1948 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

American college football season August 2023 February 2026 1948 Pittsburgh Panthers football Independent 6–3 Mike Milligan 2nd Pitt Stadium The 1948 Pittsburgh Panthers football team represented the University of Pittsburgh as an independent during the 1948 college football season. The team compiled a 6–3 record under head coach Mike Milligan.1948 Pittsburgh Panthers Stats Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football May 21, 2016 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/pittsburgh/1948.html Pittsburgh was ranked at No. 31 in the final Litkenhous Difference by Score System ratings for 1948.Michigan, Irish Finish 1-2 in Litkenhous Ratings Wilmington Morning News December 15, 1948 32 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/123192904/michigan-irish-finish-1-2-in/ Newspapers.com Schedule 1948 AP September 25 l SMU Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 14–33 31,469 October 2 l Notre Dame Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 0–40 63,000 October 9 w West Virginia Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 16–6 18,401 October 16 w Marquette Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 21–7 15,830 October 23 w Indiana Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 21–14 17,118 Harry Keck Pitt Beats Indiana, 21–14, Fans Uproot Goalposts Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 24, 1948 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-beats-indi/146581083/ Newspapers.com October 30 w y Western Reserve League Park Cleveland, OH 20–0 12,000 Becker Leads Pitt in 20-to-0 Victory October 31, 1948 New York Times S3 ... before 12,000 fans at League Park. November 6 l y Ohio State Ohio Stadium Columbus, OH 0–41 68,966 Bucks Swamp Pittsburgh, 41-0 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/111518078/the-pantagraph/ October 17, 2022 The Pantagraph Associated Press November 7, 1948 14 Newspapers.com November 13 w y Purdue Ross–Ade Stadium West Lafayette, IN 20–13 30,000–35,000 2022 Purdue Football Record Book https://purduesports.com/documents/2022/8/23/2022_Purdue_Record_Book.pdf Purdue University Athletics 85 January 29, 2023 November 20 w Penn State 6 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 7–0 49,444–51,075 Penn State Football 2024 Media Guide https://gopsusports.com/documents/6aa36a31-1636-409e-aed6-30e4e68abe22.pdf Penn State Nittany Lions 303 January 16, 2025 Preseason After the disastrous 1947 season, the University's Faculty Committee on Athletic Policy and Chancellor Fitzgerald's Temporary Student-Alumni Athletic Committee, both recommended changes to better the football situation. The results were made public on February 26. The Faculty Committee recommended: that Coach Milligan be asked to resign; that the committee have some control of scheduling; that the Athletic Director, James Hagan, provide an organizational chart of his Department; that a uniform program of employment for student-athletes be established; and that the Faculty Committee on Athletic Policy be reorganized. The Student-Alumni Committee agreed with some issues, but recommended that the Athletic Director, James Hagan, be fired and Coach Milligan be retained. They also recommended upgrades to Pitt's athletic facilities and equipment.Text of Athletic Reports Pitt News 41 36 February 27, 1948 5 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062157049/viewer#page/5/mode/1up April 16, 2024 After receiving the conflicting reports, the Chancellor formed another committee, the Panel of Five, led by long-time supporter Floyd Rose to come to a consensus. On April 12, the Board of Trustees accepted the Panel of Five's recommendations. Coach Milligan and Athletic Director James Hagan both kept their jobs and a new athletic committee consisting of eight voting members and the Athletic Director was formed. The Athletic Director was given more duties and was to consult with coaches on scheduling.Henry Jack Pitt Trustees OK New Athletic Policy Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph April 13, 1948 22 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-trustees-o/145493445/ Newspapers.com However, the animosity between the coach and athletic director continued. When the committee convened on June 1, the rift was addressed and Mr. Hagan was unanimously asked to resign. On June 7, James Hagan resigned as Athletic Director effective July 1. Frank Carver, Pitt's Sports Publicist, was named acting director.Hughes Carl Ex-Grid Star Resigns As Trustees Prepare to Act On Ouster The Pittsburgh Press June 8, 1948 24 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-james-hagan-resigns/145678877/ April 19, 2024 Newspapers.com On March 29, Coach Milligan opened the 6-week spring practice session. Thirty-one lettermen and thirty-five aspirants from the 1947 freshmen squad were joined by another thirty newcomers.Scherb Max Spring Grid Aspirants Face First Squad Cut The Pitt News 41 44 April 6, 1948 6 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062157122/viewer#page/6/mode/1up April 18, 2024 Fifty-four of these prospects were invited to the two-week preseason fall camp at Bedford Springs Resort. The Panthers squad then returned to Pittsburgh and resumed two-a-day practices in preparation for the 9-game fall schedule.Giffen Donald Panthers Home From Fall Camp The Pitt News 42 1 September 14, 1948 6 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062157353/viewer#page/6/mode/1up April 19, 2024 On April 11, the Pitt community was in mourning when Jock Sutherland died from a brain tumor at the age of 59.Jock Sutherland Mourned by City Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph April 12, 1948 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-jock-sutherland/145674530/ April 19, 2024 Newspapers.com Coaching staff 1948 Pittsburgh Panthers football staff Coaching staff Walter “Mike” Milligan – head coach Harold Williams – assistant coach Dick Cassiano – assistant backfield coach