Joe Namath vs Jim Kelly

[Roy Munson]

Hey Hoopsie. Do you remember a game early in the 1972 season when the Jets were playing the Colts in Baltimore? I was in attendance at this game. Namath and Unitas put on an offensive display that I have rarely seen since. The Jets ultimately won the game 44-34.

That was probably the last great game for either quarterback. Johnny Unitas was way over the hill at that point. At the time we did not realize that Namath was likely nearing the end as well.

[hoopsie44]

[ QUOTE ]
Hey Hoopsie. Do you remember a game early in the 1972 season when the Jets were playing the Colts in Baltimore? I was in attendance at this game. Namath and Unitas put on an offensive display that I have rarely seen since. The Jets ultimately won the game 44-34.

That was probably the last great game for either quarterback. Johnny Unitas was way over the hill at that point. At the time we did not realize that Namath was likely nearing the end as well.

[/ QUOTE ]

I remember that game well, Roy. Namath passed for something like 497 yds and Unitas 400. I recall Unitas taking the Colts on a couple of methodical, 10 play scoring drives and Namath responding with a couple of 80 yarders to Rich Caster. I remember John Riggins, who I believe was a rookie, also catching a long TD from Namath. And you're right, even at that point Namath's best days were behind him.