Happy John Brodie Day

Today is December 12, 2012, which of course means it's 12/12/12. It's really not the most exciting thing in the world, but I suppose it is a little bit interesting. New England Patriots fans took it upon themselves to turn it into Tom Brady Day, which is just a little bit obnoxious.

I thought we could at least provide an alternative for that, and also cite one player's potentially deserving case Pro Football Hall of Fame. The number 12 jersey was retired in honor of quarterback John Brodie. Trent Dilfer wore it during his brief stint, but he had received permission from Brodie as a way to help publicize Brodie's case for the Hall of Fame.

Brodie was never a superstar in the league, but he quietly was a solid presence for the 49ers. That probably did not help his case, but there are arguments to be made that he belongs in the Hall of Fame. There are 15 quarterbacks with fewer yards and fewer touchdowns in the Hall, and 16 with fewer completions. I realize each case deserves its own context, but it seems like Brodie's case suffered in part because of the lack of postseason success.

For now though, enjoy John Brodie Day!