I got to hang out with Earl a few times. One of the great guys ever. His time spent visiting Texas Childrens Hospital was mostly unknown. He wore scrubs to help kids get over a fear of doctors. Great man.
I'm a native Houstonian, born in '73, and Earl Campbell was my childhood idol. I recall at a young age telling my parents I wanted to be like him. Sadly I never played football, but I've done my best to be a gentleman, and to this day I have the utmost respect for him. Thanks for sharing this!
@@buffalosoldier7360 No doubt, I've got a bad back and multiple concussions on top being nearly blind, just from living. Probably would have killed me honestly. I hope you're not hurting too bad sir
I was born in ‘93 and always wanted to play running back. I too do not have any finesse, I just had size and power. In 2007 my 7th grade football coach gave me number 34 and told me to watch videos of Earl Campbell on some website called “TH-cam”. I also asked my dad who Earl Campbell was and he went on for hours. Ever since, I’ve always had such high respect for this man. I met him at a signing years after high school. They always say “Don’t meet your heroes”. But I’m glad I did. He was a man’s man and a very fine gentleman. He was more interested in my Navy career and my life. Thanks Earl.
Dude is a class act. Meet him 3 times(talking for 10-15min) and waved 2x and knuckle bumped him 2 other times at Texans games. When I saw him at a signing he recognized me and said "Come over here and shake my hand." Kept saying how odd it was we saw each other. This was during a 5-6yr span when Texans were just starting early 2000's . My childhood hero! Pretty sure I watched him in every Oilers game. Monday night vs Miami will always be a highlight for me.
Howard Cosell on MNF was amazed by the Tyler Rose and the Dolphin linebacker that chased him made a commercial with EC where he was chasing Earl. Cool to watch. Skoal commercial line was "Skoal brother"
The sad thing is that all the pounding he took and all those carries eventually came back to bite him. The surgeries, the degenerative conditions, Earl Campbell is now confined to a wheelchair. He is the extreme example of what could happen to a football player after retiring. Even worse he had to battle opioid addiction, alcoholism, and suicide. Thankfully he has a good support in his adult kids.
Yeah, it's called "the trade off" = what MEN are willing to accept as the price for greatness. Never heard Mr Campbell complain about what you mentioned = PRECISELY WHY we know his name and not yours.
@@damedan9389 and Earl has the pleasure having a successful business to fall back on in case of hard times. Many played football before the huge salary increases of free agency of the 90's didn't have that luxury and those who suffered chronic injuries that wiped out their earnings and savings. The NFL tossed many of those players like they were used tissues after they were used up. It took a major lawsuit and the NFL basically paying almost a billion dollars for the NFL to actually start caring about the players.
The city of Houston said good riddance to the owner of the Oilers when they moved to Nashville. Shame when a player like EC gets drafted by a cheap team.
Houston and artificial turf was his ultimate demise. If he would of went to another NFL team with natural grass. He would have played 8 games on it. Plus Houston was no power house they ran him until his wheels fell off. Maybe if the Rams, Oakland, Denver, Miami, or San Diego would have taken him, he would have been around longer.
"I don't know if he's in a class by himself, but I do know that when that class gets together, it sure don't take long to call the roll." - Bum Phillips -
I love Earl Campbell, but let's not forget about the original power back with nightmare speed.....Jim Brown.....are we sure Campbell was BETTER than Jim Brown? Lots more film on Campbell which makes a compelling argument.....but Brown may have been the GOAT of big power backs with sprinter speed.
Earl was a down to earth kind and gentle man. I was his bus driver Thanksgiving day when the oilers beat the cowboys and earl rushed for over 200 yards that day. Earl took 5 minutes to talk to a bus driver. We talked about how he took care of his mother who lived in Tyler. I also had followed him when he was a Longhorn. To take time with me after his big game. I thought it was nice
You didn’t mention his speed for a big man and his stride, he was just as dangerous in the open field as he was running into and over defenders! He may have not played that long but he left a lifetime of memories. A real PRO !
How about considering the true most fear running back who also is the only running back who’s ever been flagged for unnecessary roughness from a running back with a stiff arm? Does Larry Csonka come to mind?
I know the contact took a toll on his body later in life but growing up as a kid and watching this man play was a thrill and there will never be another Earl Campbell an absolute NFL legend.
Don't know about the best power back. Jim Brown, Marshawn Lynch, Adrian Peterson, Jerome Bettis, Derrick Henry, Larry Czonka, John Taylor, Jon Higgins are in the conversation.
Earl Campbell is one of my all-time favorite running backs. What a real beast! I'm just sorry that he has suffered so much after retiring from all the immense punishment that he took (and dished out). Earl was one-of-a-kind.
I don't recall that, I know one collision was on a sideline and both went tumbling in opposite directions. Of course there could have been another instance as they probably met morethan once
An epic collision, indeed! Two of the NFL's all-time great warriors. Jack's hit eventually brought Earl down but not before Earl had crossed the goal line. I don't think any other player in the NFL could have gotten past Jack 'The Assassin' Tatum. Years later, Earl would say that Jack's hit sent a stinging sensation throughout his entire body, from the top of his head, down his spine, to his toes. He concluded by saying that the stinging sensation never went away. Ever!
You sure?… I’m not 100% sure, but I distinctly remember HEARING that play on the radio in my bedroom because the Oiler couldn’t sell out the dome.. lol.. I’ve seen it many times, since, but I don’t think anyone in Houston saw it that day?..
he was a beast.....watched most of his career never seen a back straight maul thru linebackers like Cambell, a CB or safety had no chance so glad i was able to see NFL in 70s and 80s.....I haven't watched Football since early 2000s
I had a buddy that played linebacker at SMU during the Earl Campbell era. He told us about stepping in the hole, putting a perfect form tackle on Earl , getting up a staggered to the TEXAS bench they sent him home, opposite sideline, and he swears he didn't remember all the next week. Showed it to him on game films. Perfect form, no memory.
