Getting Floyd Little Into the Hall of Fame [Archive]

studbucket

08-10-2009, 03:57 PM

I've been working with a few other guys from MHR on something we've dubbed "The Denver Broncos Hall of Fame Committee" and our goal is to ensure exposure and recognition for all of the 'snubs' that the Broncos have. To learn more about what we're doing to get Broncos into the hall, check out this article (http://www.milehighreport.com/2009/5/14/874599/the-denver-broncos-hall-of-fame).

This year, one chose one 'Seniors' candidate and one 'Standard' candidate to promote, with Floyd Little and Shannon Sharpe being those two guys. With the Seniors Committee meeting on August 25 to decide the final 2 candidates, we wanted to make sure that everyone in Broncos Country let them and the media know how much Floyd means to us.

Today we posted an update (http://www.milehighreport.com/2009/8/10/979051/the-mhr-denver-broncos-hall-of) on our progress with Floyd Little, but we also posted a "call to arms".

It would be great if all of you guys could read that article (http://www.milehighreport.com/2009/8/10/984289/help-floyd-little-get-in-the-hof) and contact the 9 voters we mention. The more support we can get for Floyd the better. If it doesn't work this year, then we'll just be back stronger next year.

If any of you run a blog or know anybody with a semblance of media power, we'd be happy to give the campaign some more coverage there as well. Just let me know!

Some Other Things Worth Checking Out:
Little In the Hall of Fame.com (http://www.littleinthehalloffame.com/) -- Sign the petition! (http://www.littleinthehalloffame.com/addyourname.html)
Bills vs. Broncos - A HoF Travesty in Numbers (http://www.milehighreport.com/2009/2/2/744619/bills-v-broncos-a-hof-trav)
A HoF Travesty in Numbers - Expanded (http://www.milehighreport.com/2009/2/3/747173/a-hof-travesty-in-numbers)
Video Killed The Radio Star, and Arrogance is Killing The Mainstream Media (http://www.milehighreport.com/2009/1/29/739041/video-killed-the-radio-sta)

UPDATE:
Here's the most recent update on our work for Floyd, posted November 27: http://www.milehighreport.com/2009/11/27/1174818/the-mhr-denver-broncos-hall-of

Denver Native (Carol)

08-10-2009, 04:10 PM

I salute your efforts. My first comment is that I believe Shannon will end up in the Hall of Fame, and therefore, efforts should be made to get the many other Broncos there - i.e. Meck, Gradashiar, Atwater, etc.

I definitely do agree with the efforts you are putting forth for Floyd Little.

One suggestion I would have is to contact Vic Lombardi. I believe his contact info. is on here: http://cbs4denver.com/ He and Gary Miller are on Mon-Fri on ESPN radio, from 7 - 9 AM MST. He may set up a time for you to call in.

I would also call in when Scott and Al are on from 1:00 to 3:00, and the Sports guys are on from 3:00 to 5:00 on FM1043thefan. Unless they have a certain subject(s) they want calls on, they are always open to any type of sports call.

The biggest thing is for you guys to advertise this effort as much as possible. Email Woody Paige at the Denver Post and give him an idea on what you are doing, and he may write an article on your efforts in the Denver Post.

All of the above suggestions will not cost you anything.

studbucket

08-10-2009, 04:23 PM

Denver Native (Carol)

08-10-2009, 04:32 PM

All great feedback, thanks Carol, I appreciate it. I'll relay all of this back to the other guys.

As far as Sharpe goes...we're tired of taking things for granted. With Rice, Brown, and Carter all up this year or next, I am worried Shannon gets counted as a receiver and lost in the shuffle. We want to make sure he gets in with no problems. We don't want him to still be around when someone like TonyG is up for nomination.

I understand the "tired of taking things for granted". Would it then be better if the efforts were expanded to more than two Broncos, or is your thought better that it is best to not flood them with more than two? If, by chance, your efforts do work for Little and Sharpe, will you stop there, or will you continue to promote other Broncos who deserve to be there? And if you do promote other Broncos, will the committee even listen year after year?

studbucket

08-10-2009, 04:46 PM

I understand the "tired of taking things for granted". Would it then be better if the efforts were expanded to more than two Broncos, or is your thought better that it is best to not flood them with more than two? If, by chance, your efforts do work for Little and Sharpe, will you stop there, or will you continue to promote other Broncos who deserve to be there? And if you do promote other Broncos, will the committee even listen year after year?

Yeah, we didn't want 2 Broncos competing with each other. Promoting Steve Atwater hard would be great, but there's a chance it would lessen Shannon's chances, and we don't want to do that. It's also why we only chose 1 senior candidate. It was tough choosing Floyd over Taylor and Gradishar, but it's what we ended up doing.

If we are successful, we will definitely continue on. We plan to keep this committee going every year, choosing 1 Bronco from each category every year. If Floyd and/or Shannon doesn't make it this year, we will most likely keep on their case for the next few years, unless there is some compelling reason to drop it.

As for whether the Seniors Committee will listen? Well, most of them might tune us out (they already do), but they won't be able to forget about Floyd because of our emails, and a similar campaign (though ours is probably a bit more organized) for Art Monk eventually paid off.

PS: It looks like your radio & Denver media idea might be picked up by us, great suggestion :)

Denver Native (Carol)

08-10-2009, 05:08 PM

Yeah, we didn't want 2 Broncos competing with each other. Promoting Steve Atwater hard would be great, but there's a chance it would lessen Shannon's chances, and we don't want to do that. It's also why we only chose 1 senior candidate. It was tough choosing Floyd over Taylor and Gradishar, but it's what we ended up doing.

If we are successful, we will definitely continue on. We plan to keep this committee going every year, choosing 1 Bronco from each category every year. If Floyd and/or Shannon doesn't make it this year, we will most likely keep on their case for the next few years, unless there is some compelling reason to drop it.

As for whether the Seniors Committee will listen? Well, most of them might tune us out (they already do), but they won't be able to forget about Floyd because of our emails, and a similar campaign (though ours is probably a bit more organized) for Art Monk eventually paid off.

PS: It looks like your radio & Denver media idea might be picked up by us, great suggestion :)

You definitely need to hit all radio, tv and Denver media - as much exposure as you can get will not hurt - let me know if you need website address' for them.

studbucket

08-10-2009, 05:14 PM

You definitely need to hit all radio, tv and Denver media - as much exposure as you can get will not hurt - let me know if you need website address' for them.

You know, I have no clue if we need any of this information since TheSportsGuru (guy who runs MHR) will probably be the one doing all the contacting, but if you want to post/send me the information, it all helps.

Thanks a lot for your feedback Carol.

broncofaninfla

08-10-2009, 05:21 PM

Little along with Atwater, Gradishar and Sharpe belongs in the HOF.

studbucket

08-10-2009, 05:23 PM

Little along with Atwater, Gradishar and Sharpe belongs in the HOF.

Definitely! Once we get through with Little and Sharpe, I want Atwater and Gradishar to be our next targets, though TD and Lionel Taylor could receive some consideration as well.

Denver Native (Carol)

08-10-2009, 05:36 PM

You know, I have no clue if we need any of this information since TheSportsGuru (guy who runs MHR) will probably be the one doing all the contacting, but if you want to post/send me the information, it all helps.

Thanks a lot for your feedback Carol.

tv

http://www.9news.com/
http://www.thedenverchannel.com/index.html
http://www.kdvr.com/
http://cbs4denver.com/
http://www.2thedeuce.com/
http://www.altitude.tv/
http://nmsn.foxsports.com/story/5640126

radio

http://www.fm1043thefan.com/
http://www.850koa.com/main.html - the ride home - Dave Logan

newspapers

http://www.denverpost.com/
http://www.dailycamera.com/
http://www.indenvertimes.com/ online
http://www.rockymountainindependent.com/ online

studbucket

08-10-2009, 05:59 PM

I just got a Cowboys fan and a Patriots fan to send some emails to the committee members. Has anyone here sent something out yet?

If you have, I'm curious to see what was sent or what feedback you got. We're trying to keep track of the general sentiment and feelings of the voters.

Denver Native (Carol)

08-10-2009, 06:10 PM

The Glue Factory

08-10-2009, 06:11 PM

Definitely! Once we get through with Little and Sharpe, I want Atwater and Gradishar to be our next targets, though TD and Lionel Taylor could receive some consideration as well.

Louis Wright should be in that conversation as well.

studbucket

08-10-2009, 06:28 PM

Louis Wright should be in that conversation as well.

Yes he should and he is. I've mentioned him 3 other places today, and just neglected to do so here :)

studbucket

08-10-2009, 06:31 PM

I have not yet sent emails, but I plan to. It would help if you would post the email address' on here. Thanks :salute:

Obviously the [at] and [dot] need to be replaced before the emails can be sent.

Dan Pompei - dpompei [at] tribune [dot] com
Rick Gosselin - rgosselin [at] dallasnews [dot] com
John McClain - john.mcclain [at] chron [dot] com
Edwin Pope - epope [at] herald [dot] com
Ron Borges - rborges [at] bostonherald [dot] com and info [at] ronborges [dot] com
John Czarnecki - john.czarnecki [at] foxsports [dot] com
Dave Goldberg - dgoldberg [at] ap [dot] org and http://twitter.com/deegle84
Ira Miller - imiller [at] sportsxchange [dot] com
Len Shapiro - badgerlen [at] aol [dot] com

I've Tweeted Goldberg, and I don't know how effective it is, but I'm sure he'll notice all the tweets if we all send him some.

drewloc

08-10-2009, 08:08 PM

Obviously the [at] and [dot] need to be replaced before the emails can be sent.

Dan Pompei - dpompei [at] tribune [dot] com
Rick Gosselin - rgosselin [at] dallasnews [dot] com
John McClain - john.mcclain [at] chron [dot] com
Edwin Pope - epope [at] herald [dot] com
Ron Borges - rborges [at] bostonherald [dot] com and info [at] ronborges [dot] com
John Czarnecki - john.czarnecki [at] foxsports [dot] com
Dave Goldberg - dgoldberg [at] ap [dot] org and http://twitter.com/deegle84
Ira Miller - imiller [at] sportsxchange [dot] com
Len Shapiro - badgerlen [at] aol [dot] com

I've Tweeted Goldberg, and I don't know how effective it is, but I'm sure he'll notice all the tweets if we all send him some.

Stud, I've sent all my emails, and I wish I could do more to help out the cause, but I'm in freakin' Cleveland, so I don't know if I can help in other ways. If there are ideas, I'm definitely up to help as much as I can. :salute:

Denver Native (Carol)

08-10-2009, 08:17 PM

Following from studbucket's original post:

This year, one chose one 'Seniors' candidate and one 'Standard' candidate to promote, with Floyd Little and Shannon Sharpe being those two guys. With the Seniors Committee meeting on August 25 to decide the final 2 candidates, we wanted to make sure that everyone in Broncos Country let them and the media know how much Floyd means to us.

We all don't have a lot of time for Floyd - so get those emails going.

Also studbucket, do the emails for Shannon also go to the same 9 people, or were the 9 you listed only for the emails to promote Floyd?

Denver Native (Carol)

08-10-2009, 08:25 PM

I was researching Floyd on google, and found the following from the article:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Floyd_Little

Little became a charter member of the Broncos' Ring of Fame in 1984; he was the first Bronco to win the AFC rushing title with 901 yards in 1970; the following year he became the first Bronco to eclipse 1,000 yards, gaining 1,133, to lead the entire NFL. He was an American Football League All-Star in 1968, named first-team "All-League" in 1969, and made the AFC-NFC Pro Bowl in 1970, 1971 and 1973. At just 5'10" and 195 pounds, Little was a pioneer who became the smallest back to lead the league in rushing since before World War II. He was as versatile as he was exciting. He led the league in combined yards in 1967 & 68 and was the only player to return punts for TDs in both seasons. During his prime, 1968–73, he led the NFL in both yards Rushing and Yards from Scrimmage (rushing and receiving). Little was voted "Running Back of the year" in 1972 by the Professional Football Writers of America, and was 1 of just 7 players to total more than 100 yards (104) per game. Incredibly, despite spending most of his career as the lone offensive threat on a losing team, he was one of the most explosive offensive threats of his time.

Despite retiring as the 7th leading rusher in NFL history, Little has never been admitted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, while the first six are in the Hall of Fame. He was the first Bronco to have his jersey 44 "officially" retired.

studbucket

08-10-2009, 08:26 PM

Stud, I've sent all my emails, and I wish I could do more to help out the cause, but I'm in freakin' Cleveland, so I don't know if I can help in other ways. If there are ideas, I'm definitely up to help as much as I can. :salute:

Thanks man, I appreciate it! I just moved to Seattle from Iowa, so I know the pain of being too far away, but with all of the Broncomaniacs across the world, we've got a lot of good resources, so doing stuff like sending emails and providing support is exactly what we need :)

Also studbucket, do the emails for Shannon also go to the same 9 people, or were the 9 you listed only for the emails to promote Floyd?

These 9 people are a subset of the 44 Hall of Fame voters. These 9 people will also be important to Shannon getting in the Hall, but there are 35 other people for that as well. With Floyd, it's only these 9 for now, unless he makes the final 2 Senior candidates, in which case he will end up making the final 17 candidates and will be voted upon by all 44 voters. Which means we might just drop all support for Sharpe and go strictly for Floyd :)

Does that make sense? It felt like I was typing a run-on sentence, lol.

Denver Native (Carol)

08-10-2009, 09:05 PM

For those Bronco fans too young to really know about Floyd, here are some links:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Floyd_Little
http://www.20yardline.com/denver-broncos-articles/current/floyd-little.html
http://www.bettingers.org/floyd/index.htm

http://www.orangeandblueblog.com/2006/09/06/qa-with-floyd-little-3-of-3/
this link appears to be from the freak in 2006, (or maybe not), where Floyd was ask questions. Here is a question to him in regards to not being in the HOF, and Floyd's reply:

Quiettiger: How can fans help you with your Hall of fame bid?

Floyd's answer:

You know, it’s funny you say that because I was sent a handful of notes that fans like you have said about my contributions to the team here on Broncosfreak. And I’m thinking, “This is what the Hall of Fame seniors committee should read!” The people that know, the people who matter, are the fans. I can’t tell you how grateful I am for your kind words and support.
I’m not sure why I continue to be passed over. I retired as the 7th leading rusher in NFL history and the six players who finished in front of me made it years ago. I think I’m the only player NOT in the hall who fans and media nicknamed “The Franchise” during their careers. So there is validity to why people say I’m long overdue. Now, I’m getting up in age (64) and I probably don’t have too many chances left.
I’d say if fans want to support my candidacy the best thing they can do is send in a petition to the nine Seniors Committee Members who vote on “old-timers” like me or write letters and tell them why you think I should be in. I’m told any fan can nominate a player and I believe the Hall of Fame web site lists the Seniors voters. (Editors note: You can find that list here.) Who knows, someday with the help from the great Broncos fans like you, I could be wearing that bright mustard jacket in Canton!

studbucket

08-10-2009, 09:55 PM

Despite retiring as the 7th leading rusher in NFL history, Little has never been admitted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, while the first six are in the Hall of Fame. He was the first Bronco to have his jersey 44 "officially" retired.

One thing about this stat I always wanted to know was who were RBs 8,9, and 10?

When presenting this to a HoF voter, I think the stat can mean a lot more if the guys behind him were Hall of Famers as well, because if they are just above average players then the stat doesn't mean as much.

frauschieze

08-10-2009, 10:45 PM

One thing about this stat I always wanted to know was who were RBs 8,9, and 10?

When presenting this to a HoF voter, I think the stat can mean a lot more if the guys behind him were Hall of Famers as well, because if they are just above average players then the stat doesn't mean as much.

I think I've got a way to figure this out.

