Opinion
Favre deserves credit for legendary performances
October 28, 2010
Whether it is a text message or an ankle injury that puts an end to Brett Favre’s legendary career, there is one thing that has been neglected: the unprecedented accomplishments of Favre’s career. Sure he may have the most interceptions, and they always seem to come at the worst possible times. Let’s put aside our geographical differences and respect the legend, Brett Favre. We may never see another quarterback of his statue.
Favre first came into the league after being selected in the second round as the 33rd overall pick by the Atlanta Falcons. He was then traded to the Packers on Feb. 10, 1992, for the 19th pick in the 1992 draft. The trade, as the story goes, ended up working out great for the Packers.
Maybe the Packer fans need a reminder of just how good they had it. Favre has led his team to eight division championships, five NFC championships and two Super Bowl appearances, winning one in 1997. He is the only player to have won MVP three consecutive times.
He holds seven prominent NFL records, including most career touchdown passes, most career passing yards, most career pass completions, most career pass attempts, most consecutive starts, most consecutive starts by a QB and most career victories as a starting quarterback.
Considering the gruel and grind of an NFL season, Favre’s consecutive start streak may be his most impressive. Starting with his first career start on Sept. 27, 1992, Favre has played in 314 consecutive games, including his 24 playoff appearances.
Favre is the only quarterback to throw for 70,000 yards and 500 touchdown passes. That would be the equivalent of Favre throwing for over 40 miles. Favre also has the most wins as a quarterback with 183.
While it is easy to compliment Favre on his statistical achievements, I believe he deserves more credit for his awe-inspiring performances. After his father died, Favre decided to play in the Monday Night Football game against the Oakland Raiders. He passed for four touchdowns in the first half and 399 total yards in a 41-7 victory. This performance is known to have made grown men cry and is considered to be one of the greatest individual performances by any professional athlete.
So while it is easy to criticize Favre when things are going rough, it is heart-wrenching to watch this legend be torn down. Yes, players deserve to be criticized when things aren’t going well, or when they are playing the enemy, but remember what he has done for the Green and Gold. Respect his past. Respect his love for the game. Respect his passion, and above all, respect that we may never witness anything like him again.
Ashley Goettl is an alumna of UW-River Falls. She was editor of the Student Voice from fall semester 2011 to spring semester 2013.