NFL Legacies: Brett Favre
The life and career of one of the all-time great quarterbacks
Brett Favre is considered to be one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. When he retired, Favre was the NFL leader in passing yards, passing touchdowns, and quarterback wins. He still holds the league record for most consecutive starts and most career interceptions.
Favre spent the majority of his career with the Green Bay Packers but he also played for the Atlanta Falcons, the New York Jets, and the Minnesota Vikings. He is believed to be the first NFL player to become a grandfather while still playing.
The College Years
Favre played baseball and football in high school. He played over 5 different positions during his high school career before settling for the quarterback role.
Brett Favre was offered a football scholarship by Southern Mississippi and joined the team in 1987. When he started his freshman year he was listed as the seventh-string quarterback. By the time they reached their third game of the season, he had worked his way up to the position of starting quarterback. That year, Favre started 10 games and won 6. His second year went just as well.
During his third year at college Favre flipped his car and the accident was nearly fatal. Favre had 30 inches of his lower intestines removed but returned to the field and won the game only 6 weeks later. His coaches said at this point they knew he was either a madman or the greatest quarterback in the making.
The NFL Years
In 1991, Favre was drafted 33rd overall by the Atlanta Falcons. Much to the dismay of their coach at the time, Jerry Glanville, who said he would rather be in a plane crash than give Favre time on the pitch.
The atmosphere seemed to have a negative effect on Favre, who made 4 passes that season, half of which were intercepted, and he made one snap which resulted in a sack and an 11 yard loss.
In 1992, Favre was traded to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for one of their draft picks. The choice to do this was made by Ron Wolf who had wanted to pick Favre the year before but had been beaten to him by the Falcons.
Favre played like a different man with the Packers. He led the team to two Super Bowl appearances (in 1996, they won, and in 1997 they were beaten). During his time with the Packers Favre became the first (and only) player to win the NFL MVP award 3 years in a row. You can find the odds of the Packers winning the Super Bowl again this year on Fanduel's sportsbook.
It was also during this time that Favre set the record for most consecutive starts - Favre started every Packers game from September 20, 1992, to January 20, 2008. This was a streak of 253 games in total.
After 16 years with the Packers, Favre played for the New York Jets for a year and for the Minnesota Vikings for two seasons. After that, he retired from the NFL in 2010.
Life After the NFL
Favre and his wife Deanna are famous for their extensive charity work. When Deanna was diagnosed with breast cancer, the couple raised a lot of money for research and treatment charities, as well as raising awareness about the condition.
Favre has also talked about his own problems with memory loss because of concussions suffered while playing football. Favre has campaigned to get tackling banned from football games until players enter high school.
Favre has been involved in a few scandals since leaving the NFL. One of which involved the misspending of charity funds - for which he was fined $1.1 million dollars. He was also fined $50,000 by the NFL for not cooperating with an infestation over nude photos he had sent to a reporter.
After the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, Favre and many other football players were involved in rescue missions and in helping to rebuild many of the cities around the country.
Awards - HOF? Part Sixty: The Hank Aaron Award
We here at Notinhalloffame.com thought it would be fun to take a look at the major awards in North American team sports and see how it translates into Hall of Fame potential.
Needless to say, different awards in different sports yield hall of fame potential. In basketball, the team sport with the least number of players on a roster, the dividend for greatness much higher. In baseball, it is not as much as a great individual season does not have the same impact.
Last time, we looked at the ALCS or NLCS MVPs. We have one major baseball award left, the Hank Aaron Award, which is given annually to the best hitter in each league. It is named after Aaron, who was one of the most prolific hitters of all-time.
The trophy first came into existence in 1999, with one awarded in each league.
So how many Hank Aaron Award winners have made the Baseball Hall of Fame?
Let’s find out!
The following are the past players who have won the Hank Aaron Award who are eligible for the Baseball Hall of Fame and have been enshrined.
2006 AL: Derek Jeter, New York Yankees, Third Base, 14 HR, 97 RBI, .343/.417/.483
Derek Jeter is one of the most popular players in Yankees history, which is incredible considering how many legends wore the pinstripes. In 2006, Jeter had already won the World Series four times, and he went to his seventh All-Star Game, while earning his first Silver Slugger. Jeter was the runner-up for the MVP this year.
Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2020.
2009 AL: Derek Jeter, New York Yankees, Third Base, 18 HR, 66 RBI, .334/.406/.465 (2)
Jeter finished third in MVP voting this year, and he collected his fourth consecutive Silver Slugger. He would lead New York to another World Series win, his fifth, and he played until 2014, collecting 3,465 Hits with a .310 lifetime Batting Average. Jeter was overall a 14-time All-Star, five-time Silver Slugger, five-time Gold Glove winner, who also smacked 260 Home Runs with 1,311 RBIs.
Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2020.
The following are the players who have won the Hank Aaron Award who are eligible for the Baseball Hall of Fame and have not been selected:
1999 AL: Manny Ramirez, Cleveland Indians, Outfield, 44 HR, 165 RBI, .333/.442/.633.
Ramirez had already proven himself as a star, but this season, he led the American League in RBIs with 165, which would be a career-high. An All-Star for the third time, Ramirez also led the league in Slugging Percentage, OPS (1.105) and was third in MVP voting. He also won the Silver Slugger.
Eligible Since 2017. Ramirez has been on the ballot for five years, finishing as high as 28.2% in both 2019 and 2020. Ranked #7 on Notinhalloffame.com
1999 NL: Sammy Sosa, Chicago Cubs, Outfield, 63 HR, 141 RBI, .288/.367/.635, 1999, NL
Sosa was the 1998 National League MVP, and was ninth this year in voting. He was also a Silver Slugger winner, winning it for the third of six times. While Sosa is a seven-time All-Star with 609 career Home Runs, PED suspicion has kept him out of Cooperstown.
Eligible Since 2013. Sosa has been on the ballot for nine years, finishing as high as 17.0% in 2020. Ranked #31 on Notinhalloffame.com
2000 AL: Carlos Delgado, Toronto Blue Jays, First Base, 41 HR, 137 RBI, .344/.470/.664, 2000, AL
Delgado was an All-Star for the first time, and he led the AL in Doubles (57) and was fourth in MVP voting. The First Baseman earned the second of his third Silver Sluggers this year, and he would later play for Florida and New York (NL), retiring on 2009. Delgado had 473 Home Runs with 1,512 RBIs over his career.
Eligible Since 2015. Delgado was on the ballot for one year in 2015 and received 3.6% of the vote. Ranked #82 on Notinhalloffame.com
2000 NL: Todd Helton, Colorado Rockies, First Base, 42 HR, 147 RBI, .372/.463/.698, 2000, NL
2000 was arguably Helton’s best year in baseball as he led the NL in Hits (216), Doubles (59), RBIs, and all three Slash Line components. This began a five-year streak of All-Star Game appearances, and a four-year run of Silver Sluggers. Helton, who was fifth in MVP voting this year, played his entire career with the Rockies, and had 2,519 Hits, 369 Home Runs, 1,406 RBIs with a Slash Line of .316/.414/539.
