Rookie future-HOF QB vs soon-to-retire future HOF QB

[74_75_78_79_]

I just realized that in Dan Marino’s rookie year, 1983, he went up against Ken Stabler in Week #5 at the Superdome; a 17-7 Saints win. Peyton had that Classic showdown vs Steve Young at Candlestick in ’98. Elway/Bradshaw could’ve been the opener in ’83.

Any other examples to give? Or even ‘almost’ ones like the last one mentioned?

[BD Sullivan]

In December 1970, Bart Starr and the Pack came to Pittsburgh and faced the Steelers and rookie Terry Bradshaw. The following season, Starr only played in four games (three starts) and didn't see any more action.

[conace21]

Rookie Peyton Manning faced off twice against Dan Marino, who would retire at the same time as Young.

[sheajets]

Namath faced off against Blanda in 1965.

Terry Bradshaw played against Len Dawson in 1970

[74_75_78_79_]

Namath faced off against Blanda in 1965.

Terry Bradshaw played against Len Dawson in 1970

Ken Anderson played against Blanda (and Lamonica) in ’71. Now if only Ken can actually, finally make the Hall!

[Ronfitch]

Kurt Warner's (UNIfight!) only game in '98 was as a backup in the final game of the season in which the Rams lost to the 49ers, quarterbacked by Steve Young. Young only played three games the following season before retiring.

[conace21]

Namath faced off against Blanda in 1965.

Terry Bradshaw played against Len Dawson in 1970

Blanda retired only 2 seasons before Namath did!

[Ronfitch]

Namath faced off against Blanda in 1965.

Terry Bradshaw played against Len Dawson in 1970

Blanda retired only 2 seasons before Namath did!

I seem to recall that it was not Blanda's decision to retire. Am I remembering correctly?

[ChrisBabcock]

I seem to recall that it was not Blanda's decision to retire. Am I remembering correctly?

I thought I heard Madden cut him in training camp or preseason.

[BD Sullivan]

I seem to recall that it was not Blanda's decision to retire. Am I remembering correctly?

I thought I heard Madden cut him in training camp or preseason.

Yep, Blanda was one of the last cuts--beaten out by Fred Steinfort, who then got hurt. That meant Errol Mann did the kicking in the Raiders' first Super Bowl win.

In 1973, Johnny U was temporarily REPLACED by Dan Fouts--before Wayne Clark tried his luck for four games.