Two World Series trophies and a former Red Sox pitcher were at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Manchester on Monday.
Former relief pitcher Skip Lockwood was on hand to sign autographs while veterans and staff took pictures with the trophies and the team mascot, Wally.
The baseball trophies were from the Red Sox World Series championship teams in 2004 and 2007.
The event was part of the Red Sox campaign 100 Acts of Kindness. The team is doing 100 events across New England to celebrate the 100th birthday of Fenway Park.
The baseball trophies are being taken to seven VA hospitals before the May 20 Race to Home fundraiser, which will raise money for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Great Talent in Baseball’s 2012 Rookie Class
Remember those cool little trophies that Topps has put on baseball cards of the previous year’s best rookies? The card company began the practice in 1960 honoring the best rookies from 1959 — a group that included the likes of Pumpsie Green and Hall of Famer Willie McCovey.
Since that time, Topps has forsaken the trophies in a few years, but has continued to select an All-Rookie Team. Topps usually honors eight position players and two pitchers, one right-handed, one lefty. We prefer four starters and a closer.
Here’s our lineup of the top 2012 rookies we believe will be honored by Topps at the end of the season. Some are still in the minors, but you will know their names by the end of the summer.
Catcher: Hector Sanchez, San Francisco
First Base: Anthony Rizzo, Chicago Cubs
Second Base: Freddy Galvis, Philadelphia
Third Base: Nolan Arenado, Colorado
Shortstop: Tyler Pastornicky, Atlanta
Outfield: Yoenis Cespedes, Oakland; Bryce Harper, Washington; Brett Jackson, Chicago Cubs
Designated Hitter: Jesus Montero, Seattle Starting Pitcher: Yu Darvish, Texas; Matt Moore, Tampa Bay; Tom Milone, Oakland; Manny Banuelos, N.Y. Yankees Relief Pitcher: Hector Santiago, Chicago White Sox
Since that time, Topps has forsaken the trophies in a few years, but has continued to select an All-Rookie Team. Topps usually honors eight position players and two pitchers, one right-handed, one lefty. We prefer four starters and a closer.
Here’s our lineup of the top 2012 rookies we believe will be honored by Topps at the end of the season. Some are still in the minors, but you will know their names by the end of the summer.
Catcher: Hector Sanchez, San Francisco
First Base: Anthony Rizzo, Chicago Cubs
Second Base: Freddy Galvis, Philadelphia
Third Base: Nolan Arenado, Colorado
Shortstop: Tyler Pastornicky, Atlanta
Outfield: Yoenis Cespedes, Oakland; Bryce Harper, Washington; Brett Jackson, Chicago Cubs
Designated Hitter: Jesus Montero, Seattle Starting Pitcher: Yu Darvish, Texas; Matt Moore, Tampa Bay; Tom Milone, Oakland; Manny Banuelos, N.Y. Yankees Relief Pitcher: Hector Santiago, Chicago White Sox
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Fenway Park has Open House
The Red Sox are hosting a free “Open House” on Thursday from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. Fans may enter any gate and view historical artifacts, memorabilia, plaques and new displays, or just tour the ballpark.
The Fenway Park Open House will provide the opportunity for fans to walk around the ballpark at their own pace, discover behind-the scenes locations, and learn more about Fenway Park’s history. Fans will be allowed to walk on the warning track, sit in the dugouts, see the bullpens up close, touch the Green Monster, and peek into the scoreboard booth inside the historic left field wall.
With nearly 100 new bronze plaques and displays now adorning the concourses, fans can experience how Fenway Park has become a living museum. Fans will also have the opportunity to inscribe their personal sentiments in a book of tributes, “Here’s to Fenway Park.”
A host of former Red Sox greats including Frank Malzone, John Tudor, Bernie Carbo and Oil Can Boyd will sign autographs in the State Street Pavilion. Alumni will be available throughout the day, changing every hour on the half hour.
Fans will be able to touch and hold such items as actual used bases, the pitching rubber, baseball bats, and baseballs, and baseball mud.
Merchandise and concessions will be available for purchase throughout the day. The event will take place rain or shine.
The Fenway Park Open House will provide the opportunity for fans to walk around the ballpark at their own pace, discover behind-the scenes locations, and learn more about Fenway Park’s history. Fans will be allowed to walk on the warning track, sit in the dugouts, see the bullpens up close, touch the Green Monster, and peek into the scoreboard booth inside the historic left field wall.
With nearly 100 new bronze plaques and displays now adorning the concourses, fans can experience how Fenway Park has become a living museum. Fans will also have the opportunity to inscribe their personal sentiments in a book of tributes, “Here’s to Fenway Park.”
A host of former Red Sox greats including Frank Malzone, John Tudor, Bernie Carbo and Oil Can Boyd will sign autographs in the State Street Pavilion. Alumni will be available throughout the day, changing every hour on the half hour.
Fans will be able to touch and hold such items as actual used bases, the pitching rubber, baseball bats, and baseballs, and baseball mud.
Merchandise and concessions will be available for purchase throughout the day. The event will take place rain or shine.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Yankees’ Posada Retires After 17 Season
Flanked by his wife and children, with five World Series trophies sitting on a table to his right, Jorge Posada announced his retirement Tuesday. The five-time All-Star catcher ends his major league career after 17 seasons, all with the New York Yankees. The 40-year-old Posada finished with a .273 career batting average, 275 home runs and 1,065 RBI. Shifted to designated hitter last year, his playing time diminished.
Posada joins Bernie Williams and Andy Pettitte in retirement, leaving only 37-year-old Derek Jeter and 42-year-old Mariano Rivera from the core group that led the Yankees to four World Series title trophies in five years from 1996-2000.