Eligible Since 2018. Helton has been on the ballot for three years, finishing as high as 44.9% in 2021. Ranked #9 on Notinhalloffame.com
2001 AL: Alex Rodriguez, Texas Rangers, Shortstop, 52 HR, 135 RBI, .318/.399/.622, 2001, AL
After establishing himself as a superstar in Seattle, Rodriguez signed what was then the biggest contract in baseball with the Texas Rangers. Rodriguez delivered with his best year to date, though he was only sixth in MVP voting. He led the AL in Home Runs (52), Runs Scored (133), and was a Silver Slugger for the fifth time.
Eligible Since 2022. Rodriguez is on the ballot for the first time this year. Ranked #3 on Notinhalloffame.com
2001 NL: Barry Bonds, San Francisco Giants, Outfield, 73 HR, 137 RBI, .328/.515/.863, 2001, NL
This was the year that Bonds set the single season record in Home Runs, and Slugging Percentage, and while he was wildly unpopular outside of San Francisco, he was the runaway winner for the MVP, his fourth and first since 1993 when he was a Pirate. Bonds also led the NL in OBP, OPS, and won his ninth Silver Slugger this year.
Eligible Since 2013. Bonds has been on the ballot for nine years and finished as high as 61.8% in 2021. Ranked #1C on Notinhalloffame.com
2002 AL: Alex Rodriguez, Texas Rangers, Shortstop, 57 HR, 142 RBI, .300/.392/.623, 2001, AL (2)
A-Rod was incredible this year, leading the AL in Home Runs for the second straight year, and winning his first RBI Title. Rodriguez finished second for the MVP, won his sixth Silver Slugger, and defensively won the Gold Glove for the first time.
Eligible Since 2022. Rodriguez is on the ballot for the first time this year. Ranked #3 on Notinhalloffame.com
2002 NL: Barry Bonds, San Francisco Giants, Outfield, 46 HR, 110 RBI, .370/.582/.799, 2002, NL (2)
Bonds was again putting up PlayStation like numbers, and while his Home Runs were “only” 46, his OBP rocketed up to .582. Basically, nobody wanted to pitch to him unless they had to. Bonds repeated as MVP, winning his fifth overall, and also was a Silver Slugger for the tenth time.
Eligible Since 2013. Bonds has been on the ballot for nine years and finished as high as 61.8% in 2021. Ranked #1C on Notinhalloffame.com
2003 AL: Alex Rodriguez, Texas Rangers, Shortstop, 47 HR, 118 RBI, .298/.396/.600 (3)
While arguably this was his weakest of his three years in Texas, Rodriguez captured his first MVP. A-Rod led the AL in Home Runs for the third straight season (47), and he won his first Slugging Title (.600). Silver Slugger number seven came to Rodriguez as did his second Gold Glove.
Eligible Since 2022. Rodriguez is on the ballot for the first time this year. Ranked #3 on Notinhalloffame.com
2004 AL: Manny Ramirez, Boston Red Sox, Outfield, 43 HR, 130 RBI, .308/.397/.613 (2)
Ramirez joined the Red Sox in 2001, and in 2004, he won his first Home Run Title. This season, he won his third Slugging Title, third OPS Title, and was third for the AL MVP. Again winning the Silver Slugger, Ramirez and the Red Sox broke the curse this year, by winning their first World Series since 2019. Ramirez played until 2012, blasting 555 Home Runs, 1.831 RBIs, with a lifetime Slash Line of .312/.411/.585.
Eligible Since 2017. Ramirez has been on the ballot for five years, finishing as high as 28.2% in both 2019 and 2020. Ranked #7 on Notinhalloffame.com
2004 NL: Barry Bonds, San Francisco Giants, Outfield, 45 HR, 101 RBI, .362/.609/.812 (3)
Bonds did not win the Hank Aaron Award in 2003, but he won the MVP that year, his third in a row. He reclaimed the Hank Aaron Award in 2004, along with his fourth straight MVP, where he set a MLB record with a 1.422 OPS season. Injuries and age caught up with Bonds, and despite being an All-Star in 2007 with a National League leading OBP of .480, he was not signed by any other team afterward. He finished his career with 762 Home Runs, and 2,558 Walks, both of which are all-time records. He retired with a lifetime OPS of 1.051.
Eligible Since 2013. Bonds has been on the ballot for nine years and finished as high as 61.8% in 2021. Ranked #1C on Notinhalloffame.com
2005 AL: David Ortiz, Boston Red Sox, Designated Hitter, 47 HR, 148 RBI, .300/.397/.604.
Ortiz became the first primary Designated Hitter to win the Hank Aaron Award, and the popular player won the RBI Title for the first of what would be three times. This was his second year in Boston, his second All-Star season, and he also won his second Silver Slugger. Ortiz was the runner-up for the MVP.
Eligible Since 2022. Ortiz is on the ballot for the first time this year. Ranked #8 on Notinhalloffame.com
2005 NL: Andruw Jones, Atlanta Braves, Outfield, 51 HR, 128 RBI, .263/.347/.575.
This was the best season of Jones’ career, and he won the Home Run (51) and RBI (128) Titles for the only time this year. Jones also captured his only Silver Slugger this year, and he was the runner-up for the National League MVP. Jones stayed with Atlanta until 2007, after which he played with the Dodgers, Rangers, White Sox and Yankees, and retired with 434 Home Runs.
Eligible Since 2017. Jones has been on the ballot for four years and finished as high as 33.9% in 2021. Ranked #40 on Notinhalloffame.com
2006 NL: Ryan Howard, Philadelphia Phillies, First Base, 58 HR, 149 RBI, .313/.425/.659.
In what was his third Major League season, Ryan Howard was spectacular, and produced his best year in Baseball. Howard was first in Home Runs (58), Runs Batted In (149), and his Slash Line of .313/.425/.659 were career highs. Justifiably, Howard won the MVP and the Silver Slugger, and over the next three seasons, he blasted at least 45 Home Runs and 136 RBIs. Howard slumped after that, losing facets of his game, which considering he couldn’t field or run fast, took him out of any Hall of Fame consideration. He played his entire career with the Phillies, accumulating 1,475 Hits, 382 Home Runs and 1,194 RBIs.
Eligible Since 2022. Howard is on the ballot for the first time this year. Unranked on Notinhalloffame.com
2007 AL: Alex Rodriguez, New York Yankees, Shortstop, 47 HR, 118 RBI, .298/.396/.600. (4)
Rodriguez joined the Yankees in 2004, and to say it was a tumultuous period would be an understatement. This did not mean that he did not produce colossal numbers in the Bronx, as he did. He won his second MVP in 2005, and his third this year, winning his fifth Home Run Title (54), second RBI Title (156), third Slugging Title (.645) and second OPS Title (1.067). A-Rod also won the ninth of what would be ten Silver Sluggers. Rodriguez drama began after this season, but he did win a World Series Ring in 2009. He finished his career with 3,115 Hits, 696 Home Runs, 2,086 RBIs, 329 Stolen Bases and a lifetime Batting Average of .295.
