- As a theatrical agent, Pollard booked black talent in white clubs in New York.

- Tax consultant.

OTHER HONORS

- Elected to National Football Hall of Fame (1954), first African-American elected.

- Elected to R.I. Heritage Hall of Fame (1967).

- Elected to Brown Athletic Hall of Fame (1971) (Inaugural year).

- Elected to National Black Hall of Fame (1973).

- Selected to Brown's 125th Anniversary All-Time Team (2003).

Fritz Pollard died in 1986 at the age of 92.

[Kodos]

Congrats to Dan Marino, Steve Young, and the other inductees. Glad to see Dan make it in on the first ballot. My favorite player of all time by far. :)

[Huckleberry]

Hell, he's not even the best QB ever to play for the 49ers.
Yes he is.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Yes he is.
:eek:

[Huckleberry]

:eek:
You seem angry and intolerant.

[Honolulu_Blue]

You seem angry and intolerant.
What? Me? Come on!

This is surprise: :eek:

This is angry and intolerant: :mad:

I've always thought that the other San Fran QB was considered the best of all time. What's his name... The guy named after that state in the middle.

[NoMyths]

I've always thought that the other San Fran QB was considered the best of all time. What's his name... The guy named after that state in the middle.Indiana Jones?

[RendeR]

Yes he is.



You are wrong.

[Darkiller]

Damn, now you guys have gone and burst DK's bubble...

He genuinely believes Young is the best QB ever...Let him dream on...
Not only do I belive he is the best ever, but I can defend and back that up with quotes from all-time great players & coaches along with some stats, obviously essential in the game of football, that shows one can argue he is the best.
Not mentionning the fact that he brilliantly won the Superbowl, was SB MVP and a two-time NFL MVP, 6 NFL Passing titles, 7 straight Pro Bowls etc. etc...

[Darkiller]

dola, 229 football players in the Hall of Fame and only 53 of them went on the first ballot. Among those 53 1st-ballot inductees, how many QBs ? obviously not alot.

And now Steve Young is one of those few (very few) 1st-ballot Hall of Fame Quarterbacks.

That means one thing : you can say what you want but it CAN be argued that Young is the best ever. I'll stand by that.

"He is the best athlete to ever play the position and the most exciting football player of his decade" - Hall of Fame coach Bill Walsh.

[ISiddiqui]

You'll note that Walsh said 'best athlete to play the position', NOT 'best QB' ;). He'd probably reserve that title for that Montana guy ;).

[Honolulu_Blue]

You'll note that Walsh said 'best athlete to play the position', NOT 'best QB' ;). He'd probably reserve that title for that Montana guy ;).
That's it! Montana! Thanks, 'Squids...

[clintl]

As a 49er fan who watched both QBs on a weekly basis throughout their careers, I think Montana was the better QB, and Young the better athlete. They were both great QBs, but Montana's decision-making ability was superior to Young's. Young's strong arm and speed enabled him to make plays Montana couldn't make, but he also made more mistakes.

[Bad-example]

As a 49er fan who watched both QBs on a weekly basis throughout their careers, I think Montana was the better QB, and Young the better athlete. They were both great QBs, but Montana's decision-making ability was superior to Young's. Young's strong arm and speed enabled him to make plays Montana couldn't make, but he also made more mistakes.

Yep.

[Crapshoot]

Not only do I belive he is the best ever, but I can defend and back that up with quotes from all-time great players & coaches along with some stats, obviously essential in the game of football, that shows one can argue he is the best.
Not mentionning the fact that he brilliantly won the Superbowl, was SB MVP and a two-time NFL MVP, 6 NFL Passing titles, 7 straight Pro Bowls etc. etc...

Yeah, I agree. I think Young was better, but you and I are minorities among the 49ers fans.

[Darkiller]

Well no big deal : at least we can proudly say we have had back-to-back Hall of Fame QBs !!! and we are the only franchise to have that ! Montana and Young are two legends and they played for the same team. That's awesome.

[rkmsuf]

Marino is still overrated.