Did an anti-New York bias cost former Giants star Harry Carson? Mike Powell /Allsport/Getty Images

Longtime Hall of Famer voter Paul Zimmerman spoke with SI.com shortly after the official panel of sports writers and broadcasters met in Jacksonville on Saturday to choose this year's class. Dan Marino, Steve Young, Friz Pollard and Bennie Friedman were elected.

SI.COM: What was the biggest surprise of the day?

Dr. Z: Personally the biggest shock was that Harry Carson made it to the final six, along with Michael Irvin, and they both got dinged. At that last stage, it's a simple yes/no vote, and if eight people vote against someone, they don't make it. I can understand Irvin, with his outspoken personality and colorful past. But Harry doesn't have a blemish on him. I imagine being from New York might have cost Carson at least a couple of votes because of an anti-New York bias in the room.

SI.COM: Did Harry Carson's request to not be considered for the Hall any more affect his chances?

Dr. Z: The Hall officials kept telling the voters not to consider that. But by repeatedly mentioning the situation, it just reminded voters of what Carson said and I think hurt his chances.

SI.COM: Who did you speak for?

Dr. Z: I spoke for Harry. As did my SI cohort Peter King. And I spoke for [former Dolphin] Bob Kuechenberg, who had made it to the last vote in the past, but not this year.

SI.COM: Who else did Peter King speak for?

Dr. Z: Russ Grimm, Carson, Steve Young ... the two security guards outside. Just about everybody. Peter was in a frenzy.

SI.COM: Did anyone else get a chance to speak?

Dr. Z: Yes, two guys. But Peter shouted them down quickly.

SI.COM: What happened to Derrick Thomas?

Dr. Z: The person who spoke for Thomas highlighted the incredible pass rushing skills, but made the mistake of mentioning that "some question his skills as an all-around linebacker." Once that was in voter's mind, it killed Thomas' chances.

SI.COM: How about Art Monk?

Dr. Z: Monk was hurt by Michael Irvin being eligible this year. It's done alphabetically, and Irvin was presented before Monk. I think that really hurt him.

SI.COM: Was anyone else close to making the final round?

Dr. Z: You had four locks for six spots in the final round. Dan Marino, Steve Young and the two old timers. And of the remaining guys, Irvin and Carson were going to be tough to top.