The Greatest NFL Player from UCLA: Troy Aikman vs Jonathan Ogden

When it comes to the greatest NFL player to come out of UCLA, opinions can vary widely. From quarterbacks like Troy Aikman to defensive linemen like Jonathan Ogden, the talent pool from the University of California, Los Angeles is deep and rich. In this article, we delve into the history of UCLA football and explore the argument for why Jonathan Ogden might be the greatest player to represent the Bruins.

Background of UCLA Football

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) football program has a storied history, with a number of standout players making significant contributions to the sport. From legendary figures like Billy Kilmer and Jay Schroeder to recent stars such as Anthony Barr and Miles Jack, UCLA has had a lasting impact on NFL history.

Troy Aikman: The Super Bowl Legend

When most people think of the greatest UCLA player, their minds immediately turn to Troy Aikman. A former quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, Aikman won three Super Bowls and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006. His career was defined by his exceptional talent, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure. Despite being married to fellow football fan Kim Lee Aikman, Aikman managed to establish himself as one of the all-time greats in the sport.

Jonathan Ogden: A Defensive Lineman's Legacy

While Troy Aikman might be the most famous name from UCLA, Jonathan Ogden represents a different facet of the program's success. Ogden was a defensive tackle who played for the Baltimore Ravens for his entire 13-year NFL career, a span that saw him become a five-time Pro Bowl selection and an eleven-time first-team All-Pro. Ogden is perhaps best known for winning two Super Bowl rings with the Indianapolis Colts and for his meticulous approach to his craft, often referred to as the 'Grocery Cart Nose Tackle.' His dedication to his role and his unwavering consistency made him a cornerstone of the Ravens' defensive line.

Comparing Aikman and Ogden: A Historical Analysis

The debates about which player is greater often rely on quantifiable achievements, such as Super Bowl victories, Pro Bowls, and All-Pro recognitions. Troy Aikman's storied career, spanning from the 1980s to the early 2000s, saw him lead the Dallas Cowboys to three Super Bowl victories, all in the 1990s. Aikman's role was central to the team's success, as he was the primary playmaker and leader.

Jonathan Ogden, on the other hand, had a long NFL career that spanned two separate franchises. His 13 seasons with the Ravens and Colts were marked by his durability and reliability. Ogden's legacy is perhaps more understated but no less significant. He was a master technician in a position known for its physical demands, and his play was pivotal in both teams' defensive lines. While he never won as many individual awards as Aikman, Ogden's impact on the game was profound in his own right.

The Debate: Fame vs. Impact

The argument for Troy Aikman as the greatest UCLA player is compelling, largely due to his Super Bowl victories and the fame that came with them. However, the argument for Jonathan Ogden is equally strong, if not more so. Ogden's consistent excellence and his contributions to the sport through years of top-tier play make a compelling case for his greatness. The debate ultimately comes down to one's personal views on what makes a player 'greatest'—is it their accolades or their overall impact on the game?

Legacy of UCLA Football

UCLA football has a rich legacy filled with players who have left their mark on the sport. The inclusion of players like Troy Aikman and Jonathan Ogden in that legacy is a testament to the program's success and the high level of talent it has produced. Fans and scholars will continue to weigh the merits of each, and each era of the program will undoubtedly have its own impact on the discourse.

Regardless of who is ultimately deemed the greatest, it is clear that UCLA's football program has been a source of pride for many star athletes and a fertile ground for NFL talent. As we look to the future, one thing is certain: UCLA will continue to produce standout athletes who will make a mark on NFL history.