Eligible Since 2022. Rodriguez is on the ballot for the first time this year. Ranked #3 on Notinhalloffame.com
2007 NL: Prince Fielder, Milwaukee Brewers, First Base, 50 HR, 119 RBI, .288/.395/.618.
Prince Fielder followed in the footsteps of his father, Cecil, as he became a stocky power-hitting First Baseman, and this was his breakout year. Fielder led the American League in Home Runs (50), was third in MVP voting, and won the Silver Slugger. He had five more 30 Home Run seasons, would become a six-time All-Star and collected three Silver Sluggers. His career ended abruptly at age 32 due to injuries, and he retired with 319 Home Runs.
Eligible Since 2022. Fielder is on the ballot for the first time this year. Unranked on Notinhalloffame.com
2008 AL: Kevin Youkilis, Boston Red Sox, First Base, 29 HR, 115 RBI, .312/.390/.569.
This was the best year of Youkilis’ career, where he had career-bests in Home Runs (29), RBIs (115) and Batting Average (.312), and was an All-Star for the first time. Youkilis was third in MVP voting, and he helped the BoSox win two previous World Series. He went to two more All-Star Games, and played with Boston until 2012, finishing his career with brief stops in Chicago (AL) and New York (AL) before retiring in 213. He had 1,053 career Hits.
Eligible Since 2019. Youkilis was on the ballot for one year in 2019, but did not receive any votes. Unranked on Notinhalloffame.com
2008 NL: Aramis Ramirez, Chicago Cubs, Third Base, 27 HR, 112 RBI, .289/.380/.518.
Ramirez was an All-Star in 2005, and in 2008, his 11th Season, He was an All-Star for the second and final time. This year, he was tenth in MVP voting, equalling his finish in 2004. Ramirez later played for Milwaukee, going to a third All-Star Game in 2014, and was a Silver Slugger (while still a Cub) in 2011. He retired in 2015, finishing with 2,303 Hits, 386 Home Runs and 1,417 RBIs.
Eligible Since 2021. Ramirez was on the ballot for one year in 2021, and received 1.0% of the vote. Unranked on Notinhalloffame.com
2016 AL: David Ortiz, Boston Red Sox, Designated Hitter, 38 HR, 127 RBI, .315/.401/.620, AL (2)
Ortiz had one of the best farewell seasons ever, and fittingly it resulted in his second Hank Aaron Award, 11 years after his first. For the only time in his career, he led the AL in Doubles (48), and his 127 RBI gave him his third RBI title. Ortiz also led the AL in Slugging Percentage (.620) and OPS (1.021), and he won the Silver Slugger for the seventh time. Over his career, Ortiz had 2,473 Hits, 541 Home Runs, 1,768 RBIs with a lifetime OPS of .931. He was also instrumental in the Red Sox winning three World Series.
Eligible Since 2022. Ortiz is on the ballot for the first time this year. Ranked #8 on Notinhalloffame.com
Let’s update our tally, shall we?
|
Award in Question |
Percentage of recipients who have entered the HOF |
Percentage of recipients by year who have entered the HOF. |
|
NBA MVP |
100% |
100% |
|
NHL Art Ross |
100% |
100% |
|
NHL Hart Trophy |
93.6% |
96.3% |
|
NBA Finals MVP |
91.3% |
94.9% |
|
NHL Norris |
90.5% |
96.4% |
|
NHL Ted Lindsay Award |
90.0% |
|
|
NBA All-Star Game MVP |
89.5% |
91.7% |
|
NHL Conn Smythe |
74.2% |
85.4% |
|
NFL Bert Bell Award |
73.7% |
71.4% |
|
NFL AP Offensive Player of the Year |
73.1% |
79.4% |
|
NFL AP MVP |
68.3% |
74.0% |
|
NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year |
66.7% |
66.7% |
|
NHL Lady Byng |
63.8% |
76.0% |
|
NFL Defensive Player of the Year |
60.8% |
71.1% |
|
NFL Super Bowl MVP |
60.6% |
64.9% |
|
NHL Mark Messier Leadership Award |
60.0% |
60.0% |
|
NBA Defensive Player of the Year |
58.3% |
56.5% |
|
NHL Vezina |
57.1% |
66.3% |
|
NBA Rookie of the Year |
56.5% |
56.5% |
|
MLB MVP |
55.0% |
60.2% |
|
NFL Pro Bowl MVP |
52.3% |
54.8% |
|
MLB Lou Gehrig Award |
51.9% |
51.9% |
|
MLB Roberto Clemente Award |
47.4% |
47.4% |
|
NHL Calder Trophy |
46.5% |
46.5% |
|
NBA J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award |
46.0% |
46.0% |
|
MLB/NL/AL Cy Young Award |
44.4% |
55.4% |
|
MLB Babe Ruth Award |
37.0% |
39.3% |
|
NHL King Clancy Award |
36.8% |
36.8% |
|
NHL Frank J. Selke Trophy |
33.3% |
36.7% |
|
MLB World Series MVP |
33.3% |
36.8% |
|
MLB Hutch Award |
33.1% |
33.1% |
|
NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year |
28.6% |
28.6% |
|
NHL Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy |
27.9% |
27.9% |
|
MLB Edgar Martinez Award |
26.7% |
17.2% |
|
MLB Delivery Man of the Year |
25.0% |
50.0% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Silver Slugger (Designated Hitter) |
25.0% |
30.8% |
|
MLB Comeback Player of the Year |
25.0% |
25.0% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Silver Slugger (Shortstop) |
23.5% |
52.6% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Gold Glove |
21.7% |
36.8% |
|
NHL William M. Jennings Trophy |
20.7% |
40.4% |
|
NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year |
20.6% |
20.6% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Silver Slugger (Catcher) |
20.0% |
22.5% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Gold Glove (Second Base) |
18.8% |
39.8% |
|
MLB Rolaids Reliever of the Year |
18.6% |
33.3% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Gold Glove (Shortstop) |
18.2% |
35.1% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Silver Slugger (Pitcher) |
18.2% |
20.1% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Silver Slugger (Second Base) |
16.7% |
32.7% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Gold Glove (Outfield) |
16.7% |
30.1% |
|
MLB NLCS/ALCS MVP |
16.1% |
15.3% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Silver Slugger (Outfield) |
15.7% |
25.2% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Gold Glove (Third Base) |
14.3% |
14.3% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Silver Slugger (Third Base) |
13.6% |
14.3% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Silver Slugger (First Base) |
13.6% |
13.3% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Rookie of the Year |
13.3% |
13.3% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Gold Glove (Catcher) |
10.3% |
15.2% |
|
MLB Hank Aaron Award |
9.1% |
14.3% |
|
NBA Most Improved Player of the Year |
5.3% |
3.2% |
|
MLB (NL/AL) Gold Glove (First Base) |
3.8% |
3.2% |
|
NFL AP Comeback Player of the Year |
0.0% |
0.0% |
So, who is up next?
The following are the players who have won the Hank Aaron Award in MLB who have retired but have not met the mandatory years out of the game to qualify for the Baseball Hall of Fame:
2010 AL: Jose Bautista, Toronto Blue Jays, Outfield, 54 HR, 124 RBI, .260/.378/.617
Jose Bautista seemingly came out of nowhere to become an offensive star, as at age 29, he went from 13 to 54 Home Runs. Bautista led the AL in Home Runs this year, and earned his first Silver Slugger. He was also fourth in MVP voting, and began a six-year run of All-Stars.