With Rivera and CC Sabathia looking on, Posada began by quoting Joe DiMaggio: "I want to thank the good Lord for making me a Yankee." "I could never wear another uniform," he said. "I will forever be a Yankee." Posada's voice broke up, especially when he spoke in Spanish. He thanked his teammates, rubbing his chin three times and wiping his eyes. "Hopefully you won't miss me that much," he said.
Diana Munson, wife of the late Yankees catcher Thurman Munson, spoke about how Posada helped revive her interest in baseball, which had disappeared after her husband's death. "I think he and Thurman definitely would have been best buds," she said.
Posada joins Bernie Williams and Andy Pettitte in retirement, leaving only 37-year-old Derek Jeter and 42-year-old Mariano Rivera from the core group that led the Yankees to four World Series title trophies in five years from 1996-2000.
With Rivera and CC Sabathia looking on, Posada began by quoting Joe DiMaggio: "I want to thank the good Lord for making me a Yankee." "I could never wear another uniform," he said. "I will forever be a Yankee." Posada's voice broke up, especially when he spoke in Spanish. He thanked his teammates, rubbing his chin three times and wiping his eyes. "Hopefully you won't miss me that much," he said.
Diana Munson, wife of the late Yankees catcher Thurman Munson, spoke about how Posada helped revive her interest in baseball, which had disappeared after her husband's death. "I think he and Thurman definitely would have been best buds," she said.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Asdrubal, Masterson Nominated for GIBBYs
No matter how much power Asdrubal Cabrera adds to his game, he will likely be regarded first for his defensive prowess and his ability to constantly tap into his bottomless tank of energy. In recognition of those attributes, Cabrera was nominated for a pair of Major League Baseball's GIBBY trophies, part of the Greatness in Baseball Yearly Awards. Cabrera is one of 10 nominees for the defensive player trophy, and the only shortstop of the bunch. He is also one of six finalists for the Wow Factor Award.
The Venezuela native earned a trip to his first All-Star game this season, becoming the first Indians shortstop to start the Midsummer Classic since Lou Boudreau in 1948. Cabrera hit .273 with 25 home runs and 92 RBIs in 151 games, often battling through nagging injuries to carry the Indians. As a result, the club finished 80-82, an 11-game improvement over the 2010 campaign.
As the injuries derailed many of his teammates' seasons, Cabrera stayed in the middle of the Tribe infield and at the heart of manager Manny Acta's batting order. "That's what I've tried to do all year," Cabrera said, "be in the lineup and try to help my team and do the best I can do for the team."
Cabrera slugged more home runs than he had hit in his first four seasons combined. Yet, his defense always seemed to stick out. In an 8-2 loss to the White Sox on May 19, Cabrera started a double play with a diving, barehanded stop and behind-the-back dish to second baseman Adam Everett.
On June 19, Tribe fans witnessed more defensive wizardry from the All-Star shortstop. In a 2-2 tie in the top of the 10th inning, Pirates third baseman Brandon Wood hit a ball deep in the hole at short, where Cabrera corralled it with his bare hand before firing an off-balance throw to first to record the out.
"Half of the dugout was yelling, 'Best play ever,'" Acta said. "Some guys were like, 'Slow down, we've seen some other ones, Ozzie Smith and all that.' But it was unbelievable. All the way, he was thinking bare hand. He never thought about using his glove, and then the throw was even better. "That was the first time I've seen something like that."
Cabrera was not the only member of the Tribe to earn a GIBBY nomination. Pitcher Justin Masterson is one of eight Major Leaguers up for the breakout player trophy.
Masterson was the Indians' ace, providing the club with consistency -- even when his offense did not return the favor. The wiry right-hander's 3.21 ERA and 216 innings pitched better demonstrate his productivity than his 12-10 record.
In an 11-start winless streak from May 1-June 25, Masterson went 0-6 despite posting a 3.34 ERA and hurling more than seven innings per outing. Still, his 12 victories doubled his previous career high, set in 2010, when he went 6-13 with a 4.70 ERA. Major League Baseball's A-listers will take home GIBBYs trophies -- the ultimate honors of baseball's awards season -- based on votes by you the fans at MLB.com, media, front-office personnel and MLB alumni.
The 2011 GIBBYs feature trophies nominees in 19 categories.
The Venezuela native earned a trip to his first All-Star game this season, becoming the first Indians shortstop to start the Midsummer Classic since Lou Boudreau in 1948. Cabrera hit .273 with 25 home runs and 92 RBIs in 151 games, often battling through nagging injuries to carry the Indians. As a result, the club finished 80-82, an 11-game improvement over the 2010 campaign.
As the injuries derailed many of his teammates' seasons, Cabrera stayed in the middle of the Tribe infield and at the heart of manager Manny Acta's batting order. "That's what I've tried to do all year," Cabrera said, "be in the lineup and try to help my team and do the best I can do for the team."
Cabrera slugged more home runs than he had hit in his first four seasons combined. Yet, his defense always seemed to stick out. In an 8-2 loss to the White Sox on May 19, Cabrera started a double play with a diving, barehanded stop and behind-the-back dish to second baseman Adam Everett.
On June 19, Tribe fans witnessed more defensive wizardry from the All-Star shortstop. In a 2-2 tie in the top of the 10th inning, Pirates third baseman Brandon Wood hit a ball deep in the hole at short, where Cabrera corralled it with his bare hand before firing an off-balance throw to first to record the out.
