Matt Snell facts for kids

Matthews "Matt" Snell (born August 18, 1941) is a former American football player. He was a powerful running back for the New York Jets in the American Football League (AFL) and National Football League (NFL). He was one of the first big players signed by the Jets' owner, Sonny Werblin. Snell joined the Jets in 1964, even though the New York Giants also wanted him.

Growing Up and High School Football

Matt Snell was born to Isaac and Annie. He grew up in Carle Place, New York. He went to Carle Place High School. His picture is still in the school's Athletic Hall of Fame.

In high school, Snell played right halfback. His team only lost two games while he was a starter. In 1959, he won the Newsday Thorp Award. This award goes to the best high school football player in Nassau County.

College Football at Ohio State

Snell played college football at Ohio State University. He was a starter for three years. He was a great team player, playing both offense and defense.

In 1961, he played right halfback. He often blocked for other star players like Bob Ferguson. In 1962, he switched to playing defensive end. For his final year in 1963, Snell became the starting fullback. He ran for 491 yards and scored 5 touchdowns. He was named his team's most valuable player that year.

In 2000, Matt Snell was named to the Ohio State Football All-Century Team. This was for his skills as a defensive end.

Matt Snell's Pro Football Career

Matt Snell started his professional career with the New York Jets. In his first year, he set a team record. He rushed for 180 yards in one game against the Houston Oilers. He finished the season with 945 yards. This earned him the AFL Rookie of the Year award.

He was also chosen as an AFL Eastern Division All-Star in 1964 and 1966. In 1969, Sporting News named him the All-AFL fullback.

Super Bowl III Victory

Matt Snell's most famous moment was in Super Bowl III. The Jets, who were AFL champions, played the Baltimore Colts. The Colts were expected to win easily.

Even though Snell had knee injuries, he was very important. He helped the Jets control the ball and win the game 16–7. He carried the ball 30 times for 121 yards. This was a Super Bowl record at the time. In the second quarter, he scored the Jets' only touchdown. This was the first time an AFL team had ever led in a Super Bowl. He also helped the team get three field goals. This win was a huge upset and the AFL's first Super Bowl victory.

Protecting Joe Namath

During his career, Snell was known for running the ball. But he also became very good at blocking for his teammates. He was especially good at protecting the Jets' star quarterback, Joe Namath. Towards the end of his career, he became a special "third-down back." This meant he was often used on third downs because he was so good at protecting Namath. He even helped teach other running backs how to block.

Dealing with Injuries

Matt Snell faced many injuries during his career. In 1967, he tore knee cartilage. In 1970, he tore his Achilles tendon. In 1971, he hurt his knee again and missed nine games.

In 1972, he had a very serious injury against the Miami Dolphins. He ruptured his spleen, which had to be removed. This injury ended his season and his career. He officially retired in March 1973. In his last three seasons, he only played in 12 games because of his injuries.

Life After Football

After retiring from football in 1973, Matt Snell appeared in the first ever Miller Lite beer commercial. This commercial series became very famous. It featured many retired sports stars.

Snell also sold his restaurant, Matt Snell's Fifth Down. He wanted to focus on his new company, Defco Securities, Inc. He was one of the four partners in this company.

In 2015, Matt Snell and Emerson Boozer were added to the Jets' New York Jets#Ring of Honor. This honor celebrates important players for the team. Snell has chosen not to attend many Jets alumni events since he retired.

NFL Career Statistics

Personal Life

Matt Snell lives in New Rochelle, New York. He lives with his wife, Sharon, and their children, Beau and Jada. His grandson, Donte, played football for Holy Cross High School.

Snell is a partner in DEFCO Securities, Inc. He also owns a restaurant in New York City. He is a distant cousin of another running back, Benny Snell.

See also

• List of American Football League players

Sources