I am almost 100% sure 2 out of the three are Don Perkins and Ken Willard. Neither is in the Hall, unfortunately.

I'll keep trying to figure out the third.

horsepig

08-10-2009, 10:52 PM

Good work guys. I'll do what I can. Floyd deserves to be in, no qyestion.

It is, indeed a mystery why he isn't already there.

frauschieze

08-10-2009, 11:07 PM

Okay, I am 99% confident this is the ranking of all time rushers as of the end of the 1975 season.

AS OF 1975 Final retire
Rk Player Rush yd Begin End
8 Jim Brown+ 12,312 1957 1965
25 Joe Perry+ 9,723 1948 1963
31 Jim Taylor+ 8,597 1958 1967
18 O.J. Simpson+ 8,123 1969 1975 11,236 1979
47 Leroy Kelly+ 7,274 1964 1973
54 John Henry Johnson+ 6,803 1954 1966
61 Floyd Little 6,323 1967 1975
62 Don Perkins 6,217 1961 1968
64 Ken Willard 6,105 1965 1974
37 Larry Csonka+ 5,900 1968 1975 8,081 1979
73 Steve Van Buren+ 5,860 1944 1951
75 Bill Brown 5,838 1961 1974

First column is current all time rushing rank, the yards column is total yards as of 1975. For the two players who continued playing after 1975, the final two columns give the total yards in their career as well as the year they retired.

Numbers 8 & 9, Don Perkins and Ken Willard are not in the Hall. Number 10, Larry Csonka, is but he ended his career four years later MUCH higher on the all time list. Number 11, Steve Van Buren, is also in the Hall but he played in a different era.

studbucket

08-10-2009, 11:14 PM

Wow, very informative stuff frau...unfortunately this confirms my suspicions. I need to bookmark this for future reference.

frauschieze

08-10-2009, 11:29 PM

Wow, very informative stuff frau...unfortunately this confirms my suspicions. I need to bookmark this for future reference.

I used the All Time Rushers list from Pro-Football-Reference.com, then did some data manipulation and a process of elimination to come up with the list.

I was going to do it for rushing TDs as well but now I'm having a problem copying and pasting the data into Excel. Before I'd copy the list from the website into Notepad, then from Notepad into Excel and it worked fine. Now I have a box with a question mark in it between each cell and it puts all cell contents in one cell. Any ideas on how to fix it so I can get some more data?

EDIT: Never mind. I closed everything, reopened and it works now. Stupid computers!

frauschieze

08-10-2009, 11:47 PM

Top 20 rushing TDs at the end of 1975:

rk Player TDs Start End
5 Jim Brown+ 106 1957 1965
15 Jim Taylor+ 83 1958 1967
22 Leroy Kelly+ 74 1964 1973
26 Joe Perry+ 71 1948 1963
28 Steve Van Buren+ 69 1944 1951
34 Lenny Moore+ 63 1956 1967
50 Bill Brown 52 1961 1974
50 Emerson Boozer 52 1966 1975
57 Paul Hornung+ 50 1957 1966
60 Rick Casares 49 1955 1966
36 O.J. Simpson+ 49 1969 1975 61 1979
66 John Henry Johnson+ 48 1954 1966
70 Abner Haynes 46 1960 1967
72 Tom Matte 45 1961 1972
72 Jim Nance 45 1965 1973
72 Ken Willard 45 1965 1974
77 Otto Graham+ 44 1946 1955
80 Dan Towler 43 1950 1955
80 Floyd Little 43 1967 1975
85 Don Perkins 42 1961 1968

This doesn't look great either. :(

studbucket

08-10-2009, 11:49 PM

Top 20 rushing TDs at the end of 1975:

This doesn't look great either. :(

Yeah, his stats don't always do much to help him, he was a great RB on a horrible team who had a profound impact on the franchise. That's our angle and that's part of what makes him so special to fans.

frauschieze

08-10-2009, 11:51 PM

studbucket

08-11-2009, 02:22 PM

Peter King doesn't seem to be sold on Sharpe getting in this year....arg.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/peter_king/08/11/mail/index.html?eref=sihp

Feel free to send him a message, I did.

Denver Native (Carol)

08-11-2009, 03:21 PM

Dear Mr (entered last name),

As I am a Colorado native (Denver metro area), and as I am a lifelong Denver Broncos Fan, I am nominating Floyd Little for the “senior” HOF. As I attended every home Broncos’ game during Floyd’s playing career, I never thought at that time that I, or anyone, would be petitioning for Floyd to be inducted into the Football HOF as a senior selection. I felt that he was as worthy as any other player to make the HOF long before he would be considered a senior selection.

I can honestly say that I feel that, other than John Elway, no Bronco player, past or present, has represented the Denver Broncos any better than Floyd, both on and off the field. No other player, again besides Elway, is associated more with the Denver Broncos than Floyd.

I truly hope that a player’s stats are not the only consideration for HOF inductees. If so, what a travesty that would be. To me, stats should be placed way behind intangibles. In my opinion, Floyd has to be in the top 10 pro football players for what they not only did on the field, but meant to their fanbase and community.

Based on the above, I present the following:

http://www.absoluteastronomy.com/topics/Floyd_Little

Floyd Douglas Little (born July 4, 1942 in New Haven, Connecticut) was a three-time American football All-American running back at Syracuse University. In 1967 Floyd Little was the 6th selection of the first common NFL-AFL draft. He was the first ever first-round draft pick to sign with the American Football League’s Denver Broncos where he was known simply as “The Franchise” for saving the team from certain relocation by forcing the expansion of Mile High Stadium and generating a string of sellouts that lasts today.

Floyd Little – simply known as “The Franchise” –

My question - Are there any other players who have been given the “franchise tag” because they saved their team from relocating?

Also, on the above referenced link, if stats are important to the selection committee:

Little led the NFL in rushing for the six-year period from 1968–73.

I have not done any research to see if any other player led the NFL in rushing for a longer consecutive time, but I certainly do realize that one player leading the NFL in rushing for a six-year period should definitely be recognized for doing so.

A cute Floyd Little story, but also a story which exemplifies Floyd’s on the field character.

http://community.seattletimes.nwsource.com/archive/?date=20000609&slug=4025787

Not that it was all sweetness in Little's time with the Broncos.

"Ask him about the time Saban fired him," said Saccomano, laughing.

Seems that in 1968, the Broncos were trying to run the clock out with a narrow lead and Little fumbled on a sweep left, turning the ball over.

"I want him out of here!" Saban ranted to a Bronco executive on the sideline. "He's done! He's fired!"

Little began a long walk toward the locker room as the Denver opponent booted a field goal for the lead. Then he got mad, thought better of it, and circled back onto the field and into the Bronco huddle, where Saban had replaced him with Little's longtime roommate, Fran Lynch.

"Fran, get out," Little ordered.

Little says he told Marlon Briscoe, then playing quarterback, to fire the ball deep. Little, who had speed enough to average 24 yards on kickoffs in his nine NFL years, hauled down the bomb in a crowd and Denver won on a field goal.

In the locker room, Saban confronted Little.

"I'll give you one more week," he growled.

"One more week," Little says, smiling. "I stayed my whole career there."

In reading the above, someone could form the opinion that Floyd defied Coach Saban; however, that is so far from the truth. What Floyd did on the field that day exemplifies not only Floyd as a player, but more importantly, Floyd as a man. Floyd made a costly mistake that could cost his team victory, and Floyd was going to do whatever he could to overcome his mistake. That was the man Floyd Little.

Following are comments I found from football greats who feel just as I do in regards to Floyd belonging in the football HOF:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2666957

"What happens is you get to that point -- you can't care every year or it would drive you nuts,'' said former Oakland Raiders coach and current commentator John Madden, who was inducted last summer. "Floyd was a great player and a Hall of Fame-type guy.

From same article:

But then he went to Syracuse University last season for a retirement ceremony. The Orange were honoring those football players who wore No. 44 -- players like Ernie Davis, Jim Brown and Little -- by retiring the number. Sitting at a table with Brown, a fan came up to Little and said, "You should be in the Hall of Fame, too.''

Brown had a chat with his friend.

"Jim said, 'Look, anyone who's played against you and with you and watched you play knows you're a Hall of Famer,''' Little recalled. "For now, leave it at that.''

More articles on Floyd:

http://www.examiner.com/x-2549-Denver-Broncos-Examiner~y2009m7d24-Best-alltime-Broncos-RB-This-votes-for-Floyd-Little

http://denver.yourhub.com/Denver/Stories/Sports/Broncos/Story~364798.aspx

"It would have been poetic for Little to have at least played in one Super Bowl, but it didn't happen. Many other Broncos from that era also deserved as much just for staying with the same, mediocre team, year after year, even though they were talented enough to play for better teams and for better money. Life's that way sometimes, but it teaches important lessons. For me, whenever I think of the Broncos, I always remember the "Floyd Little Broncos" and what it means to face adversity, but keep on trying. A man never loses until he gives up. Floyd Little never gave up and The Hall of Fame will recognize that some day. For now, he is the first and premier member of the Ring of Fame and a reminder of the days when he was the Denver Broncos."

My closing thoughts on why I so strongly feel that Floyd Little should be in the HOF, and why I am nominating Floyd Little for the Senior HOF:

I have always felt that Floyd Little should be in the HOF. That being my opinion, I felt it very necessary to do research to convey why I felt that way, as well as why others also feel that way.

All anyone needs to do is attend a Denver Broncos’ “Alumni Game” and witness which alumni players receive standing ovations from the young, middle aged, and senior aged fans – It is ALWAYS Floyd Little and John Elway. That definitely should tell you what Floyd STILL means to the Denver Broncos’ fans.

I sincerely hope that what I have provided is overwhelming evidence why Floyd Little should be inducted into the Senior HOF.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration in this matter. I truly appreciate it.

Carol (my last name)

Westminster, CO

studbucket

08-11-2009, 03:28 PM

Lots of good stuff in there, thanks Carol!

Even if you guys don't want to type something that long, you can use her letter as a resource for learning stuff about Floyd and putting it in what you send.

studbucket

08-11-2009, 06:17 PM

BroncoMadness posted a nice article about the fight to get Floyd into the Hall of Fame and "interviewed" me, asking a few questions. His intro about Floyd is very well done.

http://broncomadness.com/2009/08/11/help-send-floyd-little-to-canton/

Here's a snippet:

by Garrett Barnes

You could say that there is nobody more important to the Denver Broncos history than Floyd Little. Not John Elway. Not Pat Bowlen. Nobody has had more of an impact on the Broncos than Little. Actually, had it not been for Little, there would have been no John Elway, no Pat Bowlen, no Mike Shanahan, no Super Bowls, no “The Drive”, nothing whatsoever.

titan

08-11-2009, 07:06 PM

Dear Mr (entered last name),

As I am a Colorado native (Denver metro area), and as I am a lifelong Denver Broncos Fan, I am nominating Floyd Little for the “senior” HOF. ...

That's a great letter, Carol. I was at the game where Lou Saban "fired" Floyd Little (I was a 12 year old at the time sitting in the South STands). To this day one of the best catches I have seen by a Bronco (Little's diving catch to setup the game winning field goal). That game was a great example of Little's heart for the game and one who is richly deserving of a Hall of Fame spot.

studbucket

08-11-2009, 07:13 PM

That's a great letter, Carol. I was at the game where Lou Saban "fired" Floyd Little (I was a 12 year old at the time sitting in the South STands). To this day one of the best catches I have seen by a Bronco (Little's diving catch to setup the game winning field goal). That game was a great example of Little's heart for the game and one who is richly deserving of a Hall of Fame spot.

Awesome, I've always wanted to see that catch on tape, I've read about it several times.

Denver Native (Carol)

08-11-2009, 07:18 PM

That's a great letter, Carol. I was at the game where Lou Saban "fired" Floyd Little (I was a 12 year old at the time sitting in the South STands). To this day one of the best catches I have seen by a Bronco (Little's diving catch to setup the game winning field goal). That game was a great example of Little's heart for the game and one who is richly deserving of a Hall of Fame spot.

Thanks titan - now you and everyone else who have not done so, needs to get their emails or letters in before August 25th ;)

titan

08-11-2009, 07:25 PM

Awesome, I've always wanted to see that catch on tape, I've read about it several times.

It was an awesome catch and it was also COLD in the 4th quarter. The sun had gone down and I remember chivering in the South Stands. Great throw by Marlin Briscoe, too (another underappreciated Bronco - that's a story in itself)

horsepig

08-11-2009, 08:30 PM

Aarrrgghh!

Overtime

08-12-2009, 11:06 PM

what about Steve Atwater? Why hasn't he made it in?

studbucket

08-13-2009, 10:24 AM

what about Steve Atwater? Why hasn't he made it in?

That's a good question, and he's definitely someone we want to get in. As I mentioned on the first page, we are only focusing on 1 senior and 1 standard candidate at a time, and once Shannon gets it, there's a very good chance we work on Atwater, but the committee will talk more about that when we get to it :)

horsepig

08-13-2009, 09:11 PM

I also watched those teams play at Mile-Hi Titan. There were some great players out there to watch play, and as role models, suchas Billy Thompson.

However, in those days when you entered "the old gray battleship" as we called it, or the "erector set", your mind was focussed first on one player, and one player only-Floyd Little. He absolutely was the "face of the franchise".

studbucket

08-19-2009, 04:43 PM

Dave Goldberg wrote a decent little article on voting for the HoF here: http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/08/19/the-ins-and-outs-of-nfls-hall-of-fame-voting-process

Here's a segment on Denver:

But the team that comes up most often is Denver.

Despite a pretty decent on-field history, the Broncos didn't have a Hall of Famer until 2004, 45 years after they were founded. That was John Elway, a first-ballot lock. In 2008, Gary Zimmerman was inducted, but he was a hybrid -- seven years with the Vikings, his final five with the Broncos.

I get a lot of mail from folks claiming the Broncos "deserve'' more. Why? Whatever a player's value to his team, membership in the Hall of Fame is an individual honor. Denver has had a lot of players who belong in what we call "The Hall of Very Good,'' another phrase coined by King. No disgrace in that. A good NFL team needs very good players -- a Hall of Famer playing with a bunch of stiffs won't get it very far. Floyd Little is one of the seniors finalists, as he has been for a number of years, and probably won't make it again. I've discussed the process by e-mail both with Floyd and his son -- I understand their feelings and I think I've helped them understand the process.

BroncoJoe

08-19-2009, 05:45 PM

I absolutely believe Floyd belongs in the HOF.

Do I believe it will happen? Unfortunately, no.

studbucket

08-20-2009, 11:25 AM

Another reminder post to send some emails!

http://www.milehighreport.com/2009/8/20/995924/the-broken-record

We've got 5 days. Let the writers know we want Floyd!

studbucket

08-23-2009, 11:15 PM

Hey everyone, the 25th is the last day...that's already tomorrow for some of you!

Send out emails to the writers, check out the links we gave, tell them and all your friends how important this is to Denver and it's fans that he gets in because of how important he was and is to the franchise.

studbucket

08-24-2009, 09:52 AM

Here's one more post with emails and a template letter for everone:

http://www.milehighreport.com/2009/8/24/999701/the-11th-hour

Dear Mr. [Sportswriter],

I am writing you today to ask you to please put Floyd Little into the final 2 candidates chosen by the Hall of Fame Seniors committee. Without Floyd Little, there would be no Denver Broncos franchise, his impact was that profound, and that's why he's nicknamed "The Franchise". He carried horrible Denver teams and brought fans into the seats and finished his career ranked 6th all-time in rushing yards. The Pro Football Hall of Fame consists of great players and players who had a great impact on the league and where it is today. Floyd is both of those and I feel that he represents everything that is good and right with the Denver Broncos and the NFL and he deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.

Thanks!

