<< <i>1. Jim Brown 2. Walter Payton 3. Barry Sanders 4. OJ Simpson 5. Emmitt Smith 6. Gale Sayers 7- Earl Campbell 8- Marshall Faulk 9- Adrian Peterson 10- Eric Dickerson >>
I agree with these but would switch9 and10,I think we all believe AP will climb the ranks as he goes on
As far as giving my opinion on the best 5 of all time I would have had to see them play,so here it goes....
1) Walter Payton....work ethic and desire is unmatched. 2) Barry Sanders....Jaw dropping athletic ability,watch him and ask yourself WTF 3) Earl Campbell....I thought he was better in College than the pros,I man I would want on my team any day. 4)Emmit Smith....Durabilty was remarkable,the full package. 5)Eric Dickerson....I loved his style,speed and power.
A Player I saw at the end of his career and not in his prime was Gale Sayers,I also saw OJ break the 2,000 yard barrier on TV that was exiting.
Just to add,what Adrian Peterson did this year is truly an incredible feat to say the least.If he doesn't get the MVP there should be an investigation.
How many people that have Jim Brown at #1 actually saw him play? I also would like to add that if you did see him play that the defensive talent today is so much better than it was back then it's not even funny. I have him in my top 5 based on what people say about it which I assume most others that have him in their top 5 do as well, but I think you guys that say it's him #1 and then everyone else need to consider the talent that he is playing against. I think that Jim Brown could without a doubt play in today's game and be very successful, but I don't think that a lot of the players that he played against could.......
LOL I always get to see this nonsense posted every single time this topic pops up >>
It's SHOCKING to you that someone thinks Jim Brown is hands-down the greatest RB to ever play the game? >>
Yes it is, Jim Brown was the very best of his era which was made up of 220 llb lineman, in todays game he could play but to say he would perform better than Barry Sanders or Walter Payton is debatable but to say he is so much better than any other RB to ever play is just foolish.
LOL I always get to see this nonsense posted every single time this topic pops up >>
It's SHOCKING to you that someone thinks Jim Brown is hands-down the greatest RB to ever play the game? >>
Yes it is, Jim Brown was the very best of his era which was made up of 220 llb lineman, in todays game he could play but to say he would perform better than Barry Sanders or Walter Payton is debatable but to say he is so much better than any other RB to ever play is just foolish. >>
Yeah, because everyone knows that he wasn't playing against his peers, but against little kids. And all the other RBs in the league at the time were forced to play against the lineman of today. lol
<< <i>Are you really trying to say that if you put Adrian Peterson back in Jim Browns era that he wouldn't completely dominate the game as well? >>
Well they wouldn't be his PEERS then, would they. I really love the "let's play fun time machine yay" arguments that are based on nothing but imagination.
Well since they didn't play during the same era that's kinda the whole idea of this whole discussion. If you just wanna go by rushing yards and TDs Emmitt Smith is easily the greatest. Sportscardtheory did you ever see Jim Brown play a game?
<< <i>How many people that have Jim Brown at #1 actually saw him play? >>
Many who've put Jim Brown at #1 didn't see him play other than old highlight clips, but the stats are simply too mind-boggling to ignore. Brown played nine seasons and led the NFL in rushing EIGHT TIMES. He was also selected First-Team All-Pro eight times. He led the NFL in rushing TDs five times, yards from scrimmage six times, and the list goes on and on. I can understand a debate on the greatest RB of all time, because it's very difficult to compare eras, but at the very least Brown is the most dominant RB of all time. Just like Don Hutson was the most dominant WR, but may still be behind Jerry Rice overall. I love these debates. Always very spirited.
"My father would womanize, he would drink. He would make outrageous claims like he invented the question mark. Sometimes he would accuse chestnuts of being lazy. The sort of general malaise that only the genius possess and the insane lament. Our childhood was typical. Summers in Rangoon, luge lessons. In the spring we'd make meat helmets. When we were insolent we were placed in a burlap bag and beaten with reeds - pretty standard really."
<< <i>Well since they didn't play during the same era that's kinda the whole idea of this whole discussion. If you just wanna go by rushing yards and TDs Emmitt Smith is easily the greatest. Sportscardtheory did you ever see Jim Brown play a game? >>
I wasn't born when he retired. I have seen clips and I know he was head and shoulders above his peers. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see how good he was by comparing his stats with other RBs that played at the same time and by listening to those who did see him play. You don't have to see a guy play to know how good he was. That's ridiculous. It was a level playing field then and it is now. The whole "let's play time machine" hypothetical stuff is childish fantasy garbage.
Hey everyone, I never saw Babe Ruth play, so I can't say he's one of the best players ever. Stan Javier is better than Ruth though, because I saw him play once in the '80s and he's from the future, so...
<< <i>How many people that have Jim Brown at #1 actually saw him play? I also would like to add that if you did see him play that the defensive talent today is so much better than it was back then it's not even funny. I have him in my top 5 based on what people say about it which I assume most others that have him in their top 5 do as well, but I think you guys that say it's him #1 and then everyone else need to consider the talent that he is playing against. I think that Jim Brown could without a doubt play in today's game and be very successful, but I don't think that a lot of the players that he played against could....... >>
I've seen probably 1,000-1,200 of Jim Brown's carries/receptions watching old games and footage. IMO, he's an easy choice for me at #1. He was the most dominant RB of any era. That doesn't mean he translates to today's game or vice versa. But during his time, he was a man amongst boys on the football field. And the thing I like the most, that he did above and beyond a Barry Sanders, was that Jim Brown was consistent. I don't have the stats on number of yards lost on runs in his career. But I can count on 2 hands the number of times I ever saw him stuffed in the backfield or kill his team by setting them back with a 2nd and 11 or 12. He also came up big in big games. Adrian Peterson is the closest thing I've seen to Jim Brown and his style of play. Now put what you saw from Peterson this season vs. the 220lb lineman mentioned in earlier in this thread and you have Jim Brown.
