It’s a dark day for Nebraska football, as one of their own leaves this world. The Husker family now carries the heavy weight of grief after learning that former Cornhusker Matt Vrzal, and a local Omaha entrepreneur, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 51. Vrzal walked on the Nebraska fields in 1992 and was part of two national championship teams in 1994 and 1995. Vrzal was a backup offensive lineman. Despite this, he still helped power one of college football’s best rushing attacks, with Nebraska topping the nation in several offensive stats those years.

After his football career, Matt became a well-known figure in Omaha through his ownership of Piezon’s Pizzeria. The place quickly became a community hub for Huskers and locals alike. So you can imagine that the Husker nation wouldn’t fall behind in showing respect to its former student and athlete. “The Nebraska Football family is deeply saddened by the passing of former Husker, Matt Vrzal,” Nebraska football official X account posted. “From walk-on to national champion, Vrz embodied what it means to be a Nebraskan and will leave a lasting impact on teammates, kids, and communities across the state.” 

Let’s talk about his contributions in the Nebraska field. In 1995, he backed up All-American Aaron Graham and contributed to one of the best rushing offenses ever. He helped Nebraska lead the nation with 399.8 yards per game on the ground and a school-record 52.4 points per game. Nebraska didn’t allow a single sack in ’95 and racked up a school- and Big Eight–record 52.4 points a game. During his senior year in 1996, he backed up Aaron Taylor and Josh Heskew at center his senior year but still played in all but one game. His honors include Big 12 Academic All-Big 12 mention and honor roll. So you can imagine why the tribute was so important for Nebraska.

And it’s not just the program showing its respect towards the deceased. Friends, teammates, and fans all shared tributes to his kindness, humor, and the lasting mark he left on and off the field. Vrzla was also a regular voice on 1620 The Zone sports radio. He appeared as a frequent guest who was part of that family. He even shared stories and laughs with listeners every week. Even the members of the Zone stated the death, saying, “We are deeply saddened to share the passing of our friend Matt Vrzal. Matt wasn’t just a guest and friend of 1620 The Zone; he was part of our Zone family.” Vrzal also touched a lot of hearts.

Korver Demma, a Gretna High alum and now a D-lineman at Central Michigan, said Vrzal had his back and believed in him when “no one else did.” He added, “This man mentored me not just in the game of football, but in the game of life. And for that I am forever grateful.”

Fans rally behind Matt Vrzal’s passing away

Not only Nebraska fans, but the entire CFB fraternity paid their tributes after Matt Vrzal’s death. “Such an incredible man!” and Deepest sympathy to the Husker Community, two fans wrote. Vrzal was someone who truly resonated with the Husker community and sports fans in Omaha. His deep knowledge of sports came from his playing days. But he expanded it over the years as a coach at Omaha Skutt Catholic and a mentor to young athletes.

“I got to talk to him a couple of times,” a fan chimed in. “He was a very nice guy who knew a lot about sports and loved to talk about it as well! You will be missed Vrz!” Fans who got the chance to talk with Matt often describe him as down-to-earth. His regular appearances on 1620 The Zone sports radio show were about sharing stories, insights, and laughs.

Listeners legit felt like they were catching up with an old friend. “Love and prayers to his family and loved ones,” a fan added. Despite the reasons for his death not being out, 51 is no age to die. RIP Matt Vrzal! We will miss you.