Robert Timmons – assistant end coach Jesse Quatse – assistant line coach John Kosh – assistant guard coach Ted Schmitt– freshman coach Edmund Shedlosky– assistant freshman coach   Support staff Frank Carver – publicity director/ interim athletic director Dr. Ralph Shanor – team physician Dr. Dan Dickinson – team physician Howard Waite – trainer Bill Haines – equipment manager Velton Castrodale – student manager Roster 1948 Pittsburgh Panthers football rosterPittsburgh Panthers Player Position Games Weight Height Class Prep School Hometown William Abraham (USN)*halfback 9 1955 ft 8 injuniorJeannette H. S.Jeanette, PA Bernard Barkouskie*guard 8 190 5 ft 10 injuniorWilkes-Barre H. S.Kulpmont, PA Robert Becker (AC)*fullback 9 1906 ftjunior Westinghouse H. S.Pittsburgh, PA James Black (USMC)tackle 0 2006 ftsophomoreAltoona H. S.Altoona, PA Michael Boldin (Army)*tackle 9 210 6 ftsophomoreJohnstown H. S.Johnstown, PA Nick Bolkovac*tackle 9 2106 ft 1 insophomoreYoungstown H. S.Youngstown, OH Fred Botti (USN)quarterback 0 1956 ftjuniorConnellsville H. S. Connellsville, PA William Bruno (USMC)*halfback 2 1805 ft 11 in juniorPenn H. S. Verona, PA Frank Capello (Army)end 1 1806 ft juniorElwood City H. S.Elwood City, PA Louis Cecconi*halfback 8 165 5 ft 7 injuniorDonora H. S.Donora, PA Joe Cherol (USN)halfback 3 1755 ft 6 injunior Youngstown H. S.Youngstown, OH Fred Cimino (Army)tackle 0 1906 ft sophomoreWeirton H. S.Weirton, WV Ralph Coleman (USN)*tackle 9 2106 ft seniorAmbridge H. S.Ambridge, PA William Coury (AC) *guard 0 1855 ft 9 insophomoreArnold H.S.Arnold, PA Walter Cummins (Army) *quarterback 9 2056 ft 1 inseniorGreensburg H. S.Greensburg, PA Sam DeFedetackle 0 200 6 ft sophomoreMartins Ferry H. S.Martins Ferry, OH James Delong (USN)tackle 0 2156 ft 2 insenior Reading H. S.Reading, OH Carl DePasqua* quarterback 8 1705 ft 9 injuniorWilliamsport. H.S.Williamsport, PA Nick DeRosa*end 8 185 6 ftsophomoreDonora H. S. Donora, PA Anthony DiMatteo (AC)halfback 1 185 5 ft 11 in seniorPerry H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Donald Fisher (USMC)*center 7 1855 ft 10 insenior Williamsport H. S.Williamsport, PA Wilbur Forsythe (AC)*tackle 5 2106 ft 3 inseniorEast Huntingdon H. S.East Huntingdon, PA Peter Fuderich (USN)*quarterback 8 1755 ft 7 inseniorAliquippa H. S.Aliquippa, PA George Gallinotackle 0 200 6 ftsophomoreFreeport H. S.Freeport, PA Gene Gaugler (USMC)quarterback 0 200 6 ft 1 injuniorBeaver Falls H. S.Beaver Falls, PA Ted Geremsky (USN)*end 7 2056 ft 4 in sophomoreBraddock H. S.Braddock, PA Flint Greene*guard 7 2005 ft 9 in sophomoreNew Kensington H. S.New Kensington, PA Sam Haddad (USMC)*tackle 0 215 6 ft 3 injuniorNew Castle H. S. New Castle, PA William Hardisty (USN)* halflback 8 2106 ft 2 injuniorLangley H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Harry Hollihan end 0 2006 ft 1 in sophomoreGlenshaw H. S.Glenshaw, PA Robert Humend 0 180 5 ft 11 injuniorColumbiana H. S.Columbiana, OH Ray Johnson (Army)tackle 1 210 6 ft 3 infreshmanOliver H. S.Pittsburgh, PA David Karanovichguard 1 1956 ft 2 insophomoreIrwin H. S.Irwin, PA Andrew Kisiday (USN)guard 3 1885 ft 11 in juniorAmbridge H. S.Ambridge, PA John LaFrankie (USMC)guard 0 1955 ft 11 in juniorElizabeth H. S.Elizabeth, PA Lindaro Lauro (AC)*halfback 5 1955 ft 10 in juniorNew Castle H. S.New Castle, PA Robert Lee (USMC)*halfback 9 1855 ft 10 injuniorNew Castle H. S.New Castle, PA John Masarickquarterback01956 ftsophomore Har-Brack H. S. Tarentum, PA George Matich (S)quarterback 0 1805 ft 11 injuniorClairton H. S.Clairton, PA Mark Maystrovich (Army)quarterback 0 2006 ft sophomoreIrwin H. S.Irwin, PA William McPeak (USN)*end 9 1956 ft seniorNew Castle H. S.New Castle, PA Louis Melillo* quarterback 8 1805 ft 10 in juniorKittanning H. S. Kittanning, PA Robert Mihm*tackle 9 2206 ft sophomoreWestinghouse H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Malcolm Morgan (Army)halfback 0 1755 ft 11 insophomoreCharleroi H.S.Charleroi, PA Joseph O'Bara (USN)halfback 2 1655 ft 9 insophomoreJohnstown H. S.Johnstown, PA Russell Phillipsend 1 1756 ft sophomore Sharon H. S.Sharon, PA Laurice Pierceguard 2 1755 ft 9 insophomoreJeannette H. S.Jeannette, PA Robert Plotz*tackle 8 2056 ft juniorMartins Ferry H. S.Martins Ferry, OH Emil Rader (Army)halfback 2 2005 ft 11 in sophomoreWheeling H. S.Boggs Run, WVA Leonard Radnor*center 9 1855 ft 10 injuniorPlymouth H. S.Plymouth, PA George Radosevich*center 6 200 6 ft 2 insophomoreBrentwood H. S.Brentwood, PA Anthony Razzano (Army)guard 1 1855 ft 8 injuniorNew Castle H. S.New Castle, PA James Robinson (Army)*halfback 8 1905 ft 11 injuniorConnellsville H. S.Connellsville, PA William Samerend 1 1856 ft 1 injuniorDonora H. S.Donora, PA Ralph Shorttackle 0 1956 ft juniorMartins Ferry H. S.Martins Ferry, OH Leo Skladany*end 9 2056 ft 1 inseniorPlymouth H. S.Plymouth, PA Jack Smodic*halfback 5 1655 ft 11 inseniorGerman Twp. H. S.Adah, PA George Steingraber*center 4 1856 ft 1 insophomoreSt. George H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Earl Sumpter*guard 6 1755 ft 10 injuniorClairton H. S.Clairton, PA Charles Thomas*guard 9 1906 ft 3 injuniorDormont H. S.Dormont, PA Fred Thomastackle 0 195 5 ft 11 injuniorTarentum H. S.Tarentum, PA John Vrablefullback 0 1855 ft 11 insophomoreGreensburg H. S. Greensburg, PA Lee Ward (Army)center 0 1755 ft 11 injuniorMt. Lebanon H. S.Mt. Lebanon, PA Charles Yost*guard 9 1956 ft sophomoreYoungstown H. S.Youngstown, OH * Letterman November 6, 1948 Ohio StateUniversity Athletic Department University ofPittsburgh Roster (Alphabetical) Pitt Vs. Ohio State Souvenir Program 15September 25, 1948 University of Pittsburgh Athletic Department University of Pittsburgh 1948 Roster Pitt Vs. S. M. U. Souvenir Program 16Football Lettermen University of Pittsburgh 2008 Pitt Football Media Guide 178–182 January 19, 2024 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/175/mode/1up Game summaries SMU Week 1: SMU at Pitt SMU Pitt 7 7 6 13 0 0 0 14 September 25, 1948 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 31,469 cool and partly cloudy Lloyd Larson (Wisconsin) yes 1 SMU Raleigh Blakely 13-yard pass from Doak Walker (Walker kick) SMU 7–0 2 SMU Walker 60-yard pass from Gil Johnson (Walker kick) SMU 14–0 3 SMU Walker 74-yard punt return (kick missed) SMU 20–0 4 PITT Bill Bruno 16-yard pass from Bimbo Cecconi (Nick Bolkovac kick) SMU 20–7 4 SMU Blakely 40-yard pass from Johnson (Walker kick) SMU 27–7 4 SMU Kyle Rote 47-yard pass from Johnson (kick missed) SMU 33–7 4 PITT Bill McPeak 13-yard pass from Bobby Lee (Nick Bolkovac kick) SMU 33–14 yes On September 25, the Panthers opened the season at Pitt Stadium against the SMU Mustangs. Pitt led the all-time series 2–0–1.