Thanks to the world of podcasts I have all kinds of access to Minneapolis radio programs. It's a beautiful thing. The postgame call-in shows can be a bit trying after a Minnesota Vikings loss but for the most part these programs are a real treat. One of my favorites is Vikings Forever with Mark Rosen. He interviews Vikings players of the past. This past week his guest was running back Dave Osborn. This was especially interesting as I have never before heard him interviewed. Osborn played for the Vikings from 1965-75. The final years of his career were my first years as a fan of the Vikings. I've really only seen him at his best in game replays and highlights but I most certainly know Dave Osborn's impact on the history of the Vikings. All Vikings fans should. He and Bill Brown formed one of best running back tandems in the NFL in the mid-late '60s. Chicago Bears Hall of Fame linebacker Dick Butkus said that Osborn and Brown were the toughest duo that he ever faced. Together and individually they were tough, physical runners. They were also two of the first backs to routinely catch passes out of the backfield. It was interesting to hear Osborn talk of his own playing career and his time with those great Vikings teams. He really is under appreciated as Minnesota running backs go. His backfield buddy Brown is honored in the Vikings Ring of Honor. As is Chuck Foreman who ended up replacing Osborn in the running back rotation as a rookie in 1973. Even Ted Brown, Darrin Nelson and Terry Allen are probably better known to most Vikings fans of today. It's old timers that know Dave Osborn. More should. He's in a group that includes Grady Alderman, Jeff Siemon, Ahmad Rashad and Ed White from the Vikings first two decades that deserves induction into the Vikings Ring of Honor. All will likely make it one day. It was great to finally hear Dave Osborn speak. To get to know him as more than just #41 on the football field.
Happy Thanksgiving, Everyone!
No comments:
Post a Comment