Versatile Legend

Thomas Roland Matte, born on June 14, 1939, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, carved out a remarkable football career defined by versatility, grit, and an unwavering commitment to his team. From an All-American college quarterback to a successful NFL running back and even an emergency signal-caller, Matte consistently proved his value on the gridiron.

✦ College Career

Matte attended Ohio State University, where he was a three-year letterman under legendary coach Woody Hayes from 1958-1960. While he began as a running back, he notably transitioned to quarterback in 1959 and 1960. In his senior year (1960), Matte earned First-Team All-Big Ten Conference honors as a quarterback and was named the team's Most Valuable Player. He finished seventh in the Heisman Trophy voting that year, showcasing his dual-threat abilities. Throughout his college career, Matte compiled 1,176 passing yards with 12 touchdowns and 868 rushing yards with 3 touchdowns. In 1960, he amassed 1,419 yards of total offense (737 passing, 682 rushing) and accounted for 10 touchdowns.

✦ Road to the Pro Game

Matte's impressive collegiate performance caught the eye of professional scouts. He was a first-round selection in the 1961 NFL Draft, taken 7th overall by the Baltimore Colts. He was also drafted by the New York Titans in the 5th round (34th overall) of the 1961 AFL Draft. Matte chose the NFL and remained with the Baltimore Colts for his entire 12-year professional career (1961-1972).

✦ Football Legacy

Tom Matte's legacy is defined by his adaptability and toughness. Though primarily a running back in the NFL, he etched his name in football lore during the 1965 season when, due to injuries to Johnny Unitas and his backup, Matte famously stepped in as an emergency quarterback for three games. Wearing a wristband with plays, he led the Colts to a crucial victory over the Los Angeles Rams and a tight playoff battle against the Green Bay Packers. This iconic wristband is now on display at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Matte was a key component of the Colts teams that regularly contended for championships, earning an NFL Championship in 1968 and a Super Bowl V ring in 1970. His hard-nosed, straight-ahead running style, which earned him the nickname "Garbage Can," made him a beloved figure in Baltimore. After his playing career, Matte continued his connection to Baltimore football as a color analyst for Ravens radio broadcasts.

✦ Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

✦ Super Bowl Champion: V (1970)

✦ NFL Champion: 1968

✦ Pro Bowl: 2x (1968, 1969)

✦ NFL Rushing Touchdowns Leader: 1969 (11 TDs)

✦ First-Team All-Pro: 1968, 1969

✦ First-Team All-Big Ten: 1960 (College)

✦ Ohio State Athletics Hall of Fame: Inducted 2003

NFL Career Stats (12 seasons):

✦ Games Played: 142

✦ Rushing Yards: 4,646

✦ Rushing Touchdowns: 45

✦ Receptions: 249

✦ Yards: 2,869

✦ Receiving Touchdowns: 12

✦ Total All-Purpose Yards: 8,882 (including 1,367 kickoff return yards)

✦ Total Touchdowns: 57