By Darin Long before the modern era of high-octane offenses, one man set a standard in the Atlantic Coast Conference that has stood the test of time for nearly half a century. Ted Brown, known as the “fleet-footed halfback” from NC State, didn’t just play the game—he rewrote the expectations for what a running back could achieve. From his explosive debut in Raleigh to his status as a consensus All-American and a first-round NFL talent, Brown’s career is a masterclass in consistency, power, and speed. Dive into the story of the man whose rushing records still cast a long shadow over every stadium from Chestnut Hill to Coral Gables.
Football Bio
February 15, 1957 – High Point, North Carolina – The fleet-footed halfback from North Carolina State, Ted Brown, was born. The NFF states that Brown still holds the ACC’s career records for his 4,602 yards rushing and 51 touchdowns. Ted was selected as a 1978 consensus First-Team All-America, and he helped lead N.C. State has won three straight bowl games. Ted Brown received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013.
Conclusion
Ted Brown remains the gold standard for North Carolina State athletics and ACC football history. His remarkable durability and nose for the end zone allowed him to set benchmarks that future legends have struggled to eclipse. By leading the Wolfpack to three consecutive bowl victories, he cemented a winning culture in Raleigh that fans still cherish today. Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013, Brown’s legacy as one of the most productive backs in collegiate history is firmly etched in stone. He wasn’t just a star; he was a foundational piece of Southern football lore.
Accolades & Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2013.
- Consensus First-Team All-American: (1978).
- 4× First-Team All-ACC Selection: (1975, 1976, 1977, 1978) — The first player in ACC history to achieve this.
- ACC Career Rushing Leader: 4,602 yards (A record that stood for 39 years).
- ACC Career Total Touchdowns Leader: 51.
- ACC Rookie of the Year: (1975).
- NC State #23 Retired: Honored by the Wolfpack for his legendary contributions.
- NFL First-Round Draft Pick: Selected 16th overall by the Minnesota Vikings in 1979.
- NFL Career Stats: 4,546 rushing yards and 53 total touchdowns over 8 seasons.
