1963 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

American college football season August 2023 February 2026 1963 Pittsburgh Panthers football Independent 3 4 9–1 John Michelosen 9th Pitt Stadium The 1963 Pittsburgh Panthers football team represented the University of Pittsburgh as an independent during the 1963 NCAA University Division football season. Led by ninth-year head coach John Michelosen, the Panthers were 9–1 and were fourth in the final AP poll, third in the coaches poll. The team played its home games at Pitt Stadium in Pittsburgh. The Panthers did not play in a bowl game; their most recent postseason appearance was in 1956 and the next was in 1973. Schedule 1963 AP September 20 w y UCLA Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Los Angeles, CA 20–0 28,095 https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=mLcpAAAAIBAJ&sjid=9E4EAAAAIBAJ&pg=6036%2C1560011 Pittsburgh Press Pitt passes test with UCLA McHugh Roy September 21, 1963 6 September 28 w 10 Washington Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 13–6 37,136 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-cincinnati-enquirer-new-look-pitt-ni/189674599/ The Cincinnati Enquirer New look Pitt nips Huskies September 29, 1963 March 17, 2026 Newspapers.com October 5 w 9 California Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 35–15 22,091 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-fresno-bee-blakeney-goes-85-yards-bu/189678602/ The Fresno Bee Blakeney goes 85 yards but Pitt triumphs October 6, 1963 March 17, 2026 Newspapers.com October 19 w y 3 West Virginia Mountaineer Field Morgantown, WV Backyard Brawl 13–10 31,000 https://www.newspapers.com/article/richmond-times-dispatch-pitt-avoids-upse/139161282/ Richmond Times-Dispatch Pitt avoids upset by WVU, wins, 13–10, with late score October 20, 1963 January 20, 2024 Newspapers.com October 26 l y 3 Navy 10 Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium Annapolis, MD 12–24 30,231 https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=yBkrAAAAIBAJ&sjid=aJwFAAAAIBAJ&pg=6702%2C5887329 Reading Eagle Pennsylvania UPI Navy hands Pitt first grid loss October 27, 1963 31 November 2 w y 10 Syracuse Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 35–27 44,217 https://www.newspapers.com/article/news-journal-pitt-rally-knocks-off-syrac/193606518/ Mansfield News Journal Pitt rally knocks off Syracuse November 3, 1963 March 17, 2026 Newspapers.com November 9 w y 8 Notre Dame Notre Dame Stadium Notre Dame, IN rivalry 27–7 41,306 https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=QRMrAAAAIBAJ&sjid=d5wFAAAAIBAJ&pg=2063%2C4557707 Reading Eagle Pennsylvania UPI Devore loses temper, Irish bow to Panthers November 10, 1963 34 November 16 w 6 Army Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 28–0 47,947 https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=KY4jAAAAIBAJ&sjid=FZwFAAAAIBAJ&pg=4086%2C1265300 Reading Eagle Pennsylvania UPI Pitt wallops Army for No. 7 November 17, 1963 37 November 30 w y 5 Miami (FL) Miami Orange Bowl Miami, FL 31–20 33,230 https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=ZsZaAAAAIBAJ&sjid=OmwDAAAAIBAJ&pg=7111%2C175508 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Jordan Jimmy Pitt sure of one game against State Saturday December 2, 1963 35 December 7 w 4 Penn State Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 22–21 52,349 https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=kp1RAAAAIBAJ&sjid=YGwDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6642%2C3627863 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Jordan Jimmy 57,331 sellout for Pitt-Penn State tilt November 22, 1963 25https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=a8ZaAAAAIBAJ&sjid=OmwDAAAAIBAJ&pg=7316%2C1189762 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Jordan Jimmy 55,000 to see Pitt battle Penn State at stadium today December 