"Half of the dugout was yelling, 'Best play ever,'" Acta said. "Some guys were like, 'Slow down, we've seen some other ones, Ozzie Smith and all that.' But it was unbelievable. All the way, he was thinking bare hand. He never thought about using his glove, and then the throw was even better. "That was the first time I've seen something like that."
Cabrera was not the only member of the Tribe to earn a GIBBY nomination. Pitcher Justin Masterson is one of eight Major Leaguers up for the breakout player trophy.
Masterson was the Indians' ace, providing the club with consistency -- even when his offense did not return the favor. The wiry right-hander's 3.21 ERA and 216 innings pitched better demonstrate his productivity than his 12-10 record.
In an 11-start winless streak from May 1-June 25, Masterson went 0-6 despite posting a 3.34 ERA and hurling more than seven innings per outing. Still, his 12 victories doubled his previous career high, set in 2010, when he went 6-13 with a 4.70 ERA. Major League Baseball's A-listers will take home GIBBYs trophies -- the ultimate honors of baseball's awards season -- based on votes by you the fans at MLB.com, media, front-office personnel and MLB alumni.
The 2011 GIBBYs feature trophies nominees in 19 categories.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Replica Super Bowl Trophies to be Auctioned
Godfrey Myles' three replica Vince Lombardi Trophies -- estimated to sell between $15,000 to $20,000 each -- will be auctioned off Tuesday.
Myles, a linebacker with the Cowboys during Super Bowl wins in 1993, 1994 and 1996, died after suffering a massive stroke on June 10. The trophies -- 15.5-inch miniatures -- were obtained by Nate D. Sanders Auctions just a month before Myles' death, as he needed money to pay for a back operation.
Myles, who was drafted in the third round of the 1991 NFL Draft by the Cowboys, was indicted on 11 counts of charges related to mortgage fraud in March. Myles started 11 games for the 1995 Cowboys before tearing his ACL in Super Bowl XXX.
Myles’ trophies will be showcased to the public at the 32nd Annual National Sports Collectors Convention in Chicago from Aug. 3-7. They come with a certificate of authenticity from Myles.
Myles, a linebacker with the Cowboys during Super Bowl wins in 1993, 1994 and 1996, died after suffering a massive stroke on June 10. The trophies -- 15.5-inch miniatures -- were obtained by Nate D. Sanders Auctions just a month before Myles' death, as he needed money to pay for a back operation.
Myles, who was drafted in the third round of the 1991 NFL Draft by the Cowboys, was indicted on 11 counts of charges related to mortgage fraud in March. Myles started 11 games for the 1995 Cowboys before tearing his ACL in Super Bowl XXX.
Myles’ trophies will be showcased to the public at the 32nd Annual National Sports Collectors Convention in Chicago from Aug. 3-7. They come with a certificate of authenticity from Myles.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Any College Football Championship Repeats?
For the past five years the dominant conference in college football has no doubt been the Southeastern Conference. America's premiere athletic conference has seen four different programs ascend to college football's highest level. The Florida Gators claimed championships in 2006 and 2008. LSU took home the title in 2007. The state of Alabama claimed two crystal awards in the form of national championship trophies with the Alabama Crimson Tide winning it all in 2009 before Auburn last season.
Can Auburn repeat as national champions in 2011? It's is an interesting question, and a look back at years gone by showed just how many teams have claimed two consecutive unanimous national titles.
Whether you are a Crimson Tide fan, a War Eagle, a Bulldog or a Gator, the question has become easier to answer since the emergence of the BCS Championship Series in 1998. The answer is no one.
Can Auburn repeat as national champions in 2011? It's is an interesting question, and a look back at years gone by showed just how many teams have claimed two consecutive unanimous national titles.
Whether you are a Crimson Tide fan, a War Eagle, a Bulldog or a Gator, the question has become easier to answer since the emergence of the BCS Championship Series in 1998. The answer is no one.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Preseason Honors Flow for Bulldogs' DT Harrell
Fresno State defensive tackle Logan Harrell, whose 3 1/2 sacks in the 2010 season opener against Cincinnati signaled his arrival as a Bulldogs star, continues to pile up preseason notice for 2011. Harrell, entering his senior year, was named Friday to the watch lists for the Outland and Nagurski trophies – two of the nation's more prestigious college football postseason awards.
The Outland honors the best interior lineman, while the Nagurski goes to the best overall defensive player. Also on the Nagurski list are USC safety T.J. McDonald and Oregon cornerback Cliff Harris, both former stars at Fresno's Edison High, and Cal linebacker Mychal Kendricks (Hoover).
Cal and Fresno State will meet in the Sept. 3 season opener at Candlestick Park.
The 6-foot-2, 275-pound Harrell, who prepped at Santa Margarita High-Rancho Santa Margarita, enjoyed a breakout junior campaign after starting just three of 24 games in his first two seasons.
The Outland Trophy winner is chosen from three finalists off the Football Writers All-America team and honored Dec. 8. There are 65 players on the watch list. Five finalists off the All-America team are chosen for the Nagurski Trophy, with the winner honored Dec. 12. Eighty-seven players are on the watch list. Contenders for both trophies can be added to both lists as the season progresses.
The Outland honors the best interior lineman, while the Nagurski goes to the best overall defensive player. Also on the Nagurski list are USC safety T.J. McDonald and Oregon cornerback Cliff Harris, both former stars at Fresno's Edison High, and Cal linebacker Mychal Kendricks (Hoover).
Cal and Fresno State will meet in the Sept. 3 season opener at Candlestick Park.
The 6-foot-2, 275-pound Harrell, who prepped at Santa Margarita High-Rancho Santa Margarita, enjoyed a breakout junior campaign after starting just three of 24 games in his first two seasons.
