March 17, 2021

Mel Blount on rule that carried his name, dominant Steelers defenses and importance of HBCUs + Is Patrick Peterson close to a free agency decision?

1 hour 16 minutes

There are different ways to measure dominance. Some may consider stats or accolades, but very few players come along that literally force changes to the way the game is played. Mel Blount, the latest guest on All Things Covered, was a game-changer! The 1975 Defensive Player of the Year was so dominant that the league instituted the 'Mel Blount Rule,' to limit the contact defensive backs could make with wide receivers. Blount joined the show to discuss his reaction to that rule (which happened while he was still active), the vaunted 1976 Steelers' defense, Terry Bradshaw's toughness and the role of HBCUs in the football landscape (28:15). But first, hosts Patrick Peterson and Bryant McFadden chop it up themselves. Pat has a big decision looming as he breaks down the feeling of being a free agent for the first time in his career (1:15). The guys also reflect on Drew Brees' career after the official retirement announcement was made (4:45). "Has Pat Heard!?" delivers as always (8:30) and we offer a great tease for our guest in "21 Questions." P2 and BMac rank their Top 5 cornerbacks ever (16:00). You don't want to miss their lists. Here's a spoiler though: our guest Mel Blount appears on both of their Top 5 rankings. Next it's time to welcome Mel to show (28:15) He discusses attending an HBCU and how they can regain some of their athletic prominence. You can't mention Mel Blount without bringing up the "Mel Blount Rule" as we dive into the emotions following the league deciding his style of play would be restricted moving forward. The 4-time Super Bowl champ comments on film study in the 1970s, massive differences in the locker room, the greatest Steelers quarterback of all time and why Chuck Noll is often overlooked as one of the greatest coaches ever. Finally, Superlatives with a DB and Pittsburgh focus!

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Produced by: @E_DeBerardinis

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