Synopsis
"Behind the Lines: A Veteran Quarterback's Look Inside the NFL" by Don Strock, co-authored with Harvey Frommer and featuring an introduction by Dan Marino, offers an introspective and candid glimpse into the life and career of a seasoned NFL backup quarterback. Published in 1991 by Pharos Books, the 223-page hardcover chronicles Strock’s 17-year tenure in the league, primarily with the Miami Dolphins, where he spent 15 seasons, alongside brief stints with the Cleveland Browns and Indianapolis Colts. Strock, a fifth-round pick in the 1973 NFL Draft out of Virginia Tech, never achieved the stardom of starting quarterbacks like Bob Griese or Dan Marino, whom he backed up during his Dolphins years, but his role as a reliable substitute gave him a unique vantage point on the game. The book promises behind-the-scenes revelations, delivering a mix of personal anecdotes, reflections on the NFL’s inner workings, and commentary on the sport’s culture during his era, from the 1970s through the late 1980s.
Strock’s narrative centers on his experiences as a perennial backup, a position that required him to stay perpetually prepared yet often relegated him to the sidelines. He details his contributions to the Dolphins, including his presence during three Super Bowl appearances, notably the undefeated 1972-73 season (though as a "taxi squad" member) and losses in 1982 and 1984. One of the book’s highlights is his recounting of the iconic 1982 AFC Divisional Playoff game against the San Diego Chargers, dubbed "The Epic in Miami," where he came off the bench to lead a stunning comeback from a 24-0 deficit, throwing for 403 yards and four touchdowns, only to fall short in a 41-38 overtime defeat. This game, marked by the famous "Hook and Lateral" play, underscores Strock’s capability and resilience, qualities that define his career. Beyond this, he shares insights into his role as a play-caller and strategist, often tasked with analyzing opponents and relaying plays, offering readers a look at the mental demands of the quarterback position beyond the physical spotlight.
The book also explores broader NFL themes through Strock’s eyes, touching on controversial topics like drug use—particularly steroids and painkillers—strikes, women in the locker room, and the personalities of his teammates and coaches. He praises figures like Don Shula, the winningest coach in NFL history, and Hall of Famers Griese and Marino, while refraining from salacious gossip, a choice that distinguishes his account from more sensational sports memoirs. Strock’s observations are grounded in his era, reflecting a league less dominated by media scrutiny and more by on-field grit. He includes a list of top players from his time, complete with analysis, catering to dedicated football fans eager for historical context. However, critics note the book’s pedestrian style and lack of dramatic flair; it reads more like a diary than a gripping exposé, with revelations—such as players urinating on the bench due to limited bathroom access—offering quirky rather than earth-shattering insights.
For all its strengths, "Behind the Lines" has its limitations. Strock’s restrained approach, possibly influenced by the book’s early 1990s publication when Marino and Shula were still active, leaves some stories untold or softened, disappointing readers craving deeper dirt on the Dolphins’ golden years. The writing, shaped by Frommer’s prolific but straightforward style, lacks the polish to elevate it beyond a niche sports memoir. Fans of the Dolphins or Strock himself may find it a treasure trove of nostalgia and insider perspective, appreciating his candidness about the backup’s life and the camaraderie of the locker room. Yet, for a general audience, it may fall short of being a must-read, offering a patchwork of memories rather than a cohesive, thrilling narrative. Ultimately, it’s a solid, if unremarkable, addition to NFL literature, best suited for those with a passion for football history and an interest in the unsung heroes behind the lines.