Oh wow, what a story! I can't even imagine playing linebacker and stepping into the hole trying to bring that Locomotive of a back down! He ended up going to the Texas bench? Ha ha--if he didn't remember the entire next week he must've had one helluva concussion. All hail Mr. Campbell, he was incredible! I wasn't aware he came close to 2,000 yards one year, came very close. Wish he'd gotten it!
By far my favorite player of all time and still happy he finished his career with my Saints. He was the single reason that made me a football fan and I wish I kept the wall poster I had of him. It's sad and a crying shame Texans fans don't appreciate him. During pregame festivities at Reliant Stadium in Houston, they brought him out on the field and sadly he was using a walker. His legs just aren't what they once were but I stood up in my Saints jersey along with my family and cheered and clapped for him, and as I looked around I saw only a handful of Texans fans standing for him. Truly sad to see that and I hope they come to appreciate him and show it to him.
Loved Earl my enitre life. He lite up the SWC. Then stayed home to play pro. " Love Ya Blue " Thanks for the great football Earl. And your sausages are freaking great too!!
Moved from Chicago to Houston in "77" from Sweetness to the Tyler Rose! Earl Campbell was a Great Power Running Back! U watched him run a bunch of teams over! Even my beloved Chicago Bears! I still believe if they would've thought him to catch the ball out the backfield more! Might not have been worn out as fast! Campbell was a Beast! The Pittsburgh Game where Donny Shell hit Earl almost cutting him in half? But still managed to fall sideways from midfield into the corner of the End Zone! It was the Greatest Power Run I've ever seen in the NFL! I just think the Oilers used him up! Just like the Astros and JR Richards!
Thanks so much for this incredibly good tribute to Mr. Campbell. Learned something new, I didn't know he got close to 2,000 yards one year. Wish he'd gotten it! You're doing a fine job-much appreciated!
Earl Campbell was the Original Beatmode the Tyler Rose Icon he was a impactful player the former University of Texas Longhorns won the Heisman Trophy in 1977 but he was a 1st Round 1st overall pick in the 1978 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers back then but he ment everything the heart & soul to the franchise in those days on Monday Night Football vs Miami Dolphins he had 4TDS in a big time win he's won Rookie of the year and NFL MVP although he came close in 1978 and 1979 going to his 1st Super Bowl but at he's the Champion to people in Texas heart no matter what!
I love Earl Campbell, but let's not forget about the original power back with nightmare speed.....Jim Brown.....are we sure Campbell was BETTER than Jim Brown? Lots more film on Campbell which makes a compelling argument.....but Brown may have been the GOAT of big power backs with sprinter speed.
@@nomadbrad6391 You're right. Jim Brown was the original Beast Mode. And Brown was a true triple threat. The Browns had designed run-pass option plays for him. He was also an excellent receiver out of the backfield, and often ran patterns downfield. I'm old enough to have seen Brown play live. Campbell was a great RB...Brown was greater.
I met him in 1981. I was working at a Fast Food Restaurant called, "Ron's Fried Chicken". I was a Junior in HS and played football myself. I spent a lot of time pumping iron, but I also ran Track. Needless to say I looked pretty jacked for my age. One night after we just closed, while was taking out the old grease from the deep fat fryers to an outside storage area, someone drove up next to me. There were two black guys in a modest car. The driver pulled up to me on his side and he and his passenger quickly asked if we were still open. Of course I was tired and wanted to go home, but I told them we were and apologized for the inconvenience. As I spoke to the two men, I realized Earl was the one sitting in the passenger seat. I even blurted out, "Holy Shit, you're Earl Campbell"! He smiled real big and reached across the driver to shake my hand. As he held my hand in his grasp, he turned it so he could see my forearms (Yeah, I was kind of a mutant at that age and easily the strongest kid in my HS, but I tried to be humble about it and made it my mission in life to make friends with everyone). You can only imagine what an impression that made on me that night. I told them I would talk to the Manager to see if we can make an exception. So I went back inside with them walking in behind me. Well, being the only white employee, I wasn't sure if my Manager would allow an additional sale. Turns out Campbell was a legend to most Houstonians, but to the black community in Houston, Earl was a God. I didn't think to ask for an autograph because we had them in and out relatively quickly. However I did come away with one of my most cherished memories. And as for his persona. Earl Campbell was colossal when it came to his adoring fans. There may never be another like him
I love Earl Campbell, but let's not forget about the original power back with nightmare speed.....Jim Brown.....are we sure Campbell was BETTER than Jim Brown? Lots more film on Campbell which makes a compelling argument.....but Brown may have been the GOAT of big power backs with sprinter speed.
I am a former subscriber to Sirius. My favorite show was Mad Dog Unleashed. One time there was a caller, "Earl from Texas". He was just chatting about football (the specific topic I forget) but he said something like "as a former pro athlete" which caused Russo to start asking probing questions and realized he was talking to Earl Campbell. A legend of the NFL called as any other caller would.
Earl is a Texas legend, no doubt. I live around Austin and know many who have crossed paths with him and they all say he is such a nice and humble man.
Turf was the problem, not running style. The padding under that old school turf was non existent. Also no help. The passing game for Houston was absent.
THE 'TYLER ROSE' EARL CAMPBELL#34 IS A LEGEND .. IN MY OPINION .. THE MOST FEARED RB IN NFL 🏈 HISTORY .. THE GREATEST PLAYER OF ALL-TIME .. JIM BROWN#32 ..