[Your Name]

[Your City], [Your state/country]

parkerle

08-24-2009, 05:13 PM

what about Terrell Davis?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kPaQwpO5f8

GEM

08-24-2009, 05:17 PM

what about Terrell Davis?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kPaQwpO5f8

What about Gradishar? What about Sharpe? What about... we could go on for days. Start with one and work on more.

parkerle

08-24-2009, 05:21 PM

gotcha. that makes sense

studbucket

08-24-2009, 05:29 PM

gotcha. that makes sense

Yeah, if you read through the thread, we discuss why we are campaigning for the 2 candidates that we are. I promise we explain things even better in the links :)

Denver Native (Carol)

08-24-2009, 05:44 PM

What about Gradishar? What about Sharpe? What about... we could go on for days. Start with one and work on more.

Absolutely agree - and John Elway stated when he was selected that there should already be Broncos in there, - starting with Floyd Little.

frauschieze

08-24-2009, 05:45 PM

Alright. I've done my part. :salute:

Denver Native (Carol)

08-24-2009, 05:56 PM

Alright. I've done my part. :salute:

GOOD GIRL :salute:

studbucket

08-25-2009, 11:57 AM

A huge thank you to everyone for helping out, you guys are amazing!

topscribe

08-26-2009, 09:12 AM

What about Gradishar? What about Sharpe? What about... we could go on for days. Start with one and work on more.

Start with THE one. THE one without whom there would be no DENVER Broncos
today. There is only one other player in the history of the franchise who should
be considered in the same breath as Little when considering the G.O.A.T. Bronco,
and that should be John Elway, of course.

Nearly the entire legacy of the Denver Broncos rests on those two players. And
Little was there first. Then why wasn't Little's bust in Canton years before
Elway ever presented his acceptance speech?

Because Floyd Little was The Franchise . . . of the "DENVER" Broncos . . . :tsk:

-----

TXBRONC

08-26-2009, 09:21 AM

Start with THE one. THE one without whom there would be no DENVER Broncos
today. There is only one other player in the history of the franchise who should
be considered in the same breath as Little when considering the G.O.A.T. Bronco,
and that should be John Elway, of course.

Nearly the entire legacy of the Denver Broncos rests on those two players. And
Little was there first. Then why wasn't Little's bust in Canton years before
Elway ever presented his acceptance speech?

Because Floyd Little was The Franchise . . . of the DENVER Broncos . . . :tsk:

-----

I have no problem with putting Floyd ahead the likes of Gradishar or Sharpe, nevertheless those two should also be in the Hall of Fame.

That being said, Floyd Little should have been their 25 years ago.

studbucket

11-26-2009, 03:07 AM

Bumping this to find out the following things:

-Were you around to watch Floyd play?
-Could you write a letter from the heart about why he deserves to be in the Pro Football Hall of Fame?

I know Carol & Topscribe might be candidates (right?)...anyone else?

You can respond here or send me a PM. Thanks!

dogfish

11-26-2009, 04:32 AM

Dzone

11-26-2009, 05:14 AM

goose gounsoilin...hehe

frauschieze

11-26-2009, 11:09 AM

Dread may be a candidate.

I am, alas, too young to help you out. :(

studbucket

11-27-2009, 04:27 PM

Another quick bump to increase exposure before the weekend. Hoping the right people can catch this thread (I'll send out some PMs as well).

-Were you around to watch Floyd play?
-Could you write a letter from the heart about why he deserves to be in the Pro Football Hall of Fame?

You can respond here or send me a PM. Thanks!

studbucket

11-28-2009, 01:52 AM

Here's the most recent update on what we're doing on MHR: http://www.milehighreport.com/2009/11/27/1174818/the-mhr-denver-broncos-hall-of

As you may know, on August 25, 2009, Floyd Little was announced as one of the 2 Seniors Committee candidates for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. That was 3 months ago, but we all need a moment to celebrate, right? So take a step back from the computer, pump your fist and scream to the heavens. Floyd deserves it, and even getting this far is an accomplishment, but there's much more that needs to be done for this mission to be complete. A lot has happened since our last update in August, and we have all of the information for you after the jump!

studbucket

12-01-2009, 02:25 AM

Topscribe has chosen not to receive private messages...can anyone help me get in contact with him? Thanks!

studbucket

01-10-2010, 01:14 PM

20 minute highlight video of Floyd I made: http://www.vimeo.com/8647946

We're gonna email it to the voters.

Denver Native (Carol)

01-10-2010, 02:06 PM

It appears that the fans can also vote on the following site:

http://www.fanschoice.com/vote.aspx

Skinny

01-10-2010, 03:25 PM

That was awsome stud, thanks.

TXBRONC

01-11-2010, 12:53 PM

How's it looking for Little getting into the Hall of Fame?

GEM

01-11-2010, 01:05 PM

How's it looking for Little getting into the Hall of Fame?

Little was named as one of the Final 17, so that's good news. Other than that, maybe SB has some more info for us.

Denver Native (Carol)

01-11-2010, 01:15 PM

SB sent me some of the voters names/email addresses to send an email to on behalf of Floyd. This is the response I received back from one voter, which, at least from that voter, I feel is very encouraging.

Thanks for your input Carol

I am already very familiar with the great Floyd Little.....

studbucket

01-11-2010, 01:15 PM

How's it looking for Little getting into the Hall of Fame?

Well, I don't have too much more info, but here's what I have:

Floyd will only be measured against himself. You can pretty much ignore the other 15 guys, because he and Dick LeBeau will be measured by themselves. They just need the voters to look at them and have 80% of the room say yes (that's like ~34-35 people, I think). It's gonna be close, but I think it can happen.
Much of the concern over Floyd comes from those who did not see him play and just look at him and see "hmmm 3.9 ypc, must not have been very good".
The video seems to be helping, here are some responses I got from Twitter and email:

thanks for the Floyd Little video. What a runner! He's definitely on my consideration list.

Thanks much for taking the time. Been working on getting Floyd into the room for debate for about five years now and have assembled most of his game film from the broncos in dvd format so have reviewed it all….

What you have is great as well. Never hurts to look at anything folks have taken the time to offer and thanks again.

thanks. He may be dicey. Some folks don’t like his stats. would be a shame if he misses after getting this far. I can use video

Those all look relatively promising, and that's like 2.5 votes...only 32 more.

pnbronco

01-11-2010, 01:20 PM

Well, I don't have too much more info, but here's what I have:

Floyd will only be measured against himself. You can pretty much ignore the other 15 guys, because he and Dick LeBeau will be measured by themselves. They just need the voters to look at them and have 80% of the room say yes (that's like ~34-35 people, I think). It's gonna be close, but I think it can happen.
Much of the concern over Floyd comes from those who did not see him play and just look at him and see "hmmm 3.9 ypc, must not have been very good".
The video seems to be helping, here are some responses I got from Twitter and email:

Those all look relatively promising, and that's like 2.5 votes...only 32 more.

Star thank you so much for doing this. Floyd does belong there and I'm so glad you have taken this cause up. If it would help to send more e-mails or whatever please pm with the info I will be more than glad to send in whatever.

From the bottom of my heart...THANK-YOU!!! :salute:

studbucket

01-13-2010, 03:11 PM

So, have you told any of your friends about Floyd Little recently? Maybe invite them over for some burgers and watch the highlight video ;)

Any way we can let more people know who Floyd is, the better.

Broncolingus

01-13-2010, 04:49 PM

Floyd deserves to be in...period.

I'm gonna be pissed if he doesn't make it and won't believe anyone ever again that there's NO east/west coast (or big market maybe better said) bias (Peter King, et al).

Thx, Stud, for all you're doing on this...:salute:

titan

01-13-2010, 06:30 PM

studbucket

01-13-2010, 06:56 PM

This was an awesome video - thanks studbucket.

Peter King of Sports Illustrated to me seems like he's a Floyd doubter based on stuff he's written in the past - maybe send him a direct message on twitter with the link to the video:

http://twitter.com/SI_PeterKing

I like Peter King but he can be wrong - he picked the Bears to be in the Super Bowl and the Chiefs as the surprise team in the AFC before the season! Let's hope he sees the light on Floyd.

Peter's great at what he's good at: Writing stories, being a reporter, and getting to know people.

When he does analysis or opinions, he's often way off. The Big Lead scored 72 different football analysts on their predictions this preseason, he got dead last.

And yeah, I've emailed and tweeted the link to him, so I sure hope he gets it. I've done at least 5 Floyd tweets to him over he last 5 months and none have called him names, so I hope he watches video.

studbucket

01-13-2010, 08:40 PM

A reply we got from a voter. I expected a response like this from him (he's on the Seniors Committee that nominated Floyd), but it's still great to read.

as a member of the senior committee, I always make it a point to vote for the two players nominated by our committee, and this year will be no diffferent. Here's hoping enough of my colleagues do the same for a very deserving player.

studbucket

01-14-2010, 12:41 AM

Floyd for HoF Facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=43357566006

Found it today.

studbucket

02-05-2010, 02:31 AM

One final post for this round of HoF nominees. Things are looking a little up for Floyd, but we can't think he's a lock.

http://www.milehighreport.com/2010/2/5/1296549/the-mhr-denver-broncos-hall-of

JDL

02-05-2010, 03:12 AM

Yeah, his stats don't always do much to help him, he was a great RB on a horrible team who had a profound impact on the franchise. That's our angle and that's part of what makes him so special to fans.

Yeah, there's really no way to honestly spin the stats. The bad team angle wouldn't sway me either because there were many great players, elite players who were stuck on horrible teams. I've done statistical breakdowns on yards from scrimmage and just rushing yards against the median rushers of that year and Floyd really didn't measure out. (As a note it also shows how immensely close Davis is... his 3yr rate above the median is well in the HOF range and his 5yr rate nosedives far enough below.)

Still, I don't think stats are all a player should be judged upon (otherwise, it would be hard to support a guy like Namath being in the Hall), I think what makes Little's candidacy interesting and truly legitimate is how his presence changed the history of the franchise and therefore the NFL. That's the real selling point to me.

The Hall is not the Hall of Stats, but the Hall of Fame... to me that encompasses many different things, unbelievable greatness, significant career accomplishment (I do believe in rewarding players that have sustained longterm success, Dorsett's rushing numbers aren't actually all that impressive when you dig deeper, but it is truly remarkable how long he sustained that very high (not elite) level of play - that in and of itself was special) and of course, the HOF should be about fundamentally changing the history of the game in a positive manner. I think you can say Little did that with what was to become one of the most successful and winningest NFL franchises of the next 3 decades. There's a lot to be said for the foundation that he laid for that to happen. From that perspective he'd certainly have my vote and I hope he gets in.

On a side note, as I've begun looking deeper into the numbers another interesting old-timer has emerged to me as a legitimate candidate from a statistical standpoint, Lydell Mitchell was a RB way ahead of his time, today we'd reward a RB that was so dynamically versatile like him (he twice led the NFL in receptions too.) Impressive yards from scrimmage numbers (very strong 3yr HOF numbers and very good 5yr numbers - few RBs have more than 5 very good seasons.) Never saw him though, so I can't say (I think it is important to always talk to the people who watch them), but I think he'd be an interesting name in the future.

Anyway, keeping my fingers crossed for Little!

CoachChaz

02-05-2010, 12:23 PM

I'll hold out that Sharpe will get in, but I have to be honest. When I step back and look at it from an unbiased view...

...Floyd doesnt deserve to get in.

Nomad

02-05-2010, 12:55 PM

I'll hold out that Sharpe will get in, but I have to be honest. When I step back and look at it from an unbiased view...

...Floyd doesnt deserve to get in.

I don't know too much about him compared to other RBs (I'm not that hard up about the HOF) that's why I really never commented on him other than he was a BRONCO before my time following the BRONCOS (I believe I was 2 when Little retired). In my younger years we did watch Earl Campbell alot because we were in the Oilers viewing area!!

I guess he did have alot to do with keeping the BRONCOS in Denver but maybe the voters really don't give a crap about that:whoknows: because it only matters to Denver and their fans!!

GEM

02-05-2010, 01:11 PM

I don't know too much about him compared to other RBs (I'm not that hard up about the HOF) that's why I really never commented on him other than he was a BRONCO before my time following the BRONCOS (I believe I was 2 when Little retired). In my younger years we did watch Earl Campbell alot because we were in the Oilers viewing area!!

I guess he did have alot to do with keeping the BRONCOS in Denver but maybe the voters really don't give a crap about that:whoknows: because it only matters to Denver and their fans!!

According to the HOF and it's voters.....unless you are a GOAT QB or Zim, that's all you can be, important to Denver and it's fans but not important enough for the recognition of the HOF.

topscribe

02-05-2010, 01:12 PM

I'll hold out that Sharpe will get in, but I have to be honest. When I step back and look at it from an unbiased view...

...Floyd doesnt deserve to get in.

Apparently, you never saw him play? You never witnessed the "teams" for whom
he played? You never heard that many other RBs of that time, his peers,
considered him the best RB in the league?

Yes, he deserved to get in, and I am not wearing glasses with orange lenses.
Floyd should have been there long before Elway was.

Far as I'm concerned, if Floyd's bust is not in Canton, then that's it for me,
regarding the Hall of Farce . . .

-----

Denver Native (Carol)

02-05-2010, 01:19 PM

topscribe

02-05-2010, 01:21 PM

Yeah, there's really no way to honestly spin the stats. The bad team angle wouldn't sway me either because there were many great players, elite players who were stuck on horrible teams. I've done statistical breakdowns on yards from scrimmage and just rushing yards against the median rushers of that year and Floyd really didn't measure out. (As a note it also shows how immensely close Davis is... his 3yr rate above the median is well in the HOF range and his 5yr rate nosedives far enough below.)

Still, I don't think stats are all a player should be judged upon (otherwise, it would be hard to support a guy like Namath being in the Hall), I think what makes Little's candidacy interesting and truly legitimate is how his presence changed the history of the franchise and therefore the NFL. That's the real selling point to me.

The Hall is not the Hall of Stats, but the Hall of Fame... to me that encompasses many different things, unbelievable greatness, significant career accomplishment (I do believe in rewarding players that have sustained longterm success, Dorsett's rushing numbers aren't actually all that impressive when you dig deeper, but it is truly remarkable how long he sustained that very high (not elite) level of play - that in and of itself was special) and of course, the HOF should be about fundamentally changing the history of the game in a positive manner. I think you can say Little did that with what was to become one of the most successful and winningest NFL franchises of the next 3 decades. There's a lot to be said for the foundation that he laid for that to happen. From that perspective he'd certainly have my vote and I hope he gets in.

On a side note, as I've begun looking deeper into the numbers another interesting old-timer has emerged to me as a legitimate candidate from a statistical standpoint, Lydell Mitchell was a RB way ahead of his time, today we'd reward a RB that was so dynamically versatile like him (he twice led the NFL in receptions too.) Impressive yards from scrimmage numbers (very strong 3yr HOF numbers and very good 5yr numbers - few RBs have more than 5 very good seasons.) Never saw him though, so I can't say (I think it is important to always talk to the people who watch them), but I think he'd be an interesting name in the future.

Anyway, keeping my fingers crossed for Little!

That is what is wrong with stats without considering other factors. Such as,
blocking back then was entirely different, and it favored the defense. The
blockers had to keep their elbows out and their hands inside the parameters
of their bodies. The way they're allowed to block today would have been
considered holding back then. You just cannot take the stats of a player in a
different era and compare them to the stats of a contemporary one. It just
does not work.

And it does indeed make a difference what kind of team for whom the elite
player played. I don't care if you're talking about Floyd Little, O.J. Simpson,
or Jim Brown. If there is no hole, at least a crease, the RB is going nowhere.
Period. I saw those offensive offensive lines (not a typo). They blew. I saw
the QBs. They blew. I saw the receivers. They blew. Floyd played for a
miserable team. That he achieved what he did--and didn't demand a trade-
is a testament to the kind of player he was.

