Like any program, the Nebraska Cornhuskers have their share of college football legends, and their consistent reign of dominance up until the mid-2000s means there are many.
The beginning of the juggernaut that was Nebraska football started with a sellout streak in 1962. The Huskers recently sold out their 400th consecutive home game against the Illinois Fighting Illini in September.
The first touchdown ever scored during the historic sellout streak was a pick-six by Noel Martin in 1962. Martin went for 88 yards as he helped thrust Nebraska onto a path that would make them a blue blood of college football.
Martin, who was 84-years-old, passed away on Nov. 19. Martin played both ways when he played for the Huskers, which wasn’t something so massively out of the ordinary as it is today.
Martin was honored at the 400th sellout, and despite being a part of Husker nation since the beginning he was still surprised at the unwavering faith that Husker fans still hold dear.
Noel Martin explained what made the streak so special in an article from KLKNTV.
Martin started his coaching career not long after playing for the Huskers. After a successful high school coaching venture, Martin ended up back with the Huskers serving as a defensive coordinator, offensive coordinator, assistant professor and assistant wrestling coach from 1974 to 1983.
Nebraska fans took to social media to express their condolences for the passing of Martin. While he was before most Husker fans’ time, Martin’s importance in the story of Husker football was brought to the attention of many Husker fans this season.