Longtime fans of the National Football League might remember how Boomer Esiason, now an analyst with CBS, played the quarterback position. During his time in the league, the left-handed passer was known for his ball-handling skills. Esiason’s ability to sell run action set up many a touchdown pass during his NFL career.
Perhaps in the CBS Studios in New York City, a smile came across Esiason’s face when he saw Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa on this touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings:
Tua rolls left and throws a touchdown! #FinsUp
📺: #NYGvsMIA on FOX
📱: NFL app pic.twitter.com/YxRVfzeemD— NFL (@NFL) December 5, 2021
Tagovailoa subtly sells this run fake, taking the time to look back at the running back to sell the run action. He then rolls out to his left, finding Isaiah Ford for the short touchdown.
If you have not seen footage of Esiason carrying out his run fakes, let Pat Summerall and John Madden take you back to his days with the New York Jets:
Perhaps the next time you hear a comparison for Tagovailoa, Boomer Esiason will be the player he is compared.