Dave Herman

Dave Herman (born September 3, 1941 in Bryan, Ohio) is a former American collegiate and professional football offensive guard. He played collegiately for Michigan State University. He spent his entire 1964-1973 professional career with the New York Jets.

1968 season
Dave Herman was the starting right guard for the New York Jets during the 1968 season. His fellow starting offensive linemen that year included left tackle Winston Hill, left guard Randy Rasmussen, center John Schmidt, and right tackle Sam Walton.

In preparation for Super Bowl III, Jets coach Weeb Ewbank moved Dave Herman from right guard to right tackle to defend against Baltimore Colts' defensive lineman Bubba Smith. Bob Talamini replaced Herman at right guard and Sam Walton, a rookie, was benched.

Herman's ability to neutralize the pass rush of Bubba Smith enabled Joe Namath to enjoy a solid game passing, hitting on 17 of 28 passes. It also helped open the running lanes for Jet fullback Matt Snell, who rushed for 121 yards as the Jets beat the heavily favored Colts 16-7.

While Joe Namath is known for "guaranteeing" the Jets' Super Bowl III victory, Dave Herman's performance against Bubba Smith and others on the Colts' defensive line helped make the cocky quarterback's pregame boast a reality. The Jets' offensive line play was a deciding factor in the team's Super Bowl III victory.