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 Coach Matty Bell's squad returned 15 lettermen from their 1947 unbeaten season (9–0–2), and were ranked No. 3 in the preseason. 1948 Heisman Trophy winner, Doak Walker, and future All-American, Kyle Rote, led the Mustangs offense.Henry Jack SMU Tough Foe in Pitt's Opener Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 20, 1948 17 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-smu-tough-foe-i/145866023/ April 22, 2024 Newspapers.com Coach Milligan had 10 returning players in the starting line-up along with sophomore tackle Nick Bolkovac.Henry Jack Doak Walker In Eastern Grid Debut Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 25, 1948 10 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-doak-walker-in/146105921/ April 26, 2024 Newspapers.com The Panthers were a 20-point underdog.30,000 See Pitt In Opener Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 25, 1948 1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-30000-see-pitt/146110081/ Newspapers.com The SMU Mustangs, on their seventh attempt, won their first game in the state of Pennsylvania by defeating the Panthers 33 to 14. Doak Walker scored two touchdowns, passed for a third and booted 3 of 5 extra points. End Raleigh Blakely caught 2 touchdown passes and Kyle Rote capped the Mustangs scoring with a 47-yard touchdown reception from Gil Johnson. Pitt managed to score 2 touchdowns in the final period. Bimbo Cecconi hooked up with Bill Bruno for a 16-yard touchdown pass, and Bobby Lee threw a 13-yard scoring toss to Bill McPeak to cap an 88-yard drive.Jack Henry Panthers Routed By Ace Backs Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 26, 1948 Section 2–4,6 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-routed/146113949/ Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against SMU was Leo Skladany (left end), Nick Bolkovac (left tackle), Bernie Barkouskie (left guard), Len Radnor (center), Michael Boldin (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Walt Cummins (quarterback), Bobby Lee (left halfback), Bill Bruno (right halfback) and Bill Abraham (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for the Panthers were Nick DeRosa, Earl Sumpter, Robert Mihm, Ralph Coleman, Charles Thomas, Charles Yost, Anthony Razzano, Laurice Pierce, Flint Greene, George Steingraber, Donald Fisher, William Hardisty, Bimbo Cecconi, Carl DePasqua, Louis Meillo, Robert Becker, Peter Fuderich and Joseph Cherol. Notre Dame Week 2: Notre Dame at Pitt Notre Dame Pitt 7 21 6 6 0 0 0 0 October 2, 1948 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 63,000 sunny and hot George Rennix (Minnesota) yes 1 ND Leon Hart 6-yard pass from Frank Tripucka (Steve Oracko kick) ND 7–0 2 ND Emil Sitko 2-yard run (Oracko kick) ND 14–0 2 ND Frank Spaniel 1-yard run (Oracko kick) ND 21–0 2 ND Jack Landry (Nick Bolkovac kick) ND 28–0 3 ND Lancaster Smith 85-yard punt return ( kick missed) ND 34–0 4 ND Bill McKillip 9-yard run (kick missed) ND 40–0 yes For Pitt's second home game, Frank Leahy brought his Notre Dame Fighting Irish to Pitt Stadium. The Irish were 1–0 on the season, having defeated Purdue 28–27 in their home opener. The Irish line-up had three consensus All-Americans – end Leon Hart, guard Bill Fischer and halfback, Emil Sitko.Joe Alt and Xavier Watts Earn Unanimous All-America Status Fighting Irish.com December 14, 2023 Notre Dame University https://fightingirish.com/joe-alt-and-xavier-watts-earn-unanimous-all-america-status/ April 28, 2024 Guard Marty Wendell and end Jim Martin also received some All-America recognition.FWAA All-America Since 1944 Football Writers Association of America http://www.sportswriters.net/fwaa/awards/allamerica/alltime.pdf 2009-03-21 2019-03-04 https://web.archive.org/web/20190304073432/http://www.sportswriters.net/fwaa/awards/allamerica/alltime.pdf dead Notre Dame led the all-time series 10–6–1, and had outscored the Panthers 211–15 in the previous 5 games.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 156 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/157/mode/1up April 28, 2024 Coach Milligan decided to alter the Pitt line-up against the 26–point favorite Irish. On the line, Don Fisher replaced Len Radnor at center, and Charles Thomas and Charles Yost started at guard instead of Bernie Barkouskie and Mike Boldin. In the backfield, Pete Fuderich took over at quarterback for Walt Cummins, and Bob Becker replaced Bill Abraham at fullback.Jack Henry Notre Dame Rules 26–Point Choice Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 2, 1948 10 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-notre-dame-rule/146231502/ Newspapers.com The Irish were not impressed with the Panthers line-up changes and routed Pitt 40–0. Notre Dame led 28–0 at halftime, and Coach Leahy used his reserves for the second half. The Pitt offense threatened the Irish goal line three times. After the first Irish score, Bobby Lee and Jimmy Robinson combined for a 60-yard lateral rush to the Irish 9-yard line. The Irish defense held, then punted and the Panthers came right back to the Notre Dame 15-yard line. The Notre Dame defense held again. Late in the game, the Panthers offense advanced 75 yards, but Jimmy Robinson was tackled on the 6–yard line on the last play of the game.Chester L. Smith 63,000 Fans See Irish Roll Up Early Margin And