Denver Broncos Countdown to Kickoff: 57 Days

Tom Jackson uttered one of the most famous phrases in Broncos history. Upon recovering a fumble late in a week 5 game in 1977, Tom Jackson ran over to Raiders head coach John Madden and yelled "It's All Over Fatman!!!". The Broncos went on to win the game 30-7. It was a big win for the Broncos as it marked a victory against the defending super bowl champions and of course our most hated rival.

Tom Jackson along with Randy Gradishar were two of the Broncos top linebackers from that famed 3-4 Orange Crush defense. Jackson was a bit undersized--what you would call a "tweener." He's similar to current Broncos LB Wesley Woodyard who played OLB at about 220 last season. Tom was 5'11" and 220 lbs. I suppose back in the 70's it wouldn't have been too undersized given the fact that Rubin Carter our starting NT was about 260-270. Something that has stuck out to me about Jackson's production is he seemed to be around the ball all the time.

In a six year span from 1974 to 1979 Tom intercepted 18 passes to go along with 4 fumble recoveries. Though sacks were not tracked as individuals in the 70's, they were in the 80's and in back to back seasons in 83-84 Tom averaged 6.0 sacks per season. Tom made three consecutive pro bowl teams from 1977-1979 and was named first team all pro in 1977.

I didn't have the pleasure of watching Mr. Jackson play so I'll leave you with some hits by him and the esteemed Randy Gradishar.

Cool 57 Factoid:

Tom Jackson was inducted into the Broncos Ring of Fame in 1992.

Notable Broncos to wear #57:

Tom Jackson 1973-1986

Allen Aldridge 1994-1997

Mario Haggan 2008-2011

Current Bronco wearing #57:

None

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