Floyd belongs in the HOF. He should have been there decades ago.

-----

Denver Native (Carol)

02-05-2010, 01:28 PM

Floyd belongs in the HOF. He should have been there decades ago.-----

I can't remember if John said the following in Canton, or when he learned he had been chosen to the HOF - but he said something like:

I should not be the first Bronco in the HOF, Floyd Little should already be here.

Nomad

02-05-2010, 02:08 PM

According to the HOF and it's voters.....unless you are a GOAT QB or Zim, that's all you can be, important to Denver and it's fans but not important enough for the recognition of the HOF.

I'm all for Little getting in because he was a BRONCO but other than that I will have to trust people who actually saw him play because I didn't and can't comment either way. But I don't know what/how voters vote and maybe they are biased to the BRONCOS. All I can say is good luck to the guy because isn't this his last year of eligibility.

I'll have to ask my dad because he should remember that era and he was a big Campbell fan and he hated seeing the Oilers leave Houston!!

studbucket

02-05-2010, 02:24 PM

I can't remember if John said the following in Canton, or when he learned he had been chosen to the HOF - but he said something like:

I should not be the first Bronco in the HOF, Floyd Little should already be here.

"Floyd Little is the Greatest Bronco of us all."

I know that because I put it as the last piece of text on the last part of the video I put together :)

http://www.vimeo.com/8647946

Nomad

02-05-2010, 02:30 PM

"Floyd Little is the Greatest Bronco of us all."

I know that because I put it as the last piece of text on the last part of the video I put together :)

http://www.vimeo.com/8647946

Just curious, I could understand someone like topscribe advocating hard for Little to get into the HOF because he witnessed his talent but you're in your mid 20s and one of the forefront advocators making videos and contacting voters. Why is that?? Nothing wrong with it, just wondering how you became such a Floyd Little fan!!

studbucket

02-05-2010, 02:59 PM

Just curious, I could understand someone like topscribe advocating hard for Little to get into the HOF because he witnessed his talent but you're in your mid 20s and one of the forefront advocators making videos and contacting voters. Why is that?? Nothing wrong with it, just wondering how you became such a Floyd Little fan!!

Good question. If you get the chance to read one of the HoF Committee articles on MHR and all of the links to previous articles, that should explain the genesis well, but it all started out of a growing disgust I felt at the lack of Broncos in the Hall of Fame, culminating with this post: http://www.milehighreport.com/2009/2/3/747173/a-hof-travesty-in-numbers

From there, the MHR Denver Broncos HoF Committee was born. It consisted of myself, a passionate guy in his 30s, another passionate guy in his 30s (who is a bit of a Broncos historian), a guy who's been a fan since 1960, and a bit oversight from John Bena, MHR's owner.

Our first step on the committee was to determine our plan and our goals, and we decided we would target and support 2 candidates a year. 1 Seniors Committee candidate and 1 regular candidate. The initial candidates looked like this:

Lionel Taylor
Randy Gradishar
Floyd Little
Rich Jackson

Terrell Davis
Shannon Sharpe
Steve Atwater

Through some discussion, it was decided upon that we would support Floyd and Shannon this year. I believe I have more detailed reasoning for that somewhere in this thread or in the MHR articles.

I also became the de facto head of the committee, so it's my job to work as hard as anyone to make this happen. It doesn't mean I haven't doubted myself at times. Sources & people I respect have made strong arguments against Floyd, and I could see where they were coming from, but I know what Floyd means to the Broncos and long-time fans, and it would mean so much to this franchise for him to get in.

Making the video and watching his highlights over and over again made me feel even more attached and invested as well.

So there you go, why a 24-year old kid cares about Floyd. I'm sure my father could've told me stories about Floyd, but I never thought of asking before he passed away, so I get to hear stories from people on this site and others, and it makes me smile.

Nomad

02-05-2010, 03:16 PM

studbucket

02-05-2010, 03:22 PM

:yo:My hats off to you for all the work you are doing! If I'm ever up in Woodinville, Wa again visiting the inlaws, I'll look you up and we can head over to Redhook Brewery and I'll buy you a beer!!:beer:

I just moved from Redmond to Kirkland, and I'm literally just up the hill from the winery area. Probably a 4 minute drive, it's a nice location.

It's too bad Floyd's car dealership closed before I moved out here, I would have liked to drive down there.

Denver Native (Carol)

02-05-2010, 03:47 PM

studbucket

02-05-2010, 04:06 PM

Lonestar

02-05-2010, 05:08 PM

I have made my position clear to Stud and most on the forum. I have been a fan since before the first game, watch and read the paper from the day they were formed.

Stared going to games from day one and did not miss a game from 1960 to 1979 when I moved out of state (barring those while I was away on active duty).

I have been to all away games while I lived in LA that were in the California area. LA raiders at the time and the bolts games (neither were ever sold out) from 1980-88. Since then I have only been to games in DAL.

That said, Floyd was a hell of a player. He certainly saved the franchise from going belly up.

But I personally do not believe that he is deserving HOF status for just that.

He was the offense and led ha league because we had nothing else. had there been any diversity other than run off OG/OT 3 time and then punt, maybe he would have been used less or his numbers would have been better.

I distinctly remember many games against the Chefs were the LB's were faster and BIGGER than he was and can't count how many times they ran him down from behind. that to me is the reason I could not vote for him in Canton. He was good but not good enough to get there IMHO.

The only reason I'd vote for him there is to add a few more Broncos to the hallowed halls hoping it break some of the ice on some of the others that were truly the best of the best at their time playing. Louis Wright, Atwater and Randy are at the top of my list.

dogfish

02-05-2010, 05:14 PM

Denver Native (Carol)

02-05-2010, 05:24 PM

funny. . . if he did that today, people on this board and others would kill him for being a "cancer" that couldn't follow the coach's instructions. . .

You are so true. When Floyd talked about this after it happened, he said that he felt so bad because he fumbled, that he wanted to be on the field to try and make it right.

Or if it happened today under Coach McD, some would be flaming the coach - i.e. ego, immature, pulling the BEST player off the field, etc., etc., etc.

Nomad

02-05-2010, 05:27 PM

funny. . . if he did that today, people on this board and others would kill him for being a "cancer" that couldn't follow the coach's instructions. . .

How's that? Compared to someone on the BRONCOS or in general throughout the NFL??

Northman

02-05-2010, 05:28 PM

McD is the devil.

I didnt want to leave this thread without any *coughhatecough*.

lol

dogfish

02-05-2010, 07:12 PM

How's that? Compared to someone on the BRONCOS or in general throughout the NFL??

both. . .

Lonestar

02-05-2010, 07:24 PM

You are so true. When Floyd talked about this after it happened, he said that he felt so bad because he fumbled, that he wanted to be on the field to try and make it right.

Or if it happened today under Coach McD, some would be flaming the coach - i.e. ego, immature, pulling the BEST player off the field, etc., etc., etc.

Shireley You jest.

OMG ha has pylled the best players off the fields.
Let's see there was

Hillis fumbled a KO

Moreno for his numerous ones.

Scheffler because he wanted the season to end.

BM because he kicked a ball in practice.

BM again cause of cold air hurt his lungs.

BM beacuse he was unable to play with his hammy.

BM cause he was late to his therapy session on said hammy.

:D

Sent from my BlackBerry Smartphone provided by Alltel.

pnbronco

02-05-2010, 09:23 PM

http://blog.denverbroncos.com/jsaccomano/6510/

He is the only running back in the history of pro football to lead the league in rushing while playing for a last place team.[/
He was on an all-decade team - again, while playing for a last place team. Just think about it, and it staggers the imagination.

In Floyd Little’s career he only played behind three linemen who ever made any kind of all-star team, Larry Kaminski, Mike Current, and George Goeddeke, one time each, and I’ll bet many people reading this never heard of any of them.

For Floyd Little, no blockers who ever made the Pro Bowl, three who made the AFL all-star game once each, and no Hall of Famers, certainly.

I look at it this way. Moreno was tackled how many times in the back field with a decent line. Little still made over 3 yds a carry when the D was meeting him back there and no QB to even pretend the ball was going to be thrown. You can't compare stats of today with what Little went through back then. Little DOES deserve this.

Again thank you Starbuck for all your hard work....:salute:
I'm planning on looking as soon as I get home tomorrow night.

Lonestar

02-06-2010, 09:14 AM

Just heard Erik Caselleles (sp) state he believes Labeau gets in over Little because he is a top ten interception leader and most importantly as a coach invented the concept known as "zone blitz".

He also beleives most that Sharpe is considered a pass catcher and NOT a TE. If they vote thinking he was a TE then he gets it. Thinking him a just a pass catcher, then chris carter gets the spot over him and tim brown.

We all know that jerry rice and emmit smith are locks. So that means there are only 4 slots available.

Sent from my BlackBerry Smartphone provided by Alltel.

frauschieze

02-06-2010, 09:19 AM

There is no competition between LeBeau and Little. Little IS ONLY competing against himself.

Nomad

02-06-2010, 09:20 AM

When do they vote on the HOFers? Do make a big deal about it and have a special 2 hr program on the NFLN/ESPN or is it just breaking news that on the channels who made it??

If Little is going up against Lebeau then Lebeau will make it on name alone and the team he coaches for!!

frauschieze

02-06-2010, 09:24 AM

Today’s selection meeting for the Class of 2010 will begin at 9 a.m. The class will be announced at 5 p.m. as the kickoff to a two-hour show on NFL Network.

http://www.cantonrep.com/sports/hall_of_fame/x655690708/Cost-factors-prevent-some-NFL-selectors-from-voting

frauschieze

02-06-2010, 09:31 AM

If Little is going up against Lebeau then Lebeau will make it on name alone and the team he coaches for!!

Again, Little is not going up against Lebeau. He is not competing with Emmett Smith or Jerry Rice. He doesn't have to wrestle a spot away from the normal candidates. If Floyd gets 80% or more of the vote, he's in. Period.

Nomad

02-06-2010, 09:36 AM

Again, Little is not going up against Lebeau. He is not competing with Emmett Smith or Jerry Rice. He doesn't have to wrestle a spot away from the normal candidates. If Floyd gets 80% or more of the vote, he's in. Period.

OK...did I touch a nerve:lol:! I'm not a HOF guru and I understood wrong. I thought it was the two senior guys going against each other!!

Lonestar

02-06-2010, 09:43 AM

I've heard two different things. On the oldies.

One is the oldies group ONLY votes on it and gives the name to the NFL to announce and the vote was done yesterday.

Then today I heard that everyone is voted on today. By the same group of voters.

Either way I think IF only one oldie gets in it has to be Lebeau as his name is still active in the League as a coach. He also is IIRC on the staff of PIT. An EAST coast team.

Think that makes him a lock.

Sent from my BlackBerry Smartphone provided by Alltel.

Nomad

02-06-2010, 09:49 AM

Lonestar

02-06-2010, 09:52 AM

Again, Little is not going up against Lebeau. He is not competing with Emmett Smith or Jerry Rice. He doesn't have to wrestle a spot away from the normal candidates. If Floyd gets 80% or more of the vote, he's in. Period.

The senior group gets ONE slot for the hall Guaranteed. He is. Indeed competeing for that one slot with Labeau.
There was one case IIRC that 2 seniors got in when there was not 5 great choices from the current players.

But this year they have to of the best WR's to play in carter and brown. And they have sharpe as a TE but since most voters really thinks he was a possession big WR he probably will not get in.

While I'd love to see 2 DEN guys there I do not see either.

Sent from my BlackBerry Smartphone provided by Alltel.

Lonestar

02-06-2010, 09:56 AM

As I understand they vote this morning. Your correct it is going ti be overhyped.

Sent from my BlackBerry Smartphone provided by Alltel.

frauschieze

02-06-2010, 10:16 AM

The senior group gets ONE slot for the hall Guaranteed. He is. Indeed competeing for that one slot with Labeau.
There was one case IIRC that 2 seniors got in when there was not 5 great choices from the current players.

Sent from my BlackBerry Smartphone provided by Alltel.

I am sorry, Jr, but you are completely incorrect in regards to the senior selections for the Hall of Fame.

There is no guarantee for a senior candidate:

Although the Senior Nominees will be presented to the full Selection Committee as two of the 17 finalists, their election to the Hall of Fame is not automatic (http://www.profootballhof.com/hof/SelectionProcessFAQ.aspx). The Senior Nominees must receive the same minimum 80% of the vote as a Modern Era candidate to be elected.

Because the maximum number of modern era inductees is five, and the maximum number of a class is seven,

The Hall’s Board of Selectors can elect a maximum of two senior candidates (http://www.profootballhof.com/story/2008/8/27/2816/) and five modern-era candidates for a class no smaller than four or larger than seven.

that means that both senior candidates are not competing against the modern era candidates. Nor are they competing against each other as there are two of them, and two spots available.

Please note, both of these quotes are taken directly from the Hall of Fame's website and not a sports site, where sportswriters often get these things wrong.

titan

02-06-2010, 10:41 AM

This is one of my favorite Floyd Little memories:

http://www.spiritus-temporis.com/floyd-little/

Legend has it that he was "fired" by coach Lou Saban after a fumble that led to a a late-game lead for the Buffalo Bills' in 1968. Little, after refusing to leave the huddle, asked QB Marlon Briscoe to "throw the ball as far as you can and I'll catch it." Briscoe threw it, Little caught it, and the Broncos kicked a winning field goal.

I wrote about that game in my sports blog a few months ago - I was a 12 year old sitting in the South Stands that game. See the video of Floyd telling the story and a replay of the catch here:

http://sportsindenver.blogspot.com/2009/08/day-floyd-little-was-fired.html

As little tells the story, and as I remember it, it was more than Little refusing to leave the huddle. Little was told he was "fired" by Lou Saban and was leaving the field, then he ran back onto the field, told Fran Lynch to get off, and told Marlin Briscoe to throw the ball as far as he could. It was a GREAT catch (in the video you can't really see how great of a catch it was - Floyd had to extend to get the ball - I had a great view in the South Stands as the play was coming towards me)

I still hear slightly wrong descriptions of what happened that day - even bronco pr man jim saccamono on the radio this week said floyd ran back on the field and told mike haffner to leave (it was fran lynch - not haffner). Watch the video for the real story.

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 11:05 AM

http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_14344645

FORT LAUDERDALE — As the Pro Football Hall of Fame voting process whittles down today to a final decision, former Broncos Floyd Little should be a cinch and Shannon Sharpe is a definite maybe.

The 44 Hall voters will gather at 7 a.m. mountain time today. There are 17 Hall finalists, but it's more precise to state there are 15 modern-era finalists and two senior candidates.

Sharpe is one of the 15 modern-era finalists from which five can be elected. Little and Dick LeBeau are the two senior candidates. Both can be elected.

The 17 finalists were separated between 15 modern-era finalists and two senior candidates starting with the class of 2007. Since 1998, 16 of 18 finalists pushed forward by seniors committee were elected.

However, the two exceptions came in the past two years. Marshall Goldberg didn't get 80 percent approval in 2008 and Claude Humhprey failed to in 2009.

Sharpe, the former Broncos' tight end, has competition. Little, the former Broncos' running back, does not. Voters only decide, yes, Little is a Hall of Famer, or no, he's not. Among six voters canvassed during Super Bowl week, all said they would give Little the nod.

With Jerry Rice and Emmitt Smith locks for modern-era election, Sharpe is one of 12 candidates going for the final three openings.

The Hall voting committee will discuss each candidate, then narrow down the list from 15 to 10 candidates. More discussion and another vote will narrow down the candidates from 10 to six.

More discussion, another vote and the final five candidates will be chosen. At that point, the 44 Hall voters will be asked to place a "yes" or "no" on the each of the five finalists. Each of the final five will need 80 percent approval for election.