Then Coast To Win The Pittsburgh Press October 3, 1948 30 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-notre-dame-beats-pa/146301935/ Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Notre Dame was Leo Skladany (left end), Nick Bolkovac (left tackle), Charles Yost (left guard), Don Fisher (center), Charles Thomas (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Pete Fuderich (quarterback), Bobby Lee (left halfback), Jimmy Robinson (right halfback) and Bob Becker (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Earl Sumpter, Nick DeRosa, Ted Geremsky, Russell Phillips, Frank Capello, Robert Mihm, Ralph Coleman, Ray Johnson, George Radosevich, Bernie Barkouskie, Mike Boldin, Len Radnor, George Steingraber, Bimbo Cecconi, Louis Melillo, Tony DeMatteo, Bill Abraham, Walt Cummins, Joseph O'Bara, Jack Smodic, Carl DePasqua, William Hardisty and Joseph Cherol. West Virginia Week 3: West Virginia at Pitt West Virginia Pitt 0 0 6 0 7 7 2 0 October 9, 1948 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 18,401 partly cloudy Francis Keating (Fitchburg) yes 1 PITT Leo Skladany 14-yard pass from Bimbo Cecconi (Nick Bolkovac kick) PITT 7–0 2 PITT Jimmy Robinson 5-yard run (Bolkovac kick) PITT 14–0 3 WVU Pete Zinaich 11-yard run ( kick missed) PITT 14–6 3 PITT Bernie Barkouskie tackled Vic Bonfeli in the end zone for a safety PITT 16–6 yes On October 9, Pitt and West Virginia engaged in the forty-first edition of the Backyard Brawl. The Panthers led the series 30–9–1, but the Mountaineers broke their 15-game losing streak in 1947 by defeating Pitt 17–2.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 160 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/161/mode/1up April 30, 2024 The Mountaineers, led by first-year coach Dudley DeGroot, came into this game undefeated (3–0), having beaten Waynesburg, Wooster and Temple.1948 West Virginia Mountaineers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football April 30, 2024 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/west-virginia/1948-schedule.html Coach Milligan's Panthers were healthy, but he replaced Pete Fuderich at quarterback with Louis Melillo. Pitt was a 3–point underdog, but had not lost back-to-back games to the Mountaineers since the 1922 and 1923 seasons.Jack Henry Pitt-W. Va. Crowd Tabbed at 16,000 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 8, 1948 31 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-w-va-c/146362439/ Newspapers.com In front of 18,401 fans, the Panthers notched their first win of the season 16–6. In the first quarter, Leo Skladany recovered a Charley Becca fumble on the Mountaineers 36–yard line. Five plays later, Bimbo Cecconi connected with Leo Skladany on a 14–yard touchdown pass. Nick Bolkovac added the extra point. In the second quarter, West Virginia punter Len Bellas shanked a 19–yard punt from his own 18–yard line. Two pass plays advanced the ball to the 5–yard line, from where Jimmy Joe Robinson scored on a reverse. Bolkovac added the placement. Early in the second half the Mountaineers drove 56–yards, with Pete Zinaich carrying the ball the final 11–yards for the score. Pitt guard Bernie Barkouskie tackled Vic Bonfeli in the end zone for a safety to cap the scoring.Carl Hughes Pitt Beats West Virginia By 16–6 Score The Pittsburgh Press October 10, 1948 29 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-wins-first-16/146365249/ Newspapers.com The Mountaineers finished the season with a 9–3 record. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against West Virginia was Leo Skladany (left end), Nick Bolkovac (left tackle), Charles Yost (guard), Don Fisher (center), Charles Thomas (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Louis Melillo (quarterback), Bobby Lee (left halfback), Jimmy Robinson (right halfback) and Bob Becker (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Earl Sumpter, Ted Geremski, Robert Mihm, Ralph Coleman, George Radosevich, Bernie Barkouskie, Len Radnor, Mike Boldin, Nick DeRosa, Walt Cummins, Pete Fuderich, Bimbo Cecconi, Bill Bruno, Lindaro Lauro, William Hardisty, Jack Smodic, Emil Rader, Carl DePasqua and Bill Abraham.Country Cousins Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 10, 1948 section2-3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-country-cousins/146366252/ Newspapers.com Marquette Week 4: Marquette at Pitt Marquette Pitt 0 0 7 0 0 0 7 14 October 16, 1948 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 15,830 cloudy, warm and windy Jay Berwanger (Chicago) yes 3 PITT Bob Becker 1-yard run (Nick Bolkovac kick) PITT 7–0 3 MARQ William Hickey 1-yard run (Howdy Miller kick) TIE 7–7 4 PITT Nick DeRosa 82-yard pass from Bimbo Cecconi ( Bolkovac kick) PITT 14–7 4 PITT Jack Smodic 45-yard interception return PITT 21–7 yes The fourth game of the season was against the Marquette Hilltoppers. In their only previous meeting, in 1946, Pitt edged Marquette (7–6). Coach Frank J. Murray's squad was 1–2 on the season. They lost to Iowa (14–12) and Detroit (34–6), and beat St. Louis (47–7).1948 Marquette Golden Eagles Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/marquette/1948-schedule.html May 1, 2024 After the first three games, Pitt halfback Louis “Bimbo” Cecconi was third in the East in total offense with 401 yards in 80 plays. Due to injuries, the Panthers lost guard Tony Razzano and halfback Bill Bruno for the season. In addition, plus tackles, Sam Haddad, Ralph Short and Wilbur Forsythe, were not available for this contest.Jack Henry 15,000 To See Favored Pitt Oppose Marquette In Stadium Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 14, 1948 36 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-15000-expected/146433674/ Newspapers.com Starting guard Bernie Barkouskie was back in the line-up. The favored Panthers got an attendance boost by selling 3,500 discounted tickets for High School Day.Jack Henry Defeat Feared For Dukes, Tech Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 15, 1948 30 