For those who don't rank him #1, I think its just that they haven't seen him play enough, or as much as they saw some of these other guys growing up. It's understandable, hard to rank a guy #1 when you've only seen 10-20 plays of his highlights vs. 1,000 carries of a Barry Sanders.
Just my opinion of course, Jason
I'm here to question, not to inspire or build up. To live how I want, as I see fit, according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
I just think its pretty funny that someone that has never seen Jim Brown play is so dead set on the fact that he is head and shoulders above the rest and nobody else should even be in the conversation.....lol. I'm pretty sure it has already been mentioned in this thread, but everyone looks good in highlights....lol. These debates are 100% based on what ifs so if you can't accept that then maybe debates like this one aren't really your specialty. I understand that a lot of people that saw Brown play insist that he is the best and I take their opinions into consideration. I put him in my top 5 based on the knowledge of others, but I have seen Peterson, Emmitt, and Barry Sanders play multiple times and they all easily pass the eye test plus they have awesome stats as well. This might be a off topic for this particular conversation, but in regards to your funny statement about Ruth and Stan Javier, I do think that baseball star players from 50-60 years ago would fair better in todays game than football star players from the same era. Most of the non-star players from both baseball and football would probably not be good enough to be in the league. Just my opinion
<< <i>I just think its pretty funny that someone that has never seen Jim Brown play is so dead set on the fact that he is head and shoulders above the rest and nobody else should even be in the conversation.....lol. I'm pretty sure it has already been mentioned in this thread, but everyone looks good in highlights....lol. These debates are 100% based on what ifs so if you can't accept that then maybe debates like this one aren't really your specialty. I understand that a lot of people that saw Brown play insist that he is the best and I take their opinions into consideration. I put him in my top 5 based on the knowledge of others, but I have seen Peterson, Emmitt, and Barry Sanders play multiple times and they all easily pass the eye test plus they have awesome stats as well. This might be a off topic for this particular conversation, but in regards to your funny statement about Ruth and Stan Javier, I do think that baseball star players from 50-60 years ago would fair better in todays game than football star players from the same era. Most of the non-star players from both baseball and football would probably not be good enough to be in the league. Just my opinion >>
I just think its pretty funny that someone that has never seen Jim Brown play could be so dead set on the fact that he isn't head and shoulders above the rest...
Hey. Here's a tip for you. It's my OPINION that he's the best ever.
I never said that "no one else can be in the conversation". Do you want me to explain to you what opinions are and why we are here on this message board about sports and trading cards?
And trust me. You don't have to explain to me that you use a TIME MACHINE to form your opinions. lol
1. Walter Payton 2. Barry Sanders 3. Earl Campbell 4. Tony Dorsett 5. Eric Dickerson
I watched every single NFL game Walter Payton played -- he was artistry in motion. Nobody has ever been as good on the goal line. He didn't run through the defensive line, he didn't run around the defensive line, he freakin' jumped over the defensive line. I saw it over and over and it was amazing each time. I have never seen anyone do it since. He also took the "juke" to another level. Talk about breaking ankles. His head would move one way, his arms another, his waist, legs, defenders could not get a read and just looked silly. I was also amazed at his strength whether he stiffed armed a DB into the cheap seats or whether he was carrying five or six defenders on his back still moving forward. Then he was also a devastating blocker. He made his teammates look great by taking out a linebacker or DB. He was also an awesome receiver. I was on my feet anytime he caught a pass, especially a screen pass because with a little space and a few blockers in front of him, I knew I was going to see something special. Lastly, there was the half-back option. The man could throw! He threw 8 TD passes during his career. There was excitement every single time he touched the ball. I still think he retired too soon. I loved Neil Anderson but I would have liked to see Payton play a few more years.
Your entitled to your opinion(even if it is actually the opinion of others), but I kinda started questioning your football knowledge when you mentioned Joe Perry. Joe Perry had 2067 rushing yards in his top 2 seasons combined.......In comparison Peterson had 2097 this season coming off of a serious knee injury. I don't think that you believe that Perry is a top 5 running back, but for the life of me I can't even understand out of all of the running backs in the history of the NFL you even brought his name up in this conversation.....lol
To me, statistically Sanders and Brown are not that far apart. Sanders played 10 years and retired while still in his prime. Brown played 9 years and retired while still in his prime. For all the talk of Jim Brown's dominance, he averaged 5.2 yards per carry while Sanders sports a very respectable 5.0 ypc. Brown rushed for 106 TDs and Barry had 99 rushing TDs. What makes the difference for me is that Jim Brown played on winning teams and had 2 HOF players on his O-line while Barry Sanders did not enjoy that advantage.
"WITH GORILLA GONE, WILL THERE BE HOPE FOR MAN?" Daniel Quinn, Ishmael
<< <i>Your entitled to your opinion(even if it is actually the opinion of others), but I kinda started questioning your football knowledge when you mentioned Joe Perry. Joe Perry had 2067 rushing yards in his top 2 seasons combined.......In comparison Peterson had 2097 this season coming off of a serious knee injury. I don't think that you believe that Perry is a top 5 running back, but for the life of me I can't even understand out of all of the running backs in the history of the NFL you even brought his name up in this conversation.....lol >>
Did I say that Perry was a top-10 all-time back??? Show me where. lol And FYI, Perry is the only other RB in NFL history with over 1,900+ carries to average 5.0+ yards per-carry, other than Jim Brown and Barry Sanders... and Adrian Peterson next season.
I can't wait for you to tell me that YPC doesn't mean anything. lol You are a hoot, with all your amazing football knowledge.
Go to nfl.com and look up Joe Perry and you will see that he had 1737 carries and averaged 4.8 yards per carry. Yards per carry are important, but your information simply isn't accurate. You are the only person in this entire conversation that even mentioned Joe Perry.......now I see why.
