Randy Moss
I guess that’s all this post needs as a title. Anything that has Randy Moss in the title since back in 1998, has been worth a read. Whether it be articles about his unbelievable play or his off field (and sometimes on field) antics.
There is no doubt in my mind that he was phenomenal and very close to being the greatest ever WR to play the game. The only thing that kept him back was his ego and his mentality. From arguing on the sidelines with his QB or just deciding to take plays off because the ball was not coming near him.
There is and was a huge gulf between Moss and Jerry Rice in both mentality and professionalism. Moss had all the gifts you could want as a WR:
Great hands;
speed;
height; and
route running.
I know some people will question the hands as he had a nasty habit of dropping the easy ones sometimes, but when his head was screwed on and in the game, he was almost untouchable and would catch anything within his reach. Had he been the model professional like Rice was, and practiced even 70% as hard, I am certain he would still be playing now and more importantly would overtake Rice in all those records Jerry holds.
I’m not going to lie I am very pleased he hasn’t. I am a Niners fan and love Rice, so in that regard I am happy, but it would have been something to see Moss make a run at those records. To be able to stand up and say that I had the privilege of watching the two best at their craft during my young life so far would have been brilliant.
I hear some of you say that Moss is still the second best ever or close to it, but it’s such a waste of talent and opportunity. He only lived up to his skill when he wanted to, especially towards the end of his career. That’s why he spent the last five years or so bouncing around organisations, outstaying his welcome after one or two years.
Is he a Hall Of Famer? I don’t think anyone could say no. He should go in as a 1st ballot based on his resume:
2nd all time in career receiving TDs;
5th all time in career receiving yards;
5th all time in career total TDs;
8th all time in career receptions;
9th all time in career yards per game;
1st all time in single season TD receptions;
8th all time in single season total TDs; and
10th all time in single season receiving yards.
With a resume like that he should be a 1st ballot guy, but we know that when it comes to electing players into Canton, people tend to take off field issues into consideration. Despite all his negatives, in full flight Randy Moss was a joy to watch, but as stated, his demeanour and sometimes unprofessional attitude stopped him being possibly the best ever.
I would expect him to get in 1st time, but only time will tell on that front.
Content courtesy of J_Dogg