Dawkins or Lynch To The HOF?

Unable to catch on with a team this season, S John Lynch is set to announce his retirement. As an Eagles fan I could care less, but the news did get me to thinking...as a safety getting into the HOF is rare, does Lynch have a better shot then Dawkins?

It's not as close as one would think. The numbers and the accolades are close, but (even with my obvious bias) it appears that Dawkins would have the edge...

• Lynch: 15 seasons, average of 3.3 tackles per game, 16 FF, 13 sacks, and 26 interceptions
• Dawkins: 13 seasons, average of 3.9 tackles per game, 29 FF, 20 sacks, 33 interceptions, and 3 TDs

In 2.5 fewer seasons, Dawkins leads in all of the significant statistical categories. To make the argument complete, we also have to factor in the awards. Lynch was a 9 time Pro Bowler and a 2-time first-team All-Pro. Dawkins is (still a chance for more) a 6-time Pro Bowler and a 4-time first-team All-Pro. Looking at both accolades, I call this area even.

I guess the only area that Lynch has the one up on Dawkins is titles. Dawkins can thank fellow S Blane Bishop for allowing Lynch to get his one ring.

So if only one of these guys gets in, I can't see how Dawkins would miss out.