The Hall of Fame class of 2010 will be announced on the NFL Network at 3 p.m. MST.

studbucket

02-06-2010, 12:05 PM

Jrwiz and Nomad, Frau is correct, you guys have your HoF story wrong.

Little and LeBeau are judged independently of everyone else. 0, 1, or both may get in, depending if they get an 80% "yes" vote.

LeBeau is supposed to be judged only on his feats as a player, the coaching role is not supposed to be part of it at all.

Anywhere between 4-7 candidates can make it in. 4-5 regular candidates and 0-2 Seniors Candidates.

Whatever You heard from Eric Caselas (sp?) is nonsense. Sharpe will be viewed as a TE. The only thing working against him is the large number of very good offensive candidates this year.

I attempt to outline the chances for Little and Sharpe here: http://www.milehighreport.com/2010/2/5/1296549/the-mhr-denver-broncos-hall-of

Nomad

02-06-2010, 12:34 PM

Yes stud, I already stated I was wrong!! I haven't the slighest clue how the HOF is judged that's what I get for thinking.

titan

02-06-2010, 12:38 PM

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 12:39 PM

Stud - great article on MHR :salute:

Nomad

02-06-2010, 12:42 PM

I'm a little concerned about Sports Illustrated's Peter King and Floyd. From some of his past tweets King seems like a Floyd doubter. Still he's only 1 vote and as long as Floyd gets 80%, Floyd's in.

I think Shannon will get in eventually but not this year. Hope I'm wrong.

Maybe Peter King just doesn't like him! i.e. if/when L. Tomlinson gets to this point if I was a voter (which I'm not), I wouldn't vote for him for the simple fact I don't like him!! I'm sure there are alot of voters like that!!

TXBRONC

02-06-2010, 02:21 PM

I'm a little concerned about Sports Illustrated's Peter King and Floyd. From some of his past tweets King seems like a Floyd doubter. Still he's only 1 vote and as long as Floyd gets 80%, Floyd's in.

I think Shannon will get in eventually but not this year. Hope I'm wrong.

Last year after Sharpe failed to get Legwold who happens to be the HoF rep from Denver said that he didn't think Sharpe would get in this year either because of who was going to be eligable.

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 03:44 PM

Sal Paolantonio just got done talking on FM104.3thefan.

In regards to Floyd, he stated that after reading the 44 reasons Floyd Little should be in the HOF, which the Broncos have distributed to everyone they could, Paolantonio said that he ABSOLUTELY does not understand why Floyd is NOT in the HOF already. He feels that Floyd will get in today.

In regards to Shannon, he stated that he feels that Shannon will get in today, as there are quite a few receivers among the finalists, and with Jerry Rice being a lock, he feels no other receiver will get in, - i.e. - they do not want to load up with players who played the same position, which leaves one of the spots for Shannon.

Hope he is correct on both.

titan

02-06-2010, 04:02 PM

I hope Sal is right too. I'm monitoring twitter and the process is still going on:

SI_JimTrotter
about 1 hour ago from UberTwitter
Just turned in my ballot for the cut from 15 to 10 HoF finalists. Was extremely difficult. EXTREMELY difficult.

===

Wonder if word will leak out beforehand.

titan

02-06-2010, 04:38 PM

looks like we'll find out at 3:20 pm Denver time. This from Peter King's twitter account just now:

SI_PeterKing
2:36pm, Feb 06 from UberTwitter
Pro football HoF selection meeting lasted 6 hrs, 58 mins. Productive, combative, smart, very interesting. Won't know results till 5:20.

titan

02-06-2010, 04:45 PM

writer in the room says they spent 1 hour talking about the senior candidates (on nfl network) - longer than usual

titan

02-06-2010, 04:47 PM

last time 2 wide receivers went in was 27 years ago - maybe that helps shannon (rice is a lock, could help shannon as a tight end get in over tim brown cris carter)

Nomad

02-06-2010, 04:50 PM

I hope to see both of them in!! The results should be out :confused: wonder why they have to keep it so hush-hush!

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 04:51 PM

titan

02-06-2010, 04:52 PM

I think at 3 pm we'll hear about the cutdown from 15 to 10 of the modern day candidates. Then at 3:20 pm who made it.

Nomad

02-06-2010, 04:59 PM

The "pre show" is on NFL Network now - they are talking about all of the finalists, and they showed the voters sitting in a room - so you can watch it there. Also, don't know if they will show it online:

http://www.nfl.com/nflnetwork

Thanks! The kids are playing Xbox on the tv with the NFLN, so it's cool to see NFLN online. Too bad the NFL doesn't provide pay per view oline for BRONCO games!

The Emmit Smith/Jerry Rice smooze fest!!!

titan

02-06-2010, 05:04 PM

from raiders beat writer on twitter:

Hall of Fame update: Tim Brown did not make final cut of finalists, no Canton on first try.

(helps shannon's chances)

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 05:06 PM

from raiders beat writer on twitter:

Hall of Fame update: Tim Brown did not make final cut of finalists, no Canton on first try.

(helps shannon's chances)

How is the info leaking out?

titan

02-06-2010, 05:07 PM

this raiders writer probably has connections to tim brown - but doesn't know the other ones

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 05:09 PM

this raiders writer probably has connections to tim brown - but doesn't know the other ones

but someone had to tell this writer that Brown did not make it

titan

02-06-2010, 05:10 PM

Shannon didn't make it - this from Peter King on twitter:

The final 5: ESmith, JRice, JRandle, RGrimm, RJackson. Tough call. Those who get 80% of 44 voters' ballots are in. Ditto Little, LeBeau.

Nomad

02-06-2010, 05:12 PM

Shannon didn't make it - this from Peter King on twitter:

The final 5: ESmith, JRice, JRandle, RGrimm, RJackson. Tough call. Those who get 80% of 44 voters' ballots are in. Ditto Little, LeBeau.

nfl.com said this too

studbucket

02-06-2010, 05:12 PM

Rickey Jackson is a great inclusion. Grimm and Randle, not quite as good.

Nomad

02-06-2010, 05:13 PM

So does this mean Little made the HOF

titan

02-06-2010, 05:14 PM

No - those final 5 still have to get 80% of the vote, as does Little and Lebeau as senior candidates

Lonestar

02-06-2010, 05:15 PM

I am sorry, Jr, but you are completely incorrect in regards to the senior selections for the Hall of Fame.

There is no guarantee for a senior candidate:

Because the maximum number of modern era inductees is five, and the maximum number of a class is seven,

that means that both senior candidates are not competing against the modern era candidates. Nor are they competing against each other as there are two of them, and two spots available.

Please note, both of these quotes are taken directly from the Hall of Fame's website and not a sports site, where sportswriters often get these things wrong.

Jrwiz and Nomad, Frau is correct, you guys have your HoF story wrong.

Little and LeBeau are judged independently of everyone else. 0, 1, or both may get in, depending if they get an 80% "yes" vote.

LeBeau is supposed to be judged only on his feats as a player, the coaching role is not supposed to be part of it at all.

Anywhere between 4-7 candidates can make it in. 4-5 regular candidates and 0-2 Seniors Candidates.

Whatever You heard from Eric Caselas (sp?) is nonsense. Sharpe will be viewed as a TE. The only thing working against him is the large number of very good offensive candidates this year.

I attempt to outline the chances for Little and Sharpe here: http://www.milehighreport.com/2010/2/5/1296549/the-mhr-denver-broncos-hall-of

Yep thanks for getting eh right stuff out there folks like I said I had heard several variations of what was going on.

I had seemed to remember several years ago about TWO seniors going in and that because of that there was 7 being inducted that year.

So when I heard this over the last few days I just thought maybe a special exception was made or if I just remembered it wrong.

Thanks again for getting the straight scoop out there.:salute:

Perhaps Y'ALL could add this Info to the FOOTBALL 101 so it will be easily referenced in the future long after this thread is buried by a gazillion others.

BroncoWave

02-06-2010, 05:16 PM

I guess retiring as the greatest player of all time at your position doesn't get you into the HOF anymore. Sharpe missing it again is an absolute joke.

Nomad

02-06-2010, 05:18 PM

No - those final 5 still have to get 80% of the vote, as does Little and Lebeau as senior candidates

Never seen the guy play but I'm rooting for him at the moment to get in...I believe he'll make it. And I asked my dad, who is 63, about floyd Little and his words were, "He was a damn good RB"

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 05:20 PM

Question - with the fans also voting this year, did those votes REALLY count????

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 05:23 PM

I guess retiring as the greatest player of all time at your position doesn't get you into the HOF anymore. Sharpe missing it again is an absolute joke.

Just another "slap in the face" to the Broncos and their fans by the HOF:tsk:

BroncoWave

02-06-2010, 05:24 PM

Question - with the fans also voting this year, did those votes REALLY count????

The fan vote total probably just counted the same as one vote from a normal voter if I had to guess.

Nomad

02-06-2010, 05:26 PM

4 minutes till Little's fate!!

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 05:29 PM

Unless they expand the number going in each year beyond FIVE, there will be many players who deserve to be there, that will NEVER make it.

Nomad

02-06-2010, 05:29 PM

The joke is seeing Michael Irvin on the stage!

shank

02-06-2010, 05:33 PM

Question - with the fans also voting this year, did those votes REALLY count????

no, the fan vote didn't mean anything. it's just about campaigning.

titan

02-06-2010, 05:36 PM

Floyd made it!!!!!

shank

02-06-2010, 05:37 PM

hell yeah floyd!

Nomad

02-06-2010, 05:37 PM

Congrats to Little:salute::)

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 05:37 PM

:elefant::elefant:FLOYD MADE IT :elefant::elefant:

Nomad

02-06-2010, 05:39 PM

studbucket, you should have a ticket bought for you by the BRONCOS to go to Canton for the work you put into this for Little!!

HORSEPOWER 56

02-06-2010, 05:40 PM

Floyd's In! My faith in the HOF has been restored - somewhat!:elefant::woot::whoo:

It's still BS that John Randle got in over Shannon Sharpe. :tsk:

Bronco4ever

02-06-2010, 05:40 PM

Congrats to the Franchise! Long overdue. It blows Sharpe didn't make it, but rest assured he will get in the next year or two.

Skinny

02-06-2010, 05:42 PM

Congrats to Little.

Much deserved. :salute:

Nomad

02-06-2010, 05:44 PM

I know Jerry Rice is one of the best but I can't help but think the BRONCOS cut him!:lol:

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 06:02 PM

They are talking to Floyd right now on NFL Network

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 06:05 PM

RIGHT NOW - THE TEMPERATURE ON THIS LINK IS 44

http://www.denverpost.com/ci_14349199

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. — Sleep well tonight, Floyd Little.

For the first time in days — for the first time in 30 years, really — the Broncos' running back and the franchise's first big national star can sleep knowing football immortality is his.

Nominated by the seniors committee, Little was elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame today, finally capping his nine-year career with the Broncos from 1967-75.

"I didn't sleep at all last night," Little said at mid-afternoon Saturday, hours before he learned of his election. "I haven't slept in three nights. It has been rough."'

Little was the NFL's seventh all-time leading rusher at the time of his retirement. The first six have long been inducted into the Hall. Little will be formally inducted in August at the Pro Football Hall of Fame Museum in Canton, Ohio.

The Hall of Fame election results were bittersweet for the Broncos, however, as Shannon Sharpe, who retired as the NFL's all-time leader in catches, receiving yards and touchdowns among tight ends, didn't make the five-man modern-era class of 2010.

It was Sharpe's second year on the ballot. Like last year, Sharpe made the cut to the final 10 candidates but again didn't reach the final five.

"I'm disappointed but only five guys made it, so there are lot of other guys who are as disappointed if not more disappointed than I am," Sharpe said. "It doesn't make it any easier, though."

The competition will again be stiff next year as Deion Sanders and Curtis Martin are among the first-time eligible candidates.

Elected Saturday into the Hall of Fame by a 44-person committee: Little; Dick LeBeau, a senior candidate cornerback with the Detroit Lions; San Francisco receiver Jerry Rice; Dallas running back Emmitt Smith; Minnesota defensive tackle John Randle; Washington offensive guard Russ Grimm and New Orleans linebacker Rickey Jackson.

It appears that after Rice and Smith were slam dunks, the voting committee decided to go away from skill-position players and reward players at other positions. Grimm becomes the first member of the famous "Hogs," the Washington Redskins" offensive line in the 1980s, to make the Hall.

Jackson may have been a sentimental choice with the Saints playing in the Super Bowl today for the first time in franchise history.

Randle was a dominant defensive tackle for the Minnesota Vikings through the 1990s.

Besides Sharpe, other notable snubs were receivers Cris Carter and Tim Brown and defensive end Richard Dent.

girler

02-06-2010, 06:10 PM

:salute: YES YES YES YES!!!! Congratulations!!! I am so happy!!! :salute:

SoCoPoCo

02-06-2010, 06:17 PM

Does anyone know (or has anyone seen) where to get a Floyd Little jersey? I've looked everywhere but haven't ever seen one...hopefully now that he's a HALL OF FAMER we will see some.

SoCoPoCo

02-06-2010, 06:23 PM

Oh, and I agree with everyone else who wonders how Rickey Jackson gets in before Shannon Sharpe. Even the guy making the announcements called 'Randy Jackson'! Yep, that's an 'indelible mark on the game' the Hall of Fame guy didn't even know who he was! Great job to anyone and everyone who put together the campaign for Floyd Little to get in this year...time to focus on Randy Gradishar!

Nomad

02-06-2010, 06:25 PM

Saints fans are happy because he's the first Saint in the HOF (I believe)! I agree how did he get in before Sharpe!!

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 06:27 PM

Does anyone know (or has anyone seen) where to get a Floyd Little jersey? I've looked everywhere but haven't ever seen one...hopefully now that he's a HALL OF FAMER we will see some.

I doubt if they are selling any now, but on the following link, you can email the Broncos proshop, and suggest it. It would be great if they would make one up with, of course, Little & #44 on the back, and possibly the years Floyd played.

http://www.denverbroncosproshop.com/?rc=navigation&rs=broncossite

Italianmobstr7

02-06-2010, 06:30 PM

Congrats to Floyd!!!

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 06:35 PM

Saints fans are happy because he's the first Saint in the HOF (I believe)! I agree how did he get in before Sharpe!!

Possibly the following:

Jackson may have been a sentimental choice with the Saints playing in the Super Bowl today for the first time in franchise history.

http://www.denverpost.com/ci_14349199

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 06:39 PM

You guys need to check out the Denver Broncos site -

http://www.denverbroncos.com/

Nomad

02-06-2010, 06:41 PM

Possibly the following:

Jackson may have been a sentimental choice with the Saints playing in the Super Bowl today for the first time in franchise history.

http://www.denverpost.com/ci_14349199

I wouldn't doubt this is true! Jackson played with a great all pro LB corps for many years along with Mills, Swilling, and Johnson. They all complimented each other and if Jackson makes it then the other 3 should as well!!

East Coast Fan

02-06-2010, 06:46 PM

ALL RIGHT FLOYD!!!! THANK GOD....

In my mind, I see John Ralston running down the sideline while the crowd is cheering and he's yelling "ATTABOY FLOYD-THAT'S THE IDEA" like he does on the Broncos history DVD....

"ATTABOY FLOYD" YOU DESERVE IT...:salute:

Italianmobstr7

02-06-2010, 06:50 PM

studbucket

02-06-2010, 06:57 PM

studbucket, you should have a ticket bought for you by the BRONCOS to go to Canton for the work you put into this for Little!!

Thanks, but I just organized. Other great people sent emails (like Carol) and helped out greatly. I'm just glad the older fans came out in force to support Floyd. All Broncos fans did it together.

It's still BS that John Randle got in over Shannon Sharpe. :tsk:

I concur, however the HoF likes to get a few defensive players in each time, so I wasn't expecting Shannon to make it this year, unfortunately.