Eligible In 2024.
2011 AL: Jose Bautista, Toronto Blue Jays, Outfield, 43 HR, 103 RBI, .302/.447/.608 (2)
As great as Bautista’s power numbers were in 2011, they were down from what he did in 2010. Nevertheless, Bautista became a more complete hitter, leading the AL in Walks (132), had his first (and only) .300 season, and he led the league in Slugging (.608) and OPS (1.056). Bautista was third in MVP voting, and won his second Silver Slugger. He won a third Silver Slugger in 2014, and had 344 Home Runs over his career, most of which happened after he turned 29.
Eligible In 2024.
2011 NL: Matt Kemp, Los Angeles Dodgers, Outfield, 39 HR, 126 RBI, .324/.399/.586
This was by far the nest season of Matt Kemp’s career, where he led the National League in Runs Scored (115), Home Runs (39) and RBIs, all of which were career-highs. Kemp was the runner-up for the MVP, and this was his second and final Silver Slugger year. The three-time All-Star would later play for San Diego, Atlanta, Cincinnati and Colorado, and he had 287 Home Runs.
Eligible In 2026.
The following are the past players who have won the Hank Aaron Award who are eligible for the Baseball Hall of Fame and are still active.
2004 NL: Albert Pujols, St. Louis Cardinals, First Base, 2004, 43 HR, 124 RBI, .359/.439/.667.
Pujols was in his third season, and the second of which where he finished second in MVP voting behind Barry Bonds. This year, Pujols, who won his second Silver Slugger, led the NL in Hits (212), Doubles (51) and Batting Average (.359).
41 Years Old, Playing for the Los Angeles Angels.
2009 NL: Albert Pujols, St. Louis Cardinals, First Base, 2009, 47 HR, 135 RBI, .327/.443/.658 (2)
After winning his first Hank Aaron Award in 2003, Pujols won the National League MVP in 2005 and 2008, and 2009 saw the slugger win his third. Pujols won the Home Run title for the first time this year, and he also captured his first OBP crown. This was also his third time winning the Slugging and OPS Title. Silver Slugger number five happened this year for Pujols.
41 Years Old, Playing for the Los Angeles Angels.
2010 NL: Joey Votto, Cincinnati Reds, First Base, 37 HR, 113 RBI, .324/.424/.600
This was Votto’s fourth year in the Majors, and it was his breakout campaign. Not only did Votto win the Hank Aaron award, the First Baseman won the MVP. Votto was an All-Star for the first time this year, and he would win his first of seven OBP Titles, and the first of two OPS Titles.
37 Years Old, Playing for the Cincinnati Reds.
2012 AL: Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers, First Base, 44 HR, 139 RBI, .330/.393/.606
Cabrera was a World Series Champion with Florida in 2007, and like all of their stars, he was traded, in his case to Detroit. Cabrera got better in Motown, and this year he went to his seventh All-Star Game, won his second Home Run Title, his second Batting Title, and he won his first MVP.
38 Years Old, Playing for the Detroit Tigers.
2012 NL: Buster Posey, San Francisco Giants, Catcher, 24 HR, 103 RBI, .336/.408/.549
This year, Posey became the first Catcher to win the Hank Aaron Award, which he did in a campaign that earned him the MVP. Posey, who two years before won the Rookie of the Year, captured the Batting Title this year and he also won the Silver Slugger.
34 Years Old, Playing for the San Francisco Giants.
2013 AL: Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers, First Base, 44 HR, 137 RBI, .348/.442/.636
Cabrera went back-to-back for Hank Aaron Awards, and did the same for MVPs. He was first in the AL in all aspects of the Slash Line, and was first in OPS (1.078), which was a career-high. Cabrera won his fifth Silver Slugger this year, and would win two more. Still playing, Cabrera became a member of the 500 Home Run club in 2021.
38 Years Old, Playing for the Detroit Tigers.
2013 NL: Paul Goldschmidt, Arizona Diamondbacks, First Base, 36 HR, 125 RBI, .302/.401/.651
Goldschmidt broke out this year, leading the National League in Home Runs (36), RBIs (125), Slugging Percentage (.551) and Slugging Percentage (.952). He was the runner-up for the MVP, and also won his first Gold Glove and Silver Slugger, while also beginning a six-year streak of All-Stars.
33 Years Old, Playing for the St. Louis Cardinals.
2014 AL: Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels, Outfield, 36 HR, 111 RBI, .287/.377/.561
Two years after winning the Rookie of the Year, Mike Trout was the proven best player in baseball. Trout was second in MVP voting in his first and second full year, and this season, he did not only win the Hank Aaron but his first MVP. This year, Trout led the AL in Runs (115), RBIs (111) and won his third straight Silver Slugger.
30 Years Old, Playing for the Los Angeles Angels.
2014 NL: Giancarlo Stanton, Miami Marlins, Outfield, 37 HR, 105 RBI, .288/.395/.555
This is Stanton’s fifth season, and he led the National League in Home Runs for the first time (37), and won his second Slugging Title (.555). Stanton was second in MVP voting and he won his first Silver Slugger this year.
31 Years Old, Playing for the New York Yankees.
2015 AL: Josh Donaldson, Toronto Blue Jays, Third Base, 41 HR, 123 RBI, .297/.371/.568
Donaldson broke out the year before, going to his first All-Star Game, but it would be his last year in Oakland, as he was traded to Toronto. In his first year as a Blue Jay, Donaldson had his best year in Baseball, leading the American League in Runs (122), RBIs (123), and he won the MVP and his first Silver Slugger.
35 Years Old, Playing for the Minnesota Twins.
2015 NL: Bryce Harper, Washington Nationals, Outfield, 42 HR, 99 RBI, .330/.460/.649
Harper won the National League Rookie of the Year in 2012, and this year he had his monster campaign, leading the NL in Runs Scored (118), Home Runs (42), OBP (.460), Slugging Percentage (.649) and OPS (1.109). He also won his first Silver Slugger this year.
28 Years Old, Playing for the Philadelphia Phillies.
2016 NL: Kris Bryant, Chicago Cubs, Outfield, 39 HR, 102 RBI, .292/.385/.554
This was Bryant’s second season, and he also won the MVP. Bryant also led the NL in Runs Scored (121), Offensive bWAR (6.4), was fourth in OPS, OPS+ (146) and third in Home Runs. More importantly, Bryant led the Cubs to their first World Series win in over 100 years.
29 Years Old, Playing for the San Francisco Giants.
2017 AL: Jose Altuve, Houston Astros, Second Base, 24 HR, 81 RBI, .346/.410/.547
For the fourth year in a row, Altuve led the National League in Hits (204), and won his third Batting Title. Altuve also won the Silver Slugger and MVP, and the Astros won the World Series, their first.
