Bob Shaw

A mere 58 years ago, Bob Shaw established a new measuring stick for NFL receivers.

What’s more, he did so during a time when passing was nothing more than a fancy new concept to work as a footnote in the days of a run-first, and second, NFL.

Shaw was playing for the Chicago Cardinals, who were coached by the legendary Curly Lambeau. It was in October of 1950 when he caught five touchdowns in a single game.

How crazy was that record? Well, only 10 players had more than five touchdown catches for the entire 1950 season!

Not to mention, he was a rookie!

Shaw set his record against the Colts in a 55-13 win. Quarterback Jim Hardy completed eight passes to Shaw, for a total of 165 yards. He reeled in touchdowns of 40, 9, 19, 18 and 28 yards, and finished the season with a career-high 48 receptions, 971 yards and 12 scores.

In his three previous years combined, Shaw only caught 31 passes for 598 yards and eight touchdowns.

Just to make sure you understand how outstanding the record-setting performance was, consider this: Shaw’s record has never been surpassed! In fact, it’s only been tied twice.

Kellen Winslow did it in 1981. Then, in 1990, it was accomplished by Jerry Rice. Both of them are currently in the NFL Hall of Fame.

Not too shabby, is it?

Here’s some Old School Love to Bob Shaw, one of the most underrated receivers the league’s ever seen.