Rob Huizenga was the team doctor for the Oakland Raiders during a time when they were among the premier teams in the NFL. His contribution to the team, his relationships with key players including the ultimately moving case of John "The Tooz" Matuszak, and the ominpresent figure of Al Davis are all detailed in loving attention.

Huizenga could have written this book from a bitter perspective but it isn't, it's a thoughtful and seemingly fair account of the highs and lows of the period including the highs and lows of Huizenga himself.

If you've ever wondered how players can bounce back from terrible collisions, or what it takes to go through the suffering barrier in the NFL then this book is definitely for you. It also covers the thorny issue of illegal drug use, and makes no bones about the habits of some players.

Football fans and especially Raiders fans will love the insight into the players of that era. Non-football fans, and even non-Americans like me can marvel at the Americana, and the unique sporting perspective that a physician can have in a sporting world that revolves around injury and pain. ( )