The NFL in the 90s: A Golden Era of Quarterbacks
The 1990s were a special time for the NFL. It was an era of iconic quarterbacks, legendary coaches, and unforgettable games. I’m not just talking about the Super Bowls, either. I’m talking about the regular season matchups that felt like playoff games. The kind of games that made you jump out of your seat and scream at the TV.
The legends of the 90s
I recently caught up with Shaun King, a former NFL quarterback who played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during that era. King is known for his sharp analysis and unapologetic opinions, and he didn’t hold back when we talked about the state of quarterbacks today.
The 1999 NFC Championship Game: A Controversial Call
One game that still sticks out in King’s mind is the 1999 NFC Championship Game between the Buccaneers and the St. Louis Rams. The Buccaneers lost that game 11-6, but it was the final drive that still has King shaking his head.
“What if?” King asks, still wondering what could have been if the referees had made a different call on that fateful night in St. Louis.
Bert Emanuel’s infamous catch
The Quarterback Market Today
King is adamant that the quarterback market is out of control. He thinks teams are overpaying for quarterbacks who aren’t worth the money. And he’s not afraid to name names.
“Trey Lance and Zach Wilson?” King says, shaking his head. “I was never a fan of either of those guys.”
But King does see one quarterback who he thinks is going to make a big impact: Michael Penix Jr. King recruited Penix when he was an assistant coach at South Florida, and he’s convinced that the quarterback is going to be a star.
“I think he’s going to do great things in Atlanta,” King says.
Aaron Rodgers: The Most Selfish Quarterback of This Generation
King doesn’t mince words when it comes to Aaron Rodgers. He thinks the quarterback is selfish and self-centered, and he can’t believe Rodgers blew off New York Jets minicamp.
“I just don’t get it,” King says, still trying to wrap his head around Rodgers’ decision.
Aaron Rodgers, the quarterback who loves to talk
What It’s Like Being Confused with Another Shaun King
King has a good sense of humor about being confused with another Shaun King, a civil rights activist. He’s learned to laugh it off, but he’s also quick to point out that he’s the one who played in the NFL.
“I’m the one who threw touchdowns, not protests,” King jokes.
The real Shaun King
In conclusion, my conversation with Shaun King was a trip down memory lane. It was a reminder of the good old days of the NFL, when quarterbacks were kings and games were won with grit and determination. King may not be playing in the NFL anymore, but his opinions are still worth listening to.
The legends of the 90s, still talking trash
