In the 82 games in his career, Cuozzo connected on 584 of his 1,182 tries for a total of 7,402 yds. He totaled 90.3 passing yards per contest. Cuozzo passed for 43 TD’s compared to 55 interceptions. He lost a combined 684 yds while being the victim of a QB sack 114 times. His TD rate when attempting a pass was 3.6% and his interception rate was 4.7%.
Cuozzo threw for 0 touchdowns in his last year while giving up 0 interceptions and his longest pass of the year went for 0 yards. His touchdown percentage on pass attempts was 0.0% and his interception percentage was 0.0%. He lost a total of 0 yards while being the victim of a quarterback sack 0 times. He averaged 0.0 yds per contest through the air with a 0.0 quarterback rating. In 0 contests in his final season, Cuozzo completed 0 of 0 tries for 0 yds.
Gary Cuozzo, born on August 17, 1942, was a renowned American football quarterback who had a profound impact during his time in the NFL. He played for various teams during his twelve-season career, including the Cleveland Browns, Houston Oilers, Baltimore Colts, and New Orleans Saints. Although he faced several obstacles and setbacks throughout his career, Cuozzo’s determination and unwavering commitment to the game made him a revered figure in the sports community. This article delves into his journey and the significant milestones that shaped his life in professional football.
Gary Cuozzo began playing football at Lebanon High School in Ohio, where he played as a quarterback. Before joining the NFL, he played college football at the University of Richmond. Under Coach Mike Prunty, Sr., he perfected his skills, leading the Richmond Spiders to several victories and gaining national recognition.
After a successful college career, Gary Cuozzo was drafted in the 3rd round of the 1963 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns. Despite predictability and sprained ankles that forced him to be a backup quarterback to Frank Ryan during his pre-NFL years, Cuozzo never backed down. He was committed to learning and improving his techniques in borrowed throwback jerseys to match his team.
Originally starting his NFL career as the backup for Frank Ryan with the Cleveland Browns, Cuozzo later signed with the Houston Oilers in 1966. There, he faced many challenges and injuries during his time with the team. While he suffered a severe shoulder injury, it was during his time with the Baltimore Colts that he earned recognition as a Top-20 player in 1968.
During his time with the Baltimore Colts, Gary Cuozzo received a significant opportunity to compete with fellow quarterback Earl Morrall. Although Morrall was renowned for his discipline and talent, Cuozzo put up a tough competition. Cuozzo’s resilience and skill helped earn him the starting position while Morrall was on the injury list.
In 1970, Gary Cuozzo joined the New Orleans Saints where he faced fierce competition and vied for the starting position with Archie Manning. Despite the contentious rivalry, Cuozzo earned the starting position in four of the 14 games that season. Unfortunately, his NFL career was marred by injuries, specifically a serious leg injury that ultimately led to his retirement in 1972.
Following his retirement from the NFL in 1972, Gary Cuozzo returned to his alma mater, the University of Richmond, to serve as the head football coach. In his five-year tenure, he led the team to several victories, fostering growth in the program.
Today, Gary Cuozzo’s contributions to the sport of football are remembered and celebrated. His relentless work ethic, tenacity in the face of adversity, and unwavering commitment to the game serve as an inspiration for aspiring athletes. As a result, he is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks of his time, and his name remains synonymous with perseverance and determination in the world of professional football.
In conclusion, Gary Cuozzo’s journey through the NFL, from his early beginnings as a college player at the University of Richmond to becoming a coach later in his career, is a testament to his unwavering spirit and enduring dedication to the sport. Despite the numerous challenges he faced throughout his time in the NFL, Cuozzo never faltered in his pursuit of success and excellence in professional football. As we continue to witness the evolution of the game and the rise of new talent, Gary Cuozzo’s story serves as a reminder that true greatness lies not only in the abilities one possesses, but in the indomitable will and determination to overcome all obstacles that come their way.