NFL Since 1970 (w/ Author Scott Perry) Part 2

Yesterday's Sports is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS HOME PAGE

EPISODE SUMMARY

Mark sits down with Scott Perry, author of NFL Since 1970: The Ultimate Visual and Historic Standings Reference.

The Journey to NFL Fanaticism

Scott shares his remarkable journey from being indifferent about football to becoming a devoted fan. It all began in 1978 when he discovered “Inside the NFL,” igniting a passion that would only grow.

Scott - "If it wasn't for Ed and Steve Sable, I probably would have still no interest in it. The hard pounding orchestral music, the slow motion video made me a fan."

Scott's fascination deepened as he meticulously tracked every NFL game from 1970 onwards, culminating in his visual guide that showcases standings and playoff grids alongside team helmets. His book serves as both a nostalgic walkthrough of the NFL's past and a reminder of how far the league has come.

The Heartbreak of 1985

One poignant moment in Scott's fandom was the 1985 season, where the Denver Broncos finished with an impressive 11-5 record yet failed to make the playoffs.

Scott - "The last straw was when Cleveland was in the playoffs with an 8-8 record, and Denver sat home with 11 wins."

This heartbreaking experience fueled his drive to analyze the league's performance and the inequalities in playoff qualifications, especially regarding division winners versus wild card teams.

A Love for History

Scott's passion for football history extends beyond the NFL. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the game's roots, from the early days of the league to the present.

Scott - "It's funny that there are several major league baseball teams that have been around since prior to 1900, but there's only been one triple-A team since then."

Scott urges football fans to appreciate the sport's evolution and the historical context behind each game.

Wrapping Up

Scott Perry's insights into the NFL are both informative and engaging, reminding us of the rich narratives that shape our favorite sports. His book is a testament to the enduring spirit of football and its impact on fans across generations.

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS BACKGROUND

Host Mark Morthier grew up in New Jersey just across the river from New York City during the 1970s, a great time for sports in the area. He relives great moments from this time and beyond, focusing on football, baseball, basketball, and boxing. You may even see a little Olympic Weightlifting in the mix, as Mark competed for eight years. See Mark's book below.

No Nonsense, Old School Weight Training: A Guide For People With Limited Time

Running Wild: (Growing Up In The 1970s)