The Outland Trophy winner is chosen from three finalists off the Football Writers All-America team and honored Dec. 8. There are 65 players on the watch list. Five finalists off the All-America team are chosen for the Nagurski Trophy, with the winner honored Dec. 12. Eighty-seven players are on the watch list. Contenders for both trophies can be added to both lists as the season progresses.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Super Bowl XIV - 1979 Pittsburgh Steelers
America's Game Super Bowl Trophies - 1979 Pittsburgh Steelers were the winners of Super Bowl XIV, defeating the Los Angeles Rams 31-19.
Super Bowl XIV was an American football game played on January 20, 1980 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1979 regular season. Aided by two touchdowns in the fourth quarter, the American Football Conference (AFC) champion Pittsburgh Steelers (15-4) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Los Angeles Rams (11-8), 31–19, to win their fourth Super Bowl in team history. The Rams would not appear in the Super Bowl again until after they moved to St. Louis in 1995. They would appear in Super Bowl XXXIV in 2000 and Super Bowl XXXVI in 2002. This game was the first Super Bowl (and the only one until Super Bowl XLI) to feature two pre-expansion era (pre 1960) teams. It was also the first time that a team with nine wins or fewer reached the Super Bowl, and the last such occurrence until Super Bowl XLIII.
Despite throwing three interceptions, Steelers quarterback Terry Bradshaw was named the game's MVP by completing 14 of 21 passes for 309 yards and two touchdowns.
The Steelers' fans were known for their "Terrible Towel" tradition, in which most fans would bring yellow towels (frequently printed with black lettering to signify the team's colors) to Steelers games and wave them around madly in a circle above their heads as a show of support. Although the game was being played just 18 miles from the Rams' home stadium, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, many Steelers fans attended the Super Bowl and a number of them waved their towels with pride.
Despite throwing three interceptions, Steelers quarterback Terry Bradshaw was named the game's MVP by completing 14 of 21 passes for 309 yards and two touchdowns.
The Steelers' fans were known for their "Terrible Towel" tradition, in which most fans would bring yellow towels (frequently printed with black lettering to signify the team's colors) to Steelers games and wave them around madly in a circle above their heads as a show of support. Although the game was being played just 18 miles from the Rams' home stadium, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, many Steelers fans attended the Super Bowl and a number of them waved their towels with pride.
Super Bowl XIII - 1978 Pittsburgh Steelers
America's Game Super Bowl Trophies - 1978 Pittsburgh Steelers were the winners of Super Bowl XIII, defeating the Dallas Cowboys 35-31.
Super Bowl XIII was an American football game played on January 21, 1979 at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1978 regular season. This was the last of five Super Bowls to be played at the Orange Bowl.
The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Pittsburgh Steelers (17–2) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Dallas Cowboys (14–5), 35–31. It was the first Super Bowl rematch (the Steelers had previously beaten the Cowboys, 21–17, in Super Bowl X). The game, which was not decided until the final minute, has long been considered one of the best Super Bowls.
Steelers quarterback Terry Bradshaw was named Super Bowl MVP. Despite throwing one interception, losing two fumbles, and single handedly keeping the Cowboys in the game in the first half, Bradshaw completed 17 out of 30 passes for 318 yards and 4 touchdowns. His 318 passing yards and 4 passing touchdowns broke Super Bowl records. Also, his 75-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter tied Johnny Unitas in Super Bowl V for the longest pass in a Super Bowl. Bradshaw became the first player since the 1970 AFL-NFL Merger to win both the Super Bowl MVP and the AP Most Valuable Player Award during the same season.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys could not overcome turnovers, drops, and a controversial penalty during the second half. The Cowboys were the first defending champion to lose in the Super Bowl. They were also the first to lose two Super Bowls to the same team (they lost 21–17 to the Steelers in Super Bowl X). The Cowboys were the first team, and to date the only team, to score 30 points or more and still lose the Super Bowl.
As of the end of the 2009 season, this is last Super Bowl victory for the Steelers that was not followed by a non-playoff season.
The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Pittsburgh Steelers (17–2) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Dallas Cowboys (14–5), 35–31. It was the first Super Bowl rematch (the Steelers had previously beaten the Cowboys, 21–17, in Super Bowl X). The game, which was not decided until the final minute, has long been considered one of the best Super Bowls.
Steelers quarterback Terry Bradshaw was named Super Bowl MVP. Despite throwing one interception, losing two fumbles, and single handedly keeping the Cowboys in the game in the first half, Bradshaw completed 17 out of 30 passes for 318 yards and 4 touchdowns. His 318 passing yards and 4 passing touchdowns broke Super Bowl records. Also, his 75-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter tied Johnny Unitas in Super Bowl V for the longest pass in a Super Bowl. Bradshaw became the first player since the 1970 AFL-NFL Merger to win both the Super Bowl MVP and the AP Most Valuable Player Award during the same season.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys could not overcome turnovers, drops, and a controversial penalty during the second half. The Cowboys were the first defending champion to lose in the Super Bowl. They were also the first to lose two Super Bowls to the same team (they lost 21–17 to the Steelers in Super Bowl X). The Cowboys were the first team, and to date the only team, to score 30 points or more and still lose the Super Bowl.
As of the end of the 2009 season, this is last Super Bowl victory for the Steelers that was not followed by a non-playoff season.
Super Bowl XII - 1977 Dallas Cowboys
America's Game Super Bowl Trophies - 1977 Dallas Cowboys were the winners of Super Bowl XII, defeating the Denver Broncos 27-10.