<< <i>Go to nfl.com and look up Joe Perry and you will see that he had 1737 carries and averaged 4.8 yards per carry. Yards per carry are important, but your information simply isn't accurate. You are the only person in this entire conversation that even mentioned Joe Perry.......now I see why. >>
All done with 12 and 14 game schedules. Dude led the league in rushing 3 times. Once with 783 yards rushing. lol So please, go on about he doesn't even deserve to be mentioned at all, as if he was terrible because he played in a different era. You are one of the most uniformed people I have ever had the displeasure of "arguing" with. And all because I think highly of Jim Brown and you don't. Grow up.
1. Jim Brown 5.2 2. Barry Sanders 5.0 Joe Perry 5.0 Adrian Peterson 5.0 (will presumably reach 1,900+ carries next season) 5. O.J. Simpson 4.7 Tiki Barber 4.7
I know not many people know who Joe Perry is, but educate yourselves before acting like you DO know more than those who actually DID take the time to educate themselves.
P.S. CLEARLY I am not saying, and never DID say, that Joe Perry is a top-10 all-time back. All I said was that he is under-appreciated.
I thought after illinifan912 made his "one good season ...." remark about AP and was called out on it, he/she would just slink away out of embarassment. The fact that they returned to make a ridiculously irrelevant remark about Alfred Morris, leads me to believe that they are obviously very bitter right now, being a Bears fan, acknowledging the fact that Peterson had a lot to do with the Bears not making the playoffs. But, if you had accidently turned on the tv during the last 6 NFL seasons, you would know that Peterson has been consistently dominant longer than any current back. I dont mean Steven Jackson dominant, I mean record breaking dominant. Whether he currently belongs in the top 5 of all time is debatable. But the notion that he is on the road there, is not.
As far as Morris is concerned, if the defenses he faced this year had to worry about Christian Ponder instead of RG3, I think his rushing total would have been considerably lower.
Why is a guy who has Jim Brown second on his list, along with Gale Freaking Sayers at 5th, giving people grief for putting Jim Brown 1st. I guess he was just looking to argue.
<< <i>I thought after illinifan912 made his "one good season ...." remark about AP and was called out on it, he/she would just slink away out of embarassment. The fact that they returned to make a ridiculously irrelevant remark about Alfred Morris, leads me to believe that they are obviously very bitter right now, being a Bears fan, acknowledging the fact that Peterson had a lot to do with the Bears not making the playoffs. But, if you had accidently turned on the tv during the last 6 NFL seasons, you would know that Peterson has been consistently dominant longer than any current back. I dont mean Steven Jackson dominant, I mean record breaking dominant. Whether he currently belongs in the top 5 of all time is debatable. But the notion that he is on the road there, is not.
As far as Morris is concerned, if the defenses he faced this year had to worry about Christian Ponder instead of RG3, I think his rushing total would have been considerably lower. >>
Agreed that that statement was ridiculous. A lot of "so you are saying" arguers out today. The ones who put words in your mouth and act like you are making points that you aren't making.
If you wanna see Joe Perry's stats go to NFL.com. I trust their website a bit more than the one that you sighted since it is after all the official site of the NFL. I am not making these stats up so go to the site and see for yourself.
<< <i>If you wanna see Joe Perry's stats go to NFL.com. I trust their website a bit more than the one that you sighted since it is after all the official site of the NFL. I am not making these stats up so go to the site and see for yourself. >>
NFL.com sucks for historical stats. Anyone who knows anything about football stats knows that PRO-FOOTBALL REFERENCE.com is all you need. NFL.com has his stats wrong. But by all means, keep using it.
1. Walter Payton 2. Barry Sanders 3. Earl Campbell 4. Tony Dorsett 5. Eric Dickerson
I watched every single NFL game Walter Payton played -- he was artistry in motion. Nobody has ever been as good on the goal line. He didn't run through the defensive line, he didn't run around the defensive line, he freakin' jumped over the defensive line. I saw it over and over and it was amazing each time. I have never seen anyone do it since. He also took the "juke" to another level. Talk about breaking ankles. His head would move one way, his arms another, his waist, legs, defenders could not get a read and just looked silly. I was also amazed at his strength whether he stiffed armed a DB into the cheap seats or whether he was carrying five or six defenders on his back still moving forward. Then he was also a devastating blocker. He made his teammates look great by taking out a linebacker or DB. He was also an awesome receiver. I was on my feet anytime he caught a pass, especially a screen pass because with a little space and a few blockers in front of him, I knew I was going to see something special. Lastly, there was the half-back option. The man could throw! He threw 8 TD passes during his career. There was excitement every single time he touched the ball. I still think he retired too soon. I loved Neil Anderson but I would have liked to see Payton play a few more years. >>
Excellent points, and the same reason i have Walter over Barry.
I'm here to question, not to inspire or build up. To live how I want, as I see fit, according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
<< <i>If you wanna see Joe Perry's stats go to NFL.com. I trust their website a bit more than the one that you sighted since it is after all the official site of the NFL. I am not making these stats up so go to the site and see for yourself. >>
The NFL site doesn't have his stats for the 1948-1949 years. Not sure why. >>
That is EXACTLY why you never use NFL.com for historical stats. "Eh, let's'just negate his first two seasons. That'll do." lol
<< <i>If you wanna see Joe Perry's stats go to NFL.com. I trust their website a bit more than the one that you sighted since it is after all the official site of the NFL. I am not making these stats up so go to the site and see for yourself. >>
NFL.com sucks for historical stats. Anyone who knows anything about football stats knows that PRO-FOOTBALL REFERENCE.com is all you need. NFL.com has his stats wrong. But by all means, keep using it. >>
Perry's first 2 years were as part of the AAFC, prior to the 49ers being absorbed into the NFL in 1950.
Perry was an excellent speedback and would have had far bigger numbers if he hadn't shared the backfield with 2 other HOF RBs for part of his career (mcElhenney and John Henry Johnson)..I dont have him in my top 10, but certain in my top 15-20. One of the first real sprinter speed guys to make an impact in the NFL. Retired as the all-time leading rusher in NFL history BTW. I'd see he warrants a mention.