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-defeat-feared-f/146434405/ Newspapers.com The Panthers won their second game in a row 21–7, by out-dueling Marquette in the second half. It took Pitt seven plays to score in the second half. A 64-yard pass from Bobby Lee to Jimmy Robinson advanced the ball to the Marquette 7-yard line. Bob Becker scored from the 1-yard line on second down and Nick Bolkovac added the extra point. Marquette answered with a 50-yard kick-off return and four rushes to tie the score. Bill Hickey scored the touchdown on a 1-yard plunge and Howard Miller added the point. The Panthers gained possession on their 15-yard line to start the final period. On second down, Bimbo Cecconi threw an 82-yard touchdown pass to Nick DeRosa and Bolkovac's kick was good. With less than a minute remaining in the game, Pitt's Jack Smodic intercepted a deflected Dick Melka pass and raced 45-yards for the final touchdown. Bolkovac's kick made the final: Pitt 21– Marquette 7.Jack Henry Cecconi-DeRosa Pass Clincher Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 17, 1948 Section 2–3, 5 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-cecconi-derosa/146470167/ Newspapers.com After the West Virginia victory, the Pitt students and fans tore down the goalposts. The powers to be replaced them with wooden goal posts for the Marquette game. The Pittsburgh faithful tore them down again in celebration. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Marquette was Leo Skladany (left end), Nick Bolkovac (left tackle), Bernie Barkouskie (left guard), Don Fisher (center), Charles Thomas (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Louis Melillo (quarterback), Bobby Lee (left halfback), Jimmy Robinson (right halfback) and Bob Becker (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Ted Geremsky, Nick DeRosa, Earl Sumpter, Robert Mihm, George Radosevich, Charles Yost, Flint Greene, Len Radnor, Mike Boldin, Ralph Coleman, William Samer, Pete Fuderich, Walt Cummins, Bimbo Cecconi, Jack Smodic, Lindaro Lauro, Bill Abraham and Carl DePasqua. Indiana Week 5: Indiana at Pitt Indiana Pitt 0 0 7 7 7 7 0 7 October 23, 1948 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 17,118 cloudy Lyle Clarno (Bradley) yes 1 PITT Bill McPeak 23-yard pass from Jimmy Robinson (Nick Bolkovac kick) PITT 7–0 2 PITT Bob Becker 2-yard run (Bolkovac kick) PITT 14–0 3 IND John McDonnell 60-yard pass from George Taliaferro ( George Parker kick) PITT 14–7 4 IND George Taliaferro 80-yard pass from Nick Sebek (Parker kick) TIE 14–14 4 PITT Jimmy Robinson 62-yard pass from Bimbo Cecconi (Bolkovac kick) PITT 21–14 yes On October 23, the Panthers played the Indiana Hoosiers. Indiana led the all-time series 5–0, and had outscored the Panthers 146–19.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 154 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/155/mode/1up May 2, 2024 First-year Coach Clyde Smith's squad was 2–2. They beat Wisconsin (35–7) and Iowa (7–0) to open their season and then lost to TCU (7–6) and Ohio State (17–0).1948 Indiana Hoosiers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/indiana/1948-schedule.html May 2, 2024 Indiana back George Taliaferro was named to the defensive first team All-America by the International News Service.Lawton Carver Seven Midwest Players Named To All-American The Daily Clintonian (Ind.) November 29, 1948 5 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4487001/seven_midwest_players_named_to/ Newspapers.com The Pitt fans tore down the goalposts for the third straight game, after the Panthers beat the Hoosiers in the final minute 21–14. The Pitt offense drove 62-yards after the opening kick-off and scored on a 23-yard pass from Jimmy Robinson to end Bill McPeak. In the second period, McPeak recovered a George Taliaferro fumble and the Pitt offense advanced the ball 71-yards, with Bob Becker carrying it into the end zone from the 2-yard line. Nick Bolkovac kicked both extra points and Pitt led 14–0 at halftime. Early in the third quarter, John McConnell scored on a 60-yard pass from Taliaferro. Seven plays into the final stanza, Taliaferro caught a screen pass from Nick Sebek, and he raced 80-yards for the tying touchdown. George Parker converted both placements. With one minute and ten seconds remaining in the game, Bimbo Cecconi fair caught Taliaferro's punt on the Panther 38-yard line. On first down Cecconi dropped back and threw a ″Hail Mary″ pass to Robinson. The Pitt News reported: "Jimmy Joe juggled the ball, wheeled caught it again and sped off into the promised land with a grin on his face that extended from one side of the Stadium to the other."Bob Van Atta Pitt Upsets Hoosiers; Thrilling Pass Catch Brings 21–14 Victory The Pitt News 42 12 October 26, 1948 5 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062157478/viewer#page/5/mode/1up May 3, 2024 The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Indiana was Leo Skladany (left end), Nick Bolkovac (left tackle), Bernie Barkouskie (left guard), Don Fisher (center), Mike Boldin (right guard), Robert Plotz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Louis Melillo (quarterback), Bobby Lee (left halfback), Jimmy Robinson (right halfback) and Bob Becker (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Ted Germenski, Nick DeRosa, Robert Mihm, Flint Greene, Ralph Coleman, Wilbur Forsythe, Charles Yost, Andy Kisiday, Charles Thomas, Len Radnor, Walt Cummins, Pete Federich, Bimbo Cecconi, Joseph O'Bara, Bill Abraham, William Hardisty, Jack Smodic and Carl DePaqua.At Long Last Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 24, 1948 Section 2–4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-beats-hoos/146550442/ Newspapers.com at Western Reserve Week 6: Pitt at Western Reserve Pitt Western Reserve 7 0 6 7 0 0 0 0 October 30, 1948 League ParkCleveland, OH 2:00 p.m. 12,000 partly cloudy Paul Cain (Xavier) yes 1 PITT Bob Becker 12-yard run (Nick Bolkovac kick) PITT 7–0 3 PITT Bob Becker 2-yard run ( kick miss) PITT 13–0 4 PITT Bob Becker 3-yard run ( Bolkovac kick) PITT 20–0 yes The Panthers first road game was against Western Reserve University on October 30, in Cleveland, OH. The Panthers led the all-time series 2–0 and had outscored the Red Cats 84–0. First-year coach Mike Scarry's squad was 1–3–1 on the season. They beat Butler and tied Kent State, and lost to Western Michigan, Miami (OH), and Ohio U.Panthers Face 'Breather' in West. Reserve The Pittsburgh Press October 30, 1948 6 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-panthers-face-brea/146582029/ Newspapers.com This was Homecoming at Western Reserve and the game was televised.Myron Kopelman Pitt Favorites As They Seek To Win Fourth The Pitt News 42 14 October 29, 1948 1 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062157460/viewer#page/1/mode/1up May 3, 2024 Coach Milligan was named 'Coach of the Week' by the United Press. Pitt center, Don Fisher, and guard, Bernie Barkouskie, injured in the Indiana game were replaced in the starting line-up by Len Radnor and Charles Yost. Louis 'Bimbo' Cecconi was ranked eighth in the country with 666 yards of total offense in 124 plays.Bob Van Atta Panthers Depart Today For Red Cat Contest The Pitt News 42 14 October 29, 1948 5 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062157460/viewer#page/5/mode/1up May 4, 2024Jack Henry Len Radnor Replaces Fisher In Pitt Lineup Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 28, 1948 36 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-len-radnor-repl/146594834/ Newspapers.com The Panthers made it four wins in a row by beating the Red Cats 20–0. Pitt running back Bob Becker scored all three touchdowns and Nick Bolkovac converted two extra points (the third was blocked). Western threatened to score twice. The Red Cats kicked off to start the second half, and Western end, Leo Spann, recovered the loose ball on the Panthers 6-yard line. The Panthers defense held and took over on the 2-yard line. Late in the game, Western recovered Bill Abraham's fumble on the Panther 37-yard line. They advanced the ball to the Panther 12-yard line as time ran out.Jack Henry Bob Becker Scores All Pitt Touchdowns Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 31, 1948 Section 2–4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-bob-becker-scor/146596573/ Newspapers.com The Panthers out-gained the Red Cats 238 yards to 53 on the ground.Statistics The Pittsburgh Press October 31, 1948 30 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-statistics/146597204/ Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Western Reserve was Leo Skladany (left end), Nick Bolkovac (left tackle), Charles Yost (left guard), Len Radnor (center), Charles Thomas (right guard), Robert Platz (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Louis Melillo (quarterback), Bobby Lee (left halfback), Bill Abraham (right halfback) and Bob Becker (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Nick DeRosa, Ted Geremsky, Flint Greene, Robert Mihm, Andy Kisaday, George Steingraber, Mike Boldin, Wilbur Forsythe, Ralph Coleman, Earl Sumpter, Walt Cummins, Pete Fuderich, William Hardisty, Bobby Lee, Rader, Jack Smodic, Jimmy Robinson, Carl DePasqua and Joseph Cherol.Fourth Straight! Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 31, 1948 Section 2-2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-fourth-straight/146597960/ Newspapers.com at Ohio State Week 7: Pitt at Ohio State Pitt Ohio State 0 0 0 0 0 20 21 0 November 6, 1948 Ohio StadiumColumbus, OH 2:00 p.m. 68,966 cloudy Mike Layden (Notre Dame) yes 2 OSU Joe Whisler 1-yard run (kick missed) OSU 6–0 2 OSU Jerry Krall 3-yard run ( James Hague kick) OSU 13–0 2 OSU Alex Verdona 10-yard pass from Pandel Savic ( Hague kick) OSU 20–0 3 OSU Whisler 7-yard run ( Hague kick ) OSU 27–0 3 OSU Sonny Gandee 22-yard interception return ( Hague kick ) OSU 34–0 3 OSU Hague 27-yard pass from George Wertz ( Hague kick) OSU 41–0 yes On November 6, the Panthers travelled to Columbus, OH to take on the Ohio State Buckeyes. Wes Fesler's squad was 4–2. They beat Missouri, USC, Indiana and Wisconsin. They lost to Big Nine foes Iowa and Northwestern.1948 Ohio State Buckeyes Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/ohio-state/1948-schedule.html May 5, 2024 The Buckeyes led the series 8–3–1, but were still smarting from last season, when the Panthers upset them for Pitt's only victory of 1947. Coach Fesler was worried: “The mental condition of my squad is going to be alright. It's the physical condition that has me worried.” Jack Henry Panthers May Get Bowl Bid Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 6, 1948 10 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-may-ge/146664467/ Newspapers.com The two-touchdown underdog Panthers stayed at the Deshler-Wallick Hotel, and the Buckeyes spent the night there also. The Panthers and Buckeyes Jayvee teams played a game prior to the varsity attraction. Louis 'Bimbo' Cecconi was sixteenth nationally in total offense with 735 yards in 134 plays. He rushed for 216 yards and passed for 519 after 6 games.Jack Henry Ohio State 14-Point Favorite Over Pitt; Dukes, Tech Underdogs Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 4, 1948 36 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-ohio-state-14-p/146667577/ Newspapers.com The Panthers four game win streak ended as the Buckeyes got their revenge 41–0. The Buckeyes scored three touchdowns in both the second and third quarters. Five players scored touchdowns – Joe Whisler (2), Gerry Krall, Alex Verdova, Sonny Gandee and James Hague. Hague made 5 of 6 extra points. The Panthers threatened twice in the first period, but their offense stalled on the Ohio 16-yard line, and again on the Buckeye 23-yard line. The Ohio offense racked up 15 first downs and 370 total yards. An 80-yard punt return by Ohio back Jimmy Clark was negated by an off-side penalty, and the Buckeyes were on the Pitt 1-yard line as the game ended, or the score could have been worse.Carl Hughes Ohio State Overwhelms Pitt, 41 to 0 The