Super Bowl XII was an American football game played on January 15, 1978 at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1977 regular season. It was the first Super Bowl played inside a domed stadium.
The National Football Conference (NFC) champion Dallas Cowboys (15-2) defeated the American Football Conference (AFC) champion Denver Broncos (14-3), 27–10. The Cowboys defensive team dominated most of the game, forcing 8 turnovers and allowing only 8 pass completions by the Broncos for just 61 yards.
For the first and only time, two players won Super Bowl MVP honors: defensive tackle Randy White and defensive end Harvey Martin. For White, the honor was won on his 25th birthday. This was also the first time that a defensive lineman was named as the Super Bowl MVP.
Super Bowl XI - 1976 Oakland Raiders
America's Game Super Bowl Trophies - 1976 Oakland Raiders were the winners of Super Bowl XI, defeating the Minnesota Vikings 32-14.
Super Bowl XI was an American football game played on January 9, 1977 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1976 regular season. The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Oakland Raiders (16–1) won their first Super Bowl by defeating the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Minnesota Vikings (13–3–1), 32–14. Oakland gained a Super Bowl record 429 yards, including a Super Bowl record 288 yards in the first half, en route to winning their first Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Raiders wide receiver Fred Biletnikoff had 4 catches for 79 yards that set up three Raider touchdowns and was named the Super Bowl's Most Valuable Player. There have been six wide receivers named MVP in the Super Bowl and Biletnikoff is the only one to not have gained 100 yards in his MVP performance.
Raiders wide receiver Fred Biletnikoff had 4 catches for 79 yards that set up three Raider touchdowns and was named the Super Bowl's Most Valuable Player. There have been six wide receivers named MVP in the Super Bowl and Biletnikoff is the only one to not have gained 100 yards in his MVP performance.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Super Bowl X - 1975 Pittsburgh Steelers
America's Game Super Bowl Trophies - 1975 Pittsburgh Steelers were the winners of Super Bowl X, defeating the Dallas Cowboys 21-17.
Super Bowl X was an American football game played on January 18, 1976 at the Orange Bowl[2] in Miami, Florida to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1975 regular season.
The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Pittsburgh Steelers (12–2) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Dallas Cowboys (10–4), 21–17. This game featured a contrast of styles between the Steelers and the Cowboys, which were, at the time, the two most popular teams in the league.
Pittsburgh safety Glen Edwards halted a late Dallas rally with an end zone interception as time expired. Steelers receiver Lynn Swann, who caught four passes for a Super Bowl record 161 yards and one touchdown including a diving catch after tripping over Cowboys' cornerback Mark Washington in the second quarter, was named the Super Bowl's Most Valuable Player. Swann was the first wide receiver to win the Super Bowl MVP award.
Super Bowl X was an American football game played on January 18, 1976 at the Orange Bowl[2] in Miami, Florida to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1975 regular season.
The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Pittsburgh Steelers (12–2) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Dallas Cowboys (10–4), 21–17. This game featured a contrast of styles between the Steelers and the Cowboys, which were, at the time, the two most popular teams in the league.
Pittsburgh safety Glen Edwards halted a late Dallas rally with an end zone interception as time expired. Steelers receiver Lynn Swann, who caught four passes for a Super Bowl record 161 yards and one touchdown including a diving catch after tripping over Cowboys' cornerback Mark Washington in the second quarter, was named the Super Bowl's Most Valuable Player. Swann was the first wide receiver to win the Super Bowl MVP award.
Super Bowl IX - 1974 Pittsburgh Steelers
America's Game Super Bowl Trophies - 1974 Pittsburgh Steelers were the winners of Super Bowl IX, defeating the Minnesota Vikings 16-6.
Super Bowl IX was an American football game played on January 12, 1975 at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans, Louisiana to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1974 regular season. The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Pittsburgh Steelers (13-3-1) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Minnesota Vikings (12-5), 16–6, to win their first Super Bowl game.
This game matched two of the NFL's best defenses – Pittsburgh's Steel Curtain against the Purple People Eaters of Minnesota – and two legendary quarterbacks: Terry Bradshaw and Fran Tarkenton, respectively.
However, the Steelers dominated the game, recording the first safety in Super Bowl history, and limiting the Vikings to Super Bowl lows of nine first downs, 119 yards of total offense, and 17 rushing yards. The Steelers also tied Super Bowl records for the least rushing first downs allowed (2) and the least passing first downs allowed (5). Tarkenton was held to only 11 out of 26 completions for 102 passing yards, no touchdown passes, and tied a Super Bowl record with three interceptions. Furthermore, Pittsburgh became the second Super Bowl team after the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl VII to hold their opponents' offense scoreless; Minnesota's only score came on a blocked punt, and they did not even score on the extra point attempt. The Steelers accomplished all of this with two backups on defense: linebackers Ed Bradley and Loren Toews replaced injured starters Andy Russell and Jack Lambert for most of the second half.
Meanwhile, Pittsburgh had 333 yards of total offense. Steelers running back Franco Harris, who ran for a Super Bowl record 158 yards (more than the entire Minnesota offense) and a touchdown, was named the Super Bowl's Most Valuable Player and awarded the MVP Trophy.
Super Bowl IX was an American football game played on January 12, 1975 at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans, Louisiana to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1974 regular season. The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Pittsburgh Steelers (13-3-1) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Minnesota Vikings (12-5), 16–6, to win their first Super Bowl game.
This game matched two of the NFL's best defenses – Pittsburgh's Steel Curtain against the Purple People Eaters of Minnesota – and two legendary quarterbacks: Terry Bradshaw and Fran Tarkenton, respectively.