7, 1963 12https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=yBMrAAAAIBAJ&sjid=Z5wFAAAAIBAJ&pg=4147%2C4239378 Reading Eagle Pennsylvania UPI Pitt rallies to edge Penn State 22-21 December 8, 1963 40 Schedule/Results (1963 Pittsburgh) https://stats.ncaa.org/teams/215467 National Collegiate Athletic Association NCAA Statistics March 17, 2026 Opener at UCLA was played on Friday night. Following the assassination of President Kennedy, the Penn State game was postponed two weeks to December 7. Preseason On March 25, Coach Michelosen welcomed 66 players, including 30 lettermen for his ninth spring practice session.Art Fleischner Hot Weather Comes: Gridders Begin Work The Pitt News 57 52 March 27, 1963 9 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062165927/viewer#page/9/mode/1up March 16, 2026 The coaches were allotted 20 days of practice to be completed by April 27. The annual Blue-White game was played on that date at Pitt Stadium. The Blues managed an 8–0 victory with no time remaining on a 15-yard interception return by guard Ray Popp. The two point conversion was successful (a pass from Ray Conway to John Verkleeran).Jimmy Jordan Panthers Finally Get Underway Pittsburgh Post-Gazette March 26, 1963 24 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-panthers-finally/193520908/ March 16, 2026 Newspapers.comRuss Franke Popp! Pitt Opens Up The Pittsburgh Press April 28, 1963 1, 2 Section 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-popp-pitt-opens-up/193522797/ March 16, 2026 Newspapers.com On April 2, Pitt assistant line coach Frank Lauterbur was named head coach at Toledo University.Jimmy Jordan Pitt Aide Goes to Toledo Pittsburgh Post-Gazette April 3, 1963 24 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-pitt-aide-goes-t/193517669/ March 16, 2026 Newspapers.com On August 24, the Athletic Department announced the hiring of Joe Pullekines to replace Lauterbur. Pullekines previously coached as a graduate assistant for Pitt, while pursuing his dental degree.Joe Pullekines New Panther Line Coach The Pittsburgh Press August 15, 1963 42 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-joe-pullekines-new/193526010/ March 16, 2026 Newspapers.com A squad of 60 players, including 27 lettermen, were invited to fall camp at Allegheny College in Meadville, PA, commencing on August 19. The squad returned to campus on September 1 for class registration, and then practiced on campus for their opening game at UCLA on September 20.Panthers' Roster The Pittsburgh Press August 18, 1963 5, sec.4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-panthers-roster/193528749/ March 16, 2026 Newspapers.com Game summaries At UCLA 1963 UCLA Bruins football team Week 1: Pitt at UCLA Pitt UCLA 7 10 3 0 0- 0 0 0 September 20, 1963 Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Los Angeles, CA 8:00 p.m. 28,095 warm David H. Buchanan yes 1 PITT Paul Martha 4-yard run (Rick Leeson kick) PITT 7–0 2 PITT Leeson 17-yard field goal PITT 10–0 2 PITT Leeson 1-yard run (Leeson kick) PITT 17–0 3 PITT Leeson 21-yard field goal UPITT 20–0 yes Pitt opened their 1963 season with a trip to the West Coast to play the UCLA Bruins for the sixth time. Pitt led the all-time series 3–2. The Bruins returned 25 lettermen including All-American end candidate Mel Profit. Pitt followed their normal procedure of a stopover in Albuquerque, NM. Coach Michelosen held a team work-out on the University of New Mexico field, and then the squad proceeded to Los Angeles.Panthers Weigh 208, Uclans 198 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette September 18, 1963 25 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-panthers-weigh-2/195945049/ April 20, 2026 Newspapers.com On September 20, Pitt defeated the UCLA Bruins 20–0 in front of 28,095 fans at the Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles. Pitt kicked off and forced a punt. They gained