Meredith threw for 135 TD’s while tossing 111 picks. His TD percentage on pass attempts was 5.8% and his interception rate was 4.8%. He was driven back 1,542 yards while being the victim of a QB sack 257 different times. He accumulated 165.4 yards per game through the air. During the 104 contests in his career, Meredith connected on 1,170 of 2,308 tries for 17,199 yards.
In his 0 games in his final year, Meredith connected on 0 of his 0 attempts for a total of 0 yards. He averaged 0.0 yards per contest through the air with a 0.0 QB rating. Meredith threw for 0 TDs in his last year compared to 0 interceptions and his longest throw of the year went for 0 yards. He lost 0 yards while being the victim of a quarterback sack 0 times. His touchdown rate on pass attempts was 0.0% and his interception percentage was 0.0%.
As an expert in football history, I feel it is important to highlight the accomplishments of Don Meredith, an influential player in the NFL who paved the way for future generations. With a career spanning from 1960 to 1972, Meredith’s impact on the sport cannot be understated. From his dynamic playmaking skills to his memorable moments in the era-defining “Ice Bowl” game, his contributions to the sport will forever be remembered.
Born in 1938, Don Meredith’s football journey began at the young age of 11, where he played quarterback for the Denton High School team. With a passion for sports, it was natural that Meredith would go on to play college football at Southern Methodist University. During his time at SMU, he played under legendary coach Rayzor where he honed his skills as a quarterback and gained recognition for his impressive performances.
In 1960, Don Meredith’s talent and potential were recognized when he was drafted in the third round of the NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He would go on to become their starting quarterback for seven out of his 11 seasons with the team.
As the Cowboys’ primary quarterback, Meredith, along with the help of fellow players like Bob Hayes and the famed “Doomsday Defense,” propelled the team to multiple successes.
In 1966, Meredith set a new series of records during a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He completed 27 out of 39 passes, throwing for an impressive 460 yards and three touchdowns. These numbers would forever etch his name in NFL history as one of the greatest performances ever put forth by a quarterback.
Perhaps the most iconic moment in Meredith’s career came during the famous “Ice Bowl” in the 1967 NFL Championship game against the Green Bay Packers. The game is renowned for its notoriously harsh conditions with temperatures reaching -15 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite the cold, Meredith led the Cowboys to an incredible come-from-behind effort, with a last-second touchdown pass almost sealing victory. Although they would ultimately lose in heartbreaking fashion, the “Ice Bowl” became a watershed moment for the NFL and is still remembered today.
Following his retirement from professional football, Meredith pursued a career in broadcasting where he left an indelible mark on the television industry. Joining “Monday Night Football” in 1970, Meredith partnered with Frank Gifford and Howard Cosell to form one of the most memorable and entertaining broadcasting teams in television history. Meredith’s down-to-earth charm, sharp wit, and uncanny ability to connect with viewers instantly endeared him to fans across America.
Don Meredith’s impact on football extends far beyond his career in the NFL. His contributions to the sport have inspired generations of athletes, coaches, and broadcasters alike. His talent and dedication on the field made him a force to be reckoned with, while his charisma and humor off the field made him an unforgettable personality.
In conclusion, Don Meredith’s legacy in the NFL is one that will continue to resonate throughout the annals of football history. As we reflect on his career, it is essential to remember not only his accomplishments on the field but also the enthusiasm and passion he brought to the game. Meredith’s incredible journey serves as a testament to the power of hard work and determination, proving that anything is possible when fuelled by a burning desire to succeed.