Elway, Sanders pace gridiron Hall of Fame hopefuls

0 Comments | AFP, January, 2004

HOUSTON, United States (AFP) — Two-time Super Bowl champion John Elway and Barry Sanders, the first rusher with 1,000 yards in 10 seasons, lead 15 finalists hoping to be elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame here Saturday.

Former Denver quarterback Elway and ex-Detroit running back Sanders are both eligible for induction into the American football honor shrine for the first time and are expected to make the grade with a 39-member selection committee.

The field will be trimmed to six candidates, at least three of whom will be inducted into the honored legends at ceremonies August 8 in Canton, Ohio.

Finalists must receive a minimum of 80 percent voting support to be elected.

Previous finalists once more seeking election include ex-New York Giants...