Sat Oct 02 06:05am PDT
Brandon Marshall, meet Sterling Sharpe
By Doug Farrar
Miami Dolphins receiver Brandon Marshall(notes) is known for mouthing off at times, but this time, he really went down the wrong path. In response to NFL Network analyst Sterling Sharpe's claim that he was running out of gas in a recent game, Marshall questioned Sharpe's credentials and wondered why Sharpe was speaking up in the first place.
"I don't honestly think those guys were elite players, including Sterling Sharpe," Marshall said. "I've gotta turn on the film and see what he was able to do. I know he's done some good things, but from my understanding, he's not a Hall of Fame guy."
Brandon, we're here to help. Here's a little primer on the guy you're bashing. Before a neck injury cut his career short in 1994, Sharpe was probably the second most dangerous receiver in the NFL, behind only Jerry Rice. He was the first player in NFL history to have consecutive seasons catching 100 passes, won the receiving "Triple Crown" in 1992 (catches, receiving yards, receiving touchdowns), and he put up many of his stats before Mike Holmgren and Brett Favre(notes) showed up in Green Bay. Had he been able to continue his career through Green Bay's run of Super Bowls, there's no question whatsoever that he'd have a bust in Canton right now.
And, Brandon? If you need more clarity on this one, here's a handy-dandy table to show you just how far behind this guy you are in the historical food chain:
http://a323.yahoofs.com/ymg/ept_spor...xBM3DD4HCXi0IO
After careful scrutiny of the facts, it is our considered opinion here at Shutdown Corner that Mr. Marshall should offer up an apology in a hurry, give Sterling Sharpe a call, and make nice in a future episode of "Playbook". Who knows? He might actually learn something...
