"Life's But a Walking Shadow"

By TJ Troup

Many times we learn to never say never, yet my final book is in print. The twists and turns to complete this book has been a challenge. Still learning about the publishing world (some of which is very distasteful), but Hazel Samson at Panda Publishing delivered and kept her word. 

Though have won a couple writing awards, this is by far the best work have ever done. Much more detailed, and hopefully enlightening, and entertaining. There are always folks who enjoy historical narratives on pro football, and since I have film on the season to enhance the writing, hopefully, there will be some of you who purchase a copy. 

The 2024 season is upon us, and tonight will be on my couch, smokehouse almonds and Dr. Pepper in front of me watching the Chiefs and Ravens. Quoting Steve Sabol, "There are 32 puzzles to figure out" and the stories, and critiques of all the games will keep us all interested until the silver trophy is handed out in February. 

Steve Sabol

Recently have done extensive research on the season of 1940, and when Sean Foreman at Pro Football Reference decides he wants accurate and complete box scores for that season ... he can get the data/stats from me. 

Finally, every year there are men that are chosen for the Hall of the Very Good, and am surprised that over the years Frank Reagan has not been chosen. 

He contributed during his rookie season of '41, then served our country as a Marine in WWII. Returning to the Giants in '46 he had a spectacular game against the Rams in December, and played in the title game against the Bears. During '47 he was a far-ranging safety who tied for the interception crown, and he continued his stellar play in '48. Reagan intercepted 17 passes in a seventeen-game span. 

How many players in any era can make that claim? Though three times as a Giant he intercepted three passes in a game, he was traded to the Eagles and in 1949 he solified an already outstanding defense, and became a champion. After two more years with the Eagles he retired. When his career ended he had surpassed Sammy Baugh for the most interceptions in a career with 35! He would hold the record for just one year, since Emlen Tunnell would intercept his 36th pass in '52. 

During his sparkling and versatile career, he punted, returned punts, played tailback, and of course played in the secondary. Closing this narrative, the title is a quote from Billy Shakespeare, "Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage, and then is heard no more." 

Might be a few men this season that live that quote.

Editor's note: T.J. Troup's book can be purchased for $24.99 plus shipping directory for him. You can e-mail him at zeuglodon446@gmail.com for more details.