Matt Suhey's career in professional football is remembered for his role as a reliable fullback with the Chicago Bears. Born on July 7, 1958, in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, Suhey grew up in a family with a rich football heritage. His father, Steve Suhey, was an All-American guard at Penn State, and his grandfather, Bob Higgins, was a head coach at the same university. This lineage set the stage for Matt's own journey in the sport.
Suhey attended Penn State University, where he played college football under the legendary coach Joe Paterno. During his time at Penn State, Suhey developed a reputation as a dependable and hardworking player. He was part of a backfield that included other talented players, and his performance helped the Nittany Lions achieve considerable success during his tenure.
In the 1980 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears selected Suhey in the second round as the 46th overall pick. Joining the Bears, Suhey quickly established himself as a valuable asset to the team. Known for his blocking ability, he played a crucial role in the Bears' offensive schemes, often paving the way for the team's running backs. His skills as a blocker were complemented by his ability to carry the ball and catch passes out of the backfield, making him a versatile player in the Bears' lineup.
Suhey's most memorable season came in 1985 when the Chicago Bears had a historic run, culminating in a victory at Super Bowl XX. The Bears' dominant defense, known as the "46 Defense," was the highlight of the season, but the offense, with Suhey as a key component, was also instrumental in the team's success. In the Super Bowl, Suhey scored the first touchdown for the Bears, setting the tone for a decisive 46-10 victory over the New England Patriots.
Throughout his career with the Bears, Suhey was known for his work ethic and team-first mentality. He played alongside legendary running back Walter Payton, and the two formed a strong partnership on and off the field. Suhey's blocking was a significant factor in Payton's success, and their camaraderie was evident in their performances.
After nine seasons with the Bears, Suhey retired from professional football following the 1989 season. Over the course of his career, he accumulated 2,946 rushing yards, 20 rushing touchdowns, and 2,113 receiving yards with five receiving touchdowns. His contributions to the Bears were recognized by fans and teammates alike, and he remained a respected figure in the football community.
Beyond his playing days, Suhey maintained a connection to the sport and his former team. He was involved in various business ventures and community activities, often reflecting on his time with the Bears and the friendships he forged during his career.
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