I'm here to question, not to inspire or build up. To live how I want, as I see fit, according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
<< <i>If "artistry" is the name of the game, shouldn't Sanders win this by a mile over anyone else? How many other running backs repeated made a two yard loss play look SO exciting and engaging. >>
Between Barry and Gale Sayers, they are the most explosive and have the greatest highlight reels in NFL history. Neither was a complete back in the mold of a Walter Payton per se...But if you are judging on amazing impossible plays, this is your top 2. For me, each had other negatives to their game that prevent me from ranking them higher on my list.
I'm here to question, not to inspire or build up. To live how I want, as I see fit, according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
<< <i>If you wanna see Joe Perry's stats go to NFL.com. I trust their website a bit more than the one that you sighted since it is after all the official site of the NFL. I am not making these stats up so go to the site and see for yourself. >>
NFL.com sucks for historical stats. Anyone who knows anything about football stats knows that PRO-FOOTBALL REFERENCE.com is all you need. NFL.com has his stats wrong. But by all means, keep using it. >>
Perry's first 2 years were as part of the AAFC, prior to the 49ers being absorbed into the NFL in 1950.
Perry was an excellent speedback and would have had far bigger numbers if he hadn't shared the backfield with 2 other HOF RBs for part of his career (mcElhenney and John Henry Johnson)..I dont have him in my top 10, but certain in my top 15-20. One of the first real sprinter speed guys to make an impact in the NFL. Retired as the all-time leading rusher in NFL history BTW. I'd see he warrants a mention. >>
Thanks for clearing that up. Imagine if we negated all stats prior to 1950. That is why NFL.com is useless for stats. Interesting that Perry was the all-time leading rusher when he retired. I never knew that.
Aside from maybe Marshall Faulk, the best receiver of the RBs that have been discussed here for sure. In fact, he may have been a better Split End than Half Back.
I'm here to question, not to inspire or build up. To live how I want, as I see fit, according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
<< <i>You guys must not have seen much football in the 1970's, or else OJ would be in everyone's top five.
My five (no order):
Steve Van Buren Jim Brown OJ Simpson Walter Payton Barry Sanders
Just on the outside:
Emmitt Smith Eric Dickerson Gale Sayers Adrian Petersen Marshall Faulk
Really hate to leave off:
L. Tomlinson Earl Campbell Jim Taylor Joe Perry Marcus Allen
Next five for a top 20:
Tony Dorsett Bronko Nagurski Marion Motley Curtis Martin Terrell Davis >>
Absolutely! OJ was fantastic in his day...Like seeing Van Buren on your list as well...First real "dominant" type back in the days before feature backs became vogue. He was the first of his kind.
I'm here to question, not to inspire or build up. To live how I want, as I see fit, according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
Nice...I'd throw George Rogers in there too...Really looked like he was going to be a great one, injures kept him under 100 career games.
I'm here to question, not to inspire or build up. To live how I want, as I see fit, according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
1. Emmitt Smith: Wasn't flashy but got the job done, especially in the post season. He lacked Payton's speed and wasn't a threat as a thrower but excelled as a runner, blocker, and reciever. I believe Smith made the Cowboys OL what they were considering they were all NFL veterans and none of them was an All Pro or Pro Bowler before SMith arrived in Dallas. 2. Walter Payton: A complete RB who could run, catch, block, return kicks, and throw passes. 3. Marion Motley: Another back who did everything well and was dominant w/ the ball in his hands or w/ his hands on defenders. Motley played behind a great OL and was surrounded by talent but lost prime years of his career to injury and war service. 4. Jim Brown: A player decades ahead of his time who could punish defenders with his size, power, and speed. As talented as Brown was I believe he was a selfish player who felt his sole role was to run the ball. Brown also had the added benefit of playing behind a dominant OL that was filled w/ HOF'ers, All Pros, and Pro Bowlers. Leroy Kelly became a HOF himself w/ their help (along with his talent of course). 5. Leaving the spot open b/c their have been so many great backs in the NFL.
I left Sanders of my top 4 b/c I feel like he was always more style than substance. As another member posted Sanders often lost yards by himself and the Lions had some offensive talent. If I remember correctly, the Lions had a pair of 1,000 yard receivers for 5 years of Sanders' 10 year career.
I respect Peterson's talent but I think the media plays up the "he's doing it by himself" angle. In 2009 he was surrounded by talent but wasn't as productive and put the ball on the ground a couple of times in the NFC Championship game.
Super Bowl XXVIII: Buffalo Bills vs Dallas Cowboys - Running back Emmitt Smith rushed for 132 yards and 2 touchdowns earning Super Bowl MVP honors as the Cowboys defeated the Bills 30-13 to win their second consecutive NFL title.
I left Sanders of my top 4 b/c I feel like he was always more style than substance. As another member posted Sanders often lost yards by himself and the Lions had some offensive talent. If I remember correctly, the Lions had a pair of 1,000 yard receivers for 5 years of Sanders' 10 year career. >>
The Lions also had Pro Bowl OL, notably Lomas Brown and Kevin Glover. It's a myth that he had no talent and no line. It just looked that way much of the time because Barry admittedly didn't always follow the play called which the linemen were blocking for, and spent plenty of time in the backfield trying to create his own play. It's similar to how a QB makes an O-Line look. A QB who holds the ball too long in the pocket gets sacked more, makes his line look bad, even though they did their job and held the point, made the correct block on the play called. As exciting as Barry was in the open field, the Lions lack of success also reflects on Barry's style of play. He was a Home Run Hitter no doubt, but he also led the league in strike outs (negative yardage plays).
