Richie Lucas Penn State Quarterback...

April 15, 1938, in Glassport, Pennsylvania, marked the birth of Richard "Richie" Lucas, a name that would become synonymous with Penn State football excellence and earn him a place among the college game's legends.  

✦ College Career

Richie Lucas quarterbacked the Penn State Nittany Lions from 1957 to 1959, a period of significant success for the program. Known as "Riverboat Richie" for his daring play and leadership on the field, Lucas was a dominant force in college football. His skills as a passer and runner made him a dual-threat quarterback, capable of leading his team to victory in multiple ways. He was the key orchestrator of the Nittany Lion offense, demonstrating a remarkable ability to read defenses and make crucial plays under pressure. Lucas's tenure at Penn State solidified his reputation as one of the premier quarterbacks of his era.  

✦ Road to the Pro Game

Despite his stellar college career and the recognition he received, Richie Lucas did not pursue a professional football career in the National Football League (NFL) or the American Football League (AFL). The reasons for this decision are not widely documented, but it is possible that factors such as personal preferences, career opportunities outside of football, or the landscape of professional football at the time influenced his choice. His impact remained firmly rooted in his collegiate achievements, leaving an indelible mark on Penn State football history rather than transitioning to the professional ranks.

✦ Football Legacy

Richie Lucas's football legacy is firmly cemented in his remarkable achievements at Penn State. He is remembered as one of the greatest players in the program's history, a dynamic quarterback who led the Nittany Lions to significant victories and earned the admiration of fans and peers alike. His nickname, "Riverboat Richie," encapsulates his bold and decisive playing style. His impact extended beyond statistics; he embodied the spirit of Penn State football during his time, setting a standard for future quarterbacks.

✦ Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

Richie Lucas's outstanding college career culminated in his prestigious induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1986. This honor, bestowed by the National Football Foundation, recognized his exceptional talent and contributions to the sport. While specific career statistics from his time at Penn State are not as readily available as in the modern era, his impact is evident through the accolades he received. His Hall of Fame induction speaks volumes about the level of his performance and the lasting impression he made on college football. "Riverboat Richie" Lucas remains a celebrated figure in Penn State's rich athletic history.  

Demaryius was the first receiver taken in the 2010 NFL Draft. Thomas developed into an athletic mismatch and a yards-after-catch demon, especially after Peyton Manning joined the Broncos in 2012. Thomas emerged as the Broncos' No. 1 receiver and would earn five straight Pro Bowl selections as the team's number one receiver.

For his career, Thomas had 724 receptions for 9,763 yards and 63 TDs. Thomas ranks 53rd all-time in receiving yards in NFL history at the time of his retirement.