Former San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore had plenty of success during his 10 seasons in the Bay Area, thanks in part to an offensive line anchored by Joe Staley.

In fact, Gore thinks he and Staley are the best running back–offensive tackle duo in NFL history.

Staley replied in turn, calling Gore “HOF Frank.”

Gore and Staley were teammates from 2007 until 2014. In that time, Gore was named to three Pro Bowls and he rushed for over 1,000 yards in every year except 2010, when Gore missed five games due to injury.

Staley was just as productive in that span. He overcame injuries in 2009 and 2010 to be named to five consecutive Pro Bowls with the Niners.

The former Niners stars are in different situations ahead of the 2020 season.

Gore is preparing for Year 16 after signing with the New York Jets this offseason. Staley, meanwhile, announced his retirement shortly before San Francisco traded for former Washington offensive tackle Trent Williams.

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It remains to be seen just how much more productive Gore can be as he enters the twilight of his career. The former University of Miami star averaged 4.6 yards per carry with his hometown Dolphins in 2018. But he was less effective in Buffalo last season, averaging just 3.6 yards per carry in 16 games with the Bills.

Gore is currently third on the all-time rushing list, and he is unlikely to pass Walter Payton barring something sensational.

Nonetheless, Gore is a borderline Hall of Famer, and he feels his partnership with Staley was one of the best in league history.