CINCINNATI — Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was preparing for his second NFL season when he saw someone he once met in passing.
Well, it was really through tackling. In a 2014 Ohio state championship game, Burrow was playing for Athens High School as a defensive back, trying to stop Toledo Central Catholic and running back Michael Warren II from scoring the game-winning touchdown.
On the final drive, Warren caught a quick pass and went upfield. Burrow was ready. He launched toward Warren’s legs, stopping the running back’s momentum. Even though Warren stayed on his feet and gained a few more yards, he was briefly shaken up on the play.
Inside the Black Sheep Performance gym in the Cincinnati area this summer, Burrow saw Warren again. And with a big grin, Burrow said Warren told him that was the hardest he’s been hit by someone who made their name on offense.
“That’s what he said,” Burrow said.
Whether it was in high school, in college at Ohio State and LSU or in the NFL, Burrow has earned a certain reputation, unique among offensive stars.
“I think he plays football like a defensive player sometimes,” Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan said, adding that Cincinnati coach Zac Taylor quipped that Burrow plays like a linebacker. “Contact has never been something he’s been afraid of. It doesn’t bother him. I think that’s what makes him unique.”
When the Bengals beat the Kansas City Chiefs to win the AFC championship, Burrow made history. He became the first quarterback to be sacked more than 50 times in the regular season to reach the Super Bowl, according to ESPN Stats & Information.
Cincinnati will face the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl LVI on Feb. 13, largely because of its quarterback who relishes the physical side of the game perhaps more than most at his position.
‘Joey’s a very fearless person’
Source : espn
