College Career
A two-time All-American and two-time ACC Player of the Year (1960–61), Gabriel starred at quarterback for North Carolina State University in the early 1960s and finished his career holding virtually every Wolfpack passing record. An academic All-American, Gabriel saw his jersey retired and presented to him by North Carolina governor Terry Sanford on Jan. 20, 1962, at half-time of an NC State-Maryland basketball game in Reynolds Coliseum. As captain of his team, Gabriel set 22 school and nine conference football records. He threw for 2,961 yards and 19 touchdowns.
Known for his arm strength, he also played baseball and was voted the best amateur athlete in the Carolinas. In a three-year career he passed for 20 touchdowns and ran for 15. The Atlantic Coast Conference’s 50th Anniversary Football Team was announced in 2003 and Gabriel was among the top 50 players in the history of the ACC to be listed. Gabriel was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1989.
Gabriel was the number one 1962 AFL Draft pick, chosen by the Oakland Raiders, and was the number 2 1962 NFL Draft pick, selected by the Los Angeles Rams. Gabriel signed with the Rams and went on to a distinguished professional career.
Read more about this topic: Roman Gabriel
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