Former Trojan Bruce Matthews was inducted into the pro-football hall of fame on Saturday. He is the only first-time ballot inductee in this year’s hall of fame class. A top ten, first round pick in 1983, Matthews spent his entire career with a single franchise. And quite a career it was. When it came to leading the offensive line, Matthews was a rock. Matthews started in 292 of 296 games, more than any other positional player in NFL history. He was voted to 14 consecutive pro-bowls, tied for the most ever. His career spanned so long that his team, originally the Houston Oilers, changed states becoming the Tennessee Oilers and then changed names (becoming the Tennessee Titans) all during his 19 year tenure in the NFL.

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Despite being extremely dedicated and uber talented, Matthews served up a huge dish of humble pie during his acceptance speech in Canton.

The following excerpts are from Bruce Matthews’ acceptance speech as reported on the Tennessean.com:

“As much as I’d like to take credit for everything that’s happened in my career, I know it’s only because of how the Lord blessed me that I was able to accomplish what I did,” Matthews said.

“My part was the easy part, just go out and use the talents and abilities that God gave me. God blessed me with the size, the desire to play the game, he kept me injury-free and brought many wonderful coaches and players into my life and for this I’m very thankful.”

Bruce’s brother, William Clay Matthews, was also a famous Trojan and NFL linebacker. He played 19 seasons and 278 games in the NFL, third most in NFL history.

Whatever their mom was feeding them…it was damn sure the good stuff. Them some hardy boys.

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