Matt Snell, Jets’ Super Bowl III Hero, Dies at 84
Matt Snell, the bruising running back who powered the New York Jets to a stunning upset victory in Super Bowl III and scored the game’s first touchdown, died on March 10, 2026, in Long Island, New York. He was 84 years old.
The New York Jets confirmed Snell’s passing, marking the end of an era for the franchise and the American Football League.
A Groundbreaking Performance in Super Bowl III
Snell’s defining moment came in the 1969 AFL-NFL Championship Game, now known as Super Bowl III. Facing the heavily favored Baltimore Colts, Snell spearheaded the Jets’ offensive attack, rushing for a then-Super Bowl record 121 yards on 30 carries. His 4-yard touchdown run in the second quarter broke a scoreless tie and ignited the Jets’ historic 16-7 victory.
That touchdown was the first in Super Bowl history scored by an AFL team while leading, a pivotal moment that symbolized the AFL’s growing competitiveness and ultimately led to the league’s merger with the NFL.
The Jets’ offensive line executed a run-blocking scheme called “19 Straight” to perfection, a testament to Snell’s power and determination. The play is commemorated on the Super Bowl III championship rings of both Snell and fellow running back Emerson Boozer.
From Ohio State to AFL Stardom
Born on August 18, 1941, in Garfield, Georgia, Snell moved to New York as a child and excelled at Carle Place High School, where he is a member of the school’s athletic hall of fame. He initially attended Ohio State University as a lead blocker and defensive end before transitioning to a starting fullback role as a senior, earning the Buckeyes’ MVP award.
Despite being drafted by the New York Giants in the fourth round of the 1964 NFL Draft, Snell chose to sign with the New York Jets, who selected him as the third overall pick in the 1964 AFL Draft. This decision allowed him to develop an immediate impact, earning him the AFL Rookie of the Year award in 1964 after rushing for 945 yards, including a franchise-record 180 yards against the Houston Oilers – records that still stand today for Jets rookies.
A Career Defined by Toughness and Versatility
Over nine seasons with the Jets (1964-1972), Snell established himself as a dominant force in the backfield. He was a three-time AFL All-Star (1964, 1966, 1969) and a first-team All-AFL selection in 1969. He also earned second-team All-AFL honors three times (1964, 1965, 1968).
Snell’s versatility extended beyond running; he was a reliable receiver, accumulating 193 receptions for 1,375 yards and seven touchdowns throughout his career. He was also known for his willingness to block, protecting quarterback Joe Namath and opening running lanes for himself and teammates.
Injuries plagued Snell later in his career, including a torn knee cartilage in 1967 and a torn Achilles tendon in 1970. He retired after the 1972 season with 4,285 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns, ranking fourth in franchise history in rushing yards.
Life After Football
Following his football career, Snell transitioned to the business world, becoming a partner at Defco Securities Inc. He also gained recognition as the original pitchman for Miller Lite beer, appearing in the iconic “Tastes Great, Less Filling” advertising campaign. He later founded his own construction company in New Jersey.
Despite his accomplishments, Snell maintained a complex relationship with the Jets organization, reportedly harboring a grudge over a perceived broken promise regarding a long-term role with the team after their Super Bowl III victory. He was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2015 alongside Emerson Boozer but declined to attend the ceremony.
Matt Snell is survived by his wife, Sharon, son Beau, daughter Jada, grandson Donte, and great-nephew Benny Snell Jr., a former running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers.