Matt Ryan, who was the starting quarterback for the Boston College Eagles, was chosen as the third overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons.

With Boston College, Ryan won the Manning Award (2007) and the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2007). He was also ACC Player of the Year (2007) and the MVP of the MPC Computers Bowl (2005). In 2007, he led BC to victory in the Champs Sports Bowl. In 43 college contests, he completed 60.0-percent of his passes for 9,313 yards. He had 56 touchdown passes and threw 37 interceptions.

In college, Ryan was known as a quarterback who could get things done. He was a strong leader on the field and was often able to lead his team to victory when in the hole. Ryan possesses strong intangibles and at six-foot-five and 220 pounds has the frame to command the quarterback post. He does a good job of reading defenses and knows how to find time in the pocket. He's tough and fearless and has run a pro-style offense. Ryan has a great work ethic. In college, he often threw when he shouldn't have, forcing the ball. He has to cut down on his picks. His average arm strength and immobility could hamper his success in the pros.