1946 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

American college football season August 2023 February 2026 1946 Pittsburgh Panthers football 285px|1946 Pitt football team Independent 3–5–1 Wes Fesler 1st Pitt Stadium The 1946 Pittsburgh Panthers football team was an American football team that represented the University of Pittsburgh as an independent during the 1946 college football season. In their first and only year under head coach Wes Fesler, the Panthers compiled a 3–5–1 record and were outscored by 136 to 88. Three of their losses were to teams ranked in the final AP Poll: No. 1 Notre Dame (0–33); No. 5 Illinois (7–33); and No. 20 Indiana (6–20).1946 Pittsburgh Panthers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football May 20, 2022 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/pittsburgh/1946-schedule.html Pitt was ranked at No. 43 in the final Litkenhous Difference by Score System rankings for 1946.Rice Rated Fifth Best, Tennessee 12th by Lit Dr. E. E. Litkenhous The Knoxville News-Sentinel December 15, 1946 B4 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/123020754/rice-rated-fifth-best-tennessee-12th/ Newspapers.com Schedule 1946 AP September 21 l Illinois Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 7–33 35,000 Pitt Overpowered Illinois, 33-7: Victors Held To 7-7 Score In First Half; Gave 'Em a Scare! Pittsburgh Sunday Sun-Telegraph Jack Henry September 22, 1946 II-7 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100858347/pitt-overpowered-illinois-33-7/ Newspapers.com September 28 w West Virginia Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 33–7 > 30,000 Pitt Wallops West Virginia, 33-7: Panthers Score Four Times in 2nd Quarter; Cecconi Runs 98 Yards The Pittsburgh Press Chester L. Smith September 29, 1946 8 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102207094/pitt-wallops-west-virginia-33-7/ Newspapers.com October 5 l y Notre Dame Notre Dame Stadium Notre Dame, IN rivalry 0–33 50,368 N.D. Is Unimpressive in Trampling Pitt 33-0: Running Game Is Throttled by Young Rivals; Irish Forced to Take to Air to Win in Home Opener The South Bend Tribune Jim Costin October 6, 1946 III-1 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/101817997/nd-is-unimpressive-in-trampling-pitt/ Newspapers.com October 12 t Temple Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 0–0 3,000 Temple Holds Pitt to 0-0 Allen Lewis October 13, 1946 S1 The Philadelphia Inquirer Philadelphia, Pa. Newspapers.com https://www.newspapers.com/clip/66905552/1946-temple-pitt/ October 19 w Marquette Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 7–6 18,000–20,000 Cecconi's Kick Beats Marquette, 7-6: Skladany Makes Pitt Score on DePasqua's Pass in Third Period The Pittsburgh Press Chester L. Smith October 20, 1946 18 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102205605/cecconis-kick-beats-marquette-7-6/ Newspapers.com October 26 l Purdue Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 8–10 38,000 Purdue's Last Second Field Goal Beats Pitt, 10-8: Game Is Decided As Clock Runs Out Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph Harry Keck October 27, 1946 II-4, II-7 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100688434/purdues-last-second-field-goal-beats/ Newspapers.com April 29, 2022 November 2 l y Indiana 20 Memorial Stadium Bloomington, IN 6–20 17,000 Indiana Beats Pitt: Ben Raimondi's Passes Enable Hoosiers To Win From Pittsburgh, 20-6 The Indianapolis Star Harold Harrison November 3, 1946 41, 42 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100874273/indiana-beats-pitt-ben-raimondis/ Newspapers.com November 9 l y Ohio State 12 Ohio Stadium Columbus, OH 13–20 74,743 Spencer Passes Ohio State To 20-13 Victory: Hurls Three Touchdown Aerials For Touchdowns; Pitt Scores First In Thrilling Game Dayton Daily News Ben Garlikov November 10, 1946 II-1, II-5 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/101674589/spencer-passes-ohio-state-to-20-13/ Newspapers.com November 23 w Penn State Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 14–7 50,000 Panthers Hand Lions 14-7 Defeat: 50,000 See Abraham, Skladany Score for Pitt Win in Finale; Triumph Gives Panthers Three Victories, Five Losses and One Tie for Season The Pittsburgh Press Chester L. Smith November 24, 1946 23 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102145150/panthers-hand-lions-14-7-defeat-50000/ Newspapers.com Preseason thumb|left|Coach Fesler and his staff On January 31, with a three year record of 10–17, Coach Shaughnessy was requested by a faculty committee led by Professor R. A. Sherrill, faculty chairman of athletics, to sever his ties with professional football, and concentrate his efforts on improving the Pitt football program. Earlier, his three assistant coaches had threatened to leave if he was going to be retained. Shaughnessy answered the committee by pointing out the problems with the Pitt football program: inconsistencies in Pitt's football code; a schedule too hard for the material recruited; his staff of assistants were not good teachers and could not carry out assignments they were given. He told the Sun-Telegraph: "What I do with my Sundays off is my own business." On February 4, Clark Shaughnessy resigned as Pitt coach and accepted the coaching job at the University of Maryland (replacing Paul Bryant).Keck Harry 'Lots Wrong at Pitt'--Shaughnessy Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph February 5, 1946 20 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-lots-wrong-at/131799706/ September 14, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pittsburgh Panthers, had an 0–17 record against the nine-team Western Conference since they de-emphasized the program. However, they still held hope that they would be invited to be the tenth member. On March 12, Chancellor Rufus Fitzgerald announced the hiring of Ohio State grad Wesley E. Fesler as the 18th head football coach at the University of Pittsburgh. Fesler told The Press: "I knew I was being considered but I didn't think anything would be done so soon. Naturally, I'm happy and mighty pleased. I've already picked two of my assistants, Charles Hartwig and Mike Milligan."Biederman Les Fesler Happy to Join Pitt The Pittsburgh Press March 13, 1946 26 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-fesler-happy-to-joi/131802004/ September 14, 2023 Newspapers.com By April 3, Fesler's staff was complete with the addition of Dick Fisher, Lyal Clark and Ralph Fife.Henry Jack Pitt Adds Fisher to Grid Staff Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph April 3, 1946 19 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-adds-fishe/132115790/ September 20, 2023 Newspapers.com On March 20, Coach Fesler welcomed over 100 candidates to his six-week spring practice session. Dr. Ralph Shanor returned from the Navy to his team physician position. Jimmy Dimitroff was appointed student manager and was assisted by Velt Castrodale.Henry Jack Big Grid Squad Out at Pitt Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph March 21, 1946 20 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-big-grid-squad/132117710/ September 20, 2023 Newspapers.com By April 10, only forty candidates remained on the squad. The coaches cut 15 deemed as unfit, and the Army drafted starting halfback James Robinson and center Jim Stopford. Starting tackle George Johnson played baseball, and one prospect did not make grades. The Sun-Telegraph reported that: "The abrupt letdown in interest has been caused partly by the dissatisfaction on the part of some players with their jobs at the school and partly by the fact that some candidates realized that they were not of varsity caliber..."Henry Jack Pitt Squad Drops to 40 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph April 10, 1946 20 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-squad-drop/132126770/ September 20, 2023 Newspapers.com "Some players holding janitorial jobs work a shift from 10 p. m. to 1 a. m. because classrooms are not vacant until then. The more disgruntled of this group have petitioned Chancellor Rufus Fitzgerald for relief."Henry Jack Fesler 'Selling' Pitt to Scholastic Stars Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph April 11, 1946 20 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-fesler-selling/132128049/ September 20, 2023 Newspapers.com On May 2, the spring session ended with the Blues beating the Whites 36–0 in the final scrimmage game.Kalmanir Stars in Pitt Squad Game Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph May 3, 1946 25 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-kalmanir-stars/132130023/ September 20, 2023 Newspapers.com On August 18, the Panthers opened a three-week fall practice at The Kiski School in Saltsburg, PA. This was the first time they had practiced off-campus since their days at Camp Hamilton (1913–1936). Among the more than 100 prospects that made the trip were 56 discharged veterans, 65 freshmen, and 20 lettermen (9 of whom played the previous year). 15 more students were in summer school and would join the team upon its return to campus. The squad trained twice a day, were housed in tents and ate at a nearby boys' camp.Landucci Fred Pitt to Open Football Drills At Kiski Tomorrow The Pittsburgh Press August 18, 1946 25 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-to-open-footba/132132247/ September 20, 2023 Newspapers.com Coaching staff 1946 Pittsburgh Panthers football staff Coaching staff Wes Fesler – head coach Charles Hartwig – assistant coach Dick Fisher – assistant backfield coach Ralph Fife – assistant line coach Walter Milligan – assistant coach Lyal Clark – assistant defensive coach Randy Gradisek - assistant coach Ralph Mitterling - assistant coach   Support staff James Hagan - director of athletics Frank Carver – publicity director Dr. Ralph Shanor – team physician Howard Waite – trainer Bill Haines – equipment manager Jim Dimitroff – varsity student manager Velt Castrodale – assistant manager Roster 1946 Pittsburgh Panthers football rosterPittsburgh Panthers Player Position Games Weight Height Class Prep School Hometown William Abraham (USN)*halfback 9 1855 ft 7 insophomoreJeannette H. S.Jeanette, PA Jack Banbury (AC)halfback 2 190 6 ft senior Schenley H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Bernard Barkouskie*guard 9 200 5 ft 8 infreshmanWilkes-Barre H. S.Wilkes-Barre, PA William Bruno (USMC)*fullback 9 1806 ft freshmanPenn H. S. Verona, PA Frank Capello (Army)end 1 1806 ft freshmanElwood City H. S.Elwood City, PA Louis Cecconi*quarterback 9 155 5 ft 6 infreshmanDonora H. S.Donora, PA Daniel Cerronetackle 2 2456 ft 4 insophomoreBraddock H. S. Braddock, PA Henry Clougherty (USMC)*center 9 1855 ft 8 injuniorSwissvale H. S.Swissvale, PA Ralph Coleman (USN)guard 5 2206 ft 1 insophomoreAmbridge H. S.Ambridge, PA William Coury (AC)*guard 7 1805 ft 9 infreshmanArnold H.S.Arnold, PA Walter Cummins (Army)*end 9 2006 ft 2 insophomoreGreensburg H. S.Greensburg, PA Peter Daley (USN)halfback 2 1705 ft 7 in sophomoreBrownsville H. S.Brownsville, PA James DeLong (S)tackle 0 2106 ft 2 infreshmanReading H. S.Reading, PA Carl DePasqua* quarterback 9 1655 ft 6 infreshmanWilliamsport. H.S.Williamsport, PA William Dillon (AC)guard 0 185 6 ft freshmanMarianna H. S.Marianna, PA Charles Dowlerend 0 1956 ft 3 infreshman Burgettstown H. S.Burgettstown, PA Jack Durishan (AC)*tackle 9 220 6 ft 1 inseniorHazleton H. S.Hazleton, PA Wilbur Forsythe (S)*tackle 6 2106 ft 3 insophomoreEast Huntingdon H. S.East Huntingdon, PA Peter Fuderich (USN)halfback 3 1805 ft 6 insophomoreAliquippa H. S.Aliquippa, PA Romeo Gallifa (USMC)center 1 1906 ft freshmanDonora H. S.Donora, PA James Gasper (S)guard 0 1955 ft 9 infreshmanPeabody H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Gene Gaugler (USMC)fullback 3 2006 ft 2 insophomoreBeaver Falls H. S.Beaver Falls, PA Matt Gebel (Army)fullback 3 190 6 ftseniorEast Pittsburgh H. S.East Pittsburgh, PA William Goelz (S)end 2 1755 ft 11 insophomoreCrafton H. S.Crafton, PA John Gregg (AC)end 4 1756 ft juniorMt. Lebanon H. S.Mt. Lebanon, PA Sam Haddad (USMC)*center 8 210 6 ft 3 infreshmanNew Castle H. S. New Castle, PA William Hardesty (USN)tackle 2 2206 ft 1 infreshmanLangley H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Morris Harris (USN)tackle 4 2606 ft freshmanGlassport H. S.Glassport, PA James Hayhurstguard 0 1956 ft junior East Fairmont H. S.Fairmont, WV Robert Humhalfback 1 1805 ft 11 infreshmanColumbiana H. S.Columbiana, OH George Johnson (Army)guard 3 2406 ft 4 injuniorGerman Twp. H. S.Edenborn, PA John Kosh (Army)*center 9 2006 ftjuniorDonora H. S.Donora, PA John LaFrankie (USMC)*halfback 6 1955 ft 11 infreshmanElizabeth H. S.Elizabeth, PA Lindaro Lauro (AC)*fullback 6 1905 ft 9 in sophomoreNew Castle H. S.New Castle, PA Jack Lavia (S)halfback 0 1705 ft 11 infreshmanSharpsburg H. S.Sharpsburg, PA Robert Lee (USMC)*halfback 6 1755 ft 9 infreshmanNew Castle H. S.New Castle, PA George Matich (S)halfback 1 1905 ft 11 infreshmanClairton H. S.Clairton, PA Glenn McCurdy (USN)guard 0 1905 ft 8 insophomoreEast McKeesport H. S.East Mckeesport, PA William McPeak (USN)*end 9 1856 ft sophomoreNew Castle H. S.New Castle, PA Joseph Massey (AC)guard 2 2006 ft freshmanBeaver Falls H. S.Beaver Falls, PA William Mihm*end 7 1806 ft sophomoreWestinghouse H. S.Pittsburgh, PA John Montana (Army)fullback 0 185 5 ft 10 injunior Meadville H. S.Meadville, PA Jack Pepper (USN)halfback 2 1755 ft 10 in