Ryan on surpassing Montana on NFL’s all-time touchdown pass list

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan pitches to running back Tevin Coleman during the second half against Sunday, Oct 14, 2018, against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan pitches to running back Tevin Coleman during the second half against Sunday, Oct 14, 2018, against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan's third touchdown pass to running back Tevin Coleman in the fourth quarter of the 34-29 win over Tampa Bay moved him past Joe Montana on the NFL's all-time touchdown pass list.

Ryan now has 274 career touchdown passes and is 16th all-time.

Montana, who played when the rules weren't so tilted toward he passing game, finished with 273 touchdown passes over his illustrious career (1979-1994).

"Obviously, it's very special anytime your name is brought up with Joe Montana," Ryan said. "I've gotten to know him a little bit throughout my career and he's one of the best guys you could ever meet. It's obviously special."
Ryan tossed a 35-yard pass to Mohamed Sanu in the first quarter and a 9-yard touchdown pass to tight end Austin Hooper in the second quarter.

Vinny Testaverde is next ahead for Ryan with 275 touchdowns and then Johnny Unitas with 290.

Montana, a Pro Football Hall of Famer, played for the 49ers and Chiefs. He led the 49ers to four Super Bowl titles in the 1980s.

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