31 Years Old, Playing for the Houston Astros.
2017 NL: Giancarlo Stanton, Miami Marlins, Outfield, 59 HR, 132 RBI, .281/.376/.631
In between his first and second Hank Aaron Award, Stanton remained a competent power hitter, but this year he was outstanding, finishing first in Home Runs (59), RBIs (132), Slugging Percentage (.631). Stanton won the MVP this year and earned his second Silver Slugger. Stanton signed with the Yankees after this year.
31 Years Old, Playing for the New York Yankees.
2018 AL: J.D. Martinez, Boston Red Sox, Outfield, 43 HR, 130 RBI, .330/.402/.629
In his first year with the Red Sox, Martinez was fourth in MVP voting, and was also the league-leader in RBIs. An All-Star for the second time this year, Martinez won the Silver Slugger both as an Outfielder and Designated Hitter. Martinez was also second in Batting Average, Slugging Percentage and third in OPS.
33 Years Old, Playing for the Boston Red Sox.
2018 NL: Christian Yelich, Milwaukee Brewers, Outfield, 36 HR, 110 RBI, .326/.402/.598
The acquisition of Christian Yelich paid instant dividends for the Brewers, with the Outfielder winning the Batting Title, Slugging Title and OPS Title in his first year there. Yelich also won the Silver Slugger and won the MVP.
29 Years Old, Playing for the Milwaukee Brewers.
2019 AL: Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels, Outfield, 45 HR, 104 RBI, .291/.438/.645 (2)
In between Trout’s first and second Hank Aaron Award, won his second MVP, three more Silver Sluggers, three OBP Titles, one Slugging Title and two OPS Titles. This year, Trout led the American League in OBP (.439), Slugging Percentage (.645) and OPS (1.083). Trout won his third MVP this year and captured his seventh Silver Slugger.
30 Years Old, Playing for the Los Angeles Angels.
2019 NL: Christian Yelich, Milwaukee Brewers, Outfield, 44 HR, 97 RBI, .329/.429/.671 (2)
Yelich almost won the MVP again, as his late-season injury that cost him significant games kept him from it. Regardless, he swept the Slash Line, and won his second Silver Slugger.
29 Years Old, Playing for the Milwaukee Brewers.
2020 AL: Jose Abreu, Chicago White Sox, First Base, 19 HR, 60 RBI, .317/.370/.617.
This was the second straight year that Abreu led the American League in RBIs, and he also topped the league in Hits (76), Slugging Percentage and Total Bases (148). Abreu won the MVP this year, his first.
35 Years Old, Playing for the Chicago White Sox.
2021 NL: Freddie Freeman, Atlanta Braves, First Base, 13 HR, 53 RBI, .341/.462/.640.
Freeman earned his second Silver Slugger this year, and after four previous top ten finishes in MVP voting, he won it this year. He was the league-leader in Runs Scored (51) and Doubles (23), and was second in OPS (1.102).
32 Years Old, Playing for the Atlanta Braves.
The PED situation has lowered the bar significantly for Hank Aaron Award winners to enter Cooperstown, but this average will rise in time.
So, what is up next?
We have another look in Baseball, with the MLB All-Star Game MVP.
As always, we thank you for your support, and look for that soon.
Should Philip Rivers be a Hall of Famer?
The career of Philip Rivers will be a furious debate for Hall of Fame voters when the quarterback becomes eligible in the 2025 class. Rivers never won a Super Bowl or even played in one, but he was one of the finest quarterbacks of his generation.
Over a 17-year career with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and the Indianapolis Colts, Rivers threw for 63,440 passing yards along with 421 touchdowns to 209 interceptions. He holds two NFL records with the most consecutive completions in a game with 25, and the most games in a row with a passer rating over 120.
Rivers is a Chargers’ legend and arguably their greatest player alongside LaDainian Tomlinson. No player appeared in more games or won more games for the franchise than Rivers. He also enjoyed one stellar season for the Colts, guiding them back to the post-season. Rivers left both the Chargers and Colts in strong positions in the AFC Conference with quarterbacks Justin Herbert and Carson Wentz respectively.
The Chargers are backed in the NFL odds from Betfair at 9/1 to win the AFC Conference in the 2021 season and appear in their first Super Bowl in 27 seasons. Los Angeles have an early advantage over their rivals in the AFC West division and are poised to return to the post-season for the first time in three years, therefore, tracking their progress in the NFL betting tips may be worthwhile this term.
For all Rivers’ achievements, his inability to drag the franchise into the title game will be a stain on his legacy. It is why he may miss out on the Hall of Fame. Rivers could be established alongside other quality passers of his generation such as Tony Romo in the hall of very good rather than the elite category. The Chargers should have reached the Super Bowl in the 2006 campaign, boasting the best record in the AFC and an abundance of talent at their disposal.
However, he and his high-powered offense choked under the pressure, suffering a one-and-done defeat to the New England Patriots. The same Patriots haunted the Chargers in the following season. Rivers’ legacy was enhanced by his performance as he played on a torn ACL and battled 60 minutes against the unbeaten New England outfit, losing 21-12 even without Tomlinson who left the contest in the first quarter.
After those near misses, head coach Marty Schottenheimer was fired and the Chargers failed to mount another significant run during Rivers’ tenure. He remained on point during the regular season and formed excellent rapports with Vincent Jackson, Keenan Allen and most importantly of all Antonio Gates. However, when it came to the clutch, Rivers was unable to rise to the occasion and drag his team through in the playoffs.
Unfortunately for him and the Chargers, they played in the era of Brady, Peyton Manning and Ben Roethlisberger, who had a monopoly on Super Bowl appearances for their respective franchises in the AFC Conference. Those players rightfully are and will belong in the Hall of Fame.
Had the breaks gone another way or had he excelled in the fourth quarter Rivers may have had the credentials to push a claim through to Canton in the mould of Eli Manning. However, those post-season performances will count against his bid. Therefore, it would be very surprising to see him donning the gold jacket come 2025.
What is the MLS Supporters’ Shield and is it an important trophy?
The Supporters’ Shield is given out to Major League Soccer’s best team over the course of the regular season. In Europe’s top soccer leagues, team play a full season schedule with the team at the top of the league standings at the campaign’s end being crowned the champion. In MLS, like other sports leagues in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, a playoff structure is used to crown the league’s overall champion.
The MLS season is headed towards its climax with the MLS Cup kicking off in December. For the best sportsbooks bonuses and reviews for bookies in Illinois, visit US Bookies ahead of the MLS Cup Playoffs. The New England Revolution are the 2021 MLS Supporters’ Shield winners – their first-ever Supporters’ Shield trophy win. The problem is that winning the Supporters’ Shield doesn’t mean the Revolution will win the more glamorous MLS Cup trophy.
What is the Supporters’ Shield?
As previously written, the MLS Supporters’ Shield is given out to the team with the best regular season points total in the league after 34 regular season matches. Despite the league being split into an Eastern and Western Conference, the Supporters’ Shield is given to the team with the most points if all 27 teams were place in a single league table format.
The Supporters’ Shield was originally handed out at the end of the MLS season. However, after fans of traditional European soccer wanted MLS to be more like the leagues overseas, it created the Supporters’ Shield trophy. Although the league’s first season was 1996, the Supporters’ Shield wasn’t given out until 1999.
Is the Supporters’ Shield important?