freshmanSchenley H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Robert Plotz*tackle 8 1856 ft freshmanMartins Ferry H. S.Martins Ferry, OH Chester Radnor (USN)halfback 2 1705 ft 8 infreshmanPlymouth H. S.Plymouth, PA Leonard Radnorcenter 4 1855 ft 10 infreshmanPlymouth H. S.Plymouth, PA George Ranii*guard 7 2105 ft 11 inseniorAspinwall H. S.Blawnox, PA Martin Rosepink (S)*tackle 8 2056 ft seniorVerona H. S. Verona, PA Michael Roussostackle 6 2406 ft 4 injunior New Castle H. S.New Castle, PA John Rozanskitackle 0 1955 ft 10 in juniorPlymouth H. S. Plymouth, PA Joe Rubinohalfback 3 1705 ft 6 infreshmanDormont H. S.Dormont, PA William Samerend 0 1906 ft 1 infreshmanDonora H. S.Donora, PA Clair Saundershalfback 0 1755 ft 10infreshman New Brighton H. S.New Brighton, PA Clement Schneider (USMC)end 1 1956 ft 2 in freshmanCentral Catholic H. S. Pittsburgh, PA Ralph Shortquarterback 4 1906 ft 1 infreshmanMartins Ferry H. S.Martins Ferry, OH Leo Skladany*end 8 2006 ft sophomorePlymouth H. S.Plymouth, PA Jack Smodicquarterback 3 1655 ft 9 insophomoreGerman Twp. H. S.Gates, PA Michael Sprock (USN)halfback 3 1705 ft 8 insophomoreAmbridge H. S.Ambridge, PA Earl Sumptercenter 1 1655 ft 10 infreshmanClairton H. S.Clairton, PA Robert Teitt*fullback 4 1905 ft 8 infreshmanTrafford H. S. Trafford, PA Fred Thomas (USN)center 0 1856 ft freshmanTarentum H. S.Tarentum, PA Charles Underdonkfullback 0 1855 ft 8 infreshmanMoundsville H. S.Moundsville, WVA Jack Ulam (AC)halfback 0 170 5 ft 8 infreshmanMt. Lebanon H. S.Mt. Lebanon, PA Lee Ward (Army)*center 4 1756 ft freshmanMt. Lebanon H. S.Mt. Lebanon, PA Leo Watkins (AC)guard 01705 ft 9 infreshmanWestinghouse H. S.Pittsburgh, PA * Letterman September 21, 1946 University of Pittsburgh Athletic Department Pitt Football Roster 1946 (Alphabetical) Pitt vs.Illinois Souvenir Program 1Football Lettermen University of Pittsburgh 2008 Pitt Football Media Guide 178–182 August 11, 2023 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/175/mode/1up Game summaries Illinois Week 1: Illinois at Pitt Illinois Pitt 7 0 13 13 7 0 0 0 September 21, 1946 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 35,000 sunny Russell Rupp (Lebanon Valley) 1946 Illinois Fighting Illini football team thumb|left|Program for September 21 game versus Illinois thumb|Ticket stub for September 21 game versus Illinois On September 21, the Panthers, led by Wes Fesler, opened their season against the Fighting Illini for the second year in a row. The Illini led the series 3–0, and had out scored the Panthers 95–36.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 154 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/155/mode/1up September 26, 2023 Illinois coach Ray Eliot had a veteran squad that was favored to win the Western Conference title. His analysis: "We are the most overrated team in the United States. There are 20 teams around who can knock us off."Henry Jack Wes Fesler Makes Bow as Coach Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 21, 1946 9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-wes-fesler-make/132467869/ September 25, 2023 Newspapers.com The Illini used both rail and air service to get to Pittsburgh. Seven members of the Illini squad arrived by train and the remaining twenty-nine members flew by chartered plane. Starting end Joe Buscemi and reserve halfback Jack Pierce did not make the trip.Illini Depart For Pittsburgh Chicago Tribune September 20, 1946 31 https://www.newspapers.com/article/chicago-tribune-illini-depart-for-pittsb/133278368/ October 11, 2023 Newspapers.com Guard Alex Agase was a consensus All-American.ESPN College Football Encyclopedia 1204 ESPN Books 2005 1401337031 Coach Fesler had only three lettermen in his starting lineup – Jack Durishan, Leo Skladany and William McPeak. McPeak and Durishan were named co-captains. The 120 member Pitt Band performed for the first time in three years.Pitt Opposes Illinois Before Crowd of 30,000 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette September 21, 1946 13 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-pitt-opposes-ill/133281757/ October 11, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panthers extended their winless streak against the Western Conference to eighteen games by losing to the Illini 33–7. Illinois star running back Buddy Young scored on a 46-yard dash around the left side of the Pitt defense on Illinois's second play from scrimmage. Pitt answered after Louis "Bimbo" Cecconi intercepted a Julius Rykovich pass on the Illini 37-yard line and returned it to the 22. Three plays later Cecconi scored from the 1-yard line, and then he booted the placement to tie the game. The Panthers played the second quarter in Illinois territory but were unable to score. Pitt end Walt Cummins dropped a pass on the 1-yard line; Illini quarterback Tommy Gallagher intercepted a Pete Fuderich pass on the goal line; and Mike Roussos missed a 23-yard field goal. After intermission, Buddy Young, Art Dufelmeier, Paul Patterson and Chick Maggioli each scored a touchdown, and Don Maechtle converted three of five extra points.Henry Jack Illinois' Late Drive Defeats Pitt, 33–7 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 22, 1946 II-8 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-illinois-late/133540157/ October 16, 2023 Newspapers.com Illinois finished the season ranked #5 in the AP poll with an 8–2 record. They won the Western Conference Championship and beat UCLA in the 1947 Rose Bowl.1946 Illinois Fighting Illini Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football October 16, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/illinois/1946-schedule.html Even though the Panthers lost 2 starters early in the game to injuries (end Leo Skladany and running back Bobby Lee), Coach Fesler was pleased with the overall effort. He told the Sun-Telegraph that when the team came in the locker room: "They told me they were sorry they couldn't hold up the whole way and promised to win one for me next week. They have the right spirit."Keck Harry Pitt Hopes of Upset Go Out With Gen. Lee Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 22, 1946 II-7 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-hopes-of-u/133545052/ October 16, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Illinois was Leo Skladany (left end), Jack Durishan (left tackle), Bernard Barkouskie (left guard), Lee Ward (center), William Coury (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Carl DePasqua (quarterback), Robert Lee (left halfback), William Abraham (right halfback) and Lindaro Lauro (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Walt Cummins, John Gregg, William Mihm, Frank Capello, Morris Harris, William Hardesty, Michael Roussos, Dan