Matt Snell: The Unsung Hero of Super Bowl III and the Heart of the New York Jets

The football world lost one of its most important yet often overlooked champions when former New York Jets fullback Matt Snell passed away Tuesday at the age of 84. Snell died on Long Island, leaving behind a legacy tied forever to one of the most historic games in professional football history—Super Bowl III, the moment when the upstart American Football League shocked the football world and defeated the heavily favored Baltimore Colts.

While quarterback Joe Namath famously guaranteed the victory and ultimately received the Super Bowl MVP award, many players and historians believe Matt Snell was the true driving force behind that victory. His bruising running style, leadership, and quiet toughness helped deliver one of the greatest upsets in sports history and forever cemented his place in football lore.

Early Life and College Career

Matthews Snell was born August 18, 1941, in Garfield, Georgia, but he grew up on Long Island, New York, where he developed into a standout football player at Carle Place High School. Snell quickly built a reputation as a physical runner and versatile athlete who could play on both sides of the ball. His success earned him recognition as one of the top high school players in Nassau County.

Snell went on to play college football at Ohio State University under legendary coach Woody Hayes. During his time with the Buckeyes from 1960 to 1963, Snell proved himself to be a selfless and versatile player. He spent time at multiple positions, including halfback, defensive end, and fullback, depending on what the team needed.

Ohio State’s 1961 team captured the national championship, and Snell was an important contributor on that roster. Though he never put up gaudy individual numbers in Hayes’ run-heavy offense, teammates and coaches recognized his toughness and willingness to do the dirty work.

By the end of his senior season in 1963, Snell had become one of the leaders of the Buckeyes and was named team MVP, a testament to his work ethic and team-first mentality.

Choosing the Jets and AFL Stardom

Snell entered professional football during one of the most interesting periods in the sport’s history—the rivalry between the established National Football League (NFL) and the upstart American Football League (AFL).

The New York Giants selected Snell in the fourth round of the 1964 NFL Draft, but the New York Jets chose him third overall in the AFL Draft and offered him a significantly better contract. Snell chose the Jets, a decision that would change football history.

Snell made an immediate impact as a rookie. In 1964 he rushed for 948 yards, set a franchise single-game record with 180 rushing yards, and was named AFL Rookie of the Year.

Over the next several seasons, Snell became one of the toughest running backs in the AFL. At 6-foot-2 and about 220 pounds, he was a powerful runner who thrived between the tackles but also possessed the athleticism to catch passes out of the backfield.

He earned three AFL All-Star selections and helped form a dangerous offensive backfield alongside fellow running back Emerson Boozer and quarterback Joe Namath.

Super Bowl III: The Game That Changed Football

Matt Snell’s defining moment came on January 12, 1969, when the AFL champion New York Jets faced the NFL champion Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III.

At the time, the Colts were considered overwhelmingly superior. The AFL had been dominated by NFL teams in the first two Super Bowls, and many experts expected another lopsided victory for the NFL.

Joe Namath famously guaranteed that the Jets would win the game, but it was Matt Snell who physically imposed his will on the Colts defense.

Snell delivered one of the greatest performances in Super Bowl history:

• 30 rushing attempts

• 121 rushing yards

• 1 touchdown

His 121 rushing yards set a Super Bowl rushing record at the time and established the Jets’ offensive identity for the game.

Midway through the second quarter, Snell scored the game’s only touchdown on a 4-yard run that gave the Jets a 7–0 lead.

Even more importantly, his relentless running allowed the Jets to control the clock and keep the powerful Colts offense off the field. New York eventually secured a stunning 16–7 victory, one of the greatest upsets in sports history.

Namath won the Super Bowl MVP award, largely for his leadership and efficient passing. But many players and analysts believe Snell deserved the honor.

Namath himself later credited Snell’s performance as essential to the victory.

Without Snell dominating the Colts defense and grinding out yardage, the Jets likely never could have controlled the game the way they did.

A Career Cut Short by Injuries

Snell played his entire professional career with the New York Jets from 1964 to 1972. Over nine seasons he rushed for 4,287 yards and scored 31 total touchdowns, while also catching 193 passes.

Unfortunately, injuries began to take a toll on his body. A torn Achilles tendon in 1970 significantly limited his effectiveness, and the physical punishment of playing fullback eventually forced him into retirement.

Still, his contributions to the Jets were immense. He helped lead the franchise to the 1968 AFL championship and Super Bowl title, achievements that remain the greatest moments in the organization’s history.

The Man Behind the Player

Beyond his accomplishments on the field, Matt Snell was widely respected as a great teammate and a humble man.

Those who played alongside him consistently described him as selfless and tough—a player who cared more about winning than individual accolades. Jets owner Woody Johnson later said Snell represented the “toughness, selflessness and belief” that defined the franchise’s greatest moment.

After football, Snell worked in several industries, including finance, construction, and the restaurant business. He also became involved in early sports marketing, appearing in one of the first Miller Lite advertising campaigns featuring former athletes.

He was eventually honored with induction into the New York Jets Ring of Honor, recognizing his role in the team’s greatest victory.

Remembering an Overlooked Legend

Matt Snell may never have had the flash or fame of some of his contemporaries, but his impact on football history is undeniable.

Super Bowl III changed the course of professional football by proving the AFL could compete with the NFL and helping pave the way for the eventual merger of the leagues.

And at the heart of that game was a powerful fullback wearing number 41.

Matt Snell wasn’t just a great football player—he was a team-first competitor, a respected teammate, and the unsung hero of one of the most important victories in NFL history.

For many who watched that game in 1969, there is little doubt:

Matt Snell deserved to be the Super Bowl III MVP.

And now, as the football world reflects on his life and legacy, his place in the history of the game is secure forever.