possession on the UCLA 48-yard line. On the seventh play, Paul Martha ran over the right side for the score from the 4-yard line. Rick Leeson kicked the point after and Pitt led 7–0. Later in the quarter, UCLA intercepted a Fred Mazurek pass and returned it to the Panthers' 11-yard line. Pitt's defense held and the Panthers took over on their 9-yard line. UCLA did not threaten to score again. Rick Leeson scored 10 points in the second quarter on a 27-yard field goal, 1-yard plunge and extra point for a 17–0 halftime lead. Then, Leeson capped the scoring with a 31-yard field goal in the third quarter.Roy McHugh QB Mazurek Guides 20–0 Triumph The Pittsburgh Press September 21, 1963 6 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-qb-mazurek-guides-2/195947129/ April 20, 2026 Newspapers.com The Panthers gained 202 yards rushing and 227 yards passing. Halfback Eric Crabtree led the team with 44 rushing yards on 8 carries. Quarterback Fred Mazurek contributed 43 rushing yards on 7 carries and completed 8 of 11 passes for 106 yards. Kenny Lucas completed 4 of 8 passes for 70 yards and Fred Novak completed 4 of 7 passes for 51 yards.UCLA, PITT STATISTICS The Los Angeles Times September 21, 1963 2, Part II https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-los-angeles-times-ucla-pitt-statist/195949431/ April 20, 2026 Newspapers.com The starting Pitt line-up for the game against UCLA was Al Grigaliunas (left end), John Maczuzak (left tackle), Jeff Ware (left guard), Charles Ahlborn (center), Ed Adamchik (right guard), Ernest Borghetti (right tackle), Joe Kuzneski (right end), Fred Mazurek (quarterback), Paul Martha (left halfback), Bill Bodle (right halfback) and Rick Leeson (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Howley, Mitchell Zalansky, Ronald Linaburg, Tom Raymond, Ray Popp, Bernie LaQuinta, Joe Novogratz, Bob Guzinsky, Martin Schottenheimer, Paul Cercel, Fred Hoaglin, James Irwin, James Jones, Dennis Bernick, John Jenkins, John Verkleeren, Eugene Sobolewski, Kenny Lucas, Fred Novak, Tom Black, Glen Lehner, Dale Stewart, Eric Crabtree, Robert Roeder, John Ozimek, John Telesky and Barry McKnight.Al Wolf Bruins Lose Opener 20–0, to Pittsburgh The Los Angeles Times September 21, 1963 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-los-angeles-times-bruins-lose-opener/195953766/ April 20, 2026 Newspapers.com left Pittsburgh Panthers PITT UCLA Bruins UCLA y 27 81–429 53–202 227 16–28–2 2 na 6 47–103 28–59 44 4–19–1 2 na right Pittsburgh Panthers PITT UCLA Bruins UCLA y Fred Mazurek 8/11, 106 yards, 1 int Eric Crabtree 8 carries, 44 yards Bill Bodle 4 receptions, 54 yards Steve Sindell 4/10, 91 yards, 1 int Warren Jackson 10 carries, 37 yards Kurt Altenberg 1 reception, 16 yards Washington 1963 Washington Huskies football team Week 2: Washington at Pitt Washington Pitt 0 0 0 6 0 7 0 6 September 28, 1963 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 37,136 warm and sunny Lee G. Elsan (West Coast) yes 2 PITT Fred Mazurek 1-yard run (Rick Leeson kick) PITT 7–0 4 WASH Dave Kopay 2-yard run (run failed) PITT 7–6 4 PITT Joe Kuzneski 14-yard pass from Mazurek (kick failed) PITT 13–6 yes On September 28, the Panthers home opener was against the Washington Huskies. Coach Jim Owens' Huskies had 14 returning lettermen, and were led by All-American guard candidate Rick Redman. Pitt led the all-time series 3–1. Pitt Football 1963 For Press, Radio &TV University of Pittsburgh April 22, 2026 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735055723328/viewer#page/23/mode/1up In front of 37,136 fans, the Panthers won their second game in a row by defeating the Huskies 13–6. Late in the first quarter, the Panthers started a 75-yard, 11 play drive that ended, on the fourth play of the second quarter, with quarterback Fred Mazurek scoring on a 1-yard sneak. Rick Leeson kicked the extra point for a 7–0 halftime lead. Washington threatened in the second quarter, but fumbled on the Panthers' 3-yard line. The Huskies scored in the final period on a 49-yard, 10-play drive. Dave Kopay scored from the 2-yard line. Fred Mazurek tackled Charley Browning in the backfield on the two point attempt to keep the Panthers in the lead 7–6. Pitt tackle Ernie Borghetti recovered the onside kick on the Panthers' 48-yard line. On the fifth play, Mazurek hit Joe Kuzneski with a 14-yard touchdown pass. Leeson missed the extra point. The Huskies Steve Bramwell returned the kick-off 70 yards to the Panthers 27-yard line. Mazurek intercepted a Bill Douglas pass which gave Pitt possession on their 13-yard line. The Panthers then drove to the Washington 1-yard line, and fumbled with 1 minute remaining.Chester L. Smith Mazurek Scores Touchdown, Passes For Another, Spoils Huskie Bids The Pittsburgh Press September 29, 1963 1, Sec. 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-mazurek-scores-td/196098751/ April 22, 2026 Newspapers.com Fred Mazurek ran 7 times for 21 yards and completed 11 of 16 passes for 117 yards. He also caught a pass for an 11 yard gain. Paul Martha (82 yards) and Rick Leeson (48 yards) led the team in rushing. The Pitt starting line-up for the game against Washington was Al Grigaliunas (left end), John Maczuzak (left tackle), Jeff Ware (left guard), Charles Ahlborn (center), Ed Adamchik (right guard), Ernest Borghetti (right tackle), Joe Kuzneski (right end), Fred Mazurek (quarterback), Paul Martha (left halfback), Bill Bodle (right halfback) and Rick Leeson (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Howley, Ronald Linaburg, Ray Popp, Bernie LaQuinta, Martin Schottenheimer, Paul Cercel, James Irwin, James Jones, John Jenkins, John Verkleeren, Eugene Sobolewski, Kenny Lucas, Tom Black, Glen Lehner, Dale Stewart, Eric Crabtree, Robert Roeder and John Telesky.Pitt-Wash. Statistics The Pittsburgh Press September 29, 1963 7, Sec. 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press/190718104/ April 22, 2026 Newspapers.com left Washington Huskies WASH Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y 13 61–242 53–216 26 2–8–1 4 na 23 72–374 51–246 128 12–21–2 4 na right Washington Huskies WASH Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y Bill Douglas 2/7, 26 yards, 1 int Charlie Browning 9 carries, 83 yards Steve Bramwell 1 receptions, 16 yards Fred Mazurek 11/16, 117 yards Paul Martha 12 carries, 82 yards Joe Kuzneski 3 receptions, 36 yards California 1963 California Golden Bears football team Week 3: California at Pitt California Pitt 7 0 0 8 15 7 6 7 October 5, 1963 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 22,091 yes 1 CAL Jim Blakeney 85-yard kick-off return (Tom Blanchfield kick) CAL 7–0 1 PITT Paul Martha 1-yard run (Fred Mazurek run) PITT 8–7 1 PITT Eric Crabtree 47-yard run (Rick Leeson kick) PITT 15–7 2 PITT Crabtree 10-yard pass from Kenny Lucas (Leeson kick) PITT 22–7 3 PITT Leeson 32-yard pass from Fred Mazurek (kick failed) PITT 28–7 4 PITT Barry McKnight 14-yard run (Leeson kick) PITT 35–7 4 CALT Jack Schraub 14-yard pass from Craig Morton (Schraub pass from Morton) PITT 35–15 yes On October 5, the Panthers played the California Bears (their third Athletic Association of Western Universities opponent) at Pitt Stadium. Coach Marv Levy's Bears were 1–1 on the season and a two touchdown underdog. Pitt led the all-time series 2–1.Jimmy Jordan Panthers 14-Point Favorites Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 5, 1963 14 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-panthers-14-poin/196207594/ April 24, 2026 Newspapers.com Pitt made it three straight with a decisive 35–15 victory. Cal halfback Jim Blakeney took the opening kick-off 85 yards for the game's first score, and Tom Blanchfield's placement put Cal ahead 7–0. Pitt scored the next 35 points. Paul Martha completed a 10-play, 61-yard march with a 1-yard slant over left tackle. Fred