Love him. Oilers fan at age 5. We drafted him and I asked my Dad where he came from, in wonder. He answered seriously and plainly, the University of Texas. I asked what that was and he said it was a college. After a brief exchanged revealing what and where college was, I said I'm going there. He patted my head. I did up going there.
Sorry folks, I was at UT when Earl won the Heisman, and I have the greatest admiration and respect for him and his abilities. But, I've seen them all since 1958, and Earl is the #2 power back, a half step behind Jim Brown.
@hardcorehouse You are probably right in the physicality department, but overall, I rate Brown a half step better. Did you ever see him play, I mean entire games, and seasons? Or, have you only seen highlights?
I'm old enough to have seen Brown play live at old Pitt Stadium in Pittsburgh, when he would decimate my hapless Steelers back then. Campbell was great...Brown was greater. Brown was a power running back who also ran pass patterns deep downfield (he would run "go" routes downfield...and get open) and would throw off designed run/pass option plays.
@@hardcorehouse Yes, but that's only a result of the natural progression of football players of the 80s being bigger than the players of the 60s. As great as Campbell was, Brown was the better RB.
Earls a legend ! I grew up down the road from him. He never forgot where he came from. He was always friendly, & had time to talk to you if you were lucky enough to cross his path. Luv ya Blue !
I was a kid growing up in Houston during the Luv You Blue days and it was great seeing Bum and Mr, Cambell rule the Astrodome! But even better was Mr Campbell was a member of my Dads racket ball club and since my dad was a UT alum he and Mr. Cambell would strike up a friendship and play each other in racketball! The thrill of my young life was to get into the court with them and hit the ball around before their match. He was so big that i often hit him with the ball! But he was always a soft spoken friendly and kind giant!
Long time Detroit lions sufferer. 60 years old. Anytime earl was on TV you stopped to watch him.pure power. We had Billy Sims in 1980. Probably one of the most underrated backs in league history. Career cut short by injury. Then berry came along. At least we had Billy and berry to watch through the agony.
I watched him play when him play for Texas being an Oklahoma fan, I thought, wow what a badass! Then, I watched him play at the Oilers. There will never be a power back like him again.
Growing up in Cleveland Ohio as a kid in the 60's I remember Jim Brown well and he was quite a running back. Then in 77 I moved to Houston and Wa La! Earl Campbell who idolized Jim Brown. I got to relive the greatness all over again. His former college roommate even lived right next door to my apartment and in 79 Earl came over for a visit (which I saw out of my window).
I lived and grew up a Cowboy's fan back with Staubach, but then we moved to Houston and I was bummed that I couldn't watch my Cowboy's but then I tuned in and man I became a Houston fan the time I saw Dan Pastorini and Billy "White Shoes" Johnson and the best of them Earl Cambell. He was a beast, and most of the clips you see of him, I remember seeing it live on TV and at the Astrodome.
As a Steelers fan, I got plenty of opportunities to watch Campbell play, and while he often wreaked havoc on my guys, he was a joy to watch...he had about as much finesse as a falling safe. He might still be the most physically punishing running back ever to suit up. It was so much fun for a couple years in the late 70s when the Oilers and Steelers got together and it was Campbell vs. Franco Harris. A while back, I read an article about several pro football players and the years following their careers. It is so tremendously sad that by the age of 50 Campbell needed the aid of two canes to get around, and was limited to doing his hunting (one of his favorite activities) sitting on the tailgate of a pickup truck because he could only walk short distances. He originally said that his ailments were genetic in nature, but later admitted they were caused by his style of play during his career. He was a force of nature on the field, but has paid for it dearly later in life.
I lived in Houston, and I got the privilege to go see Earl Cambell, Nolan Ryan at the Astrodome and Hakeem Olajuwon at the Summit. Some of my best childhood memories. Legends.
As a kid my favorite VHS tape was called the "Super 70's" and it was a NFL documentary. It was about the running backs of the 70's and is a must see!!! ( Earl Campbell, o.j Simpson, Tony Dorsett, Franco Harris, Walter Payton and etc.)
Earl was the Oilers no disrespect to a lot of other guys who played for the franchise but he was a locomotive and pretty much carried the whole team on his back! Also one of the most soft spoken and kind people you could ever have the privilege to meet ! Much respect Mr Campbell !!!
Never a fan of the Oilers but Earl Campbell was the best I've ever seen. He was simply run to death by the Oilers resulting in a relatively short career. That Monday Night Game against Miami was incredible.
This video was very enlightening. Earl Campbell was one of a kind and a rare gem. If Campbell played for a better team, his stats would have been even more impressive.
Not necessarily....If he played on a team that had better offensive players, the offensive firepower would have been spread out more, and Campbell may not have gotten the ball as much, so his stats may have been less impressive.
In my early teens, I was privileged to watch this man play on Sundays. More than 40 years watching the NFL, and yet to see any other back as POWERFUL and productive. The original “Beast Mode “ Earl Campbell.
Will never forget Notre Dame skunking UT 40-O for the Championship after Texas had gone unbeaten all season. They even had Earl's number that day. We were in shock. But watching Earl run was really thrilling! And as a Houstonian l can tell you Earl was the pride of the city when he ran over opposing players. Affable and genuine, a real Texas gentleman.
I wore 34 when I played in the 80s, because of Earl Campbell. He was faster than many DBs, stronger than the DL, and liked to run people over. He always seemed like a good person, who played hard, and enjoyed the game.
If you had a chance to watch hoofball in the 70 and 80s, you knew who EC was, wasn't the type to go around, so glad to c this man get recognition for being a great ball player, still much respected to this day, coming from a raider fan for life!
Meet him once at a BBQ at my dad's friend's house warming party! and Earl was cooking. He gave me the best advice at running back. Was the best advice. And one of the nicessed men I have ever took advice from
Thanks so much for this video tribute of a great player and man. The term "great" is used a lot, but it certainly applies to the Tyler Rose, Earl Campbell.
