New York Giants: 30 greatest players in franchise history

It’s easy to overlook one of the game’s most unheralded positions of center, and the stars that shine in that role. While not the greatest center in Giants history, Bart Oates certainly belongs on this list for all that he accomplished while wearing the blue and white.

The leader of the New York offensive line during the Bill Parcells era, Oates made things happen along that front-five. On top of being the leader of the group, he was an unstoppable force in the trenches, starring as both a run blocker and pass protector. I’m sure Phil Simms would tell you all about how special of a talent Oates was.

During his stay with the Giants, Oates earned his way onto three Pro Bowl rosters and helped New York win two Super Bowls. His blocking was a key to those two championship runs, allowing some of the Giants’ top offensive talents of the era to move the ball and put large amounts of points on the scoreboard.

What was equally impressive about Oates was his consistency. As a Giant, he missed only four games, and started an amazing 125 consecutive contests. Although he eventually left and spent two more campaigns with the San Francisco 49ers, his prime years were undoubtedly spent with the G-Men.