However, the Steelers dominated the game, recording the first safety in Super Bowl history, and limiting the Vikings to Super Bowl lows of nine first downs, 119 yards of total offense, and 17 rushing yards. The Steelers also tied Super Bowl records for the least rushing first downs allowed (2) and the least passing first downs allowed (5). Tarkenton was held to only 11 out of 26 completions for 102 passing yards, no touchdown passes, and tied a Super Bowl record with three interceptions. Furthermore, Pittsburgh became the second Super Bowl team after the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl VII to hold their opponents' offense scoreless; Minnesota's only score came on a blocked punt, and they did not even score on the extra point attempt. The Steelers accomplished all of this with two backups on defense: linebackers Ed Bradley and Loren Toews replaced injured starters Andy Russell and Jack Lambert for most of the second half.
Meanwhile, Pittsburgh had 333 yards of total offense. Steelers running back Franco Harris, who ran for a Super Bowl record 158 yards (more than the entire Minnesota offense) and a touchdown, was named the Super Bowl's Most Valuable Player and awarded the MVP Trophy.
Super Bowl VIII - 1973 Miami Dolphins
America's Game Super Bowl Trophies - 1973 Miami Dolphins were the winners of Super Bowl VIII, defeating the Minnesota Vikings 24-7.
Super Bowl VIII was a professional American football game played on January 13, 1974 at Rice Stadium in Houston, Texas to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1973 regular season. The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Miami Dolphins (15-2) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Minnesota Vikings (14-3), 24–7. Scoring the first 24 points of the game and leading 24-0 entering the fourth quarter, the Dolphins easily won their second consecutive Super Bowl, and became the first team to appear in three consecutive Super Bowls.
Dolphins Running Back Larry Csonka, who ran for 145 yards and two touchdowns, was named the game's Most Valuable Player and awarded the MVP Trophy. Both his 145 rushing yards and his 33 carries were Super Bowl records. Csonka became the first running back to earn Super Bowl MVP honors.
Super Bowl VIII was a professional American football game played on January 13, 1974 at Rice Stadium in Houston, Texas to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1973 regular season. The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Miami Dolphins (15-2) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Minnesota Vikings (14-3), 24–7. Scoring the first 24 points of the game and leading 24-0 entering the fourth quarter, the Dolphins easily won their second consecutive Super Bowl, and became the first team to appear in three consecutive Super Bowls.
Dolphins Running Back Larry Csonka, who ran for 145 yards and two touchdowns, was named the game's Most Valuable Player and awarded the MVP Trophy. Both his 145 rushing yards and his 33 carries were Super Bowl records. Csonka became the first running back to earn Super Bowl MVP honors.
Super Bowl VII - 1972 Miami Dolphins
America's Game Super Bowl Trophies - 1972 Miami Dolphins were the winners of Super Bowl VII, defeating the Washington Redskins 14-7.
Super Bowl VII was an American football game played on January 14, 1973, at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, California, to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1972 regular season. The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Miami Dolphins (17–0) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Washington Redskins (13-4), 14–7, and became the first, and presently the only team in the NFL to complete a perfect, undefeated season.
As the lowest-scoring Super Bowl to date with a total of only 21 points (3 TDs, 3 PATs and no field goals), the game was perhaps not as close as the score indicates, as the Dolphins' "No-Name Defense" dominated the game, allowing Washington to cross midfield only once in the first half and only four times overall. But Super Bowl VII is most memorable for the final two minutes of the game: Miami's quest for a perfect season was jeopardized when Dolphins kicker Garo Yepremian picked up a blocked field goal, attempted a forward pass, but batted it in the air, and Redskins' cornerback Mike Bass caught it and returned it 49 yards for a touchdown. It was the longest period in a Super Bowl to date for one team to be shut out, as Washington was held scoreless until 2:07 remained in the fourth quarter.
Dolphins safety Jake Scott was named Most Valuable Player. He recorded two interceptions for 63 return yards, including a 55-yard return from the end zone during the 4th quarter. Scott became the second defensive player in Super Bowl history (after linebacker Chuck Howley in Super Bowl V) to earn the Super Bowl MVP Trophy.
Super Bowl VII was an American football game played on January 14, 1973, at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, California, to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1972 regular season. The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Miami Dolphins (17–0) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Washington Redskins (13-4), 14–7, and became the first, and presently the only team in the NFL to complete a perfect, undefeated season.
As the lowest-scoring Super Bowl to date with a total of only 21 points (3 TDs, 3 PATs and no field goals), the game was perhaps not as close as the score indicates, as the Dolphins' "No-Name Defense" dominated the game, allowing Washington to cross midfield only once in the first half and only four times overall. But Super Bowl VII is most memorable for the final two minutes of the game: Miami's quest for a perfect season was jeopardized when Dolphins kicker Garo Yepremian picked up a blocked field goal, attempted a forward pass, but batted it in the air, and Redskins' cornerback Mike Bass caught it and returned it 49 yards for a touchdown. It was the longest period in a Super Bowl to date for one team to be shut out, as Washington was held scoreless until 2:07 remained in the fourth quarter.
Dolphins safety Jake Scott was named Most Valuable Player. He recorded two interceptions for 63 return yards, including a 55-yard return from the end zone during the 4th quarter. Scott became the second defensive player in Super Bowl history (after linebacker Chuck Howley in Super Bowl V) to earn the Super Bowl MVP Trophy.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Super Bowl VI: 1971 Dallas Cowboys
America's Game Super Bowl Trophies - 1971 Dallas Cowboys were the winners of Super Bowl VI, defeating the Miami Dolphins 24-3.