The 2021 MLS season is its 26th overall. While the 2021 season isn’t complete as yet, history is not on the New England Revolution’s side for winning the MLS Cup. Just seven of the previous 25 Supporters’ Shield winners went onto win the MLS Cup. The last team to do the Supporters’ Shield-MLS Cup double was Toronto FC in 2017. Three seasons have now passed since the Reds pulled off the double.
The Supporter Shield winning teams’ inability to win the MLS Cup over the last three seasons diminishes the accomplishment of collecting the most points during the regular season. As long as a team can qualify for the MLS Cup Playoffs, anyone can win it and the Supporters’ Shield winner should not be looked at as the favourite. Only 28% of the team has a team done the league and cup double.
The Los Angeles Galaxy and DC United have won the joint-most MLS Supporters’ Shield trophies. The Galaxy’s last shield was won in 2011. DC United’s most recent shield was won in 2007. It has been years since either of those teams claimed the trophy.
The Supporters’ Shield’s importance in MLS is overblown. Just seven times have teams won the trophy and the MLS Cup. Fans shouldn’t expect the New England Revolution to pull off the league trophy and cup double this December as history doesn’t bode well for both pieces of silverware to be won.
Must-Play Baseball Games for True Fans
For die-hard baseball fans, getting your fill of baseball content can sometimes seem like a challenge. Outside of the confines of MLB, it can sometimes be impossible to find any baseball games taking place out of season, especially outside of North America. That is why the market for baseball-themed video games and online games is so robust.
It allows us to step into the shoes of our favorite players and experience all of the action ourselves, from the comfort of our living room. If you're a die-hard baseball fan looking for some worthwhile games, read our definitive guide to find out.
1. MLB '20: The Show
When it comes to baseball video games, any ranking out there will mention the MLB series in spades. For long-time fans of the genre, the question of which installment is the best in the series is a hotly contested one that will invariably spiral into a vicious online debate. While there are many excellent titles worth playing, it is the 2020 version that captures the essence of the series best. The Show '20 is a masterpiece of baseball simulation, one that so comprehensively captures every minute aspect of the sport to give you probably the most realistic experience that you will possibly find on a console.
2. Wii Sports Baseball
It might not be the most "serious" game on the roster, but the baseball experience on Wii Sports, probably the biggest game of all time, is not to be sniffed at. One of the only games in history that allow you to physically simulate the sport, thanks to the unique and iconic motion-sensor controller that has caused countless accidents in living rooms around the world. Create your "Mii" avatar, select your old-school baseball strip of choice, head to the plate, and swing with all your might.
3. Baseball Frenzy
Sometimes, a good game is one that is self-referential and pays homage to the sport, rather than simulating outright. This is certainly true of the online casino slot Baseball Frenzy, which anyone can play at a popular online casino such as Casumo or 888. This 5-reel slot features all of the iconic sounds and imagery from the sport, with a little bit of tongue-in-cheek humor to boot. What's more, baseball fans can even access free spins to play Baseball Frenzy online for free, without having to wager their own cash on the reels.
4. MVP Baseball 2005
Is there any game out there in history that did more to popularize the baseball genre than EA's MVP series? We're willing to bet that the answer is "no". This is the game that gamified the pitch like nothing else, with the various strength and aim meters on the screen causing countless hours of frustration and entertainment for fans around the world. Meanwhile, running baseball commentary throughout the game, provided by real-world legends such as Duane Kuiper and Mike Krukow, mean that this is a baseball game that has well and truly earned its spot in the Hall of Fame.
These are our favorite baseball games that have stood the test of time. BattThe Oldest Soccer Stars Still Active Today
When is a man in his prime? Well, depends on the context - different types of activities (and different people) define this in very different ways. For athletes, “prime” is somewhere around their peak of physical capabilities, somewhere between 22 and 30. From that point, a man’s muscle mass begins to decline, and this means that they start performing worse in their sport - this is held true for every sport that requires physical fitness, from football to soccer and combat sports.
Today, in turn, we have quite a few soccer players who seem to defy this definition of “prime” - soccer stars that, despite their age, are constantly among the most popular names both in the press and on the best sports betting site in Thailand. They are professionals who seem to be at the peak of their fitness even after decades of practicing their sport of choice.
Honorable mention: Kazuyoshi Miura
Yokohama FC forward Kazuyoshi Miura has broken all stereotypes about the “prime” of a soccer player. The 53-year-old forward has extended his contract with the Japanese team this January, keeping him the oldest active footballer in the world.
While his status as a soccer star is questionable - he did win the Asian Footballer of the Year in 1992 but that’s about it as an individual player - we have to respect his achievements over his 35-year career (so far): more than 600 league games, almost 200 goals, and dozens of caps for the Japanese national soccer team.
Lionel Messi (34)
Now, let’s get to soccer stars in the true sense of the word - and let’s begin with Lionel Messi, currently playing with Paris Saint Germain.
Messi has spent most of his professional career playing with Catalan team Barcelona. During this time, he played in more than 500 league games, scored way over 400 goals, helped the team win pretty much every trophy you can imagine (and won everything individually as well), not to mention his results playing with the national soccer team of his native Argentina. Today, at age 34, he is still considered one of the best soccer players in the world.
Cristiano Ronaldo (36)
Another massive soccer star who should be beyond his prime but stubbornly refuses to get old is Brazilian legend, Cristiano Ronaldo. The 36-year-old player has a very impressive collection of trophies earned both with his teams and individually, and quite a few broken records to his name, including that of being the most expensive football player involved in a transfer, the most goals scored in a UEFA qualifier, and several others.
Ronaldo has recently switched teams - he now plays in the English Premier League - and seems to be bent on going on for years to come.
Joaquín Sánchez (40)
Joaquín Sánchez Rodríguez - Joaquín for short - has made his debut in 1999, at the age of 18, with Spanish team Real Betis as a right-winger. Since then, he played with a handful of other Spanish - and one Italian - teams, only to go full circle and return to Betis in 2015.
During his career, he played more than 570 league games, scored 76 goals, and represented Spain at two FIFA World Cups. Today, he is the La Liga player with the second-highest number of outings - but he’s on his way to breaking that record, too.
Gianluigi Buffon (43)
Finally, let us mention Gianluigi Buffon, the Parma goalkeeper who is still going strong at the age of 43. With more than 1100 professional appearances, Buffon is one of the most established footballers today. He has broken countless records, including that of the most clean sheets in Serie A (299), most clean sheets for Italy at a World Cup (6), and the most clean sheets in a single Serie A season (21). He has a list of achievements and accolades that’s way too long to enumerate, and he is out for more: this summer, he returned to Parma, the club where he made his professional debut, continuing to serve as one of the greatest goalkeepers ever to step on the turf.
Beginners Guide to Football Betting
Whether you’ve been big into football all your life, playing from a young age and being on the cusp of becoming a pro, if it weren’t for your dodgy knee, or whether you’re a casual armchair fan. We’ve all considered trying our hand at gambling, me personally I’m more into Esports, but I’ve been a Liverpool fan for 29 years at this point SO, you could say I’ve watched my fair share of football. Not all of it has been as good as the last few years, but it has been enjoyable more recently!
