A true legend was hurt in a car accident today. Jim Marshall (Minnesota Vikings) was one of the purple people eaters in the 60's and 70's. The Vikings of that era were and probably still are the greatest team to have never won a Superbowl. Bills fans may argue that point and rightfully so.
Ex-Viking Marshall breaks vertebra, ribs in car accident
July 10, 2001
SportsLine.com wire reports
ROCHESTER, Minn. -- Jim Marshall, the former Minnesota Viking who started more games than any defensive player in NFL history, broke a vertebra and some ribs in an auto accident.
Marshall, who was recovering at the Mayo Clinic, was injured Friday. A hospital statement did not give details of the accident.
The 63-year-old Marshall, diagnosed with cancer last year, said he is in pain but he could be released in a few days.
He still plans to attend his annual charity golf tournament for Life's Missing Link next Monday. Marshall is co-founder of the nonprofit organization, which helps troubled youth.
"I may not be able to swing a club next week in the tournament, but I will be there to cheer on the many people who help support Life's Missing Link," he said.
Marshall played in 270 consecutive games from 1961-79 with the Vikings, appearing in four Super Bowls and two Pro Bowls. He holds the NFL record for most defensive starts (282).
He might be best known for running the wrong way after picking up a fumble in a game in San Francisco in 1964. The play resulted in a safety, but Minnesota won anyway 27-22.
AP NEWS
The Associated Press News Service
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