L.C. Greenwood

By Allyson Turner..CBS Sports

When L.C. Greenwood stepped on the field, he wore gold shoes while the rest of his teammates wore black -- every game. As a result, the Pittsburgh Steelers were fined for a uniform violation -- every game. But how could they complain with four Super Bowl victories and seven division titles? From 1969-1981, Greenwood created enough problems for quarterbacks that translated into success for the Steelers. One of his best games came in Super Bowl IX when he deflected three of Fran Tarkenton's passes. In Super Bowl X, he sacked Roger Staubach three times. At 6-foot-6, 250 pounds, he unofficially recorded 73 1/2 sacks and 14 fumble recoveries during his career. As part of the legendary 'Steel Curtain,' Greenwood played on the left side with Joe Greene and the right with Ernie Holmes and Dwight White. Greenwood was named All-AFC four times in his career and played in six Pro Bowls.

In 1969, the same year the Steelers drafted Joe Greene, the team chose L.C. in the 10th round out of Arkansas Pine Bluff. In college, L.C. played both defensive end and tackle for three years. He was named defensive MVP by the team and was also Ebony All-America his senior season. In his first two years with the Steelers, Greenwood was a reserve but finally earned starter status in the 1971 season and led the team with 8 1/2 sacks. Currently LC resides in Pittsburgh and is president and owner of Greenwood Enterprises, an electrical supply, coal, natural gas and construction company.

For each of the following sports figures, what is the first thought that comes to mind?

  • Bill Cowher: I want to grow up and be a football coach.
  • Terry Bradshaw: Crazy.
  • Chuck Noll: Intelligent.
  • Jack Lambert: Smart.
  • Lynn Swann: Smooth.
  • Kordell Stewart: Talented.
  • Rayfield Wright: Good guy.
  • Joe Greene: Mean Joe Greene.
  • Jackie Slater: Big Bad Man.
  • Conrad Dobler: Sick.

    What was the significance of your gold shoes?
    We all live to be different or to be our own selves.

    If you still have them, where do you keep them?
    I keep the ones I have in a safe place.

    Who was the toughest offensive lineman you ever faced?
    Bob "Boomer" Brown.

    What was the highlight of your career?
    Four Super Bowls. The best defensive end in the league.

    Who do you most admire in football, past or present?
    Barry Sanders. He is a real pro.

    What is your fondest memory of playing football?
    The day I made the team.

    What are you most grateful for?
    The good Godly up-bringing.

    Do you have any regrets?
    That I didn't get my masters and doctorate degree.

    What do you miss most from playing?
    My teammates and payday.

    What don't you miss?
    The tough training and the hitting.

    Who was your greatest influence?
    My father.

    What is one word or phrase that you live by?
    Treat others the way I want to be treated.

    If you could come back and play today, which coach would you want to play for?
    None.

    If you could have anyone over your house for dinner, who would you invite?
    My mother.

    What is a typical day for you now?
    Get up and go to work just like everybody else.

    What is a perfect day?
    When I wake up in the morning.