In the realm of American football, few names shine as brightly as Joseph Erwin Jacoby’s. Born on July 6, 1959, this American football icon made a lasting mark as an offensive tackle for the Washington Redskins in the National Football League (NFL). Jacoby’s legacy is built upon an incredible journey that saw him hoisting the coveted Lombardi Trophy three times during his tenure with the team.
College Stardom at the University of Louisville
Joseph Jacoby’s football journey commenced at the University of Louisville, where he showcased his exceptional talent from 1978 to 1980. During his college career, Jacoby emerged as a three-year letterman and, in his senior season, he had the honor of leading his team as co-captain. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport, Jacoby was rightfully inducted into Louisville’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2004. Despite his individual excellence, the team’s overall performance was a mixed bag during his time, with a 16-16 overall record over three seasons, only one winning season, and no appearances in Bowl games.
From Undrafted to NFL Superstar
Following his college career, Jacoby faced the daunting challenge of going undrafted. However, his story took a remarkable turn when he signed a free agent contract with the Washington Redskins in 1981. This marked the beginning of a truly enviable professional journey that would see him reach the pinnacle of the sport.
During his time with the Redskins, Jacoby became synonymous with success. He made four Super Bowl appearances, securing victory in three of them – Super Bowl XVII in 1983, Super Bowl XXII in 1988, and Super Bowl XXVI in 1992. His dominance on the field was further highlighted by his four consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 1983 to 1986.
The Hogs Legacy
Joseph Jacoby was not just an individual star; he was a key member of the Redskins’ legendary “Hogs” offensive line of the 1980s and early 1990s. This iconic group, also consisting of Jeff Bostic, Mark May, George Starke, and Russ Grimm, is considered one of the greatest front fives in NFL history. The “Hogs” became the backbone of the Redskins’ triumphant years during the first Joe Gibbs era.
One of the defining moments of Jacoby’s career was his role as the lead blocker in John Riggins’ famous touchdown run during Super Bowl XVII in 1983. This play secured the Redskins’ victory over the Dolphins and etched Jacoby’s name into Super Bowl history. In that game, the Redskins set a Super Bowl record with 276 rushing yards, a testament to the dominance of the “Hogs.” Five years later, during Super Bowl XXII, Jacoby and his fellow linemen helped the Redskins break that record once again, trampling over the Denver Broncos with a staggering 280 rushing yards on their way to the team’s second of three championships.
In the annals of NFL history, Joseph Erwin Jacoby’s name will forever be celebrated as a symbol of excellence, teamwork, and the pursuit of victory. His remarkable career and contributions to the sport continue to inspire football enthusiasts and serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Washington Redskins’ “Hogs.”
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