As a kid l idolized this man. What a Legend! Earl Campbell was the Houston Oilers offense! Every game he played was literally Earl against the entire opposing team and most of the time they were outmatched! Shame he never won a Superbowl. Earl Campbell The GOAT!
I'm a diehard Browns fan, but I watched Earl whenever Houston was on TV. He was absolutely amazing. It is just sad the condition he is in now. Football beat him up bad.
Watching him live he was the most amazing runner ever. His gift was insane. OJ, Gayle, Emmitt take a back seat. Raw power that has never been matched. Everyone knew he was getting the pigskin but he just ran over all. Including his own team players. Such a joy to watch. Jim brown is the only one that is equal or if you think, better. Insane power and vision.
Man oh man he was thrilling to watch as a kid! We had season tix for I think $20-30 each face value and wow it was exciting to watch him!!! We also had Billy “white shoes” Johnson on special teams and he also made for some exciting moments. Miss the Luv Ya Blue but the new Houston Texans are looking good. Earl was and is the best of the best and will always have a special place in Houston ❤s!!!
So glad I was fortunate enough to be around to have seen Earl Campbell in his prime. He plowed through Defenses like fully load Mack truck and trailer. He was a nearly unstoppable beast. He crushed through my Chargers D back then like they were a college B team!
I got to hang out with Earl a few times. One of the great guys ever. His time spent visiting Texas Childrens Hospital was mostly unknown. He wore scrubs to help kids get over a fear of doctors. Great man.
Impactful! Thanks for sharing. 🤘
@@forrestmobley2599 I had written a comment above this. I was the bus driver !
You're 100% correct.
Earl remembered me 25 years later.
I shook his hand and got his autograph, a great man he was to me.
Finally someone gives him some credit.. straight monster, literally gave his body up for the sport
I don't care if they do are not bud I know he is was the best. I was there.
Finally? Dude got in the hof in 2001 😂
@@MRKJ408 Best back ever took that long.. Dumb huh
@@bobnewfart how u get offensive player of the year 3 times in a row and not make til then smh better yet first ever/only rookie to do so 👀
@@bobnewfartbest ever? 🤣😂🤣
A beast on the field. A true gentleman off the field.
I'm a native Houstonian, born in '73, and Earl Campbell was my childhood idol. I recall at a young age telling my parents I wanted to be like him. Sadly I never played football, but I've done my best to be a gentleman, and to this day I have the utmost respect for him. Thanks for sharing this!
Earl is also my childhood hero!
That's dope
I'm in my late 40's and i still want to be Earl Campbell when I grow up!
You’re lucky you didn’t play, you might have ended up like Earl…like I did…
@@buffalosoldier7360 No doubt, I've got a bad back and multiple concussions on top being nearly blind, just from living. Probably would have killed me honestly. I hope you're not hurting too bad sir
I was born in ‘93 and always wanted to play running back. I too do not have any finesse, I just had size and power. In 2007 my 7th grade football coach gave me number 34 and told me to watch videos of Earl Campbell on some website called “TH-cam”. I also asked my dad who Earl Campbell was and he went on for hours. Ever since, I’ve always had such high respect for this man. I met him at a signing years after high school. They always say “Don’t meet your heroes”. But I’m glad I did. He was a man’s man and a very fine gentleman. He was more interested in my Navy career and my life. Thanks Earl.
Dude is a class act. Meet him 3 times(talking for 10-15min) and waved 2x and knuckle bumped him 2 other times at Texans games. When I saw him at a signing he recognized me and said "Come over here and shake my hand." Kept saying how odd it was we saw each other. This was during a 5-6yr span when Texans were just starting early 2000's . My childhood hero!
Pretty sure I watched him in every Oilers game. Monday night vs Miami will always be a highlight for me.
Too bad Earl was over the hill by the time he became a N. O. Saint ⚜️
Howard Cosell on MNF was amazed by the Tyler Rose and the Dolphin linebacker that chased him made a commercial with EC where he was chasing Earl. Cool to watch. Skoal commercial line was "Skoal brother"
Your coach should've told you that the GREATEST in the NFL to wear 34 was SWEETNESS Walter Payton!!!!!!!!!!
My favorite player growing up. He rushed straight up to the line and shifted the entire line of players forward!!
The sad thing is that all the pounding he took and all those carries eventually came back to bite him. The surgeries, the degenerative conditions, Earl Campbell is now confined to a wheelchair. He is the extreme example of what could happen to a football player after retiring. Even worse he had to battle opioid addiction, alcoholism, and suicide. Thankfully he has a good support in his adult kids.
Yeah, it's called "the trade off" = what MEN are willing to accept as the price for greatness. Never heard Mr Campbell complain about what you mentioned = PRECISELY WHY we know his name and not yours.
@@damedan9389 and Earl has the pleasure having a successful business to fall back on in case of hard times. Many played football before the huge salary increases of free agency of the 90's didn't have that luxury and those who suffered chronic injuries that wiped out their earnings and savings. The NFL tossed many of those players like they were used tissues after they were used up. It took a major lawsuit and the NFL basically paying almost a billion dollars for the NFL to actually start caring about the players.
We were blessed to be able to watch him play so get over it and be grateful.
Very well spoken and speaking simply facts.. Earl was a true and is still a Spartan may God keep blessing this iron giant
@@Wayotoptierman_desciple He's the GOAT, afaic.
During his years in Houston, people called the team the Earlers. He was the offense. The ultimate power running back.
And what people don't realize is that he was fast too.
The city of Houston said good riddance to the owner of the Oilers when they moved to Nashville. Shame when a player like EC gets drafted by a cheap team.
