Joe Namath arrived in New York after starring at Alabama, the pre-eminent college program at the time. He played for legendary college coach Bear Bryant and was already famous due to both his charismatic personality and playing ability. Mark Sanchez recently landed in New York after starring at Southern California, the current pre-eminent college program. He played for legendary college coach Pete Carroll and is already famous due to an engaging personality and elite talent.
Pro Football Hall of Fame: Namath's bio | Buy a Sanchez AFL jersey!
Then: Joe Namath |
Now: Mark Sanchez |
Though Namath's career stats leave a bit to be desired, he was a record-setting passer, the first-team QB on the Pro Football Hall of Fame's All-AFL team and helped the Jets win their only championship in Super Bowl III. Beyond Namath's playing exploits, his off-field charm made him one of the most recognized names in football history. 'Broadway Joe' was as much known for his extravagant lifestyle as he was for his many touchdown throws and strong arm. NFLShop: Buy a classic Joe Namath jersey! Discuss: What are your memories of Namath? Career Statistics:Seasons: 13 Games: 140 Passer rating: 65.5 Comp. pct.: 50.1 Passing TDs: 173 Interceptions: 220 Passing yards: 27,663 Rushing yards: 140 Rushing TDs: 7 Yards per pass: 7.4 |
Mark Sanchez has enjoyed a meteoric rise over the last year. In 2007, he was a backup to John David Booty at USC. After a sparkling 2008 season, he made the decision to enter the 2009 NFL Draft and instantly became one of the hottest prospects. After a series of outstanding pre-draft workouts, Sanchez found himself in something of a bidding war as teams tried to move up the board to take him. The Jets did so and the Namath comparisons began. NFLShop: Buy a Mark Sanchez jersey! Discuss: How do you think Sanchez will do? College Statistics:Seasons: 3 Games: 22 Starts: 16 Comp. pct.: 64.3 Passing TDs: 41 Interceptions: 16 Passing yards: 3,965 Rushing yards: 33 Rushing TDs: 4 Yards per pass: 8.1 |
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