Congrats to the Franchise! Long overdue. It blows Sharpe didn't make it, but rest assured he will get in the next year or two.

Yep. I've been assured by several voters he is a surefire HoFer and will make it in the next few years.

Does anyone know (or has anyone seen) where to get a Floyd Little jersey? I've looked everywhere but haven't ever seen one...hopefully now that he's a HALL OF FAMER we will see some.

I've looked several times, I hope that they start making them available.

Oh, and I agree with everyone else who wonders how Rickey Jackson gets in before Shannon Sharpe. Even the guy making the announcements called 'Randy Jackson'! Yep, that's an 'indelible mark on the game' the Hall of Fame guy didn't even know who he was! Great job to anyone and everyone who put together the campaign for Floyd Little to get in this year...time to focus on Randy Gradishar!

I wouldn't doubt this is true! Jackson played with a great all pro LB corps for many years along with Mills, Swilling, and Johnson. They all complimented each other and if Jackson makes it then the other 3 should as well!!

I gotta say that I felt Jackson was deserving. If I chose the top 5, I'd keep Jackson and replace Grimm and Randle with Dawson and Sharpe.

studbucket

02-06-2010, 06:58 PM

Anyway, this is awesome!

Nomad

02-06-2010, 06:58 PM

Are alot of you Little fans gonna make the trip to Ohio in Aug???

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 07:06 PM

http://www.denverbroncos.com/index.php

MIAMI -- One of the most decorated Broncos in franchise history can now add one more title to his illustrious resumes - Hall of Famer.

A day before Super Bowl XLIV will kick off, the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2010 was announced, and Floyd Little is among those who will be immortalized in Canton, Ohio.

"This is a great day for Floyd Little individually as well as for the Denver Broncos' entire organization and our fans,” Broncos President and CEO Pat Bowlen said. “Floyd has made immeasurable contributions to this franchise and the NFL, and he deservedly will take his place among the greatest to play this game in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

“Although his playing career with the Broncos took place before my time with the team, I am well aware of what Floyd Little means to this franchise, city and league. Aside from his stellar play on the field, he helped make the Broncos relevant in the NFL and strengthened the bond between this team and its fans. He has waited a long time for this honor, and I couldn't be happier for him."

No. 44 played in Denver from 1967-75, and finished his career as the franchise's all-time leader in rushing yards and total touchdowns. His club record for career combined yardage stood until 2006, and he still sits at second in career rushing attempts in Broncos history.

A first-round pick in 1967 from Syracuse University, Little is one of the four original Broncos Ring of Fame inductees and one of just three Broncos to have his jersey retired. Now he is headed to the Hall of Fame.

"There have been so many Broncos fans who have been so supportive and have signed petitions and have really been wanting this to happen," Little said. "I can't thank the Broncos organization and their fans any more."

Little played in the Pro Bowl in 1970, 1971 and 1973, and participated in the AFL All-Star Game in 1968 and '69. Nicknamed "The Franchise," he led the team in rushing for seven consecutive seasons from 1967-73 - the longest such streak in club history - also leading the NFL in rushing in 1971.

During his career, the only running back to total more rushing yards than Little was Hall of Famer O.J. Simpson. He retired as the seventh-leading rusher in NFL history, and all six players ahead of him are also in the Hall of Fame.

Looking back, Little said things couldn't have turned out better for him than to end up in Denver for his career.

"When I think about being drafted, I was supposed to go to the Jets, so when Denver drafted me I was thinking, 'Where the hell is Denver?'" Little laughed. "But it was the greatest thing that ever happened to me, being drafted by the Denver Broncos and playing my whole career there."

Despite ending his 14-career as one of the most prolific tight ends in NFL History, Shannon Sharpe's bid for Canton fell just short for the second year in-a-row. He will be eligable for the 2011 class.

The Class of 2010 will be enshrined on Saturday, August 7, 2010 in Canton, Ohio.

studbucket

02-06-2010, 07:09 PM

Are alot of you Little fans gonna make the trip to Ohio in Aug???

Yes, I'm already starting to plan :)

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 07:12 PM

I love that Floyd is in, but Shannon Sharpe should have been a first balloter, and if not should have absolutely got in this time. What is going on? Shannon changed the way the TE position is played and how they're used. He held every major record until Tony Gonzalez broke a couple over the last couple years. This pisses me off.

I agree - but look at so many other Broncos which have been shunned - all doing for the Broncos what other players did not do for other teams.

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 07:28 PM

To me this is somewhat bittersweet. I am THRILLED that Floyd made the HOF today, but WHY IN THE HECK DID IT TAKE 30 YEARS?????????? When he retired, he was the 7TH LEADING RUSHER IN NFL HISTORY, and the 6 before him were already in the HOF :tsk: And, like he said when he talked today - he had to save some of his energy when he was on offense, as he was also on the field for when the Broncos received the kickoff, when the Broncos received the punt.

studbucket

02-06-2010, 07:33 PM

Video of Floyd being interviewed on NFLN.

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-hall-of-fame/09000d5d8163fbbe/2010-HOF-Floyd-Little

broncofaninfla

02-06-2010, 08:03 PM

Congrats!!! Now Atwater, Gradishar, Sharpe and Davis need to get in!

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 08:09 PM

Congrats!!! Now Atwater, Gradishar, Sharpe and Davis need to get in!

I also feel Meck and TJ belong there.

KyleOrtonArmySoldier#128

02-06-2010, 08:55 PM

The only aforementioned Bronco who I think doesn't deserve the HOF is Terrell Davis. Obviously one of the best tailbacks to play the game but longevity is always a factor.

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 09:09 PM

The only aforementioned Bronco who I think doesn't deserve the HOF is Terrell Davis. Obviously one of the best tailbacks to play the game but longevity is always a factor.

He played as long as Gale Sayers did, and Sayers is in the HOF

pnbronco

02-06-2010, 09:10 PM

Question - with the fans also voting this year, did those votes REALLY count????

I'm sure this has been answered, but I need to go eat and I just wanted to see if Floyd made and HE DID!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :elefant:.........:elefant:

The vote from the fans were just to promote the person they think should be in. As they said at the booth, some of the reporters are lazy and will not take the time really look at the candidates. In the end it does not count at all again the vote.

Starbucket, thank you so much from the very bottom of heart for all your hard work. I just feel like a wrong in the world has been made right. If you ever need help for players I have seen please know that I'll do anything I can to help.....:salute:

KCL

02-06-2010, 09:11 PM

Like I stated in one of the other threads about him...it's long overdue..I didn't know anything about him and read up on him.

T.K.O.

02-06-2010, 09:14 PM

The only aforementioned Bronco who I think doesn't deserve the HOF is Terrell Davis. Obviously one of the best tailbacks to play the game but longevity is always a factor.

that answers the question right there.....his injury was a fluke and he should not be punished for the early exit,he still accomplished more in a short time than hundreds of quality backs do in a lengthy career.:salute:

Superchop 7

02-06-2010, 09:27 PM

by Bryn Swartz Bryn SwartzSenior Writer
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Senior Writer Written on January 20, 2010
It's amazing how much quarterbacks are primarily judged on their postseason play while the performances of the other 52 players on the team are largely ignored.

Does anybody besides Peyton Manning know that Marvin Harrison is one of the worst postseason players in NFL history? Or that Barry Sanders went from a superstar to just an average running back in the playoffs?

Nope. Only quarterbacks are judged by the playoffs.

That's why not a lot of people know that Terrell Davis might be the single best postseason performer in NFL history.

In just eight games, Davis turned in numbers which would earn him an automatic Pro Bowl selection.

Davis's first taste of postseason action came in the divisional round of the 1996 playoffs, as he rushed for 91 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries, while catching seven passes. However, the Broncos were upset by the surprising Jacksonville Jaguars, bringing the season to an abrupt end.

Davis established himself as the AFC's best running back during the 1997 season, leading the high-powered Broncos to a 12-4 mark and a wild-card berth.

In the postseason, Davis turned in four of the most impressive games by a running back in NFL history.

He rushed for over 100 yards in each game, with a high of 184 in the wild-card round in a rematch against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He averaged an astounding 5.28 yards per carry, topping five yards per carry in three of the four games.

After blowing out the Jaguars and narrowly defeating both the Kansas City Chiefs and the Pittsburgh Steelers on the road, the Broncos advanced to their fourth Super Bowl in franchise history.

The Broncos had previously played in four Super Bowls, losing each by an average of 28 points per game. The Packers were led by three-time MVP Brett Favre and had just won the Super Bowl the previous season. So it came as no surprise that the Broncos were picked as 11-point underdogs.

Super Bowl XXXII will always be remembered as the signature game of Davis's short career.

Despite missing practically the entire second quarter with a severe migraine, Davis managed incredibly to rush for 157 yards and three touchdowns on 30 carries.

Terrell Davis's third touchdown came with 1:43 to play, giving the Broncos a 31-24 lead. It was his third one-yard touchdown of the game, and after the defense stopped Brett Favre and the Packers on a fourth-down conversion with under a minute to play, the Broncos were the champions of the world.

Davis captured Most Valuable Players honors, capping off an unbelievable postseason in which he rushed for a total of 581 yards and eight touchdowns. Both were records for a single postseason.

Davis earned Most Valuable Player honors and led the Broncos to 14 victories during the 1998 regular season. This time, the Broncos earned home-field advantage throughout the postseason.

Davis led the Broncos to commanding victories over the Miami Dolphins and the New York Jets, rushing for a total of 366 yards and three touchdowns on just 53 carries (6.91 YPA).

The Broncos advanced to their second consecutive Super Bowl, where they faced the powerful Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons boasted the NFL's second ranked run defense and the best by an NFC team since the 1995 San Francisco 49ers.

Davis topped 100 yards for the seventh consecutive game, leading the Broncos to a solid 34-19 victory. The Broncos became the first AFC team to win back-to-back Super Bowl titles since the Pittsburgh Steelers almost 20 years earlier.

Davis suffered through three very injury-plagued seasons before retiring from football after the 2002 preseason. His last postseason game was Super Bowl XXXIII.

Throughout his record-setting postseason career, Davis failed to rush for 100 yards in just one of his eight games. He averaged 143 rushing yards per game and scored an incredible 12 touchdowns, an average of one-and-a-half per game.

Projected over a full season, his numbers would be as follows: 408 carries, 2280 yards (5.59 YPA), and 24 touchdowns.

His 408 rushing attempts would be the third highest single-season total in NFL history. His 2280 rushing yards would shatter Eric Dickerson's single-season record of 2105 yards, and his 24 rushing touchdowns would be tied for the fifth best single-season total.

Even his 5.59 yards per carry would be one of the most impressive totals in NFL history, and incredibly, these numbers came against some of the most dominant defenses in the National Football League.

Davis faced an above average defense in all but one of his starts. Five times he faced a top five defense, where his numbers improved to 145 yards and 1.625 touchdowns per game. Twice he faced the NFL's number one defense, averaging 150 yards and two touchdowns.

The tougher the competition, the better Davis performed, and for just three seasons and a span of eight games, Davis was arguably the single most dominant postseason player in NFL history.

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ ________________________

TD is without a doubt the best postseason running back EVER in the NFL.

RUNNING AGAINST THE BEST DEFENSES

He should be in the HOF.

Broncolingus

02-06-2010, 09:43 PM

Whoo-hoo and congrats to Floyd...MORE than deserving!

Sharpe absolutely should have made it in as well...had he played in NY, LA, CHI he'd have been in no prob.

Agree with most that Gradishar is equally deserving and never should've slid to having to be a senior.

Again, congrats to Floyd! :salute:

girler

02-06-2010, 10:29 PM

I'm sure this has been answered, but I need to go eat and I just wanted to see if Floyd made and HE DID!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :elefant:.........:elefant:

The vote from the fans were just to promote the person they think should be in. As they said at the booth, some of the reporters are lazy and will not take the time really look at the candidates. In the end it does not count at all again the vote.

Starbucket, thank you so much from the very bottom of heart for all your hard work. I just feel like a wrong in the world has been made right. If you ever need help for players I have seen please know that I'll do anything I can to help.....:salute:

Hey Stud, you're a Star now too! :salute: :laugh: Same goes for me too. Studbucket, you're a stud!

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 10:38 PM

http://www.profootballhof.com/enshrinement/2010/2/6/pro-football-hall-of-fame-class-of-2010-announced/

Little, the first 1,000-yard rusher in Denver Broncos history, was a versatile star who amassed more than 12,000 all-purpose yards on rushing, receiving, punt returns, and kickoff returns during his nine-season career.

Nomad

02-06-2010, 10:39 PM

Good find Superchop 7!! TD was one of a kind and too bad his career was cut short, but not any shorter than Little's or Gayle Sayer and he has two SB rings because of his efforts!! And I don't care what kind of line he played behind, he made incredible plays and if you disagree your FOS!!

Denver Native (Carol)

02-06-2010, 10:52 PM

HORSEPOWER 56

02-06-2010, 11:24 PM

I concur, however the HoF likes to get a few defensive players in each time, so I wasn't expecting Shannon to make it this year, unfortunately.

I understand that they want parody between skill positions and linemen, but Randle wasn't even the best lineman on the ballot. Dent should've gone before Randle. Had Sharpe lost out to Dent, I wouldn't have felt as bad.

I can probably name 4 or 5 DTs better than Randle that aren't in the HOF.

Can you think of a TE better than Sharpe?

Broncolingus

02-07-2010, 12:05 AM

Can you think of a TE better than Sharpe?

Gonzalez (best ever to date) and Winslow (for really defining the position) are the only two 'better' than Sharpe in my mind...

JMO...

HORSEPOWER 56

02-07-2010, 12:11 AM

Gonzalez (best ever to date) and Winslow (for really defining the position) are the only two 'better' than Sharpe in my mind...

JMO...

Looking purely at the numbers, Gonzalez is the guy as of now. Winslow, although he "revolutionized" the receving TE position, also played in the Don Coryell system which threw the ball to everyone.

Winslow is already in. Gonzalez is still playing so he's ineligible. That leaves Sharpe as the Greatest Eligible TE of all time not in the HOF. He also has 3 rings with two different teams. Something neither of the others have.

Bronco Bible

02-07-2010, 09:28 AM

I guess retiring as the greatest player of all time at your position doesn't get you into the HOF anymore. Sharpe missing it again is an absolute joke.

You missed the Denver part.........that is why IMO he did not get in:tsk:

Dean

02-07-2010, 11:39 AM

I haven't seen this posted on Broncos Forums so enjoy.

http://www.denverbroncos.com/page.php?id=349&videoID=3748&type=broncosTV&year=&month=

atwater27

02-07-2010, 12:01 PM

In such a depressing and hard time to be a Broncos fan, this is a real shot in the arm. Congrats Floyd!

BroncoJoe

02-07-2010, 12:25 PM

I remember thinking during the '77 season "Man, Floyd retired a couple years too early."

He might have made a difference in that magical season and Superbowl.

spikerman

02-07-2010, 12:45 PM

You missed the Denver part.........that is why IMO he did not get in:tsk:

Exactly, as hard as it seems to be for those voters to hold their noses to elect even one Broncos' player, there was NO way they were going to put in two in the same year.

G_Money

02-07-2010, 01:11 PM

spikerman

02-07-2010, 01:15 PM

Jackson got in because that was the voting compromise to get Floyd Little in.

"You want your 'good player who meant a lot to your franchise' to get in? We want ours. It's a good year for it. Make it happen for my guy, and I'll help you with your guy."

Which is why the Football Hall of Fame voting is retarded.

But I'll take it. Shannon will get in. Floyd was out of time.

And now John isn't the only Bronco in the Hall, and there's some proof that there WAS a Broncos team before 1983. Always nice.