Mazurek ran over the right side for the two point conversion to put Pitt ahead 8–7. Eric Crabtree scored 3 minutes later on a 47-yard reverse around the left side. Rick Leeson converted the first of his three placements to make the score 15–7. Crabtree caught a 10-yard touchdown pass from Kenny Lucas in the second quarter, and Leeson's placement made the halftime score 22–7. Leeson scored on a 32-yard pass from Mazurek in the third period. Barry McKnight closed the Panther scoring with a last quarter 14-yard run to cap a 14-play, 84-yard drive. Cal made the score more respectable against Pitt's reserves with a Craig Morton 14-yard touchdown pass to Craig Schraub. Morton passed to Schraub for the two point conversion.Phil Norman Cal Bows to Pitt, 35–15 The San Francisco Examiner October 6, 1963 8, Sec. IV https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-san-francisco-examiner-cal-bows-to-p/196208120/ April 24, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting line-up for the game against California was Al Grigaliunas (left end), John Maczuzak (left tackle), Jeff Ware (left guard), Charles Ahlborn (center), Ed Adamchik (right guard), Ernest Borghetti (right tackle), Joe Kuzneski (right end), Fred Mazurek (quarterback), Paul Martha (left halfback), Bill Bodle (right halfback) and Rick Leeson (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Howley, Ronald Linaburg, Ray Popp, Bernie LaQuinta, Martin Schottenheimer, Paul Cercel, James Irwin, James Jones, John Jenkins, John Ozimek, Eugene Sobolewski, Kenny Lucas, Francis Novak, Tom Black, Glen Lehner, Dale Stewart, Eric Crabtree, Robert Roeder, Barry McKnight and John Telesky.Starting Lineup The Pitt Press 58 11 October 4, 1963 1 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062163310/viewer#page/1/mode/1up April 24, 2026 left California Golden Bears CAL Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y 13 63–257 25–51 206 19–38 5 na 24 73–446 47–250 196 13–26 4 na right California Golden Bears CAL Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y Craig Morton 19/38, 206 yards, 1 int Tom Branchfield 3 carries, 20 yards Jack Schraub 7 receptions, 88 yards Fred Mazurek 6/12, 112 yards Rick Leeson 6 carries, 46 yards William Howley 3 receptions, 43 yards At West Virginia 1963 West Virginia Mountaineers football team Backyard Brawl Week 4: Pitt at West Virginia Pitt West Virginia 7 0 0 6 0 3 0 7 October 19, 1963 Mountaineer Field Morgantown, WV 1:00 p.m. 31,000 hot Francis P. Brennan yes 1 PITT Joe Kuzneski 3-yard pass from Fred Mazurek (Rick Leeson kick) PITT 7–0 2 WVA Chuck KInder 31-yard field goal PITT 7–3 4 WVU Dick Leftridge 5-yard pass from Jerry Yost (Kinder kick) WVU 10–7 4 PITT Paul Martha 46-yard run (kick failed) PITT 13–10 yes On October 19, the 1963 Backyard Brawl was played on Mountaineer Field. Coach Gene Corum's Mounties were 2–2 on the season, and a two touchdown underdog to the #3 ranked Panthers. Pitt led the all-time series 39–15–1, but had lost 3 of the previous 4.Jimmy Jordan Hill Folk Confident of Upset Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 19, 1963 9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-hill-folk-confid/196227403/ April 24, 2026 Newspapers.com In front of 31,000 Homecoming Day fans, Pitt managed a come-from-behind 13–10 victory to improve their record to 4–0. The Pitt offense drove to the WVU 15 to open the game, but Paul Martha fumbled. The Panthers regained possession on their own 29-yard line. An 11-play drive was capped with a Fred Mazurek 5-yard touchdown pass to Joe Kuzneski. Rick Leeson booted the point after and Pitt led 7–0. West Virginia kicker Chuck Kinder made a 31-yard field goal in the second quarter that was dominated by 90 yards of penalties (50 on Pitt and 40 on WVU). After earlier having a touchdown negated by a clipping penalty, and then fumbling on the Pitt 2-yard line, West Virginia's offense scored in the