I'm here to question, not to inspire or build up. To live how I want, as I see fit, according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
I left Sanders of my top 4 b/c I feel like he was always more style than substance. As another member posted Sanders often lost yards by himself and the Lions had some offensive talent. If I remember correctly, the Lions had a pair of 1,000 yard receivers for 5 years of Sanders' 10 year career. >>
The Lions also had Pro Bowl OL, notably Lomas Brown and Kevin Glover. It's a myth that he had no talent and no line. It just looked that way much of the time because Barry admittedly didn't always follow the play called which the linemen were blocking for, and spent plenty of time in the backfield trying to create his own play. It's similar to how a QB makes an O-Line look. A QB who holds the ball too long in the pocket gets sacked more, makes his line look bad, even though they did their job and held the point, made the correct block on the play called. As exciting as Barry was in the open field, the Lions lack of success also reflects on Barry's style of play. He was a Home Run Hitter no doubt, but he also led the league in strike outs (negative yardage plays). >>
Babe Ruth was a home run hitter who led his league in strikeouts
Emmitt was good, but there were better running backs. The offensive line may not have had a pro bower before then, but as a unit, they were outstanding. Not comparing to Sanders, but Emmitt certainly had a great environment to run in compared to other great backs.
Comments
<< <i>
<< <i>1. Jim Brown
2. Walter Payton
3. Barry Sanders
4. OJ Simpson
5. Emmitt Smith
6. Gale Sayers
7- Earl Campbell
8- Marshall Faulk
9- Adrian Peterson
10- Eric Dickerson >>
I agree with these but would switch9 and10,I think we all believe AP will climb the ranks
as he goes on
Needs'
1972 Football-9's high#'s
1965 Football-8's
1958 Topps FB-7-8
<< <i>
<< <i>Jim Brown a very distant #1. >>
LOL I always get to see this nonsense posted every single time this topic pops up >>
It's SHOCKING to you that someone thinks Jim Brown is hands-down the greatest RB to ever play the game?
As far as giving my opinion on the best 5 of all time I would have had to see them play,so here it goes....
1) Walter Payton....work ethic and desire is unmatched.
2) Barry Sanders....Jaw dropping athletic ability,watch him and ask yourself WTF
3) Earl Campbell....I thought he was better in College than the pros,I man I would want on my team any day.
4)Emmit Smith....Durabilty was remarkable,the full package.
5)Eric Dickerson....I loved his style,speed and power.
A Player I saw at the end of his career and not in his prime was Gale Sayers,I also saw OJ break the 2,000 yard barrier on TV that was exiting.
Just to add,what Adrian Peterson did this year is truly an incredible feat to say the least.If he doesn't get the MVP there should be an investigation.
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>Jim Brown a very distant #1. >>
LOL I always get to see this nonsense posted every single time this topic pops up >>
It's SHOCKING to you that someone thinks Jim Brown is hands-down the greatest RB to ever play the game? >>
Yes it is, Jim Brown was the very best of his era which was made up of 220 llb lineman, in todays game he could play but to say he would perform better than Barry Sanders or Walter Payton is debatable but to say he is so much better than any other RB to ever play is just foolish.
2. Walter Payton
3. Jim Brown
4. Eric Dickerson
5. Emmit Smith
The next 5 would go something like: Peterson, Marshall Faulk, Earl Campbell, Tomlinson, and Marcus Allen.
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>Jim Brown a very distant #1. >>
LOL I always get to see this nonsense posted every single time this topic pops up >>
It's SHOCKING to you that someone thinks Jim Brown is hands-down the greatest RB to ever play the game? >>
Yes it is, Jim Brown was the very best of his era which was made up of 220 llb lineman, in todays game he could play but to say he would perform better than Barry Sanders or Walter Payton is debatable but to say he is so much better than any other RB to ever play is just foolish. >>
Yeah, because everyone knows that he wasn't playing against his peers, but against little kids. And all the other RBs in the league at the time were forced to play against the lineman of today. lol
<< <i>Are you really trying to say that if you put Adrian Peterson back in Jim Browns era that he wouldn't completely dominate the game as well? >>
Well they wouldn't be his PEERS then, would they. I really love the "let's play fun time machine yay" arguments that are based on nothing but imagination.
<< <i>How many people that have Jim Brown at #1 actually saw him play? >>
Many who've put Jim Brown at #1 didn't see him play other than old highlight clips, but the stats are simply too mind-boggling to ignore. Brown played nine seasons and led the NFL in rushing EIGHT TIMES. He was also selected First-Team All-Pro eight times. He led the NFL in rushing TDs five times, yards from scrimmage six times, and the list goes on and on. I can understand a debate on the greatest RB of all time, because it's very difficult to compare eras, but at the very least Brown is the most dominant RB of all time. Just like Don Hutson was the most dominant WR, but may still be behind Jerry Rice overall. I love these debates. Always very spirited.
<< <i>Well since they didn't play during the same era that's kinda the whole idea of this whole discussion. If you just wanna go by rushing yards and TDs Emmitt Smith is easily the greatest. Sportscardtheory did you ever see Jim Brown play a game? >>
I wasn't born when he retired. I have seen clips and I know he was head and shoulders above his peers. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see how good he was by comparing his stats with other RBs that played at the same time and by listening to those who did see him play. You don't have to see a guy play to know how good he was. That's ridiculous. It was a level playing field then and it is now. The whole "let's play time machine" hypothetical stuff is childish fantasy garbage.
<< <i>How many people that have Jim Brown at #1 actually saw him play? I also would like to add that if you did see him play that the defensive talent today is so much better than it was back then it's not even funny. I have him in my top 5 based on what people say about it which I assume most others that have him in their top 5 do as well, but I think you guys that say it's him #1 and then everyone else need to consider the talent that he is playing against. I think that Jim Brown could without a doubt play in today's game and be very successful, but I don't think that a lot of the players that he played against could....... >>
I've seen probably 1,000-1,200 of Jim Brown's carries/receptions watching old games and footage. IMO, he's an easy choice for me at #1. He was the most dominant RB of any era. That doesn't mean he translates to today's game or vice versa. But during his time, he was a man amongst boys on the football field. And the thing I like the most, that he did above and beyond a Barry Sanders, was that Jim Brown was consistent. I don't have the stats on number of yards lost on runs in his career. But I can count on 2 hands the number of times I ever saw him stuffed in the backfield or kill his team by setting them back with a 2nd and 11 or 12. He also came up big in big games. Adrian Peterson is the closest thing I've seen to Jim Brown and his style of play. Now put what you saw from Peterson this season vs. the 220lb lineman mentioned in earlier in this thread and you have Jim Brown.