Cerrone, George Ranii, George Johnson, John Kosh, Earl Sumpter, Henry Clougherty, William Bruno, Louis Cecconi, Peter Fuderich, Michael Sprock, Jack Pepper, Ralph Short and Peter Daley. Illinois Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Illinois 2 54 RushTD Buddy Young 46 good Don Maechtle run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 0 1 Pittsburgh 4 22 RushTD Louis Cecconi 1 good Lou Cecconi run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 7 3 Illinois 73 RushTD Art Dufelmeier 37 no good (wide) Don Maechtle run/pass good/failed/incomplete 13 7 3 Illinois 6 21 RushTD Buddy Young 2 good Don Maechtle run/pass good/failed/incomplete 20 7 4 Illinois 3 37 RecTD Paul Patterson Tom Stewart 22 good Don Maechtle run/pass good/failed/incomplete 27 7 4 Illinois 1 80 PuntTD Chick Maggioli 90 no good (Blocked by Ralph Coleman) Tom Gallagher run/pass good/failed/incomplete 33 7 33 7 West Virginia Week 2: West Virginia at Pitt West Virginia Pitt 0 7 0 0 0 27 6 0 September 28, 1946 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 31,000 sunny W. T. Halloran (Providence) 1946 West Virginia Mountaineers football team thumb|left|Program for September 28 game versus West Virginia thumb|Ticket stub for September 28 game versus West Virginia The Panthers and Mountaineers met for the 40th time on September 28. The Panthers held a 29–8–1 advantage in the series and had beaten West Virginia 14 straight times.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 160 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/161/mode/1up October 17, 2023 Bill Kern, ex-Panther player and assistant coach, finished his naval tour of duty, and was back as head coach of the Mountaineers. West Virginia opened their season with a 13–7 victory over Otterbein.1946 West Virginia Mountaineers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football October 17, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/west-virginia/1946-schedule.html Prior to his entering the service, Mountaineer halfback Buddy Freeze, played his freshman year at Pitt.Henry Jack Panthers Rule Choice to Win Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 28, 1946 9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-rule-c/133612160/ October 17, 2023 Newspapers.com Pitt was a heavy favorite (10–20 points) but two starters were injured. Coach Fesler replaced Leo Skladany with Walt Cummins at left end and Bobby Lee with Bill Bruno at left halfback. The final score (33–7) was a repeat of the previous week, but this time Pitt was the victor. The opening quarter was scoreless. Five touchdowns were scored in the second period. West Virginia scored first on a 28-yard Russ Combs to Charley Helenski touchdown pass. Charley Becca added the extra point. The Mountaineers were offsides on the ensuing kick-off and had to rekick. Lou “Bimbo” Cecconi fielded the ball on his 3-yard line and raced 97 yards for the touchdown. Ralph Short's placement tied the game. Then the Panther defense forced a punt, and Pitt gained possession on the West Virginia 48-yard line. On first down Pitt quarterback, Carl DePasqua, threw a touchdown pass to Bill Abraham. Cecconi added the extra point and Pitt led 14–7. Next, Panther back, Bill Bruno, intercepted a pass that gave Pitt possession on the Panther 46-yard line. Three plays later Bruno ran 41 yards for the touchdown. Cecconi's placement was blocked, but Pitt led 20–7. An interception by Pitt center Henry Clougherty gave Pitt possession on the West Virginia 21-yard line. On the fifth play Cecconi scored on a 7-yard scamper and then added the extra point to finish the first half scoring at 27–7. Bill Abraham scored Pitt's final touchdown on a 6-yard scoring run in the third period. Cecconi's placement was blocked.Keck Harry Pitt Wallops W.Va.; 97-yard Run Feature Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 29, 1946 I-10 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-wallops-w/133616302/ October 17, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Fesler was delighted but cautious with his praise: "We're still a long way away and our tackling wasn't as good as it should have been. But you have to hand it to the boys for how they refuse to fold up when the opposition jumps off to the lead."Henry Jack Wes Fesler Pays Off in Silver Dollars Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 29, 1946 I-9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-wes-fesler-pays/133647127/ October 18, 2023 Newspapers.com The starting lineup for the game against West Virginia was Walt Cummins (left end), Jack Durishan (left tackle), Bernard Barkouskie (left guard), Lee Ward (center), William Coury (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Louis Cecconi (quarterback), William Bruno (left halfback), William Abraham (right halfback)) and Lindaro Lauro (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were John Gregg, William Mihm, Schneider, Morris Harris, Michael Roussos, William Hardesty, Martin Rosepink, Dan Cerrone, Joseph Massey, Henry Clougherty, George Ranii, George Johnson, John Kosh, Ralph Coleman, Sam Haddad, Romeo Gallifa, Carl DePasqua, Peter Fuderich, John LaFrankie, Jack Banbury, Ralph Short, Michael Sprock, Peter Daley, Robert Teitt, Joe Rubino, Eugene Gaugler and Leonard Radnor.Same Old Story Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 29, 1946 I-9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-same-old-story/133647844/ October 17, 2023 Newspapers.com West Virginia Pittsburgh collapsed 2 West Virginia 8 50 RecTD Charley Helenski Russ Combs 28 good Charley Becca run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 0 2 Pittsburgh 1 97 KickTD Lou Cecconi 97 good Ralph Short run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 7 2 Pittsburgh 1 48 RecTD Bill Abraham Carl DePasqua 48 good Lou Cecconi run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 14 2 Pittsburgh 3 54 RushTD Bill Bruno 41 blocked Lou Cecconi run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 20 2 Pittsburgh 5 21 RushTD Lou Cecconi 7 good Lou Cecconi run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 27 3 Pittsburgh 1 6 RushTD Bill Abraham 6 blocked Lou Cecconi run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 33 7 33 at Notre Dame Week 3: Pitt at Notre Dame Pitt Notre Dame 0 0 0 0 0 12 14 7 October 5, 1946 Notre Dame StadiumNotre Dame, IN 2:00 p.m. 50,368 sunny William A. Blake (Loras) 1946 Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team thumb|left|Program for October 5 game versus Notre Dame thumb|Ticket stub for October 5 game versus Notre Dame On October 5, the Panthers traveled to South Bend to play the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame for the fifteenth time. Notre Dame led the series 8–5–1, and the Irish had outscored the Panthers 138–9 in the previous 3 games. Pitt and the Irish were 2–2 in the four games played at South Bend.