~G
I agree about the HoF voting. It's become a joke. As far as Elway being the only Bronco, I know that players don't go in under a team, but Zimmerman has said that he will always consider himself a Bronco. Besides, I think we, as Broncos' fans, should claim Jerry Rice as our own. :D

KCL

02-07-2010, 01:20 PM

So after this how many players does this make for the Broncos in the
HOF?

Nomad

02-07-2010, 01:32 PM

So after this how many players does this make for the Broncos in the
HOF?

I thought this was the 3rd but I don't know!! Zimmerman went in as another team???:confused:

jerry Rice was cut by the BRONCOS that is all!!

Dean

02-07-2010, 01:43 PM

I thought this was the 3rd but I don't know!! Zimmerman went in as another team???:confused:

jerry Rice was cut by the BRONCOS that is all!!

It is my impression that you go in having all your stats, pictures, accolades, and etc from any and all teams you played for.

After going to the dark side Willie Brown is in the Hall as well as Elway, and Zimmerman. We definitely don't have our fair share of busts in Canton, yet.

Poet

02-07-2010, 01:49 PM

Just to make this quick, IMO:

Little is where he belongs. His numbers in context are really impressive.

Shannon Sharpe is the best tight end ever. Winslow is on that same level. Tony Gonzalez has the records but I think he played more years in a more pass friendly NFL than Sharpe did. Why he isn't in the HOF is beyond me, I thought that he was worthy of a first ballot induction.

TD is not a HOF. The Gale Sayers argument is ok, but Sayers wasn't really a HOFer either. He got in on pity. He could have been the best ever and it was a shame what happened to him.

TD mirrors that to a tee. He didn't have the longevity, he didn't have the overall career stats, he had a great spurt.

Whenever people talk about the all-time greats at RB no one brings up TD's name. I've heard people describe him as a 1,000 yard back with a 1,000 yard offensive line.

He had a lot of great moments in the NFL, but to say he's one of the greatest running backs of all-time is a stretch.

http://www.nfl.com/players/terrelldavis/profile?id=DAV766905

How is that a HOF career? He had four years where he rushed over a thousand years. That doesn't make you one of the best running backs ever.

KCL

02-07-2010, 01:49 PM

I am glad he is still around to know that he was selected...dude should have went in before DT...And I loved DT.

KCL

02-07-2010, 01:50 PM

Denver Native (Carol)

02-07-2010, 02:09 PM

So after this how many players does this make for the Broncos in the HOF?

To me, the following is misleading: John and Floyd played solely for the Broncos, Zimmerman played 5 years for the Broncos, and I believe 6 for the Vikings, so I would consider it 3. The other two listed here, I certainly would not say they represent the Broncos in the HOF, as most of Brown's career was with the Raiders*

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denver_Broncos

Pro Football Hall of Famers

* 7, John Elway, QB, (1983-98) Class of 2004
* 24, Willie Brown, CB, (1963-66) Class of 1984
* 33, Tony Dorsett, RB, (1988) Class of 1994
* 65, Gary Zimmerman, OT, (1993–1997) Class of 2008
* 44, Floyd Little, RB, (1967-1975) Class of 2010

*Willie Brown played collegiate football at Grambling University and was not drafted by any professional team after leaving school in 1963. He was signed by the Houston Oilers of the American Football League but was cut from the team during training camp.

He was then signed by the AFL's Denver Broncos and became a starter by the middle of his rookie season. He won All-AFL honors in his second season and played in the AFL All-Star Game, recording 9 interceptions for 144 yards.

In 1967, Brown was traded to the AFL's Oakland Raiders and would spend the remainder of his career there. He served as defensive captain for 10 of his 12 years with the team. He was named to 5 AFL All-Star games and 4 NFL Pro Bowls. He was also named All-AFL 3 times and All-NFL 4 times.

Meck77

02-07-2010, 02:23 PM

FYI floor and west stands already sold out. My gut says the South is also.

I just picked some up in Sec 4 North stands row WW. Leads me to believe that they are almost sold out already. If you haven't been there I can tell you first hand the place doesn't hold that many people. It's much larger then your standard high school stadium but it is one none the less.

Seats are $30. Get them while you can. You can always resell to another Bronco fan if you can't make it but with Rice and crying emmitt in there these tickets will be at a premium in August.

http://www.profootballhof.com/enshrinement/ticket_policies.aspx

Lonestar

02-07-2010, 02:26 PM

TXBRONC

02-07-2010, 03:32 PM

To me, the following is misleading: John and Floyd played solely for the Broncos, Zimmerman played 5 years for the Broncos, and I believe 6 for the Vikings, so I would consider it 3. The other two listed here, I certainly would not say they represent the Broncos in the HOF, as most of Brown's career was with the Raiders*

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denver_Broncos

Pro Football Hall of Famers

* 7, John Elway, QB, (1983-98) Class of 2004
* 24, Willie Brown, CB, (1963-66) Class of 1984
* 33, Tony Dorsett, RB, (1988) Class of 1994
* 65, Gary Zimmerman, OT, (1993–1997) Class of 2008
* 44, Floyd Little, RB, (1967-1975) Class of 2010

*Willie Brown played collegiate football at Grambling University and was not drafted by any professional team after leaving school in 1963. He was signed by the Houston Oilers of the American Football League but was cut from the team during training camp.

He was then signed by the AFL's Denver Broncos and became a starter by the middle of his rookie season. He won All-AFL honors in his second season and played in the AFL All-Star Game, recording 9 interceptions for 144 yards.

In 1967, Brown was traded to the AFL's Oakland Raiders and would spend the remainder of his career there. He served as defensive captain for 10 of his 12 years with the team. He was named to 5 AFL All-Star games and 4 NFL Pro Bowls. He was also named All-AFL 3 times and All-NFL 4 times.

Little is the only Bronco in the Hall of Fame that was not only drafted by the Broncos but played entire career as with Broncos. I don't think Denver really make a claim to Dorsett because he was in Denver one season only and that was end of career to boot. He's remembered as a Dallas Cowboy because that's where all of his accomplisments took place.

Willie Brown is pretty much in the same because most of career and accomplisments were as a Raider. So he's remember more as Raider than as Bronco.

Zimmermann played seven seasons with the Vikings. That's pretty close to an even spilt. Even so I think's remembered more for being a Bronco than a Viking.

broncogirl7

02-07-2010, 04:38 PM

Congrats Floyd Little.

Italianmobstr7

02-07-2010, 06:30 PM

It's great seeing Floyd Little in the hall of fame and at the coin toss. I'm too young to have the pleasure of watching him play, but I did read about him a lot as a little kid growing up following the Broncos. So happy he's in!

Dean

02-07-2010, 10:40 PM

pnbronco

02-07-2010, 11:03 PM

I look at it this way. Moreno was tackled how many times in the back field with a decent line. Little still made over 3 yds a carry when the D was meeting him back there and no QB to even pretend the ball was going to be thrown. You can't compare stats of today with what Little went through back then. Little DOES deserve this.

Again thank you Starbuck for all your hard work....:salute:
I'm planning on looking as soon as I get home tomorrow night.

Just glad Clayton saw it the same way I did.........:D

Sorry I some days I just can't help myself.....:laugh:

TXBRONC

02-08-2010, 08:38 AM

Rickey Jackson is a great inclusion. Grimm and Randle, not quite as good.

Sharpe should have gotten in over Grimm in my opinion.

CoachChaz

02-08-2010, 08:52 AM

I could care less about guys being out of time or guys having plenty of time or whatever politics people want to include in the travesty that is the Hall of Fame. The whole system is a joke and the process of getting a player in is beyond that. If Little didnt get in and was out of eligibility time...too bad. Instead, we have a player who moderately deserves to be in, while another sits and waits. The list of completely overrated and overvalued guys in the HOF continues to increase ona ridiculous basis and in my opinion...getting in just doesnt mean the same thing anymore. It's all about what team you were on or who you know or how much you cry about it.

Would Csonka, Warfield, Buoniconti, Greise and Langer be in if they weren't on an undefeated team?

Would Irvin be in if he wasnt a Cowboy and didnt whine about it every day for 2 years?

How about Swann and Stallworth? Does being on a few SB teams make up for moderate stats?

Does Namath get in without a prediction?

The list goes on and on and a pathetic standard has been set already and it will continue it's downward spiral. I've always been a fan of defense and Rickey Jackson and John Randle were some of my favorite players to watch and based on that...I'm happy they got in. Both rank top 10 all time in sacks and Jackson could be higher if his rookie year (before they counted sacks) was included. But how the hell do those two get in BEFORE Richard Dent? Yes, the same Richard Dent that still isnt in...but unworthy teammate Dan Hampton is??? At this pace, I guess we should expect to see Kyle Orton make it in...even if he retired today.

topscribe

02-08-2010, 10:12 AM

Oh. . . almost forgot to mention a statement about Floyd on the Mike and Mike pregame show. John Clayton said that in the discussions about admitting Floyd there was one stat that he believed turned the tide.

Floyd was hit in the backfield on 30% of his carries and still gained yards. Think about that stat. It is absolutely amazing in and of itself but particularly in view of what we saw this year.

The great backs can carry a team.

The great former linebacker for the Miami Dolphins Nick Buoniconti once stated
that when they prepared for the Broncos, they prepared for Floyd Little. When
they played the Broncos they did not worry about the passing game, he said.

A linebacker for the Oakland Raiders (I forget the name now off the top) was
asked what came to mind when Floyd Little got the ball. The linebacker replied
flatly, "Dread."

Floyd Little wasn't just respected among opponents. He was feared . . .

-----

studbucket

02-08-2010, 10:38 AM

The list goes on and on and a pathetic standard has been set already and it will continue it's downward spiral. I've always been a fan of defense and Rickey Jackson and John Randle were some of my favorite players to watch and based on that...I'm happy they got in. Both rank top 10 all time in sacks and Jackson could be higher if his rookie year (before they counted sacks) was included. But how the hell do those two get in BEFORE Richard Dent? Yes, the same Richard Dent that still isnt in...but unworthy teammate Dan Hampton is??? At this pace, I guess we should expect to see Kyle Orton make it in...even if he retired today.

If you want to judge by stats, then both Randle and Jackson were probably better candidates than Dent. Going by his numbers, teammates, and play, he's borderline: http://www.pro-football-reference.com/blog/?p=5523

Feel free to click around there and check out the profiles for the other players as well, they do a great job.

titan

02-08-2010, 10:42 AM

As I suspected in reading Peter King in recent weeks, King did not vote for Floyd. This from his Monday Morning QB column today:

On Little's election: I did not support the Denver running back because I felt his numbers and impact were shy (3.9 yards per carry, one 1,000-yard rushing season, 54 rush yards per game), but as I've said on many occasions, I'm one voter, with an equal vote to the other 43 voters, and the will of the voters spoke loudly. Senior Committee nominees need 80 percent of the vote to be inducted, and both Little and LeBeau got at least the requisite 36 votes to get in.

There's no doubt in my mind that the exhaustive work of Denver Post writer Jeff Legwold either got Little in or was a major factor in his election. The way the system works is that each candidate has his case for election presented by a member of the media from where he played. Then there's free-flowing debate about the candidate. Little's speaker was Legwold. Our bylaws prevent me from discussing freely what Legwold said in the meeting, but with permission of Hall of Fame VP Joe Horrigan, I can say that one factor in Legwold's argument was that Legwold personally viewed about 1,200 of 1,641 carries in Little's nine NFL seasons.

Though I can't tell you what Legwold said in his presentation, I can tell you I discussed this with him after the presentation and Legwold said he kept records of each carry and where Little was first contacted by a defender behind a subpar Denver offensive line. Legwold said about 30 percent of the time Little was first hit behind the line. That's an amazing number. "I saw a runner who had to struggle to get to the line of scrimmage often,'' Legwold said afterward. "He had no time to be a patient runner, because he was in a bad offense with no other options.''

I called Little Saturday night, and he was unaware of the lengths to which Legwold had gone. "Wow,'' Little said. "If he swayed more than one person, I am so deeply indebted.'' Legwold's legwork will be the kind that, to me, future presenters will strive to match.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/peter_king/02/08/mmqb.superbowl/1.html

========

I like Peter King but he's wrong here - you have to consider the team Little was playing with in looking at his numbers (Little never had a pro bowl offensive lineman, for example). Also as was brought up on Saturday Little was an all purpose threat - he returned kickoffs and punts, too, and was a terrific receiver.

But it doesn't matter now- Floyd is in! Good job, Jeff Legwold, in making the pitch for Floyd.

Nomad

02-08-2010, 10:51 AM

Is there a perfect way to judge the HOF? There are many differences of opinions and bias opinions as well!

CoachChaz

02-08-2010, 10:52 AM

If you want to judge by stats, then both Randle and Jackson were probably better candidates than Dent. Going by his numbers, teammates, and play, he's borderline: http://www.pro-football-reference.com/blog/?p=5523

Feel free to click around there and check out the profiles for the other players as well, they do a great job.

My point was more along the lines of the standads that are set. Do guys like Irvin, Swann and Stallworth belong there? Statistically...probably not. but they won alot of Super Bowls. Then if SB's become the standard, then that should mean that Rod Smith is a lock because his numbers are better or as good as all three of them.

But then Dent has a ring and Randle doesnt. Jackson got his by tagging along with the Niners late in his career. It's just a bogus set of rules and standards that gets more dilluted and lowered all the time. Just takes the luster off of the whole thing.

TXBRONC

02-08-2010, 10:56 AM

Nomad

02-08-2010, 10:59 AM

My point was more along the lines of the standads that are set. Do guys like Irvin, Swann and Stallworth belong there? Statistically...probably not. but they won alot of Super Bowls. Then if SB's become the standard, then that should mean that Rod Smith is a lock because his numbers are better or as good as all three of them.

But then Dent has a ring and Randle doesnt. Jackson got his by tagging along with the Niners late in his career. It's just a bogus set of rules and standards that gets more dilluted and lowered all the time. Just takes the luster off of the whole thing.

I agree about what are the standards to get into the HOF!

CoachChaz

02-08-2010, 11:11 AM

Well glad to see Little get in after all.

I did not see it happening with all the east coast bias that is there.

Stud you done good. congrats for getting the vote out.

Now lets push Randy, Steve and Louis please.

Can someone explain this to me? Either I'm in the dark on what is considered "east coast" or just confused as to where this concept comes from.

Now, if anything east of the Mississippi river is considered east coast, then that means 183 of 260 members fall into this bias. But that includes members of the Bears, Colts, Browns, Dolphins, etc. If we're not including midwest teams, then the number is ALOT closer to being more even than what it's played out to be.

Biz1

02-08-2010, 11:20 AM

The great former linebacker for the Miami Dolphins Nick Buoniconti once stated
that when they prepared for the Broncos, they prepared for Floyd Little. When
they played the Broncos they did not worry about the passing game, he said.

A linebacker for the Oakland Raiders (I forget the name now off the top) was
asked what came to mind when Floyd Little got the ball. The linebacker replied
flatly, "Dread."

Floyd Little wasn't just respected among opponents. He was feared . . .

-----

I'll bet I'm not the only one that said, "who"? when this announcement was made late Saturday afternoon. I'm a little embarrassed here to admit I have never heard of him:
http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-hall-of-fame/09000d5d8163fbbe/2010-HOF-Floyd-Little

Congrats Floyd!

Denver Native (Carol)

02-08-2010, 01:13 PM

Can someone explain this to me? Either I'm in the dark on what is considered "east coast" or just confused as to where this concept comes from.

Now, if anything east of the Mississippi river is considered east coast, then that means 183 of 260 members fall into this bias. But that includes members of the Bears, Colts, Browns, Dolphins, etc. If we're not including midwest teams, then the number is ALOT closer to being more even than what it's played out to be.