So, if you’re wanting to get into betting, where’s a good place to start? What should you be looking out for? Are there any particular betting stats you should be keeping your eyes on? As with pretty much everything, when it comes to staking YOUR money on things, you need to remember to be responsible, this is a risk and if you’re not prepared to risk it, don’t consider it. You’re not always going to win, just because Real Madrid are playing <insert local primary school name> Under 11s team at a packed Bernabeu doesn’t mean they’re guaranteed to win 20-0, crazier things have happened.
I want to preface this article by saying NEVER bet out of your means, just because you see you COULD make £10k by betting £100, if you can’t afford it PLEASE DON’T DO IT. Bet for fun and if that fun stops, stop. IF you end up losing yourself and losing a lot of money, please PLEASE PLEASE don’t chase a win to recoup it, if you’re struggling, please reach out and ask for help. We know how it can be and don’t worry, you’re not the only one. If you understand the risks, we’ll get into it.
So where do we begin? Well, the best way to start is to figure out HOW you want to bet. In my opinion it’s much better to use an app or a website since you have access to everything you need at your fingertips then. If you’d like to visit a brick and mortar store that’s not a bad option, they have staff there who can help point you in the right direction and as a beginner, it’s pretty handy for sure. BUT! Here’s my thoughts. Every betting company has new customer deals, things like deposit <money> and gain <+Money> as free bets, or some companies will have deals like massively increased odds on certain games for new customers. So for example, Liverpool to beat Wolves by 2+ goals, 10/1, new customers? 30/1, MAYBE not exactly to that extent, but you get what I’m saying! Take some time, mull over the options and once you’re settled on a place, we can move on!
Now you’ve decided where you’re going to make your first deposit, what should we be looking out for? There are a few schools of thought here. When I first started, what I’d do was deposit £10 a month, and I’d put small multi-line accumulators on every weekend. So I’d have maybe a treble where it would be say, England to beat Hungary, Portugal to beat Luxembourg and then Sweden and Greece to draw, you have two games on there that “should” be gimmies, England and Portugal which alone has odds of x1.19 as a double, with a 3rd that isn’t a guarantee which is used to give a solid boost to the odds, which in this case is the draw. In this case it boosts the odds to x3.92. That way you’re changing a £1 bet returning £1.19 into £1 that returns £3.92, it’s not a lot and it’s relatively risk free.
In my opinion this is the BEST way to learn, you can figure out what potential markets you like, you can mess around a little more and have some freedom to figure out what your preferences are, you can figure out HOW the sites themselves work and check out any special markets. Another fun thing to do is tease yourself massively with a crazy pay out. By looking at all the fixtures in the football league for example and just saying every game will be a draw or just picking the favourite for every game. So for example, there are 13 world cup qualifiers tonight, if I pick the betting favourite in each game I get offered a 13 fold accumulator with a x277.19 return, is it likely to come in? Definitely not, but I can LITERALLY put 10p on this with a chance at returning £27.72, so it’s an interesting way to fiddle with things and test out some systems that you’re not familiar with.
There are just a few suggestions on how you could get started with your sports betting, not specifically just football. A question to all the experienced heads in the community, as a beginner what methods did you use to try and maximise your profits? Did you join betting communities or did you fly solo? We’d love to know, let's share our experiences and help out the newbies in the community! Remember, bet responsibly folks!
Future Hall of Famers Who Could Win Their First Stanley Cup in 2021/22
Eric Lindros, Pat LaFontaine, Pavel Bure, Marcel Dionne, and the recently retired Henrik ‘The King’ Lundqvist all feature on a particularly unenvious list despite their glistening NHL careers: the list of legends who never hoisted the Stanley Cup. It’s the ultimate achievement in the league but, sometimes, even the greatest talents can’t quite get there.
This season, several players who look to be cementing a place as a future Hall of Famer are vying for their first Stanley Cup triumph. For some, this might just be their last, last chance, but each of those featured here is on a team that could go deep in the playoffs in 2021/22.
Dallas Stars veterans
We’re starting off with the 2020 Stanley Cup Finals runners-up, the Dallas Stars, as they boast three highly likely Hall of Famers who’re edging closer to the ends of their careers but haven’t won Lord Stanley just yet. All of Ryan Suter (36 years old), Joe Pavelski (37 years old), and captain Jamie Benn (32 years old) crave the Cup. Coming into this 2021/22 campaign, the Stars look to have a strong roster.
They did miss out on the playoffs last season, with injuries and perhaps a Finals hangover playing their part, but the talent at the American Airlines Center is enviable. So, it comes as a surprise that the NHL betting has them out dark horses at +2200, but that’s almost certainly due to last season’s finish. This season, Benn, Suter, and Pavelski should be part of a competitive team that can challenge for the Cup.
Joe Thornton
There isn’t a skater more desperate for the Stanley Cup than the active points leader Joe Thornton. He’s 1,680 games and 1,529 points into his career, has played for two legitimate contenders, and is now 42 years old. Now, he finds himself taking the near-minimum salary to play for a Florida Panthers side that’s suddenly realized the talent available to them.
It’s been well-documented that the main thing that’s held back the Panthers has been the front office, but now the Sunrise hockey club looks to have turned a corner. Florida still has to complete a trial by fire in the Atlantic Division just to get to the postseason, but if they do, the team headlined by Sergei Bobrovsky, Aaron Ekblad, Aleksander Barkov, Jonathan Huberdeau, Sam Bennett, Sam Reinhart, and Anthony Duclair might just be able to bring ‘Jumbo’ the silverware that he craves – and are at +2000 to do so.
Jason Spezza
Drafted second overall by the Ottawa Senators in 2001, Jason Spezza has strung together a solid career worthy of the selection. Now 38 years old, the Ontario native has scored 1,034 points in 1,293 games, 441 of which were goals. He’s certainly paid his dues on weaker teams, as demonstrated by his -77 plus-minus, but now that he’s entering his third season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Spezza could finally win the Cup.
The Buds have been rated as top contenders for the Stanley Cup since they lured in John Tavares – way back in 2018. In the playoffs, however, it’s been one first-round exit after another, tallying a five-season streak of getting to the postseason and then bowing out immediately. Star scorer Auston Matthews says that this will change in 2021/22, and given the strength of the skating corps, it’s tough to argue with him or their +1100 odds.
While there are other future Hall of Famers still in need of a Stanley Cup – such as Carey Price to name a prime example – those above look the best set and the most deserving of winning it this season.
Tom Brady Is the Greatest Quarterback and Football Player of All Time?
Tom Brady broke the all-time passing yards record while facing his former team, the New England Patriots, at Gillette Stadium on Sunday, marking Week 4 of the 2021-22 NFL season.
Brady, at 44 years of age, continues to defy age, reason and redefine preconceived notions about America’s beloved game being only a young man’s game.
On Sunday, Brady, facing his former team New England at Gillette Stadium, broke Drew Brees’ all-time passing record, as he helped lift the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to the 19-17 win over the Patriots.
In the broad spectrum of things, it proved to be an uneventful moment. Barely registering in the stands and amongst fans. Had the NBC announcers not alerted viewers to the historic moment, it might have come and gone without commentary.
