Steve Young leads with 65% of votes
See full Quarterback rankings →VS
Your GOAT List
What happens when a 1950s gridiron gladiator meets a 1990s scrambling maestro? Imagine a teleported Johnny Unitas, with his crew-cut and high-tops, squaring off against the fleet-footed Steve Young in his prime—this is not just a battle of quarterbacks, but a clash of eras. Unitas, the man who defined poise and precision in the pocket, versus Young, a symbol of mobility and modern quarterback athleticism. The stakes? Not just bragging rights, but a redefinition of greatness. What do we value more: the gritty foundation of the past or the dynamic evolution of the present?
In this battle:
Fans currently prefer Steve Young over Johnny Unitas when it comes to the greatest Quarterbacks of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick Steve Young 65.0% of the time over Johnny Unitas.
Across all battles:
Steve Young win rate: 38.1%
Johnny Unitas win rate: 29.4%
The matchup between Johnny Unitas and Steve Young represents a classic clash of eras and styles—Unitas's traditional, groundbreaking approach versus Young's mobile and innovative play. Fans are deeply invested in debating which style is more influential in shaping today's game.
Johnny Unitas's impact on the game is timeless. He's known for his cool under pressure and setting the foundations for modern quarterback play. Fans love him for his iconic status and the way he revolutionized the quarterback role, which keeps him highly respected in votes.
Fans really resonate with Steve Young's dynamic playstyle and leadership during crucial games. His ability to scramble and make plays outside the pocket is thrilling to watch, which gives him the edge in the fan votes against the classic pocket passer style of Johnny Unitas.