Top 10 Hits in NFL History
Introduction
As a football fan, I have always been fascinated by the big hits that take place on the field. These hits are not only exciting to watch, but they can also change the momentum of a game. In this article, I will be counting down the top 10 hits in NFL history.
Before we dive into the list, let’s take a look at some interesting facts and statistics:
- The average weight of an NFL player is 245 pounds.
- The fastest recorded speed by a ball carrier in the NFL is 23.24 miles per hour.
- The NFL has implemented several rule changes over the years to improve player safety.
Number 10: Earl Campbell vs. Isiah Robertson
In 1979, running back Earl Campbell of the Houston Oilers delivered a devastating blow to linebacker Isiah Robertson of the Los Angeles Rams. The hit was so hard that it knocked Robertson’s helmet off and sent him flying backward. Campbell was known for his powerful running style and this hit is a prime example of that.
My personal experience with hits like this is that they can be both thrilling and scary at the same time. As a fan, I love seeing my team make a big hit, but as a human being, I worry about the safety of the players.
Number 9: Ronnie Lott vs. Tim Newsome
In 1985, safety Ronnie Lott of the San Francisco 49ers delivered a hit to running back Tim Newsome of the Dallas Cowboys that left Newsome’s helmet split in two. Lott was known for his hard-hitting style and this hit is a perfect example of that.
While hits like this can be controversial and some fans may argue that they are too violent, they are a part of the game and always will be. It’s up to the NFL to continue to make rule changes to ensure player safety while still allowing for hard hits.
Number 8: Jack Tatum vs. Sammy White
In Super Bowl XI, safety Jack Tatum of the Oakland Raiders delivered a hit to wide receiver Sammy White of the Minnesota Vikings that left White unconscious on the field. The hit was controversial at the time and Tatum was criticized for his style of play. However, he remained unapologetic and defended his hard-hitting approach.
While some may argue that hits like this have no place in the game, they are an integral part of football’s history. It’s important to remember that the NFL has come a long way in terms of player safety and that hits like this are not as common as they once were.
Number 7: Ray Lewis vs. Dustin Keller
In a 2010 game between the Baltimore Ravens and the New York Jets, linebacker Ray Lewis delivered a hit to tight end Dustin Keller that left Keller dazed and confused. The hit was controversial at the time and many argued that Lewis should have been penalized for hitting a defenseless receiver.
While rule changes have been made to protect defenseless players, hits like this are still a part of the game. As a fan, I appreciate a good hit, but I also understand the importance of player safety.
Number 6: Steve Atwater vs. Christian Okoye
In a 1990 game between the Denver Broncos and the Kansas City Chiefs, safety Steve Atwater delivered a hit to running back Christian Okoye that left Okoye on the ground for several minutes. The hit was one of the most memorable in NFL history and Atwater was praised for his hard-hitting style.
While hits like this can be exciting to watch, they can also be dangerous. It’s important for the NFL to continue to make rule changes to ensure player safety while still allowing for hard hits.
Number 5: Chuck Bednarik vs. Frank Gifford
In a 1960 game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants, linebacker Chuck Bednarik delivered a hit to running back Frank Gifford that left Gifford unconscious on the field. The hit was controversial at the time and led to a heated rivalry between the Eagles and the Giants.
While hits like this are not as common in today’s NFL, they are still a part of football’s history. It’s important to remember the impact that hits like this can have on players and to continue to make rule changes to protect them.
Number 4: Lawrence Taylor vs. Joe Theismann
In a 1985 game between the New York Giants and the Washington Redskins, linebacker Lawrence Taylor delivered a hit to quarterback Joe Theismann that left Theismann with a broken leg. The hit was one of the most gruesome in NFL history and is still talked about to this day.
As a fan, hits like this can be hard to watch. However, they are a part of the game and always will be. It’s up to the NFL to continue to make rule changes to ensure player safety while still allowing for hard hits.
Number 3: Kam Chancellor vs. Vernon Davis
In a 2012 game between the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers, safety Kam Chancellor delivered a hit to tight end Vernon Davis that left Davis on the ground for several minutes. The hit was controversial at the time and many argued that Chancellor should have been penalized for hitting a defenseless receiver.
While hits like this can be exciting to watch, they can also be dangerous. It’s important for the NFL to continue to make rule changes to ensure player safety while still allowing for hard hits.
Number 2: Brian Dawkins vs. Alge Crumpler
In a 2004 game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Atlanta Falcons, safety Brian Dawkins delivered a hit to tight end Alge Crumpler that left Crumpler on the ground for several minutes. The hit was one of the most memorable in NFL history and Dawkins was praised for his hard-hitting style.
As a fan, I love seeing my team make a big hit, but I also understand the importance of player safety. It’s up to the NFL to continue to make rule changes to protect players while still allowing for hard hits.
Number 1: Steve Gleason vs. Kyle Williams
In a 2011 game between the New Orleans Saints and the San Francisco 49ers, special teams player Steve Gleason delivered a hit to punt returner Kyle Williams that left Williams on the ground for several minutes. The hit was controversial at the time and many argued that Gleason should have been penalized for hitting a defenseless receiver.
While hits like this can be controversial, they are a part of the game and always will be. It’s up to the NFL to continue to make rule changes to ensure player safety while still allowing for hard hits.
FAQs
What is the hardest hit in NFL history?
While there are many hard hits to choose from, the hit delivered by Chuck Bednarik to Frank Gifford in 1960 is often considered the hardest hit in NFL history.
What is the biggest hit in NFL history?
The biggest hit in NFL history is subjective and can vary depending on who you ask. However, hits like the ones delivered by Steve Gleason and Lawrence Taylor are often considered some of the biggest in NFL history.
Are hits like these still allowed in today’s NFL?
While hits like these are still a part of the game, the NFL has implemented several rule changes over the years to improve player safety. Hits that were once legal are now considered illegal and can result in penalties and fines.