cover image MY GREATEST DAY IN FOOTBALL: The Legends of Football Recount Their Greatest Moments

MY GREATEST DAY IN FOOTBALL: The Legends of Football Recount Their Greatest Moments

, . . St. Martin's, $24.95 (320pp) ISBN 978-0-312-27211-1

In the latest edition of his Greatest Day series (My Greatest Day in NASCAR), McCullough interviewed 29 football players and coaches about their superlative moments in professional and college football. Though sometimes rambling, the oral histories are refreshingly candid; McCullough does not direct his subjects' reminiscences beyond posing the initial question. By giving people like former Philadelphia Eagle star Chuck Bednarik, Monday Night Football commentator Frank Gifford (inducted into the Hall of Fame for his stellar offense with the Giants in the 1950s), and Steve Largent, Seattle Seahawks receiver in the 1980s free rein, McCullough captures the flavor of football in particular eras. Moreover, he doesn't edit their words, so readers get a real sense of the voice and personality of each subject. Super Bowl games by far take the lead in these recollections, but a few people chose other glorious events: election to the Hall of Fame, the chance to play alongside their own heroes, repeatedly sacking a longstanding rival. Paul Krause movingly recounts his wife's recovery from a six-month coma and, immediately thereafter, his own election to the Hall of Fame. A brief introductory paragraph about each player and coach provides some context, though more background information would prove helpful for nonaficionados. But fans and addicts will take hold of this book. Photos not seen by PW. (Oct. 8)