Yep. It's just too bad he didn't have an offensive line.
Houston and artificial turf was his ultimate demise. If he would of went to another NFL team with natural grass. He would have played 8 games on it. Plus Houston was no power house they ran him until his wheels fell off. Maybe if the Rams, Oakland, Denver, Miami, or San Diego would have taken him, he would have been around longer.
@@antonioguevara4188 he had Bruce Mathews
"I don't know if he's in a class by himself, but I do know that when that class gets together, it sure don't take long to call the roll." - Bum Phillips -
I love Earl Campbell, but let's not forget about the original power back with nightmare speed.....Jim Brown.....are we sure Campbell was BETTER than Jim Brown? Lots more film on Campbell which makes a compelling argument.....but Brown may have been the GOAT of big power backs with sprinter speed.
Bum Phillips and Jim Brown. Legends connected by a legend Campbell.
That might be one of the best quotes I've ever heard, that shit cold
I still think Jim Brown is the greatest football player ever.. And I’m a Houstonian/UT alum..
Bum Phillips.....still the most quotable coach ever.
Earl was a down to earth kind and gentle man.
I was his bus driver Thanksgiving day when the oilers beat the cowboys and earl rushed for over 200 yards that day.
Earl took 5 minutes to talk to a bus driver. We talked about how he took care of his mother who lived in Tyler. I also had followed him when he was a Longhorn. To take time with me after his big game. I thought it was nice
Good memory, glad you shared it. I remember watching that great game live in Canada. It’s on TH-cam.
You didn’t mention his speed for a big man and his stride, he was just as dangerous in the open field as he was running into and over defenders! He may have not played that long but he left a lifetime of memories. A real PRO !
Earl was a burner that's for sure. He showed that in the Monday night game against the Dolphins. Dude was fast.
As a young fella, the oilers were must-see games. I'm proud to say I saw him play in my lifetime 🫡#34❤👊🏽🙏🏽
My all time favorite running back
If he played today, he'd get flagged every carry for unnecessary roughness.
litterally left it all on the field.
THAT'S a warrior, youngsters.
Roughing the defense!!!😆
WTF?!?!😂
How about considering the true most fear running back who also is the only running back who’s ever been flagged for unnecessary roughness from a running back with a stiff arm? Does Larry Csonka come to mind?
@@mauricejenkins2819Derrick Henry 6-4 265lb..
@@hitek9too255 have you ever considered knowing what you’re talking about?🤡 how about 6 foot three 237 pounds clown.🤡😅🤐
@@mauricejenkins2819Jim Brown
He was truly on another level. So fun to watch.
It was so much fun growing up watching this man run! Definitely one of the best EVER!
I know the contact took a toll on his body later in life but growing up as a kid and watching this man play was a thrill and there will never be another Earl Campbell an absolute NFL legend.
He’s got some good Hot Links!
He is my all time dream time running back.
From a Longtime Houston Oiler fan he played the game with Reckless Abandon. Thank You Mr. Campbell.
One of the best first overall picks ever, one of the best running backs ever
The BEST power back to ever EVER play.
Don't know about the best power back. Jim Brown, Marshawn Lynch, Adrian Peterson, Jerome Bettis, Derrick Henry, Larry Czonka, John Taylor, Jon Higgins are in the conversation.
I saw his last bowl game and his speed was crazy I did not know the beast he really was.
Walter Payton
U 🧢
Walter wasn’t a power back catch up
Earl Campbell is one of my all-time favorite running backs. What a real beast! I'm just sorry that he has suffered so much after retiring from all the immense punishment that he took (and dished out). Earl was one-of-a-kind.
Earl Campbell VS. Jack Tatum at the 1 yard line. Earl Scored the TD. Both Men knocked each other out.
EPIC
Dude, that was a gladiator matchup
I saw that!!!
I don't recall that, I know one collision was on a sideline and both went tumbling in opposite directions. Of course there could have been another instance as they probably met morethan once
An epic collision, indeed! Two of the NFL's all-time great warriors. Jack's hit eventually brought Earl down but not before Earl had crossed the goal line. I don't think any other player in the NFL could have gotten past Jack 'The Assassin' Tatum.
Years later, Earl would say that Jack's hit sent a stinging sensation throughout his entire body, from the top of his head, down his spine, to his toes. He concluded by saying that the stinging sensation never went away. Ever!
You sure?… I’m not 100% sure, but I distinctly remember HEARING that play on the radio in my bedroom because the Oiler couldn’t sell out the dome.. lol..
I’ve seen it many times, since, but I don’t think anyone in Houston saw it that day?..
I have to agree! 💯 I watched him play in college and the NFL, dude was a man among boys!
By far my favorite running back of all time!
he was a beast.....watched most of his career
never seen a back straight maul thru linebackers like Cambell, a CB or safety had no chance
so glad i was able to see NFL in 70s and 80s.....I haven't watched Football since early 2000s
I was shocked seeing the Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Donny Shell, pick him up and slam him .....
Jack Tatum, a 195-lb safety, lit Campbell up...
Remember, Earl started his career in High School as a Linebacker so familiar territory for him.
"SKOAL, BABY!" Only the old-schooler's will know.
“Skoal, Brother” which I assumed was a play in the phrase soul brother.
@@tvc1848 That's it! Him and Walt Garrison on the commercials.
I remember that smokeless tobacco commercial Earl was my man and I come from the land of "Sweetness".
@@Jamestown-y9j RIP Loved him myself. Just not enough to wear Kangaroos. lol
I remember
I had a buddy that played linebacker at SMU during the Earl Campbell era. He told us about stepping in the hole, putting a perfect form tackle on Earl , getting up a staggered to the TEXAS bench they sent him home, opposite sideline, and he swears he didn't remember all the next week. Showed it to him on game films. Perfect form, no memory.