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 156 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/157/mode/1up October 17, 2023 Fourth-year coach Frank Leahy's squad was 1–0 on the season, having beaten Illinois 26–6 in their opener.1946 Notre Dame Fighting Irish Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football October 17, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/notre-dame/1946-schedule.html The Irish lineup had 4 All-Americans – quarterback Johnny Lujack, tackle George Connor, guard John Mastrangelo and center George Strohmeyer.Notre Dame Scholastic Football Review University of Notre Dame https://archives.nd.edu/Football/Football-1946s.pdf 29 October 8, 2023 Since the Panthers had 9 players on the injured list (Lindaro Lauro, Leo Skladany, Jack Smodic, Bob Lee, Mike Roussos, Bill Hardesty, Frank Capello, Romeo Galiffa and John Banbury), Notre Dame was heavily favored to win their home opener.Costin Jim Irish Favored to Win Easily Against Pitt The South Bend Tribune October 5, 1946 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-south-bend-tribune-irish-favored-to/133760581/ October 18, 2023 Newspapers.com Notre Dame beat the Panthers 33–0. The Panther offense managed to gain only 42 total yards and 4 first downs. Their defense surrendered 257 yards rushing and 211 through the air. Johnny Lujack threw 2 touchdown passes (one each to Bob Livingstone and Jim Mello). Terry Brennan and Jim Mello each scored two touchdowns. Fred Earley converted three extra points.Costin Jim Notre Dame is Unimpressive While Trampling Over Pittsburgh By 33–0 The South Bend Tribune October 6, 1946 Section III-3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-south-bend-tribune-notre-dame-is-uni/133765565/ October 20, 2023 Newspapers.com Notre Dame finished the season ranked number 1 in the AP poll with an 8–0–1 record. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Notre Dame was Walt Cummins (left end), Jack Durishan (left tackle), Bernard Barkouskie (left guard), Lee Ward (center), William Coury (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Louis Cecconi (quarterback), William Bruno (left halfback), William Abraham (right halfback) and Eugene Gaugler (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Leo Skladany, William Mihm, John Gregg, Wilbur Forsythe, Morris Harris, Martin Rosepink, John Kosh, George Johnson, George Ranii, Ralph Coleman, Henry Clougherty, Sam Haddad, Leonard Radnor, Carl DePasqua, Ralph Short, Michael Sprock, Peter Fuderich, John LaFrankie, Victor Pepper, Joe Rubino, Chester Radnor, Matthew Gebel and Robert Teitt.Outlasted! Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 6, 1946 Section II-3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-outlasted/133766020/ October 20, 2023 Newspapers.com Pittsburgh Notre Dame collapsed 2 Notre Dame 4 41 RecTD Bob Livingstone Johnny Lujack 24 no good John Creevey run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 6 2 Notre Dame 5 49 RushTD Terry Brennan 6 no good John Creevey run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 12 3 Notre Dame 5 30 RecTD Jim Mello Johnny Lujack 16 good Fred Earley run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 19 3 Notre Dame 5 99 RushTD Jim Mello 29 good Fred Earley run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 26 4 Notre Dame 6 47 RushTD Terry Brennan 25 good Fred Earley run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 33 0 33 Temple Week 4: Temple at Pitt Temple Pitt 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 October 12, 1946 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:10 p.m. 2,500 rain Joseph H. Williams (Bucknell) 1946 Temple Owls football team thumb|left|Program for October 12 game versus Temple thumb|Ticket stub for October 12, 1946 game versus Temple On October 12, in front of 2,500 rain-soaked fans, the Panthers and Temple Owls played for only the fourth time. Pitt led the series 2–1.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 158 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/159/mode/1up October 17, 2023 The Owls had a 0–1–1 record, after tying SMU (7–7) and losing to Georgia (35–7).1946 Temple Owls Schedule and results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football October 24, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/temple/1946-schedule.html Since there was a hotel strike in Pittsburgh, second-year coach Ray Morrison brought his team to Pittsburgh in special B. & O. Pullman cars that served as their headquarters. Coach Morrison was cautiously optimistic: "We're in good shape physically and our mental attitude is right."Lewis Allen Temple Leaves For Pitt Game The Philadelphia Inquirer October 12, 1946 14 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-philadelphia-inquirer-temple-leaves/133996950/ October 24, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Fesler made four changes to the Pitt starting lineup: Leo Skladany replaced Walt Cummins at left end; Henry Clougherty replaced Lee Ward at center; Carl DePasqua replaced Lou Cecconi at quarterback; and Matt Gebel replaced Gene Gaugler at fullback. Leo Skladany's brother Tommy played halfback for Temple.Henry Jack Pitt, Tech Elevens In Home Games Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 11, 1946 32 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-tech-elev/134000204/ October 24, 2023 Newspapers.com An all day rain contributed to a sparse crowd and scoreless tie. Neither team came close to scoring. The Panthers offense drove to the Temple 34-yard line in both the second and third periods. The Owls offense drove to the Panthers 27-yard line in the first quarter and the 40-yard line in the final period. The remainder of the game was a field position battle as the teams combined for 29 punts.Drenched Crowd of 2500 Sees Stadium Tilt The Pittsburgh Press October 13, 1946 22 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-drenched-crowd-of-2/134001292/ October 24, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Temple was Leo Skladany (left end), Jack Durishan (left tackle), Bernard Barkouskie (left guard), Henry Clougherty (center), William Coury (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Carl DePasqua (quarterback), William Bruno (left halfback), William Abraham (right halfback) and Matt Gebel (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Walt Cummins, Martin Rosepink, Wilbur Forsythe, George Ranii, Frank Kosh, Sam Haddad, Lou Cecconi, Joe Rubino and Robert Teitt.Stalemate! Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 13, 1946 Section II-4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-stalemate/134002466/ October 24, 2023 Newspapers.com Marquette Week 5: Marquette at Pitt Marquette Pitt 0 6 0 0 0 0 7 0 October 19, 1946 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 20,000 fair and cool Lyle Clarno (Bradley) 1946 Marquette Hilltoppers football team thumb|left|Program for October 19 game versus Marquette thumb|Ticket stub for October 19 game versus Marquette On October 19, the Panthers played the Marquette Hilltoppers for the first time. Coach Frank Murray's Hilltoppers had a 2–2 record.1946 Marquette Golden Eagles Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football October 25, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/marquette/1946-schedule.html Marquette was ranked the fifth most effective passing team in the country, having completed 57 of 108 tosses for 721 yards. Due to the continuing hotel strike, the 37 squad members (minus seven injured first stringers) were housed in their Pullman cars.Henry Jack Panthers to Face Great Passing Trio Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 18, 1946 36 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-to-fac/134052260/ October 25, 2023 Newspapers.com Injuries again played havoc with Coach Fesler's starting lineup. Linemen Bill Coury and Bob Plotz had sore shoulders and were replaced by Wilbur Forsythe and John Kosh. Fullback Matt Gebel, in the hospital with a head injury, was replaced by freshman Robert Teitt.Henry Jack Teitt To Start Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 19, 1946 9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-teitt-to-start/134108451/ October 26, 2023 Newspapers.com Thanks to Lou Cecconi's successful extra point, the Panthers eked out a 7–6 victory. The Hilltoppers completed 5 of 20 passes and had 5 intercepted. Pitt out-gained Marquette 263 to 169, but lost 5 fumbles. Marquette scored in the second period on a 46-yard pass play from Carl Schuette to Bob O'Hagan. George Gallo's placement went wide and Marquette led 6–0 at halftime. In the third period, the Panthers gained possession on the Hilltoppers 48-yard line. A pass play advanced the ball to the 35-yard line. Then, Carl DePasqua completed a pass to Leo Skladaney for the touchdown. Cecconi converted and Pitt led 7–6.Henry Jack Both Touchdowns Made On Passes Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 20, 1946 Section II-6 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-both-touchdowns/134116303/ October 26, 2023 Newspapers.comHenry Jack Pitt Defeats Marquette Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 20, 1946 Section II-8 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-defeats-ma/134116583/ October 26, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Marquette was Leo Skladany (left end), Jack Durishan (left tackle), Bernard Barkouskie (left guard), Henry Clougherty (center), John Kosh (right guard), Wilbur Forsythe (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Carl DePasqua (quarterback), William Bruno (left halfback), William Abraham (right halfback) and Robert Teitt (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Walt Cummins, William Mihm, John Gregg, Mike Roussos, Martin Rosepink, George Ranii, Joseph Massey, Sam Haddad, Jack Smodic, Louis Cecconi, Jack Banbury, Robert Lee, Matt Gebel and Len Radnor.Grand Comeback! Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 20, 1946 Section II-6 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-grand-comeback/134108146/ October 26, 2023 Newspapers.com Marquette Pittsburgh collapsed 2 Marquette 4 69 RecTD Bob O'Hagan Carl Schuette 24 no good wide George Gallo run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 0 3 Pittsburgh 2 48 RecTD Leo Skladany Carl DePasqua 35 good Louis Cecconi run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 7 6 7 Purdue Week 6: Purdue at Pitt Purdue Pitt 0 7 0 3 0 2 0 6 October 26, 1946 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 38,000 fair and warm Lloyd Larson (Wisconsin) 1946 Purdue Boilermakers football team thumb|left|Program for October 26 game versus Purdue thumb|Ticket stub for October 26 game versus Purdue On October 26, Coach Cecil Isbell and his Purdue Boilermakers, with a record of 1–3–1, were Pitt's opponent.1946 Purdue Boilermakers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football October 27, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/purdue/1946-schedule.html Purdue led the series 2–0, and had held the Panthers scoreless in both contests.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 157 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/158/mode/1up October 17, 2023 Purdue guard Dick Barwegan received All-America mention, but the two notable members of the squad were future coaching greats, Hank Stram and John McKay. Coach Fesler lost three backfield members of his squad prior to the game, but overall, the Panthers were in their best condition of the season. Fullback Matt Gebel quit due to recurring headaches. Wingbacks Jack Banbury and Mike Sprock were not happy with their progress and turned in their uniforms.Two More Backs Off Pitt Squad Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 25, 1946 28 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-two-more-backs/134442742/ November 1, 2023 Newspapers.com Purdue extended the Western Conference win streak versus Pitt to 19 games. Hank Stram booted a last second field goal to win the game 10–8. At the end of the scoreless first quarter, the Boilermakers gained possession on downs at the Pitt 43-yard line. Purdue advanced the ball to the 6-yard line at the close of the quarter. On the third play of the second period, Purdue back Bob Pfohl scored on a 1-yard run. Hank Stram added the extra point and Purdue led 7–0. The Panther offense stalled and quarterback Carl DePasqua's punt rolled out of bounds on the Purdue 2-yard line. Pitt end Leo Skladany tackled Purdue quarterback Bob DeMoss in the end zone for a safety. Late in the fourth quarter, the Pitt offense drove 64-yards in 10 plays for the go-ahead touchdown. Bill Bruno went through right tackle from the 4-yard line for the score, but Lou Cecconi was wide on the point after. The Panther defense held and gained possession with little time left on the clock. Halfback Lindaro Lauro fumbled and Purdue recovered on the Pitt 43-yard line. A DeMoss pass to John McKay took the ball to the 10-yard line. Two plays gained 4 yards, then Stram booted a 19-yard field goal as time ran out. Purdue finished their season with a 2–6–1 record. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Purdue was Leo Skladany (left end), Jack Durishan (left tackle), Bernard Barkouskie (left guard), Henry Clougherty (center), John Kosh (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Carl DePasqua (quarterback), Robert Lee (left halfback), William Abraham (right halfback) and William Bruno (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Walt Cummins, William Mihm, Wilbur Forsythe, Martin Rosepink, George Ranii, Sam Haddad, Gene Gaugler, Jack Smodic, Louis Cecconi, Bob Hum, John LaFrankie, Len Radnor and Lindara Lauro. Purdue Pittsburgh collapsed 2 Purdue 9 43 RushTD Bob Pfohl 1 good Hank Stram run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 0 2 Pittsburgh 1 SafetyTackle Bob DeMoss Leo Skladany 7 2 4 Pittsburgh 10 64 RushTD Bill Bruno 4 no good (wide) Lou Cecconi run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 8 4 Purdue 5 37 FG 19 Hank Stram 10 8 10 8 at Indiana Week 7: Pitt at Indiana Pitt Indiana 6 0 0 0 7 7 6 0 November 2, 1946 Memorial StadiumBloomington, IN 2:00 p.m. 17,000 partly cloudy Jay Berwanger (Chicago) 1946 Indiana Hoosiers football team thumb|left|Program for November 2 game versus Indiana On November 2, the defending Western Conference Indiana Hoosiers hosted the Panthers. The Hoosiers led the series 3–0, and had outscored the Panthers 85–7. Coach Bo McMillin's, Hoosiers were ranked #20 in AP poll with a 3–3 record.1946 Indiana Hoosiers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football November 3, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/indiana/1946-schedule.html Fullback Pete Pihos, quarterback Ben Raimondi and center John Cannady received All-American mention.All-Americans The Hoosier Huddle November 3, 2023 http://hoosierhuddle.com/all-americans McMillin told his squad: "the Panthers are 'corn-cob rough' and predicted the Hoosiers 'will be ripe for a pickin' unless we're ready to play our best football."Armstrong Moves Up at I.U.; Ciolli Returns to Practice The Indianapolis Star October 31, 1946 17 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-indianapolis-star-armstrong-moves-up/134721930/ November 6, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panther traveling squad rode the train to Indianapolis; ate breakfast at the Claypool Hotel; chartered a bus for the final 55 miles to Bloomington; and headquartered at the Graham Hotel. Coach Fesler used the same lineup that started against Purdue to play the favored Hoosiers.Henry Jack Panthers Drill at Indiana Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 1, 1946 32 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-drill/134724505/ November 6, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panthers scored first, but the Hoosiers came from behind and kept the Western Conference win streak over Pitt alive with a 20 to 6 victory. In the opening period, Carl DePasqua threw a 24-yard touchdown pass to Bill McPeak to cap a 7-play, 69-yard drive. Lou Cecconi's placement sailed wide. The Hoosiers answered with a 5-play, 56-yard drive of their own. Hoosier fullback Pete Pihos ran in from the two-yard line, and Charley Armstrong added the point after to give Indiana the lead. Indiana added another touchdown before halftime on a Mel Groomes 2-yard run inside tackle. Armstrong added the point after and Indiana led 14–6. The final score came in the third quarter on a 68-yard punt return by Bob Cowan. The Panthers managed to play the final period in Indiana territory, but were unable to capitalize due to fumbles and penalties.Henry Jack Fumbles Halt Threat At Finish Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 3, 1946 Section II-6 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-fumbles-halt-th/134726971/ November 6, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Indiana was Leo Skladany (left end), Jack Durishan (left tackle), Bernard Barkouskie (left guard), Henry Clougherty (center), William Coury (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Carl DePasqua (quarterback), Robert Lee (left halfback), William Abraham (right halfback) and William Bruno (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Walt Cummins, William Mihm, William Goelz, Martin Rosepink, Mike Roussos, Morris Harris, John Kosh, Ralph Coleman, Sam Haddad, Jack Smodic, Louis Cecconi, John LaFrankie, Lindara Lauro and Ralph Short. Pittsburgh Indiana collapsed 1 Pittsburgh 7 69 RecTD William McPeak Carl DePasqua 24 no good (wide) Lou Cecconi run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 0 1 Indiana 5 56 RushTD Pete Pihos 2 good Charley Armstrong run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 7 2 Indiana 5 40 RushTD Mel Groomes 2 good Charley Armstrong run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 14 3 Indiana 1 68 PuntTD Bob Cowan 68 no good run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 20 6 20 at Ohio State Week 8: Pitt at Ohio State Pitt Ohio State 0 7 0 6 0 7 7 6 November 9, 1946 Ohio StadiumColumbus, OH 2:00 p.m. 74,743 fair and cool David Noble (Nebraska) 1946 Ohio State Buckeyes football team thumb|left|Program for November 9 game versus Ohio State thumb|Ticket stub for November 9 game versus Ohio State On November 9, the Panthers played Ohio State. Coach Wes Fesler's alma mater was their last Western Conference opponent for the season. The Buckeyes led the series 7–2–1, and had won the past 6 in a row. First-year Coach Paul Bixler's Buckeyes were ranked #12 with a 3–1–2 record.1946 Ohio State Buckeyes Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football November 6, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/ohio-state/1946-schedule.html The Buckeye line was anchored by Warren Amling, consensus All-American tackle.Ohio State All-Americans The Ohio State University Library OSU vs UM https://library.osu.edu/site/osuvsmichigan/ohio-state-all-americans/ November 6, 2023 Coach Paul Bixler was concerned with Pitt's 5–4–2 defensive alignment: "That unorthodox defense 'Fes' has been throwing at his opponents is bound to cause us plenty of trouble."Stull Don Dad's Day For Bucks; Panthers Meet Ohio The Cincinnati Enquirer November 9, 1946 12 https://newspapers.com/article/the-cincinnati-enquirer-dads-day-for-bu/134798107/ November 6, 2023 Newspapers.com Harry Keck of the Sun-Telegraph reported that Pitt Coach Fesler would be next in line for the Ohio State head coaching position if anything happened to Bixler. Fesler was a 3-time All-American football star, and also played baseball and basketball for the Buckeyes. Coach Fesler used the same starting lineup as the previous week for his homecoming game.Keck Harry Sports Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 9, 1946 9 https://newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-sports/134799523/ November 6, 2023 Newspapers.com For the second straight game the Panthers scored first but could not hold on, and were defeated 20–13 by the Buckeyes. After a