[Déjà Bru]

Originally Posted by Cobra Mgr

On November 16, 1980, two freight trains disguised as running backs—Walter Payton and Earl Campbell—shared a rare moment of levity after the Houston Oilers faced the Chicago Bears. Standing side by side, grinning despite the bruises, these future Hall of Famers embodied peak excellence and mutual respect.

That season, Campbell was unstoppable, leading the league with 1,934 rushing yards for a third straight year. His bruising runs left defenders clinging on desperately and fans in awe, establishing him as the Oilers’ offensive engine during one of the most dominant rushing campaigns in NFL history.

Across the field stood Walter Payton, “Sweetness.” Where Campbell used raw power, Payton’s style was elusive and graceful—yet just as tough. He finished second with 1,460 rushing yards, dazzling as the Bears’ cornerstone and routinely overcoming defenders with either agility or strength.

Their meeting that November transcended wins and losses; it was a moment between two legendary players who defined greatness. Their shared laugh reflected not just camaraderie, but a deep understanding of what it took to earn every yard, every cheer, and every place in history.

Both number 34's are now retired, of course, by the Bears and the Oilers/Titans.