For those who don't rank him #1, I think its just that they haven't seen him play enough, or as much as they saw some of these other guys growing up. It's understandable, hard to rank a guy #1 when you've only seen 10-20 plays of his highlights vs. 1,000 carries of a Barry Sanders.
Just my opinion of course,
Jason
according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
<< <i>I just think its pretty funny that someone that has never seen Jim Brown play is so dead set on the fact that he is head and shoulders above the rest and nobody else should even be in the conversation.....lol. I'm pretty sure it has already been mentioned in this thread, but everyone looks good in highlights....lol. These debates are 100% based on what ifs so if you can't accept that then maybe debates like this one aren't really your specialty. I understand that a lot of people that saw Brown play insist that he is the best and I take their opinions into consideration. I put him in my top 5 based on the knowledge of others, but I have seen Peterson, Emmitt, and Barry Sanders play multiple times and they all easily pass the eye test plus they have awesome stats as well. This might be a off topic for this particular conversation, but in regards to your funny statement about Ruth and Stan Javier, I do think that baseball star players from 50-60 years ago would fair better in todays game than football star players from the same era. Most of the non-star players from both baseball and football would probably not be good enough to be in the league. Just my opinion >>
I just think its pretty funny that someone that has never seen Jim Brown play could be so dead set on the fact that he isn't head and shoulders above the rest...
Hey. Here's a tip for you. It's my OPINION that he's the best ever.
I never said that "no one else can be in the conversation". Do you want me to explain to you what opinions are and why we are here on this message board about sports and trading cards?
And trust me. You don't have to explain to me that you use a TIME MACHINE to form your opinions. lol
1. Walter Payton
2. Barry Sanders
3. Earl Campbell
4. Tony Dorsett
5. Eric Dickerson
I watched every single NFL game Walter Payton played -- he was artistry in motion. Nobody has ever been as good on the goal line. He didn't run through the defensive line, he didn't run around the defensive line, he freakin' jumped over the defensive line. I saw it over and over and it was amazing each time. I have never seen anyone do it since. He also took the "juke" to another level. Talk about breaking ankles. His head would move one way, his arms another, his waist, legs, defenders could not get a read and just looked silly. I was also amazed at his strength whether he stiffed armed a DB into the cheap seats or whether he was carrying five or six defenders on his back still moving forward. Then he was also a devastating blocker. He made his teammates look great by taking out a linebacker or DB. He was also an awesome receiver. I was on my feet anytime he caught a pass, especially a screen pass because with a little space and a few blockers in front of him, I knew I was going to see something special. Lastly, there was the half-back option. The man could throw! He threw 8 TD passes during his career. There was excitement every single time he touched the ball. I still think he retired too soon. I loved Neil Anderson but I would have liked to see Payton play a few more years.
<< <i>Your entitled to your opinion(even if it is actually the opinion of others), but I kinda started questioning your football knowledge when you mentioned Joe Perry. Joe Perry had 2067 rushing yards in his top 2 seasons combined.......In comparison Peterson had 2097 this season coming off of a serious knee injury. I don't think that you believe that Perry is a top 5 running back, but for the life of me I can't even understand out of all of the running backs in the history of the NFL you even brought his name up in this conversation.....lol >>
Did I say that Perry was a top-10 all-time back??? Show me where. lol And FYI, Perry is the only other RB in NFL history with over 1,900+ carries to average 5.0+ yards per-carry, other than Jim Brown and Barry Sanders... and Adrian Peterson next season.
I can't wait for you to tell me that YPC doesn't mean anything. lol You are a hoot, with all your amazing football knowledge.
<< <i>Go to nfl.com and look up Joe Perry and you will see that he had 1737 carries and averaged 4.8 yards per carry. Yards per carry are important, but your information simply isn't accurate. You are the only person in this entire conversation that even mentioned Joe Perry.......now I see why. >>
Here you go, genius. http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/P/PerrJo00.htm
1,929 carries, 5.0 YPC, 84 career TDs
All done with 12 and 14 game schedules. Dude led the league in rushing 3 times. Once with 783 yards rushing. lol So please, go on about he doesn't even deserve to be mentioned at all, as if he was terrible because he played in a different era. You are one of the most uniformed people I have ever had the displeasure of "arguing" with. And all because I think highly of Jim Brown and you don't. Grow up.
1. Jim Brown 5.2
2. Barry Sanders 5.0
Joe Perry 5.0
Adrian Peterson 5.0 (will presumably reach 1,900+ carries next season)
5. O.J. Simpson 4.7
Tiki Barber 4.7
I know not many people know who Joe Perry is, but educate yourselves before acting like you DO know more than those who actually DID take the time to educate themselves.
P.S. CLEARLY I am not saying, and never DID say, that Joe Perry is a top-10 all-time back. All I said was that he is under-appreciated.
As far as Morris is concerned, if the defenses he faced this year had to worry about Christian Ponder instead of RG3, I think his rushing total would have been considerably lower.
<< <i>I thought after illinifan912 made his "one good season ...." remark about AP and was called out on it, he/she would just slink away out of embarassment. The fact that they returned to make a ridiculously irrelevant remark about Alfred Morris, leads me to believe that they are obviously very bitter right now, being a Bears fan, acknowledging the fact that Peterson had a lot to do with the Bears not making the playoffs. But, if you had accidently turned on the tv during the last 6 NFL seasons, you would know that Peterson has been consistently dominant longer than any current back. I dont mean Steven Jackson dominant, I mean record breaking dominant. Whether he currently belongs in the top 5 of all time is debatable. But the notion that he is on the road there, is not.
