Tag Archives: skybox 1992

Schroeder, Jay ‘Schraider’

pset89 jschroeder sco89 jschroeder

Cards: ProSet 1989, Score 1989, Action Packed 1991, SkyBox 1992
Acquired:  TTM 2016, C/o Home
Sent: 1/29    Received:  2/6   (8  days)

Jay Schroeder had a solid career at UCLA but decided to pursue baseball instead. After kicking the tires around in the minor leagues, Schroeder declared for the NFL draft in 1984. He’d be selected by the Washington Redskins in the 3rd round and ride the bench behind Joe Theismann.  After a grizzly injury to Theismann ended his career prematurely, Schroeder stepped in and threw for a franchise high 4106 yards in 1986. He’d earn his only Pro Bowl appearance after the season. Jay had a really nice touch on the long bomb. This was ap91 jschroederevidenced by him leading the league in yards gained per pass completion- a feat he’d accomplish 3 separate times over his career.

He’d separate his shoulder in the season opener in 1987, and consequently lose his starting job to veteran Doug Williams who had the hot hand at the time. Schroeder asked for a trade and the Redskins acquiesced, trading him and some conditional draft picks to the Raiders in exchange for Jim Lachey.

sky92 jschroederJay played his next 5 seasons for the Raiders. His best season came in 1990 when he led LA to the AFC Championship game agains the Buffalo Bills. The team posted a 12-4 record and he threw 19 touchdowns to only 9 interceptions. In 1991 the Raiders drafted Todd Marinovich to eventually replace Jay.  By 1993 Jay was allowed to bolt from the Raiders, where he signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, starting 3 games as David Klingler‘s backup. The following year he’d hop over to the Arizona Cardinals and split snaps under center with both Steve Beuerlein and Jim McMahon, posting a 5-3 record.

After the season Jay retired. A solid signer, as of 2016, he’s a coach at the high school level and signed these 4 cards for me lightning fast.

G/GS  118/99       ATT 2808     COMP 1426     YDS 20063      PCT 50.8%
TD  114    INT 108      RAT  71.7

RUSH  242      YDS 761        AVG 3.1      TD 5      LG 31

Novacek, Jay (2)

scosup90 novacekphomem novacek

sky92 novaceknovacekCards: Skybox 1992, GameDay 1992, Photo Memorabilia, Score Supplemental 1990
Acquired: IP, Bass Pro Shop Grand Opening 6/10/15
See Also: Jay Novacek

gday92 novacekAs far as tight ends go, Jay Novacek was one of the best to play for the Cowboys. He continues to draw decent crowds to autograph signings he attends. I had not been able to get Jay since early in- I guess 1992 training camp. I heard he was appearing at the Bass Pro Shops Grand Opening with Tony Stewart and a few other rodeo and outdoors/ firearms specialists.  It was an absolute zoo. I got there about an hour early and it was a hassle just to park. From there, we were all herded into the hot parking lot- with no water, and promises from an annoying woman that the store opening was at 6PM.  Beyond that we were told that the autograph signing was on the right as we entered the front door. Well when we finally got in, it wasn’t until after the grand opening ceremony that ended at 630. None of us were perepared for the ensuing chaos. I got directed not once- but three times to different lines, before I actually got in the right one.  It then took 2 hours to get to Jay.

He was nice enough to sign three cards and throw in a photo. When I asked him if he was ever going to grow back his mustache, he looked at me like I was a crazy person and said, “Why would I ever do that?”

Brooks, Bill (2)

pset89 bbrookssco89 bbrookssky92 bbrookssco90 bbrooks

Cards: Score 1990, Score 1989, ProSet 1989, SkyBox 1992
Acquired: TTM 2014, C/o Home
Sent:  3/11    Received: 3/22  (11 days)
See also: Bill Brooks

Some really nice cards of Bill Brooks here I just had to get signed. His ProSet 1989/ Score 1989, (virtually the same photo) are seminal classics.  A true testament to the addage that commitment and dedication will pay off, Brooks did not make waves when he arrived at Boston College, but as time wore on he became an impressive future NFL prospect. He finished his collegiate career as the Golden Eagles all time leading receiver with 228 receptions, for 3,579 yards and 32 touchdowns.  Dependable and always giving 100% each game, Brooks has gone on to become undeniably is one of the most popular players in Indianapolis Colts history, with a career on par with fellow 1986 draftee Ernest Givins.  Although his career has taken him to both AFC East rival Buffalo and then later to Washington where he finished his career, Brooks always remained close and kept his home in Indianapolis.

Bill Brooks name is often forgotten outside of Inianapolis. With greats such as Raymond Berry coming before him, and Marvin Harrison, and Reggie Wayne afterwards, -it’s easy to see why the understated Brooks, who played during some of the most arduous years in team history is often forgotten.