Oh wow, what a story! I can't even imagine playing linebacker and stepping into the hole trying to bring that Locomotive of a back down! He ended up going to the Texas bench? Ha ha--if he didn't remember the entire next week he must've had one helluva concussion. All hail Mr. Campbell, he was incredible! I wasn't aware he came close to 2,000 yards one year, came very close. Wish he'd gotten it!
Whoever is behind this channel is the GOAT 😄
Ight bro hop off the shmeat
Hi nonstop I watch all your videos
hi Nonstop 🫡
Oh man, it's nonstop. Love the videos❤
Can you do the insane rise of Brock Purdy next?
By far my favorite player of all time and still happy he finished his career with my Saints. He was the single reason that made me a football fan and I wish I kept the wall poster I had of him. It's sad and a crying shame Texans fans don't appreciate him. During pregame festivities at Reliant Stadium in Houston, they brought him out on the field and sadly he was using a walker. His legs just aren't what they once were but I stood up in my Saints jersey along with my family and cheered and clapped for him, and as I looked around I saw only a handful of Texans fans standing for him. Truly sad to see that and I hope they come to appreciate him and show it to him.
People have changed
Trust me, the real fans appreciate Earl. On and off the field.
Earl the Pearl Campbell was a Legendary Running 🏃 Back !!! No one was stopping the Freight Train that came at them !!! One of my favorites 👍💯🥰
Loved Earl my enitre life.
He lite up the SWC.
Then stayed home to play pro.
" Love Ya Blue "
Thanks for the great football Earl.
And your sausages are freaking great too!!
The man was a beast! Loved the Oilers
R.I.P to Cedric Benson a former Texas Longhorn 1st Round 4th overall in the 2005 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽 2:55
He passed?
@@ontheotherhand463 Yes .. motorcycle accident
Damn, I remember him
@@chickenwings6061 Very sorry to hear that. May God rest his soul.
Cedric had huge cleats to fill. Campbell. Ricky Williams. And Cedric FILLED them. Rip Cedric
I watched this guy as a little kid. Before I started playing any football. But, when I finallly was old enough to play - Campbell was my blueprint.
Moved from Chicago to Houston in "77" from Sweetness to the Tyler Rose! Earl Campbell was a Great Power Running Back! U watched him run a bunch of teams over! Even my beloved Chicago Bears! I still believe if they would've thought him to catch the ball out the backfield more! Might not have been worn out as fast! Campbell was a Beast! The Pittsburgh Game where Donny Shell hit Earl almost cutting him in half? But still managed to fall sideways from midfield into the corner of the End Zone! It was the Greatest Power Run I've ever seen in the NFL! I just think the Oilers used him up! Just like the Astros and JR Richards!
"Earl can't even catch a cold" - Bum Phillips
That probably explains a lot!
The Steelers respected Earl, but they did not fear him.
Thanks so much for this incredibly good tribute to Mr. Campbell. Learned something new, I didn't know he got close to 2,000 yards one year. Wish he'd gotten it! You're doing a fine job-much appreciated!
As a kid ..Watching Earl Campbell run was like watching a Tyson fight, you were just waiting for him to demolish someone.
That is the perfect analogy.
Watched him every chance I got . That guy was a force...
EARL = WHAT FOOTBALL WOULD BE CALLED IF IT WERE A RELIGION❤
Earl Campbell was the Original Beatmode the Tyler Rose Icon he was a impactful player the former University of Texas Longhorns won the Heisman Trophy in 1977 but he was a 1st Round 1st overall pick in the 1978 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers back then but he ment everything the heart & soul to the franchise in those days on Monday Night Football vs Miami Dolphins he had 4TDS in a big time win he's won Rookie of the year and NFL MVP although he came close in 1978 and 1979 going to his 1st Super Bowl but at he's the Champion to people in Texas heart no matter what!
I love Earl Campbell, but let's not forget about the original power back with nightmare speed.....Jim Brown.....are we sure Campbell was BETTER than Jim Brown? Lots more film on Campbell which makes a compelling argument.....but Brown may have been the GOAT of big power backs with sprinter speed.
@@nomadbrad6391 You're right. Jim Brown was the original Beast Mode. And Brown was a true triple threat. The Browns had designed run-pass option plays for him. He was also an excellent receiver out of the backfield, and often ran patterns downfield. I'm old enough to have seen Brown play live. Campbell was a great RB...Brown was greater.
I met him in 1981. I was working at a Fast Food Restaurant called, "Ron's Fried Chicken". I was a Junior in HS and played football myself. I spent a lot of time pumping iron, but I also ran Track. Needless to say I looked pretty jacked for my age. One night after we just closed, while was taking out the old grease from the deep fat fryers to an outside storage area, someone drove up next to me. There were two black guys in a modest car. The driver pulled up to me on his side and he and his passenger quickly asked if we were still open. Of course I was tired and wanted to go home, but I told them we were and apologized for the inconvenience. As I spoke to the two men, I realized Earl was the one sitting in the passenger seat. I even blurted out, "Holy Shit, you're Earl Campbell"! He smiled real big and reached across the driver to shake my hand. As he held my hand in his grasp, he turned it so he could see my forearms (Yeah, I was kind of a mutant at that age and easily the strongest kid in my HS, but I tried to be humble about it and made it my mission in life to make friends with everyone). You can only imagine what an impression that made on me that night. I told them I would talk to the Manager to see if we can make an exception. So I went back inside with them walking in behind me. Well, being the only white employee, I wasn't sure if my Manager would allow an additional sale. Turns out Campbell was a legend to most Houstonians, but to the black community in Houston, Earl was a God. I didn't think to ask for an autograph because we had them in and out relatively quickly. However I did come away with one of my most cherished memories. And as for his persona. Earl Campbell was colossal when it came to his adoring fans. There may never be another like him
Excellent story man
This is what's needed once again. Loved watching him steamroll.