As far as Morris is concerned, if the defenses he faced this year had to worry about Christian Ponder instead of RG3, I think his rushing total would have been considerably lower. >>
Agreed that that statement was ridiculous. A lot of "so you are saying" arguers out today. The ones who put words in your mouth and act like you are making points that you aren't making.
TheClockworkAngelCollection
<< <i>If you wanna see Joe Perry's stats go to NFL.com. I trust their website a bit more than the one that you sighted since it is after all the official site of the NFL. I am not making these stats up so go to the site and see for yourself. >>
NFL.com sucks for historical stats. Anyone who knows anything about football stats knows that PRO-FOOTBALL REFERENCE.com is all you need. NFL.com has his stats wrong. But by all means, keep using it.
<< <i>The best I have seen:
1. Walter Payton
2. Barry Sanders
3. Earl Campbell
4. Tony Dorsett
5. Eric Dickerson
I watched every single NFL game Walter Payton played -- he was artistry in motion. Nobody has ever been as good on the goal line. He didn't run through the defensive line, he didn't run around the defensive line, he freakin' jumped over the defensive line. I saw it over and over and it was amazing each time. I have never seen anyone do it since. He also took the "juke" to another level. Talk about breaking ankles. His head would move one way, his arms another, his waist, legs, defenders could not get a read and just looked silly. I was also amazed at his strength whether he stiffed armed a DB into the cheap seats or whether he was carrying five or six defenders on his back still moving forward. Then he was also a devastating blocker. He made his teammates look great by taking out a linebacker or DB. He was also an awesome receiver. I was on my feet anytime he caught a pass, especially a screen pass because with a little space and a few blockers in front of him, I knew I was going to see something special. Lastly, there was the half-back option. The man could throw! He threw 8 TD passes during his career. There was excitement every single time he touched the ball. I still think he retired too soon. I loved Neil Anderson but I would have liked to see Payton play a few more years. >>
Excellent points, and the same reason i have Walter over Barry.
according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
<< <i>
<< <i>If you wanna see Joe Perry's stats go to NFL.com. I trust their website a bit more than the one that you sighted since it is after all the official site of the NFL. I am not making these stats up so go to the site and see for yourself. >>
The NFL site doesn't have his stats for the 1948-1949 years. Not sure why. >>
That is EXACTLY why you never use NFL.com for historical stats. "Eh, let's'just negate his first two seasons. That'll do." lol
<< <i>
<< <i>If you wanna see Joe Perry's stats go to NFL.com. I trust their website a bit more than the one that you sighted since it is after all the official site of the NFL. I am not making these stats up so go to the site and see for yourself. >>
NFL.com sucks for historical stats. Anyone who knows anything about football stats knows that PRO-FOOTBALL REFERENCE.com is all you need. NFL.com has his stats wrong. But by all means, keep using it. >>
Perry's first 2 years were as part of the AAFC, prior to the 49ers being absorbed into the NFL in 1950.
Perry was an excellent speedback and would have had far bigger numbers if he hadn't shared the backfield with 2 other HOF RBs for part of his career (mcElhenney and John Henry Johnson)..I dont have him in my top 10, but certain in my top 15-20. One of the first real sprinter speed guys to make an impact in the NFL. Retired as the all-time leading rusher in NFL history BTW. I'd see he warrants a mention.
according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
<< <i>If "artistry" is the name of the game, shouldn't Sanders win this by a mile over anyone else? How many other running backs repeated made a two yard loss play look SO exciting and engaging. >>
Between Barry and Gale Sayers, they are the most explosive and have the greatest highlight reels in NFL history. Neither was a complete back in the mold of a Walter Payton per se...But if you are judging on amazing impossible plays, this is your top 2. For me, each had other negatives to their game that prevent me from ranking them higher on my list.
according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>If you wanna see Joe Perry's stats go to NFL.com. I trust their website a bit more than the one that you sighted since it is after all the official site of the NFL. I am not making these stats up so go to the site and see for yourself. >>
NFL.com sucks for historical stats. Anyone who knows anything about football stats knows that PRO-FOOTBALL REFERENCE.com is all you need. NFL.com has his stats wrong. But by all means, keep using it. >>
Perry's first 2 years were as part of the AAFC, prior to the 49ers being absorbed into the NFL in 1950.
Perry was an excellent speedback and would have had far bigger numbers if he hadn't shared the backfield with 2 other HOF RBs for part of his career (mcElhenney and John Henry Johnson)..I dont have him in my top 10, but certain in my top 15-20. One of the first real sprinter speed guys to make an impact in the NFL. Retired as the all-time leading rusher in NFL history BTW. I'd see he warrants a mention. >>
Thanks for clearing that up. Imagine if we negated all stats prior to 1950. That is why NFL.com is useless for stats. Interesting that Perry was the all-time leading rusher when he retired. I never knew that.
<< <i>Lenny Moore was pretty bad-ass too. >>
Aside from maybe Marshall Faulk, the best receiver of the RBs that have been discussed here for sure. In fact, he may have been a better Split End than Half Back.
according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
I am second to only one player in history in all-purpose yards and I sport a career 5.1 yards-per-carry average.
My five (no order):
Steve Van Buren
Jim Brown
OJ Simpson
Walter Payton
Barry Sanders
Just on the outside:
Emmitt Smith
Eric Dickerson
Gale Sayers
Adrian Petersen
Marshall Faulk
Really hate to leave off:
L. Tomlinson
Earl Campbell
Jim Taylor
Joe Perry
Marcus Allen
Next five for a top 20:
Tony Dorsett
Bronko Nagurski
Marion Motley
Curtis Martin
Terrell Davis
<< <i>You guys must not have seen much football in the 1970's, or else OJ would be in everyone's top five.
