Steve Young has encountered seemingly insurmountable challenges at every step of his football career. As a freshman at Brigham Young University, he was the Cougars? eighth string quarterback. After working his way into a starting role, Young had the dubious honor of living up to the legacy of BYU passing legend Jim McMahon. Following BYU, Young signed with the Los Angeles Express of the fledgling United States Football League, but the league folded after a handful of mediocre seasons. His next team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, were perennial doormats in the National Football League.
When he finally signed with the competitive and respected San Francisco 49ers, Young was relegated to a backup role behind Joe Montana, then considered the greatest NFL quarterback ever. When at last he replaced Montana in the 49er lineup, the media and 49er fans forced Young to live in his predecessor?s shadow.Though under continuous pressure, Young never lost touch with his own identity. Whether scrambling to avoid the clutches of blitzing linebackers or trying to live up to impossible expectations placed on him by 49er fans, Young remained devoted to community, religion, and his fierce desire to succeed.
Young?s focus and tenacity culminated in his legendary performance in Super Bowl XXIX. After a long wait, Steve Young finally emerged on top. Against all odds, he became the quintessential hero, a man millions of fans respect and admire. This is the story of his triumph.About the Author
Laury Livsey is a writer and editor in Salt Lake City, where he lives with his wife and two children. His articles have appeared in numerous national magazines and newspapers.
When he finally signed with the competitive and respected San Francisco 49ers, Young was relegated to a backup role behind Joe Montana, then considered the greatest NFL quarterback ever. When at last he replaced Montana in the 49er lineup, the media and 49er fans forced Young to live in his predecessor?s shadow.Though under continuous pressure, Young never lost touch with his own identity. Whether scrambling to avoid the clutches of blitzing linebackers or trying to live up to impossible expectations placed on him by 49er fans, Young remained devoted to community, religion, and his fierce desire to succeed.
Young?s focus and tenacity culminated in his legendary performance in Super Bowl XXIX. After a long wait, Steve Young finally emerged on top. Against all odds, he became the quintessential hero, a man millions of fans respect and admire. This is the story of his triumph.About the Author
Laury Livsey is a writer and editor in Salt Lake City, where he lives with his wife and two children. His articles have appeared in numerous national magazines and newspapers.