A true legend. 34 Campbell, Ryan, Olajuwon. Houston proud.
Imagine that your CAREER LOW stats being 90% of players' at your position, career high. = you're the greatest EVER at that position. 🎉🎉🎉😅😅😅
I love Earl Campbell, but let's not forget about the original power back with nightmare speed.....Jim Brown.....are we sure Campbell was BETTER than Jim Brown? Lots more film on Campbell which makes a compelling argument.....but Brown may have been the GOAT of big power backs with sprinter speed.
Jim Brown is considered the greatest RB of all time!
Mike Trout kinda numerology with same playoff success.
I am a former subscriber to Sirius. My favorite show was Mad Dog Unleashed. One time there was a caller, "Earl from Texas". He was just chatting about football (the specific topic I forget) but he said something like "as a former pro athlete" which caused Russo to start asking probing questions and realized he was talking to Earl Campbell. A legend of the NFL called as any other caller would.
That's wild. Russo is on ESPN now, I wonder if he would confirm this.
And the nicest gentleman you could ever want to meet.
And you’d never see him spike the ball or try to show up another player. He had what’s missing today…class!
Yeah it's crazy to see him now so broken down
I remember watching him as a kid powerhouse just tearing up the field unbelievable running back.. I witnessed it... beast
Earl Campbell was an ABSLUTE BAD ASS. He was SOOOOO much fun to watch.
Nothing like Earl on the field , I remember watching him in collage and the nfl. It was wow every time he touched the ball. Miss ya Earl !
I still watch throwack NFL games
Earl is a Texas legend, no doubt. I live around Austin and know many who have crossed paths with him and they all say he is such a nice and humble man.
Turf was the problem, not running style. The padding under that old school turf was non existent. Also no help. The passing game for Houston was absent.
Loved that I got to watch Earl destroy people on Monday Night football. Thank you Mr. Campbell
THE 'TYLER ROSE' EARL CAMPBELL#34 IS A LEGEND .. IN MY OPINION .. THE MOST FEARED RB IN NFL 🏈 HISTORY .. THE GREATEST PLAYER OF ALL-TIME .. JIM BROWN#32 ..
Love him. Oilers fan at age 5. We drafted him and I asked my Dad where he came from, in wonder. He answered seriously and plainly, the University of Texas. I asked what that was and he said it was a college. After a brief exchanged revealing what and where college was, I said I'm going there. He patted my head.
I did up going there.
The Adams family really know how to Fthings up!
Happy to see this NFL GREAT get the recognition he so deserves. Truly a badass !!
Sorry folks, I was at UT when Earl won the Heisman, and I have the greatest admiration and respect for him and his abilities. But, I've seen them all since 1958, and Earl is the #2 power back, a half step behind Jim Brown.
he like the jim brown of the 80s
That’s your opinion; he was more physical than brown in my opinion
@hardcorehouse You are probably right in the physicality department, but overall, I rate Brown a half step better. Did you ever see him play, I mean entire games, and seasons? Or, have you only seen highlights?
I'm old enough to have seen Brown play live at old Pitt Stadium in Pittsburgh, when he would decimate my hapless Steelers back then. Campbell was great...Brown was greater. Brown was a power running back who also ran pass patterns deep downfield (he would run "go" routes downfield...and get open) and would throw off designed run/pass option plays.
@@hardcorehouse Yes, but that's only a result of the natural progression of football players of the 80s being bigger than the players of the 60s. As great as Campbell was, Brown was the better RB.
Earls a legend ! I grew up down the road from him. He never forgot where he came from. He was always friendly, & had time to talk to you if you were lucky enough to cross his path. Luv ya Blue !
Earl Campbell was BAD ASS! Larry Csonka and John Riggins were monsters also!
I was a kid growing up in Houston during the Luv You Blue days and it was great seeing Bum and Mr, Cambell rule the Astrodome! But even better was Mr Campbell was a member of my Dads racket ball club and since my dad was a UT alum he and Mr. Cambell would strike up a friendship and play each other in racketball! The thrill of my young life was to get into the court with them and hit the ball around before their match. He was so big that i often hit him with the ball! But he was always a soft spoken friendly and kind giant!
I just wish Earl Campbell's father saw his success.
He basically worked himself to death, 16 hrs a day will eventually catch up to you. And they were just barely making it what a shame.
@@will6996 I agree. People got to start paying their employees better.
Loved EC when I growing up. So underrated. He's great and isn't talked about enough...
Long time Detroit lions sufferer. 60 years old. Anytime earl was on TV you stopped to watch him.pure power. We had Billy Sims in 1980. Probably one of the most underrated backs in league history. Career cut short by injury. Then berry came along. At least we had Billy and berry to watch through the agony.
I always remember Billy climbing over the pile to score.
Sims doesn't get mentioned enough
Sims was great and remains underrated
I watched him play when him
play for Texas being an Oklahoma fan, I thought, wow what a badass! Then, I watched him play at the Oilers. There will never be a power back like him again.
Growing up in Cleveland Ohio as a kid in the 60's I remember Jim Brown well and he was quite a running back. Then in 77 I moved to Houston and Wa La! Earl Campbell who idolized Jim Brown. I got to relive the greatness all over again. His former college roommate even lived right next door to my apartment and in 79 Earl came over for a visit (which I saw out of my window).
I lived and grew up a Cowboy's fan back with Staubach, but then we moved to Houston and I was bummed that I couldn't watch my Cowboy's but then I tuned in and man I became a Houston fan the time I saw Dan Pastorini and Billy "White Shoes" Johnson and the best of them Earl Cambell. He was a beast, and most of the clips you see of him, I remember seeing it live on TV and at the Astrodome.
