Ep 5. Fearsome Foursome
- October 10, 2012
The episode "Fearsome Foursome" from season 2 of A Football Life delves into the history and legacy of the Los Angeles Rams' dominant defensive line of the 1960s. Led by NFL Hall of Famers Deacon Jones and Merlin Olsen, along with fellow Pro Bowlers Lamar Lundy and Rosey Grier, these four players terrorized quarterbacks and opposing offenses all across the league.
The episode begins with a brief overview of the Rams' struggles in the late 1950s and early 1960s, and how the team's management set out to build a team capable of competing for championships. One of their key acquisitions was Deacon Jones, a relatively unknown defensive end from Mississippi Valley State.
As the episode progresses, we learn about the unique personalities and playing styles of each member of the Fearsome Foursome. Deacon Jones was the undeniable leader of the group, with his trademark head slap move that often left opposing linemen dazed and confused.
Merlin Olsen, meanwhile, was the quiet giant in the middle of the line, using his immense strength and technique to disrupt plays and collapse pockets. Lamar Lundy was the smallest of the group, but made up for it with his agility and quickness off the edge, while Rosey Grier was a versatile player who could line up at defensive tackle or end depending on the situation.
Throughout the episode, we see how the Fearsome Foursome's dominance on the field translated to a larger cultural impact. They were the first NFL players to appear on a national television show (The Lucy Show), and even had a comic book series created about them.
We also learn about some of the challenges that the team faced off the field, particularly in terms of race relations. Rosey Grier was one of the first African American players on the Rams, and he speaks candidly in the episode about how he and his teammates dealt with discrimination and prejudice.
Another highlight of the episode is the inclusion of interviews with former opponents of the Fearsome Foursome, including Joe Namath, Fran Tarkenton, and Bob Griese. These quarterbacks share their memories of facing off against the legendary defensive line, and how they adjusted their gameplans to try and neutralize their impact.
Overall, "Fearsome Foursome" is a fascinating look into one of the most dominant units in NFL history, and the lasting impact that they had both on and off the field. Whether you're a diehard football fan or a casual viewer, this episode is sure to entertain and educate.
