Dwight Stephenson: 1984 Topps Football
Player: Dwight Stephenson
Card: 1984 Topps Football Card #129
Team/Position: Miami Dolphins / Offensive Center
Cost: $5.00
When it comes to offensive linemen, induction into the Hall of Fame is almost always preceded by a lengthy NFL career. Linemen almost always gather enough information or dirty tricks to balance the erosion of their athletic ability.
So when a player is inducted after only having played six years as a starter, you know that he’s very, very special. This is the case with Stephenson who played his rookie and most of his second year as a special teamer before eventually taking over Center from an injured Mark Dennard in late 1981.
Stephenson was the perfect offensive center in just about every regard. Stephenson was incredibly explosive off the ball which allowed him to beat defenders to the punch on a regular basis. Stephenson had the uncanny ability to use his quickness and agility to beat the defender off the ball before using his strength and positioning to knock ‘em on their asses.
If you look at the rear of the card, you’ll learn that Dwight Stephenson bench pressed over 350lbs. You’ll also learn that Dwight was apparently white, with man-tits, and liked wearing a bikini top, all while doing something that doesn’t even vaguely resemble a bench press.
Stephenson’s Dolphins lead the league in fewest sacks allowed from 1982 to 1987; a period during which Stephenson was voted All Pro every year but 1982.
For all of the Dolphins’ of the 80′s greatness, they never won a Superbowl. Stephenson made it to two Super Bowls, but he and Marino fell short on both occasions.
A severe knee injury eventually ended Stephenson’s career after eight years. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998 is quite the testament to just how great Stephenson was as an offensive lineman.
Here’s my favourite exert from Stephenson’s Hall of Fame Chat Transcript:
kpaluso: Who was your favorite head coach?
Dwight Stephenson: I only had two: Shula and Bryant. Bryant had more of an affect on me as a person. He was influential in helping me to think and achieve goals. He helped me become a better person and player. As for Shula, he was very similar to Coach Bryant. He knows how to develop people so well.
Can you think of a better 1-2 combo? Does anyone even come close now? Pete Carroll and Bill Bellichick? Woody Hayes and Tom Landry? Knute Rockne and George Halas?
By the way, 1984 Topps is the leader right now when it comes to the Best Football Set Ever.
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