For the 1925 season, Metzger was named a first-team all-star of the Chicago Catholic League, Loyola's high school athletic conference.

[2] Metzger went on to play guard for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football teams of 1928–1930,[3] the latter two of which were recognized as national champions.

Only 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) and 155 pounds (70 kg),[4][b] Metzger was sometimes referred to as a "watch-charm guard"[c] because of his relatively small size.

Remarking on the final game of his college career, a 27–0 Notre Dame win over USC in December 1930, the United Press wrote, "Metzger seemed to be in on every play.

[10] In the summer of 1931, Metzger's engagement to Marian E. Masterson of Chicago was announced, with a spring 1932 wedding.