scoreless first quarter, Ohio State back Alex Verdova fumbled a Carl DePasqua punt and Pitt guard Bernie Barkouskie recovered on the Buckeye 19-yard line. On first down, Lou Cecconi threw a touchdown pass to Bill McPeak and Bill Coury added the extra point for a 7–0 lead. Ohio State answered with a 6-play, 60-yard drive, capped by a 4-yard touchdown pass from George Spencer to Cecil Souders. Max Schnittker's extra point tied the score. In the third period, Spencer threw a 54-yard touchdown pass to Robert Brugge and Schnittker's placement was good to give the Buckeyes the lead. In the final quarter, the Panthers offense went on an 11-play, 68-yard drive. Lou Cecconi scored on a quarterback sneak from the 2-yard line. The center snap on the extra point was fumbled and Pitt trailed by 1. The Panthers defense then gave up another touchdown pass from Spencer to Brugge, which iced the game for the Buckeyes. The Panthers were now 0–21 against the Western Conference since Sutherland was forced to resign.Keck Harry Pitt Extends Bucks Before Bowing, 20–13 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 10, 1946 Section II-9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-extends-bu/134836824/ November 7, 2023 Newspapers.com The starting lineup for Pitt against Ohio State was Leo Skladany (left end), Jack Durishan (left tackle), Bernard Barkouskie (left guard), Henry Clougherty (center), John Kosh (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Carl DePasqua (quarterback), Robert Lee (left halfback), William Abraham (right halfback) and William Bruno (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Walt Cummins, William Mihm, Martin Rosepink, Wilbur Forsythe, William Coury, Ralph Coleman, Sam Haddad, Lee Ward, Louis Cecconi, John LaFrankie, Lindara Lauro and George Matich.A Game Stand Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 10, 1946 Section II-7 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-a-game-stand/134837180/ November 8, 2023 Newspapers.com Pittsburgh Ohio State collapsed 2 Pittsburgh 1 19 RecTD William McPeak Lou Cecconi 19 good Bill Coury run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 0 2 Ohio State 6 60 RecTD Cecil Souders George Spencer 4 good Max Schnittker run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 7 3 Ohio State 3 68 RecTD Robert Brugge George Spencer 54 good Max Schnittker run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 14 4 Pittsburgh 11 68 RushTD Lou Cecconi 2 no good (fumbled center snap) Bill Coury run/pass good/failed/incomplete 13 14 4 Ohio State 4 58 RecTD Robert Brugge George Spencer 8 no good Max Schnittker run/pass good/failed/incomplete 13 20 13 20 Penn State Week 9: Penn State at Pitt Purdue Pitt 0 0 0 7 0 7 0 7 November 23, 1946 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 50,000 cloudy and cold Harry Dayhoff (Bucknell) 1946 Penn State Nittany Lions football team thumb|left|Program for November 23 game versus Penn State thumb|Ticket stub for November 23 game versus Penn State On November 23, Pitt's final game of the season was against Bob Higgins' Penn State Lions who sported a 6–1 record.1946 Penn State Nittany Lions Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football November 8, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/penn-state/1946-schedule.html Pitt led the series 26–17–2, and was on a 2-game win streak over the Lions.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 157 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/158/mode/1up October 17, 2023 The Lions led the nation in defense by giving up only 139.6 yards per game. Coach Higgins' roster had 15 veterans of previous Pitt versus Penn State games.Henry Jack Three Pitt Seniors Bow Out Saturday Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 21, 1946 28 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-three-pitt-seni/134855015/ November 8, 2023 Newspapers.com Due to the ongoing hotel strike, the Lions stayed in Ligonier, PA until Saturday morning. The Pitt band members each volunteered to house a Penn State band member, so the Nittanies would have their own band in attendance.Pitt Band Aids State Musicians Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 22, 1946 37 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-band-aids/134856282/ November 8, 2023 Newspapers.com Three Panther linemen were playing their final game for Pitt. Tackles Jack Durishan and Martin Rosepink plus guard George Ranii were on track to graduate. Coach Fesler started Ranii at right guard in place of Bernie Barkouskie. The Panthers scored first and held off the Staters to win 14–7, and make it three in a row over their in-state rival. In the second quarter, the Panthers managed a 6-play, 66-yard drive with Bill Abraham scoring from the 2-yard line. Bill Coury was good on the placement and Pitt led 7–0 at halftime. After a scoreless third period, the Panthers advanced 78 yards in 9 plays early in the final quarter. Lou Cecconi completed a 12-yard touchdown pass to Leo Skladany and Coury's extra point upped Pitt's lead to 14–0. The Lions scored after a late 9-play, 60-yard drive that ended with a Bob Weltzel 6-yard run. Ed Czekaj's placement was good. Pitt was deep in Penn State territory when the game ended. The Pitt offense gained 294 yards against the #1 ranked State defense, and the Pitt defense stopped the Lions twice inside the Panther 5-yard line. The starting lineup for the game against Penn State was Leo Skladany (left end), Jack Durishan (left tackle), George Ranii (left guard), Henry Clougherty (center), John Kosh (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Carl DePasqua (quarterback), Robert Lee (left halfback), William Abraham (right halfback) and William Bruno (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Walt Cummins, William Goelz, Martin Rosepink, Wilbur Forsythe, Mike Roussos, Bernie Barkouskie, William Coury, Ralph Coleman, Sam Haddad, Louis Cecconi, John LaFrankie and Lindara Lauro. Penn State Pittsburgh collapsed 2 Pittsburgh 6 66 RushTD Bill Abraham 2 good Bill Coury run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 4 Pittsburgh 9 78 RecTD Leo Skladany Lou Cecconi 12 good Bill Coury run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 14 4 Penn State 9 60 RushTD Bob Weltzel 6 good Ed Czekaj run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 14 7 14} Individual scoring summary 1946 Pittsburgh Panthers scoring summaryPittsburgh Panthers Player Touchdowns Extra points Field goals Safety Points Louis Cecconi440028 Bill Abraham300018 Leo Skladany200114 William Bruno200012 William McPeak200012 William Coury03006 Ralph Short01001 Totals1380188 References Pittsburgh Category:Pittsburgh Panthers football seasons Pittsburgh Panthers football