Suppose, the occasion of his return to his old stomping grounds for the first time since leaving for Tampa Bay last season overshadowed all else. NFL schedulers intentionally schedule this game for Sunday night football because they knew the hype and buzz surrounding the reunion between quarterback and former head coach would be enormous. And so, it was.
It was all the media could talk about in the lead up to Week 4’s NFL action. How the reunion between Brady and Bill Belichick would unfold? Who would emerge victorious?
Brady himself wasn’t immune to the occasion, and he released an emotional video before the game. It was a stirring tribute to his past and present and his journey from New England to Tampa Bay. And at the end of the game, following a narrow victory over the Patriots, he was visibly emotional, barely able to contain his feelings about what the day meant to him and the fact that he made history on the very same grounds where he hone his craft.
In his post-game interview immediately after the game he warned, “I am not tearing up!” when the reporter observed what a special night it was. He admitted to being emotional all week as his return to Boston approached.
Nearly 20 years to the day after his NFL debut for the Patriots – which gave birth to one of the most dominant football teams over two decades in the history of the game and enviable quarterback-head coach partnerships – the veteran signal-caller returned to his old stomping ground to create more history, surpassing Drew Brees’ career passing yards record.
Brees, now retired from football and part of the NBC cast, was there to witness Brady accomplish the incredible feat at Gillette Stadium.
“I just think it's an amazing statistic in that so many people can share in it with me," said Brady in his postgame news conference as he clutched the precious ball that took flight for those last few missing yards to eclipse Brees' record of 80,358 passing yards.
"Quarterback doesn't throw and catch, “ added Brady. “Quarterback can just throw it. It's yards. Passing yards have to be caught, so I just hope that everybody who caught passes from me over the years just had a little smile on their face tonight knowing they contributed to a very cool record.”
Brady arrived at Gillette Stadium with 80,291 career passing yards – he needed merely 68 yards to break the record. When all was said and done, Brady went 22 of 43 for 269 passing yards. After he surpassed Brees, the former New Orleans Saints quarterback posted his congratulations to Brady on Instagram.
“We have had some epic battles over the years, but more importantly, have been able to develop a great friendship along the way. “ wrote Brees. “Some may be surprised what you are doing at age 44, but I am not. Your commitment and dedication to this game, your team, and to being the very best, are second to none.”
Indeed, what Tom Brady is accomplishing in the game is second to none, and it’s earned him recognition for being the greatest player of all time even before he’s done with his career. That’s practically unheard of in sports. Usually, the greatness of a player in any sport is measured by posterity with the advantage of hindsight to compare and contrast sports athletes and their individual achievements in their entirety in order to determine who the best or greatest player of all time is.
No NFL predictions could have ever predicted that Tom Brady, drafted almost as an afterthought in 2000 in the sixth round and at No.199 would become the greatest footballer to have ever played in the NFL.
For years, many were reluctant to give him the credit he deserved. Often, he was most unfairly dismissed as being just a “system” quarterback, the product of Bill Belichick’s coaching genius and not a bona fide standalone talent. The debate about who was more responsible for creating the Patriots dynasty raged for years – was it Brady? Or was it Belichick? Many leaned towards the latter, arguing Brady would never be as successful as he was on any other team and without Belichick.
Well, on February 7, 2021, Brady put paid on that notion when he won Super Bowl LV with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers – his seventh career Super Bowl victory. And at the same time, he cemented his place in the history books as the greatest quarterback of all time, if not the greatest footballer of all time.
An argument as old as time: what is the world’s most popular sport?
Depending on where you are in the world, certain sports will be incredibly popular, whereas others are barely acknowledged and hardly watched. This can be down to a multitude of factors, such as if a particular sport is taught at schools, if the sport has a thriving, successful or wealthy league in a particular nation, or if there is a particular star player from that country, who is so popular that people who never previously watched that sport decide to start tuning in, just to lend their support to their famous star.
For instance, in the world of Formula 1, it is likely that the people of the Netherlands never paid much attention to the sport for great periods of time. There wasn’t a race held there, and while there were odd seasons when a Dutch driver was participating, it never seemed to be for more than a season at a time. This all changed in 2015 when Max Verstappen entered the sport and was soon driving for one of the top teams, Red Bull. In addition, for the first time in 36 years, a race was held in the Netherlands this year, with Verstappen thankfully winning it with relative ease, which lead to the crowd going absolutely wild for him.
Formula 1 is a very popular sport, with an estimated 87.4 million people watching each race in 2020. These numbers have certainly been increased since the Netflix series ‘Drive to Survive’ was first broadcast in 2019, as the show has introduced the sport to millions of people who would never previously have been interested in it. However, it is still not estimated to be in the top ten most popular sports in the world. Which sports do make it into this exclusive list? Read on to find out.
Big in the U.S. but not elsewhere
If you have ever travelled to the United States of America, you’d easily assume that because American football, baseball, basketball and ice hockey are so popular there, that they must be all around the world. In fact, three of the four are relatively low down the list. American football is certainly the most popular sport in the U.S, with millions each week sitting down to watch the games, looking through their sports betting apps to find the best NFL picks for each game. But most of the viewers are located in North America, with not that many watching elsewhere in the world. In total, it is estimated around 425 million people regularly watch American football.
Baseball is in eighth position (golf is in ninth) which may come as a surprise to many. It is hugely popular in the US, but also parts of Central America, and most importantly Japan. In total, around 510 million people would call themselves fans of the sport.
Basketball is in seventh. Another sport popular in the U.S., it also attracts fans and viewers in parts of Eastern Europe and the Pacific.
A few surprises higher up the table
Seeing Table Tennis in sixth and Volleyball in fifth will certainly come as a surprise to many people. Table Tennis picks up a lot of its viewers in Asia, specifically China, which makes sense given some of the most famous table tennis players come from there.
Volleyball is estimated to have 900 million followers, and spread evenly around the world, in places such as Asia, Europe, the Americas and Australia.
Tennis places in fourth, with around 1 billion fans worldwide. Considering major events are held in North America, Europe and Oceania, it makes sense that there is a split across these continents for where the bulk of tennis fans are from.
We were very surprised to see hockey quite so high in fourth place, even if it encompasses both field hockey and ice hockey. It certainly appeals to a wide range of people, with an approximate 2.2 billion people tuning in in Asia, Europe, Africa and Australia.
Who comes out on top?
For readers outside of Europe, Oceania or parts of Asia, you will be surprised to see Cricket quite so high on the list. It cannot be overstated just how popular the sport is. Yes, many people watch it in England, Australia and New Zealand, but the majority of fans come from Asia, specifically Pakistan, Bangladesh and India. The people of India adore the sport, with the players worshipped like they are gods. The captain of the men’s cricket team, Virat Kolhi, has 150 million Instagram followers, which truly emphasises just how popular Cricket is.
Out on top is soccer. According to some statistics, there are nearly 4 billion fans across the globe, which is more than half of the world population. It is played in every country, doesn’t require much equipment, and is very easy to watch on television. Therefore, it is no surprise to see it at number one.