final quarter on a 5-yard pass from Jerry Yost to Dick Leftridge. Kinder added the placement and the Mountaineers led 10–7. Pitt took possession on their 20-yard line. Martha raced 46-yards through the left side of the defense for the go-ahead score on the sixth play. Leeson missed the extra point. Then Pitt's Bob Roeder intercepted a Yost pass at midfield, and Pitt ran out the clock.Chester L. Smith Martha's TD Saves Game For Panthers The Pittsburgh Press October 20, 1963 1, Section 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-marthas-td-saves-g/196266584/ April 25, 2026 Newspapers.com Fred Mazurek completed 7 of 9 passes for 82 yards. Fullback Rick Leeson carried the ball 11 times for 82 yards, and he caught 3 passes for 40 yards.Pitt-WVU Statistics The Pittsburgh Press October 20, 1963 8, Sec. 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-wvu-statistics/196269873/ April 25, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting line-up for the game against West Virginian was Al Grigaliunas (left end), John Maczuzak (left tackle), Jeff Ware (left guard), Charles Ahlborn (center), Ed Adamchik (right guard), Ernest Borghetti (right tackle), Joe Kuzneski (right end), Fred Mazurek (quarterback), Paul Martha (left halfback), Bill Bodle (right halfback) and Rick Leeson (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Howley, James Jones, Ray Popp, Martin Schottenheimer, Paul Cercel, James Irwin, Bernard LaQuinta, Ronald Linaburg, James Jenkins, John Verkleeren, Robert Long, Kenny Lucas, Glenn Lehner, Tom Black, Robert Roeder, Eric Crabtree, John Telesky, Barry McKnight and Marvin Lippincot.Chester L. Smith Pitt Sneaks Past W. Virginia, 13–10 The Pittsburgh press October 20, 1963 8, Sec. 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-sneaks-past-w/196267463/ April 25, 2026 Newspapers.com left Pittsburgh Panthers PITT West Virginia Mountaineers WVU y 15 53–286 41–193 93 9–12-1 1 na 11 56–179 42–88 91 7–14-1 2 na right Pittsburgh Panthers PITT West Virginia Mountaineers WVU y Fred Mazurek 7/9, 82 yards, 1 int Rick Leeson 11 carries, 82 yards Rick Leeson 3 receptions, 40 yards Jerry Yost 7/14, 91 yards, 1 int Dick Leftridge 11 carries, 56 yards Fred Hauff 2 receptions, 22 yards at Navy 1963 Navy Midshipmen football team Week 5: Navy Pitt Navy 0 0 0 12 3 7 0 14 October 26, 1963 Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium Annapolis, MD 1:30 p.m. 30,231 warm Gerald F. Hogan yes 1 NAVY Fred Marlin 36-yard field goal NAVY 3–0 2 NAVY Johnny Sai 1-yard run (Marlin kick) NAVY 10–0 4 NAVY Roger Staubach 1-yard run (Marlin kick) NAVY 17–0 4 PITT Eric Crabtree 39-yard pass from Kenny Lucas ( pass failed) NAVY 17–6 4 NAVY Pat Donnelly 1-yard run (Marlin kick) NAVY 24–6 4 PITT Paul Martha 74-yard pass from Lucas (pass failed) NAVY 24–12 yes On October 26, The Panthers travelled to Annapolis, MD to play the Navy Midshipmen. Pitt led the all-time series 7–3–1, but had lost 2 of the past 3 games. Wayne Hardin's Middies were 4–1 on the season and ranked #10. Pitt was ranked #3 and was a 4-point underdog.Jimmy Jordan Middies Ground Attack Also To Get Plenty Attention Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 26, 1963 9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-middies-ground-a/197648434/ May 16, 2026 Newspapers.com The Panthers lost 24–12 in front of a near capacity crowd of 30,231 at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. It would turn out to be their only loss of the season. Navy quarterback Roger Staubach befuddled the Panther defense. He completed 14 of 19 passes for 168 yards, he rushed for 60 yards on 19 carries (but he was sacked for 93 yards in losses) and he caught 2 passes for 19 yards. Navy center, Tom Lynch, intercepted a Fred Mazurek pass in the opening quarter, which led to Fred Marlin converting a 36-yard field goal to put Navy ahead 3–0. Navy's Pat Donnelly intercepted a Mazurek pass that