Super Bowl VI was an American football game played on January 16, 1972, at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans, Louisiana to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1971 regular season. The National Football Conference (NFC) champion Dallas Cowboys (14–3) defeated the American Football Conference (AFC) champion Miami Dolphins (12–4–1), 24–3, to win their first Super Bowl game.
The Cowboys dominated the game, setting Super Bowl records for the most rushing yards (252), the most first downs (23), the least total yards allowed (185), and the least points allowed. The Cowboys are currently the only team ever to prevent their opponent from scoring a touchdown in the Super Bowl. The game would be the only loss for Miami during the calendar year 1972, as it preceded the team's undefeated season the next fall.
The Cowboys' Quarterback, former Heisman Trophy winner Roger Staubach, completed 12 out of 19 passes for 119 yards, threw 2 touchdown passes, and rushed 5 times for 18 yards, and was named the Super Bowl's Most Valuable Player.
The Cowboys dominated the game, setting Super Bowl records for the most rushing yards (252), the most first downs (23), the least total yards allowed (185), and the least points allowed. The Cowboys are currently the only team ever to prevent their opponent from scoring a touchdown in the Super Bowl. The game would be the only loss for Miami during the calendar year 1972, as it preceded the team's undefeated season the next fall.
The Cowboys' Quarterback, former Heisman Trophy winner Roger Staubach, completed 12 out of 19 passes for 119 yards, threw 2 touchdown passes, and rushed 5 times for 18 yards, and was named the Super Bowl's Most Valuable Player.
Super Bowl V: 1970 Baltimore Colts
America's Game Super Bowl Trophies - 1970 Baltimore Colts were the winners of Super Bowl V, defeating the Dallas Cowboys 16-13.
Super Bowl V was an American football game played on January 17, 1971, at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida, to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1970 regular season. The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Baltimore Colts (11–2–1) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Dallas Cowboys (10–4), 16–13, in the first Super Bowl game played on artificial turf.
Super Bowl V was the first Super Bowl played after the completion of the AFL-NFL Merger. As per the merger agreement, all 26 AFL and NFL teams were divided into 2 conferences with 13 teams in each of them. The NFL's Colts, the Cleveland Browns, and the Pittsburgh Steelers agreed to join the other 10 AFL teams to form the AFC. The remaining 13 NFL teams formed the NFC. This explains why the Colts represented the NFL in Super Bowl III, but not the NFC for Super Bowl V.
The game is sometimes called the "Blunder Bowl" or the "Stupor Bowl" because it was filled with poor play, penalties, turnovers, and officiating miscues. The two teams committed a Super Bowl record 11 combined turnovers in the game, and the Colts' 7 turnovers are currently the most ever committed by a winning team in a Super Bowl. Dallas also set a Super Bowl record with 10 penalties, costing them 133 yards. Bubba Smith refuses to wear his Super Bowl V ring because of the "sloppy" play.
It was finally settled with five seconds left when Colts rookie kicker Jim O'Brien kicked a 32-yard field goal. In order to win the game, Baltimore had to overcome a 13–6 deficit at the half, losing their starting quarterback in the second quarter.
It is also the only Super Bowl in which the Most Valuable Player Award was given to a member of the losing team: Cowboys Linebacker Chuck Howley, who intercepted two passes. Sacks and tackles were not yet recorded. It was the first time a QB didn't win the award. Howley refused to accept the award because it was meaningless to him after his team lost.
Super Bowl V was an American football game played on January 17, 1971, at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida, to decide the National Football League (NFL) champion following the 1970 regular season. The American Football Conference (AFC) champion Baltimore Colts (11–2–1) defeated the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Dallas Cowboys (10–4), 16–13, in the first Super Bowl game played on artificial turf.
Super Bowl V was the first Super Bowl played after the completion of the AFL-NFL Merger. As per the merger agreement, all 26 AFL and NFL teams were divided into 2 conferences with 13 teams in each of them. The NFL's Colts, the Cleveland Browns, and the Pittsburgh Steelers agreed to join the other 10 AFL teams to form the AFC. The remaining 13 NFL teams formed the NFC. This explains why the Colts represented the NFL in Super Bowl III, but not the NFC for Super Bowl V.
The game is sometimes called the "Blunder Bowl" or the "Stupor Bowl" because it was filled with poor play, penalties, turnovers, and officiating miscues. The two teams committed a Super Bowl record 11 combined turnovers in the game, and the Colts' 7 turnovers are currently the most ever committed by a winning team in a Super Bowl. Dallas also set a Super Bowl record with 10 penalties, costing them 133 yards. Bubba Smith refuses to wear his Super Bowl V ring because of the "sloppy" play.
It was finally settled with five seconds left when Colts rookie kicker Jim O'Brien kicked a 32-yard field goal. In order to win the game, Baltimore had to overcome a 13–6 deficit at the half, losing their starting quarterback in the second quarter.
It is also the only Super Bowl in which the Most Valuable Player Award was given to a member of the losing team: Cowboys Linebacker Chuck Howley, who intercepted two passes. Sacks and tackles were not yet recorded. It was the first time a QB didn't win the award. Howley refused to accept the award because it was meaningless to him after his team lost.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Super Bowl IV: 1969 Kansas City Chiefs
America's Game Super Bowl Trophies - 1969 Kansas City Chiefs were the winners of Super Bowl IV, defeating the Minnesota Vikings 23-7.
