The man who made a career of delivering the ball to Joe Namath still prides himself on the center-quarterback exchange. Just like old times, John Schmitt is the initiator, especially when the calendar says Jan. 12. Instead of snapping, he's yapping.
"Every year, I always call Joe and say, 'Hey, remember this day?'" the old center said with a laugh that shook his entire body.
He's referring to Jan. 12, 1969, and, yes, Namath remembers. On that day in Miami's Orange Bowl, the AFL champion New York Jets -- mocked as an afterthought in Super Bowl III -- stunned the NFL champion Baltimore Colts 16-7.