As a Steelers fan, I got plenty of opportunities to watch Campbell play, and while he often wreaked havoc on my guys, he was a joy to watch...he had about as much finesse as a falling safe. He might still be the most physically punishing running back ever to suit up. It was so much fun for a couple years in the late 70s when the Oilers and Steelers got together and it was Campbell vs. Franco Harris.
A while back, I read an article about several pro football players and the years following their careers. It is so tremendously sad that by the age of 50 Campbell needed the aid of two canes to get around, and was limited to doing his hunting (one of his favorite activities) sitting on the tailgate of a pickup truck because he could only walk short distances.
He originally said that his ailments were genetic in nature, but later admitted they were caused by his style of play during his career. He was a force of nature on the field, but has paid for it dearly later in life.
I lived in Houston, and I got the privilege to go see Earl Cambell, Nolan Ryan at the Astrodome and Hakeem Olajuwon at the Summit. Some of my best childhood memories. Legends.
I grew up far from TX but I can’t tell you how many kids were oilers fans because of this guy 👍
As a kid my favorite VHS tape was called the "Super 70's" and it was a NFL documentary. It was about the running backs of the 70's and is a must see!!! ( Earl Campbell, o.j Simpson, Tony Dorsett, Franco Harris, Walter Payton and etc.)
Earl was the Oilers no disrespect to a lot of other guys who played for the franchise but he was a locomotive and pretty much carried the whole team on his back! Also one of the most soft spoken and kind people you could ever have the privilege to meet ! Much respect Mr Campbell !!!
I loved watching him run. He was a show all by himself. Earl was an Ole school steamroller!!
Never a fan of the Oilers but Earl Campbell was the best I've ever seen. He was simply run to death by the Oilers resulting in a relatively short career. That Monday Night Game against Miami was incredible.
This video was very enlightening. Earl Campbell was one of a kind and a rare gem. If Campbell played for a better team, his stats would have been even more impressive.
Not necessarily....If he played on a team that had better offensive players, the offensive firepower would have been spread out more, and Campbell may not have gotten the ball as much, so his stats may have been less impressive.
In my early teens, I was privileged to watch this man play on Sundays. More than 40 years watching the NFL, and yet to see any other back as POWERFUL and productive. The original “Beast Mode “ Earl Campbell.
Definitely one of my favorite RBs of all time & playing with him on MUT is a blast
watching him was thrilling - will never forget the monday nite miami game !! remember like yesterday
Will never forget Notre Dame skunking UT 40-O for the Championship after Texas had gone unbeaten all season. They even had Earl's number that day. We were in shock. But watching Earl run was really thrilling! And as a Houstonian l can tell you Earl was the pride of the city when he ran over opposing players. Affable and genuine, a real Texas gentleman.
I wore 34 when I played in the 80s, because of Earl Campbell. He was faster than many DBs, stronger than the DL, and liked to run people over. He always seemed like a good person, who played hard, and enjoyed the game.
He was my childhood hero and am very happy for him to receive the recognition he deserves there is truly no one like him
One of my favorite all time players. Never saw anyone run as hard...or get up so slow.
If you had a chance to watch hoofball in the 70 and 80s, you knew who EC was, wasn't the type to go around, so glad to c this man get recognition for being a great ball player, still much respected to this day, coming from a raider fan for life!
Meet him once at a BBQ at my dad's friend's house warming party! and Earl was cooking. He gave me the best advice at running back. Was the best advice. And one of the nicessed men I have ever took advice from
Thanks so much for this video tribute of a great player and man. The term "great" is used a lot, but it certainly applies to the Tyler Rose, Earl Campbell.
As a kid l idolized this man. What a Legend! Earl Campbell was the Houston Oilers offense! Every game he played was literally Earl against the entire opposing team and most of the time they were outmatched! Shame he never won a Superbowl. Earl Campbell The GOAT!
54 years old native Texan. Loved the Cowboys but other than Staubach, Houston Oiler Earl Campbell was my favorite player
I met Earl back in the 90s. While he was a beast on the field, you could not have meet a more humble and soft spoken man, anywhere.
My All-Time Fave Player!!!❤❤❤
I loved watching Earl Campbell. Modest strong and tough. A man who never forgot where he came from. It was a privelage to watch him punish defenders
I'm a diehard Browns fan, but I watched Earl whenever Houston was on TV. He was absolutely amazing. It is just sad the condition he is in now. Football beat him up bad.
This channel can easily get 1 mill all your contents are greaaat
Always rooted for those Oilers teams.
Watching him live he was the most amazing runner ever. His gift was insane. OJ, Gayle, Emmitt take a back seat. Raw power that has never been matched. Everyone knew he was getting the pigskin but he just ran over all. Including his own team players. Such a joy to watch. Jim brown is the only one that is equal or if you think, better. Insane power and vision.
Bo?
Man oh man he was thrilling to watch as a kid! We had season tix for I think $20-30 each face value and wow it was exciting to watch him!!! We also had Billy “white shoes” Johnson on special teams and he also made for some exciting moments. Miss the Luv Ya Blue but the new Houston Texans are looking good. Earl was and is the best of the best and will always have a special place in Houston ❤s!!!
So glad I was fortunate enough to be around to have seen Earl Campbell in his prime. He plowed through Defenses like fully load Mack truck and trailer. He was a nearly unstoppable beast. He crushed through my Chargers D back then like they were a college B team!
Earl was my favorite growing up even though I’m from NY. Guy was a tank…
I watch this dude play when I was a kid. This Man Was A Beast!
Sacrificed way too much for his team. Thank you, Earl for your great performances. 🙏🏽💯⚘️🏈