The Forgotten Feat: Mark Moseley’s Unbreakable Record
In the lulls of the sports calendar, a familiar debate emerges: what’s the most unbreakable record in sports? The usual suspects are cited: Cy Young’s 749 complete games, Wilt Chamberlain’s 50.4 points per game, and Gretzky’s 2,857 career points. However, there’s one record that stands out for its sheer improbability: Mark Moseley’s 1982 NFL MVP award as a kicker.
A Chance Encounter
While working on a blog about Lamar Odom’s unusual hobby, I stumbled upon an episode of Mostly Sports, where they were attempting to name every NFL MVP. They were stumped on the 1982 winner from the Washington Redskins, and I took it upon myself to investigate. That’s when I discovered Mark Moseley, a kicker who led his team to a Super Bowl victory in a strike-shortened season.
Underwhelming Stats, Unprecedented Achievement
Moseley’s statistics are surprising, to say the least. In his MVP season, he boasted an impressive 95.2% field goal percentage, but without a single kick over 50 yards. It’s astonishing, considering modern kickers are expected to make kicks from 60 yards out with ease. Moseley’s achievement is even more remarkable when you consider the era: kickers in the 1980s had a roughly 50% success rate.
A God-Like Feat
Moseley’s consistency was unparalleled in 1982. He set an NFL record with 23 straight field goals, carrying over from the previous season. His multiple game-winning kicks and crucial late-game performances earned him the respect of his peers. He led Washington to an 8-1 record, ultimately winning the MVP award as a kicker.
A Record That Will Stand the Test of Time
Mark Moseley’s achievement is unlikely to be replicated. The NFL has evolved, with more points scored than ever before. The league wouldn’t allow a kicker to be the face of the league, and it’s hard to imagine a team winning consistently with a kicker as the star player. Moseley’s record remains unbroken, a testament to his incredible feat.
A Shoutout to Mark Moseley
In an era where quarterbacks and running backs dominate the spotlight, Mark Moseley’s achievement is a reminder that sometimes, the unsung heroes make the most significant impact. His record may never be broken, but it will always be remembered as one of the most improbable in sports history.
Leave a Reply