Super Bowl IV was the fourth AFL-NFL World Championship Game in professional American football, and the second one (after Super Bowl III) to officially bear the name "Super Bowl". This was the final AFL-NFL World Championship Game before the National Football League (NFL) and the American Football League (AFL) merged into one combined league after the season.
The game was played on January 11, 1970, at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans, Louisiana. This was the first Super Bowl played without the standard week off after the conference championship games (league championship games at the time). Strangely enough, the AFL had a week off between its divisional playoffs (the NFL played its conference championship games during the AFL's off-week) and league championship game. The AFL started its 1969 season a week earlier than the NFL, and thus had an extra week to deal with during the post-season. This would be the last Super Bowl played without the week off until Super Bowl XVII.
The AFL champion Kansas City Chiefs (11-3) defeated the NFL champion Minnesota Vikings (12-2), 23–7. Even though the Vikings were 13-point favorites coming into the game, the Chiefs defense dominated the game by limiting the Minnesota offense to only 67 rushing yards, forcing 3 interceptions, and recovering 2 fumbles. The victory by the AFL evened the Super Bowl series with the NFL at two games apiece.
Kansas City's Len Dawson became the fourth consecutive winning quarterback to be named Super Bowl MVP. He completed 12 of 17 passes for 142 yards and one touchdown, with 1 interception. Dawson also recorded 3 rushing attempts for 11 yards.
The crowd of 80,562 was a Super Bowl record for attendance.
Super Bowl IV was the fourth AFL-NFL World Championship Game in professional American football, and the second one (after Super Bowl III) to officially bear the name "Super Bowl". This was the final AFL-NFL World Championship Game before the National Football League (NFL) and the American Football League (AFL) merged into one combined league after the season.
The game was played on January 11, 1970, at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans, Louisiana. This was the first Super Bowl played without the standard week off after the conference championship games (league championship games at the time). Strangely enough, the AFL had a week off between its divisional playoffs (the NFL played its conference championship games during the AFL's off-week) and league championship game. The AFL started its 1969 season a week earlier than the NFL, and thus had an extra week to deal with during the post-season. This would be the last Super Bowl played without the week off until Super Bowl XVII.
The AFL champion Kansas City Chiefs (11-3) defeated the NFL champion Minnesota Vikings (12-2), 23–7. Even though the Vikings were 13-point favorites coming into the game, the Chiefs defense dominated the game by limiting the Minnesota offense to only 67 rushing yards, forcing 3 interceptions, and recovering 2 fumbles. The victory by the AFL evened the Super Bowl series with the NFL at two games apiece.
Kansas City's Len Dawson became the fourth consecutive winning quarterback to be named Super Bowl MVP. He completed 12 of 17 passes for 142 yards and one touchdown, with 1 interception. Dawson also recorded 3 rushing attempts for 11 yards.
The crowd of 80,562 was a Super Bowl record for attendance.
Super Bowl III: 1968 New York Jets
America's Game Super Bowl Trophies - 1968 New York Jets were the winners of Super Bowl III, defeating the Baltimore Colts 16-7.
Super Bowl III was the third AFL-NFL Championship Game in professional American football, but the first to officially bear the name "Super Bowl". (Although the two previous AFL-NFL Championship Games came to be known, retroactively, as "Super Bowls".) This game is regarded as one of the greatest upsets in sports history. The heavy underdog American Football League (AFL) champion New York Jets (11-3) defeated the National Football League (NFL) champion Baltimore Colts (13-1) by a score of 16–7. It was the first Super Bowl victory for the AFL.
The game was played on January 12, 1969, at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida – the same location as Super Bowl II. Entering Super Bowl III, the NFL champion Colts were heavily favored to defeat the AFL champion Jets. Although the upstart AFL had successfully forced the long-established NFL into a merger agreement three years earlier, the AFL was not generally respected as having the same caliber of talent as the NFL. Plus, the AFL representatives were easily defeated in the first two Super Bowls.
After boldly guaranteeing a victory prior to the game, Jets quarterback Joe Namath completed 17 out of 28 passes for 206 yards, and was named the Super Bowl's Most Valuable Player, despite not throwing a touchdown pass in the game or any passes at all in the fourth quarter.
With the Colts relocating to the AFC and joining the Jets and the AFL to form the AFC during the offical NFL/AFL merger it is the only Super Bowl match-up that cannot be repeated in future Super Bowls.
Super Bowl III was the third AFL-NFL Championship Game in professional American football, but the first to officially bear the name "Super Bowl". (Although the two previous AFL-NFL Championship Games came to be known, retroactively, as "Super Bowls".) This game is regarded as one of the greatest upsets in sports history. The heavy underdog American Football League (AFL) champion New York Jets (11-3) defeated the National Football League (NFL) champion Baltimore Colts (13-1) by a score of 16–7. It was the first Super Bowl victory for the AFL.
The game was played on January 12, 1969, at the Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida – the same location as Super Bowl II. Entering Super Bowl III, the NFL champion Colts were heavily favored to defeat the AFL champion Jets. Although the upstart AFL had successfully forced the long-established NFL into a merger agreement three years earlier, the AFL was not generally respected as having the same caliber of talent as the NFL. Plus, the AFL representatives were easily defeated in the first two Super Bowls.
After boldly guaranteeing a victory prior to the game, Jets quarterback Joe Namath completed 17 out of 28 passes for 206 yards, and was named the Super Bowl's Most Valuable Player, despite not throwing a touchdown pass in the game or any passes at all in the fourth quarter.
With the Colts relocating to the AFC and joining the Jets and the AFL to form the AFC during the offical NFL/AFL merger it is the only Super Bowl match-up that cannot be repeated in future Super Bowls.
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