My understanding of what "east coast bias" means is that the press pays considerable attention to the eastern teams, and therefore, does not have much of a clue what goes on with, for example, the 4 professional teams in Colorado, unless there is some DIRT to report on, and then they are immediately on it. Also, I do believe that you could now include the LA area in that bias - i.e. - you now have ESPN LA, and their studio is right across the street from the Staples Center. However, as far as basketball, their attention is MAINLY given to the Lakers.

CoachChaz

02-08-2010, 01:29 PM

My understanding of what "east coast bias" means is that the press pays considerable attention to the eastern teams, and therefore, does not have much of a clue what goes on with, for example, the 4 professional teams in Colorado, unless there is some DIRT to report on, and then they are immediately on it. Also, I do believe that you could now include the LA area in that bias - i.e. - you now have ESPN LA, and their studio is right across the street from the Staples Center. However, as far as basketball, their attention is MAINLY given to the Lakers.

So it's not necessarily East Coast bias as much as it is "not paying attention to the small to middle markets"

Denver Native (Carol)

02-08-2010, 01:40 PM

So it's not necessarily East Coast bias as much as it is "not paying attention to the small to middle markets"

Guess that is what I meant - east coast bias, as most of the writers are from the large markets in the east, and do not bother to even find out what is going on in some other areas of the country, which could be considered East Coast bias - to them, they only feel the eastern teams are worth paying attention to, and therefore, they have no clue about many of the other teams. Just like biz1 said - when Floyd was announced Saturday - he thought - "who is that"

Poet

02-08-2010, 01:40 PM

So it's not necessarily East Coast bias as much as it is "not paying attention to the small to middle markets"

It's a perceived glamor or grit bias. If you're a sexy and 'glamorous' team like the Cowboys or a tough and 'gritty' team like the Steel Curtain and you dominate you'll get all the press.

Lonestar

02-08-2010, 02:02 PM

So it's not necessarily East Coast bias as much as it is "not paying attention to the small to middle markets"

I did a post not to long ago about the numbers of teams NOT east of the Mississippi those are SFO, SEA, KC, PHX, SAN, OAK (if you can call it a team) and DEN. HOU, MSP and DAL, but not by much. But since only 7 of them are really Out casts so to speak and of them SFO is a MAJOR market there are really only DEN, KC, SAN, PHX and SEA that really have little draw nationally Unless we are playing the east coasters.

Most folks from PIT are 400 miles or so from 9 -10 teams. We are 400 from one KC.

When it comes to coverage of those teams out east they play each other so much more than we do and even if it is not their team they are more likely to get one showing that they well see us.

Where there are more teams there are more reporters. A reporter from WAS will get to see more of their teams and less of ours and therefore KNOW their players better than ours.

Does anyone here think that B Dawk got on the Pro bowl team from his play here or his name from PHL and all of the teams they played over the years. Same applies to these lazy voters they have their own wood to carry for the teams they see all the time or are close to.

When I lived in Upstate NY the only news I got of the broncos was a 3 line blurb in the local Paper, and seeing a game was a once a year occasion unless they were playing BUF, JETS, NE, GB, PIT, NYG, WAS, PHL, BAL or CHI then I'd get it and only then.

When I moved to LA only saw Rams, OAK and SAN stuff. Rarely the DEN stuff.

Here in ELP all we get is cowgirls garbage in the local press.

When I talk of east coast bias I really mean east of the Mississippi.

/ramble.

CoachChaz

02-08-2010, 03:02 PM

I did a post not to long ago about the numbers of teams NOT east of the Mississippi those are SFO, SEA, KC, PHX, SAN, OAK (if you can call it a team) and DEN. HOU, MSP and DAL, but not by much. But since only 7 of them are really Out casts so to speak and of them SFO is a MAJOR market there are really only DEN, KC, SAN, PHX and SEA that really have little draw nationally Unless we are playing the east coasters.

Most folks from PIT are 400 miles or so from 9 -10 teams. We are 400 from one KC.

When it comes to coverage of those teams out east they play each other so much more than we do and even if it is not their team they are more likely to get one showing that they well see us.

Where there are more teams there are more reporters. A reporter from WAS will get to see more of their teams and less of ours and therefore KNOW their players better than ours.

Does anyone here think that B Dawk got on the Pro bowl team from his play here or his name from PHL and all of the teams they played over the years. Same applies to these lazy voters they have their own wood to carry for the teams they see all the time or are close to.

When I lived in Upstate NY the only news I got of the broncos was a 3 line blurb in the local Paper, and seeing a game was a once a year occasion unless they were playing BUF, JETS, NE, GB, PIT, NYG, WAS, PHL, BAL or CHI then I'd get it and only then.

When I moved to LA only saw Rams, OAK and SAN stuff. Rarely the DEN stuff.

Here in ELP all we get is cowgirls garbage in the local press.

When I talk of east coast bias I really mean east of the Mississippi.

/ramble.

Well, as it pertains to the HOF voting, like I said...183 of the 260 HOFers are from teams east of the Mississippi. That's roughly 70%. When you consider that 65% of the NFL teams are from east of the Mississippi...I dont know that I'd call it a bias. Especially when you consider the fact that most of them have longer histories in the NFL as well.

I guess I wouldnt say it's unfair or unreasonable that the Steelers and their 100 year history have more HOFers than Denver and their 50 year history

Denver Native (Carol)

02-08-2010, 03:15 PM

Well, as it pertains to the HOF voting, like I said...183 of the 260 HOFers are from teams east of the Mississippi. That's roughly 70%. When you consider that 65% of the NFL teams are from east of the Mississippi...I dont know that I'd call it a bias. Especially when you consider the fact that most of them have longer histories in the NFL as well.

I guess I wouldnt say it's unfair or unreasonable that the Steelers and their 100 year history have more HOFers than Denver and their 50 year history

The Raiders, Chiefs, and Chargers have a 50 year history also; however, the Raiders have 19 in the HOF, the Chiefs have 9, and the Chargers have 7. Maybe I am changing my mind from "east coast bias" to "Denver Bronco bias"

CoachChaz

02-08-2010, 03:39 PM

The Raiders, Chiefs, and Chargers have a 50 year history also; however, the Raiders have 19 in the HOF, the Chiefs have 9, and the Chargers have 7. Maybe I am changing my mind from "east coast bias" to "Denver Bronco bias"

Fair enough...but it's hard to argue with alot of them being in. The Chiefs...Derrick Thomas, Emmit Thomas, Hank Stram, Stenerud, Lanier, Dawson. Raiders...Allen, Biletnikoff, Blanda, Casper, Haynes, Hendricks, Long, Madden, Otto, Shelll, Upshaw. Chargers...Allworth, Fouts, Gilman, Joiner, Winslow.

The Hall is littered with guys that shouldnt be there. Personally, I'd prefer being a team that doesnt have questionable members in there. I'm okay with Elway and Zimmerman and eventually Sharpe. But if you start tossing mediocre guys like Little and Gradishar, etc in there...it adds to the dillution

East Coast Fan

02-08-2010, 03:40 PM

I remember thinking during the '77 season "Man, Floyd retired a couple years too early."

He might have made a difference in that magical season and Superbowl.

Well, he probably would've gotten about 6 carries and then rotated out in Red Miller's "running back by commitee"....:D

KCL

02-08-2010, 03:52 PM

I saw Mr. Little during the coin toss..my husband commented on how little he was compared to the other guys...;)

I told my husband about him..well as much as I could upon learning about him here and how he has finally made it to the HOF.

If he thinks about it long enough he would probably remember him cause when he was a kid his dad had season tickets when the Chiefs played in the old stadium they shared with the A's.

Too bad it took so long when others get in pretty quick..Good for him,I am happy he is still around today to be able to take part in the coin toss and also the induction whenever that is...August I believe.

Denver Native (Carol)

02-08-2010, 04:01 PM

Fair enough...but it's hard to argue with alot of them being in. The Chiefs...Derrick Thomas, Emmit Thomas, Hank Stram, Stenerud, Lanier, Dawson. Raiders...Allen, Biletnikoff, Blanda, Casper, Haynes, Hendricks, Long, Madden, Otto, Shelll, Upshaw. Chargers...Allworth, Fouts, Gilman, Joiner, Winslow.

The Hall is littered with guys that shouldnt be there. Personally, I'd prefer being a team that doesnt have questionable members in there. I'm okay with Elway and Zimmerman and eventually Sharpe. But if you start tossing mediocre guys like Little and Gradishar, etc in there...it adds to the dillution

You would have had to have actually seen Floyd play, to realize that "mediocre" should never be used when talking about Floyd.

CoachChaz

02-08-2010, 04:02 PM

You would have had to have actually seen Floyd play, to realize that "mediocre" should never be used when talking about Floyd.

In comparison to the statistics and achievements of others...his career was mediocre. Sadly, those are the two things that apparently count with voters.

Denver Native (Carol)

02-08-2010, 04:14 PM

In comparison to the statistics and achievements of others...his career was mediocre. Sadly, those are the two things that apparently count with voters.

He had the rushing stats, and he also played on the kick off return, and punt return teams.

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/L/LittFl00.htm

It's time to elect Floyd Little to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Without Floyd's impact, the Denver Broncos would have been forced to relocate over 40 yrs ago. The 5-Time Pro Bowler who retired the 7th All-Time Rusher in NFL History saved the franchise.

Scott Hastings and Mike Evans are talking about this on TheFan now, and Scott said that Floyd should have been selected years ago. And then they were talking about Shannon not making it, and Scott said that when Shannon retired, he held all the records for tight ends - BUT the longer it takes Shannon to get in, his records may not seem as significant as they were when he retired.

spikerman

02-08-2010, 06:30 PM

You would have had to have actually seen Floyd play, to realize that "mediocre" should never be used when talking about Floyd.

Or Gradishar.

Denver Native (Carol)

02-08-2010, 06:41 PM

Or Gradishar.

Totally agree - or Gradishar, or Meck, or Atwater, or etc., etc., etc.

weazel

02-08-2010, 06:49 PM

now that Little is in the HOF we need anew thread, titled "Getting Pink Floyd Into the Super Bowl Half Time Show"

Biz1

02-08-2010, 07:01 PM

Guess that is what I meant - east coast bias, as most of the writers are from the large markets in the east, and do not bother to even find out what is going on in some other areas of the country, which could be considered East Coast bias - to them, they only feel the eastern teams are worth paying attention to, and therefore, they have no clue about many of the other teams. Just like biz1 said - when Floyd was announced Saturday - he thought - "who is that"

True, but Little was before my time and played on an old AFL/NFL team that was virtually unknown during that era. Broncos didn't come onto the scene until the late 70's.

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-top-ten/09000d5d80999c60/Top-Ten-Not-in-HOF-Jerry-Kramer

Why should Little get the nod over Jerry Kramer?. Kramer started the Gridiron Greats organization...yet he remains outside the hof(intentional non-capitalization).

http:////gridirongreats.org/about/

"The idea for the Fund started over 25 years ago…because of a stolen Super Bowl ring. Jerry Kramer, NFL Hall of Fame lineman for the Green Bay Packers, had his Super Bowl I championship ring stolen. He subsequently had a replica ring produced. He later discovered his original ring was being auctioned on-line. The auction company, Mastros Auctions, returned the original Super Bowl I ring to Kramer. In return, Kramer gave his replica ring to Mastros Auctions where $22,000 was raised. Kramer founded Gridiron Greats and the $22,000 became the initial capital for the organization".

Dean

02-08-2010, 07:06 PM

The Hall is littered with guys that shouldnt be there. Personally, I'd prefer being a team that doesnt have questionable members in there. I'm okay with Elway and Zimmerman and eventually Sharpe. But if you start tossing mediocre guys like Little and Gradishar, etc in there...it adds to the dillution

I have been 1) listening to and then 2) watching the Broncos for 46 years. I had never realized that Randy Gradishar and Floyd Little were mediocre. That comes as quite a shock looking at their statistics and an even greater shock after watching them play. I never dreamed that i was looking at mediocrity. They looked damn good every outting. :confused:

Denver Native (Carol)

02-08-2010, 07:20 PM

I have been 1) listening to and then 2) watching the Broncos for 46 years. I had never realized that Randy Gradishar and Floyd Little were mediocre. That comes as quite a shock looking at their statistics and an even greater shock after watching them play. I never dreamed that i was looking at mediocrity. They looked damn good every outting. :confused:

Here is what I think brings some to thinking some players, especially older players, were mediocre. For example, when Little and Gradishar retired, their stats were great. However, after years, there are other players who have put up better stats. It's just like Scott Hastings said today - "Shannon had all the stats/records for tight ends when he retired", but the longer he goes without getting in the HOF, his stats will have been bypassed by current players, and then may not appear as impressive. However, as more and more players retire, and their stats are better than players who retired before them, the stats the older players had do not look so great, BECAUSE they are now being compared with later players. Of course, it is not right - each player should stand on their own based on what they achieved when they played. Players now may also look better, have better stats than previous players, because rules have changed, which might help them, based on the position they play.

HORSEPOWER 56

02-08-2010, 07:53 PM

I like Peter King but he's wrong here - you have to consider the team Little was playing with in looking at his numbers (Little never had a pro bowl offensive lineman, for example). Also as was brought up on Saturday Little was an all purpose threat - he returned kickoffs and punts, too, and was a terrific receiver.

But it doesn't matter now- Floyd is in! Good job, Jeff Legwold, in making the pitch for Floyd.

Peter King and I am now enemies (although he probably doesn't know it). I wouldn't piss on this clown if he was on fire. :mad:

titan

02-08-2010, 07:55 PM

Here is what I think brings some to thinking some players, especially older players, were mediocre. For example, when Little and Gradishar retired, their stats were great. However, after years, there are other players who have put up better stats. It's just like Scott Hastings said today - "Shannon had all the stats/records for tight ends when he retired", but the longer he goes without getting in the HOF, his stats will have been bypassed by current players, and then may not appear as impressive. However, as more and more players retire, and their stats are better than players who retired before them, the stats the older players had do not look so great, BECAUSE they are now being compared with later players. Of course, it is not right - each player should stand on their own based on what they achieved when they played. Players now may also look better, have better stats than previous players, because rules have changed, which might help them, based on the position they play.

The other thing that works against older players is the 14 game regular season schedule they played. I saw today a Chiefs writer saying Larry Johnson had as good of stats as Floyd (yeah, right - in a 16 game schedule with a far better oline, plus I never saw Johnson return a punt or kickoff)

Also Peter King weighed in saying Floyd only had 1 1000 yard season. 1000 yard seasons used to be difficult to achieve, now they are common place.

Denver Native (Carol)

02-08-2010, 08:31 PM

pnbronco

02-08-2010, 08:40 PM

The other thing that works against older players is the 14 game regular season schedule they played. I saw today a Chiefs writer saying Larry Johnson had as good of stats as Floyd (yeah, right - in a 16 game schedule with a far better oline, plus I never saw Johnson return a punt or kickoff)

Also Peter King weighed in saying Floyd only had 1 1000 yard season. 1000 yard seasons used to be difficult to achieve, now they are common place.

You can't compare today players with yesterdays. The shorter season and what so many people forget is that early players did not make enough money to work out all year. They had to get jobs on the off season to take care of their families.

Like I said earlier, reporters can be lazy and only look at the stats in front of them instead of what these amazing men did in their time and what they had to work with.

I did not watch him play. When I read this quote it was enough for me to know that Mr. Little belonged there:

As former NFL Players Association president John Mackey, who basically invented the position of tight end, wrote to the selection committee years ago: "If there's no room for Floyd Little in the Hall of Fame, please take me out and put him in."

We have what we have today as Bronco fans because of the warriors that gave it 110% every time they hit the field. The top of that list was Floyd Little, but Gradishar, Dennis Smith and Meck should be on that list too, IMO. I am just so happy that he made it and he and his family can enjoy this honor.