Pittsburgh Press November 7, 1948 31 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-ohio-state-overwhel/146670845/ Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Ohio State was Leo Skladany (left end), Nick Bolkovac (left tackle), Bernie Barkouskie (left guard), Len Radnor (center), Charles Thomas (right tackle), Robert Plotz (right guard), Bill McPeak (right end), Walt Cummins (quarterback), Bimbo Cecconi (left halfback), Jimmy Robinson (right halfback) and Carl DePasqua (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Earl Sumpter, Ted Geremsky, Nick DeRosa, Flint Greene, Robert Mihm, Ralph Coleman, Wilbur Forsythe, Charles Yost, Andy Kisaday, Earl Thomas, Mike Boldin, Laurice Pierce, George Steingraber, George Radosevich, Louis Melillo, Pete Fuderich, Bobby Lee, Lindaro Lauro, William Hardisty, Bill Abraham and Bob Becker.Revenge Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 7, 1948 Section 2–4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-revenge/146671247/ Newspapers.com at Purdue Week 8: Pitt at Purdue Pitt Purdue 7 7 0 6 0 6 7 November 13, 1948 Ross-Ade StadiumLafayette, OH 2:30 p.m. 30,000–35,000 cloudy George Rennix (Minnesota) yes 1 PITT Carl DePasqua 1-yard run (Nick Bolkovac kick) PITT 7–0 2 PURD Harry Szulborski 56-yard run ( kick blocked) PITT 7–6 2 PITT Jimmy Robinson 100-yard kick-off return ( Bolkovac kick) PITT 14–6 4 PITT Robinson 8-yard run ( kick missed ) PITT 20–6 4 PURD Kenny Gorgal 82-yard punt return ( Hague kick ) PITT 20–13 yes The final road game of the season was to Lafayette, IN to play the Purdue Boilermakers. Purdue led the series 4–0, outscoring the Panthers 72–8. After leading the Boilermakers to a 5–4 record in his initial season at the helm, Coach Stuart Holcomb's present squad was 2–5 on the season.Jack Henry Boilermakers Highly Favored Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 13, 1948 10 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-boilermakers-hi/146685773/ Newspapers.com His lineup had two players who received All-America recognition – tackle Phillip O'Reilly and halfback Harry Szulborski.Walter L. Johns Five Midwest Players on Central Press All-American Wisconsin State Journal December 5, 1948 33 https://www.newspapers.com/article/wisconsin-state-journal-five-midwest-pla/146686369/ Newspapers.comLeo H. Petersen United Press Picks Annual All-American The Ogden Standard-Examiner Ogden, Utah December 1, 1948 2B https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4486637/united_press_picks_annual_all_american/ Newspapers.com The Panthers injured list grew to 15 after the Ohio State game. Third-string center, George Steingraber, was lost for the season with a fractured cheekbone. Starting center, Don Fisher, was nursing a knee injury, and his back-up, Len Radnor, had an ankle sprain. Fourth-string center, George Radosevich, was named starter. Ralph Coleman replaced Robert Plotz (leg injury) at right tackle. Left end, Leo Skladany, right guard, Charles Thomas, halfback, Jack Smodic and quarterback, Pete Fuderich, all had hip problems. Tackles Ralph Coleman and Wilbur Forsythe had sore ankles. Fullback, Bob Becker, and guards, Laurice Pierce and Mike Boldin were just sore all over.Myron Kopelman Pitt Sick Bay Loaded As Gridders Entrain On Last Road Trip The Pitt News 42 17 November 12, 1948 5 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062157601/viewer#page/5/mode/1up May 6, 2024 Coach Milligan's banged-up Panthers defied the oddsmakers, and ran their record to 5–3, by upsetting the two-touchdown favored Boilermakers 20–13. Purdue made 13 first downs to the Panthers 7. Purdue had 239-yards rushing (Harry Szulborski had 133) and 40-yards passing, while the Panthers managed 96-yards rushing and 21-yards passing. The Panthers scored first. Purdue halfback, Roger Raggatz, fumbled the opening kick-off and Pitt end, Ted Geremsky, recovered on the Purdue 25-yard line. The Panther offense drove the ball to the 7-yard line. On fourth down, Bimbo Cecconi was tackled on the 1-yard line. Purdue halfback, George Punzelt punted out to the 42-yard line, and Cecconi returned it to the 1-yard line. Carl DePasqua vaulted into the end zone for the touchdown and Nick Bolkovac converted the extra point. Purdue answered in the second period, when halfback Harry Szulborski ran 56-yards through the porous Pitt defense. Pitt guard, Bernie Barkouskie blocked Rudy Trbovich's placement and Pitt led 7–6 with just over 3 minutes left in the half. Trbovich's kick-off went to Jimmy Robinson, and he ran goal line to goal line for a 100-yard touchdown. Bolkovac added the placement. The halftime score: Pitt 14–Purdue 6. The third period was scoreless. In the final stanza Bolkovac blocked a Purdue punt and Bill McPeak recovered for the Panthers on the Purdue 6-yard line. Pitt halfback Robinson scored on a reverse. Bolkovac made the extra point but the Panthers were off-sides and he missed the retry. With less than a minute to play, Purdue back Kenny Gorgal returned an Andy Hardisty punt 82-yards for a touchdown and Trbovich added the placement. The game ended with McPeak recovering the on-side kick.Gordon Graham Kickoff Return Of 100 Yards Top Feature In Weird Football Clash Lafayette Journal and Courier Lafayette, IN November 15, 1948 14 https://www.newspapers.com/article/journal-and-courier-panthers-best-purdue/146731249/ Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the Purdue game was Ted Geremsky (left end), Nick Bolkovac (left tackle), Bernie Barkouskie (left guard), George Radosevich (center), Mike Boldin (right guard), Ralph Coleman (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Lois Melillo (quarterback), Bimbo Cecconi (left halfback), Jimmy Robinson (right halfback) and Carl DePasqua (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Leo Skladany, Nick DeRosa, Flint Greene, Robert Mihm, Wilbur Forsythe, Charles Yost, Charles Thomas, David Karanovich, Don Fisher, Len Radnor, Walt Cummins, Pete Fuderich, Bobby Lee, William Hardisty, Lindaro Lauro, Bill Abraham and Bob Becker.Clawed! Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 14, 1948 Section 2–4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-clawed/146733021/ Newspapers.com Penn State Week 9: Penn State at Pitt Penn State Pitt 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 November 20, 1948 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 49,444–51,075 cloudy, windy and cold H. D. Dayhoff (Bucknell) yes 4 PITT Nick Bolkovac 23-yard interception (Bolkovac kick) PITT 7–0 yes On November 20, Pitt closed out its season against the undefeated and sixth-ranked Penn State Nittany Lions. Pitt led the all-time series 27–18–2.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 157 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/158/mode/1up May 7, 2024 Coach Bob Higgins squad was 6–0–1 on the season. Their only blemish was a 14–14 tie with Michigan State. The Lions were on a 17-game unbeaten streak, having suffered their last loss to Pitt in final game of the 1946 season.1948 Penn State Nittany Lions Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/penn-state/1948-schedule.html May 7, 2024 Halfbacks, Fran Rogel and Elwood Petchel, and linemen, Sam Tamburo and Paul Kelly received All-America recognition.NEA All-American Team The Chillicothe Constitution-Tribune November 27, 1948 6 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4486703/nea_allamerican_team/ The Panthers were three touchdown underdogs. Coach Milligan had starters Leo Skladany (end) and Don Fisher (center) back in the lineup. Bobby Lee replaced Louis Melillo at quarterback. Nine seniors on the Panthers squad played their final college game: Bill McPeak and Leo Skladany, ends; Wilbur Forsythe and Ralph Coleman, tackles; Don Fisher, center; Walt Cummins and Pete Fuderich, quarterbacks; and Tony Matteo and Jack Smodic, halfbacks. On Friday night, Coach Milligan sequestered the squad at the Penn-Lincoln Hotel in Wilkinsburg.Jack Sell Penn State 18 1/2 Point Choice To Win Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 20, 1948 11 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-penn-state-heavy/146788728/ Newspapers.com The Pitt Panthers eked out a 7–0 upset victory. They defied logic for the second week in a row by dashing Penn State's hopes for a major bowl bid. Pitt earned 4 first downs and gained 77 total yards. Penn State had 15 first downs and 240 total yards. State threatened in each quarter, but the Panther defense held. The closest the Lons advanced into Pitt territory before the final stanza was the 16-yard line. Early in the fourth period, Pitt halfback, William Hardisty punted into the end zone. On third down Lion quarterback, Elwood Petchel's pass was deflected by Pitt tackle Ralph Coleman into teammate Nick Bolkovac's hands and he ran untouched 23-yards to the end zone. Bolkovac's placement was good and Pitt led 7–0 with 12 minutes remaining. Penn State advanced the ball deep into Pitt territory but Bobby Lee intercepted Petchel's pass on the 5-yard line. The Panthers were forced to punt. Jimmie Robinson intercepted another Petchel toss, but the officials called pass interference on the Panthers 21-yard line. On first down, Pitt defensive back Carl DePasqua batted down a pass in the end zone. On second down, Petchel found Larry Cooney for a first down completion on the Pitt 11-yard line with 30 seconds remaining. Petchel threw to John Smidansky on the 2-yard line. On the last play of the game Fran Rogel went through tackle and was stopped on the 1-yard line. The Panthers fans once again tore down the goal posts.Jack Henry Pitt Scores Upset Win Over State, 7–0 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 21, 1948 Section 2–6 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-upsets-pen/146792741/ Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Penn State was Leo Skladany (left end), Nick Bolkovac (left tackle), Bernie Barkouskie (left guard), Don Fisher (center), Mike Boldin (right guard), Ralph Coleman (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), Bobby Lee (quarterback), Bimbo Cecconi (left halfback), Jimmy Robinson (right halfback), and Carl DePasqua (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Ted Geremsky, Flint Greene, Robert Mihm, Charles Yost, Len Radnor, George Radosevich, Charles Thomas, Wilbur Forsythe, Robert Plotz, Pete Fuderich, Walt Cummins, Lindaro Lauro, Bill Hardisty, Bill Abraham and Bob Becker.Jinx! Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 21, 1948 Section 2–4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-jinx/146793407/ Newspapers.com Individual scoring summary 1948 Pittsburgh Panthers scoring summaryPittsburgh Panthers Player Touchdowns Extra points Field goals Safety Points Bob Becker500030 Jimmy Joe Robinson400024 Nick Bolkovac1150021 William McPeak200012 Bill Bruno10006 Leo Skladany10006 Nick DeRosa10006 Jack Smodic10006 Carl DePasqua10006 Bernie Barkouskie00012 Totals171501119 Postseason William McPeak, Leo Skladaney, Nick Bolkovac, Louis Cecconi, Jimmy Robinson and Bernie Berkouskie received numerous All-East team and All-State team recognition.Bob Van Atta All Teams Name Six Panthers; Bolkovac, McPeak Most Cited The Pitt News 42 28 January 11, 1949 6 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062157536/viewer#page/6/mode/1up May 8, 2024 On December 6, Navy Athletic Director, Tom Hamilton, officially accepted the job as Pitt Athletic Director. He took over on February 1, 1949 and held the position for 10 years.Tom Hamilton (Halfback) College Football Hall Of Fame Inductees May 8, 2024 https://www.cfbhall.com/inductees/tom-hamilton-1965 Team players drafted into the NFL The following player was selected in the 1949 NFL draft. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1949/draft.htm Pro Football Reference Sports Reference LLC SR/Pro Football May 7, 2024 2 Pittsburgh Panthers Player Position Round Pick NFL club Leo Skladanyend17171Philadelphia Eagles References Pittsburgh Category:Pittsburgh Panthers football seasons Pittsburgh Panthers football