My five (no order):
Steve Van Buren
Jim Brown
OJ Simpson
Walter Payton
Barry Sanders
Just on the outside:
Emmitt Smith
Eric Dickerson
Gale Sayers
Adrian Petersen
Marshall Faulk
Really hate to leave off:
L. Tomlinson
Earl Campbell
Jim Taylor
Joe Perry
Marcus Allen
Next five for a top 20:
Tony Dorsett
Bronko Nagurski
Marion Motley
Curtis Martin
Terrell Davis >>
Absolutely! OJ was fantastic in his day...Like seeing Van Buren on your list as well...First real "dominant" type back in the days before feature backs became vogue. He was the first of his kind.
according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
Gale Sayers
Terrell Davis
Billy Sims
William Andrews
Bo Jackson
Next:
Cliff Battles
Alan Ameche
Cookie Gilchrist
Priest Holmes
Spec Sanders
<< <i>Just for conversation, here's my top rushes that had short careers, less than six full seasons as a starter:
Gale Sayers
Terrell Davis
Billy Sims
William Andrews
Bo Jackson
Next:
Cliff Battles
Alan Ameche
Cookie Gilchrist
Priest Holmes
Spec Sanders >>
Nice...I'd throw George Rogers in there too...Really looked like he was going to be a great one, injures kept him under 100 career games.
according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
<< <i>Just for conversation, here's my top rushes that had short careers, less than six full seasons as a starter:
Gale Sayers
Terrell Davis
Billy Sims
William Andrews
Bo Jackson
Next:
Cliff Battles
Alan Ameche
Cookie Gilchrist
Priest Holmes
Spec Sanders >>
I'll add Napoleon Kaufman. lol 4.9 YPC in 6 years. I used to love watching that dude play.
ended his career early.
Also Deuce McAllister was pretty solid for 4-5 years. Again injuries killed him.
Brown
Sanders
Payton
Emmitt
OJ
<< <i>Could add in Curt Warner of the Seahawks too. Had five stellar seasons before injuries
ended his career early. >>
You beat me to him. He and Billy Sims always remind me of each other.
Barry Sanders'
Walter Payton
Joe Perry
Hugh Mchelhenny.
2. Walter Payton: A complete RB who could run, catch, block, return kicks, and throw passes.
3. Marion Motley: Another back who did everything well and was dominant w/ the ball in his hands or w/ his hands on defenders. Motley played behind a great OL and was surrounded by talent but lost prime years of his career to injury and war service.
4. Jim Brown: A player decades ahead of his time who could punish defenders with his size, power, and speed. As talented as Brown was I believe he was a selfish player who felt his sole role was to run the ball. Brown also had the added benefit of playing behind a dominant OL that was filled w/ HOF'ers, All Pros, and Pro Bowlers. Leroy Kelly became a HOF himself w/ their help (along with his talent of course).
5. Leaving the spot open b/c their have been so many great backs in the NFL.
I left Sanders of my top 4 b/c I feel like he was always more style than substance. As another member posted Sanders often lost yards by himself and the Lions had some offensive talent. If I remember correctly, the Lions had a pair of 1,000 yard receivers for 5 years of Sanders' 10 year career.
I respect Peterson's talent but I think the media plays up the "he's doing it by himself" angle. In 2009 he was surrounded by talent but wasn't as productive and put the ball on the ground a couple of times in the NFC Championship game.
Super Bowl XXVIII: Buffalo Bills vs Dallas Cowboys -
Running back Emmitt Smith rushed for 132 yards and 2
touchdowns earning Super Bowl MVP honors as the Cowboys
defeated the Bills 30-13 to win their second consecutive NFL
title.
Payton
Brown
Smith
Sanders
Campbell
<< <i>
I left Sanders of my top 4 b/c I feel like he was always more style than substance. As another member posted Sanders often lost yards by himself and the Lions had some offensive talent. If I remember correctly, the Lions had a pair of 1,000 yard receivers for 5 years of Sanders' 10 year career. >>
The Lions also had Pro Bowl OL, notably Lomas Brown and Kevin Glover. It's a myth that he had no talent and no line. It just looked that way much of the time because Barry admittedly didn't always follow the play called which the linemen were blocking for, and spent plenty of time in the backfield trying to create his own play. It's similar to how a QB makes an O-Line look. A QB who holds the ball too long in the pocket gets sacked more, makes his line look bad, even though they did their job and held the point, made the correct block on the play called. As exciting as Barry was in the open field, the Lions lack of success also reflects on Barry's style of play. He was a Home Run Hitter no doubt, but he also led the league in strike outs (negative yardage plays).
according to my values and my needs. Nothing holds dominion over me, I stand alone as the ruler of my life.
<< <i>
<< <i>
I left Sanders of my top 4 b/c I feel like he was always more style than substance. As another member posted Sanders often lost yards by himself and the Lions had some offensive talent. If I remember correctly, the Lions had a pair of 1,000 yard receivers for 5 years of Sanders' 10 year career. >>
The Lions also had Pro Bowl OL, notably Lomas Brown and Kevin Glover. It's a myth that he had no talent and no line. It just looked that way much of the time because Barry admittedly didn't always follow the play called which the linemen were blocking for, and spent plenty of time in the backfield trying to create his own play. It's similar to how a QB makes an O-Line look. A QB who holds the ball too long in the pocket gets sacked more, makes his line look bad, even though they did their job and held the point, made the correct block on the play called. As exciting as Barry was in the open field, the Lions lack of success also reflects on Barry's style of play. He was a Home Run Hitter no doubt, but he also led the league in strike outs (negative yardage plays). >>
Babe Ruth was a home run hitter who led his league in strikeouts
Emmitt was good, but there were better running backs. The offensive line may not have had a pro bower before then, but as a unit, they were outstanding. Not comparing to Sanders, but Emmitt certainly had a great environment to run in compared to other great backs.