resulted in a 1-yard touchdown run by John Sai in the second quarter. Marlin added the placement and Navy led 10–0 at halftime. Navy's third interception resulted in a 1-yard touchdown sneak by Staubach and Marlin's extra point to extend the lead to 17–0 early in the final period . The Panther offense answered with a 39-yard touchdown pass from Kenny Lucas to Eric Crabtree. The two-point conversion try failed. Pitt regained possession on their 15-yard line, but Kenny Lucas threw the Panthers' fourth interception of the game, which was returned by Donnelly to the Panthers' 1-yard line. Donnelly scored on second down, and Marlin kicked the extra point for a 24–6 lead. Pitt answered with a 76-yard touchdown pass from Lucas to Paul Martha. The two-point conversion try again failed.Chester L. Smith Hurricane Roger Takes Panthers By Storm The Pittsburgh Press October 27, 1963 1, Section 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-hurricane-roger-tak/197672821/ May 16, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting line-up for the Navy game was Al Grigaliunas (left end), John Maczuzak (left tackle), Jeff Ware (left guard), Charles Ahlborn (center), Ed Adamchik (right guard), Ernest Borghetti (right tackle), Joe Kuzneski (right end), Fred Mazurek (quarterback), Paul Martha (left halfback), Bill Bodle (right halfback) and Rick Leeson (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Howley, James Jones, Ray Popp, Joe Novogratz, Martin Schottenheimer, Paul Cercel, James Irwin, Bernard LaQuinta, Ronald Linaburg, James Jenkins, John Verkleeren, Eugene Sobolewski, Kenny Lucas, Robert Roeder, Dale Stewart, Eric Crabtree, John Telesky, Glen Lehner and Tom Black.Chester L. Smith Staubach-Led Navy Topples Pitt, 24–12 The Pittsburgh Press October 27, 1963 4, Sec. 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-staubach-led-navy-t/197674253/ May 16, 2026 Newspapers.com left Pittsburgh Panthers PITT Navy Midshipmen NAVY y 12 51–249 25–76 173 11-26-4 6 na 13 64–198 43–11 187 16–21 0 na right Pittsburgh Panthers PITT Navy Midshipmen NAVY y Kenny Lucas 9/19, 157 yards, 2 ints Rick Leeson 6 carries, 20 yards Paul Martha 1 receptions, 74 yards Roger Staubach 14/19, 168 yards Pat Donnelly 6 carries, 18 yards Jim Campbell 7 receptions, 92 yards Syracuse 1963 Syracuse Orangemen football team Week 6: Syracuse at Pitt Syracuse Pitt 0 0 0 6 0 7 0 6 November 2, 1963 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 44,217 snow and wind yes 1 SYR Nat Duckett 3-yard run (John Paglio kick) SYR 7–0 1 PITT Fred Mazurek 2-yard run (Al Grigaliunas pass from Mazurek) PITT 8–7 2 SYR Richard King 3-yard run (Gus Giardi pass from King) SYR 15–8 2 SYR Duckett 1-yard run ( pass failed) SYR 21–8 3 PITT Mazurek 41-yard run (Rick Leeson pass from Mazurek) SYR 21–16 3 PITT Paul Martha 1-yard run (pass failed) PITT 22–21 3 PITT Grigaliunas 13-yard pass from Mazurek (pass failed) PITT 28–21 4 SYR Mike Koski 53-yard pass from King (run failed) SYR 28–27 4 PITT Leeson 3-yard run (Leeson kick) PITT 35–27 yes On November 2, the Panthers welcomed Floyd Schwartzwalder's Syracuse Orangemen for their Youth Day and Homecoming game. Syracuse was 5–1 on the season, having only lost to Kansas. Pitt led the all-time series 10–6–2.Jimmy Jordan Big Orange Tough On 'Air' Teams Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 2, 1963 9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-big-orange-tough/197931190/ May 20, 2026 Newspapers.com The Panthers won by scoring 27 second half points in a come-from-behind 35–27 victory. After falling behind 21–8 in the first half, the Panthers' defense held Syracuse to two second half first downs and one touchdown. Syracuse recovered a fumble on Pitt's opening possession at the Panthers' 19-yard line. Nat Duckett scored from the 3-yard line on the sixth play. John Paglio kicked the extra point for a 7–0 Syracuse lead. Pitt answered with a 19-play, 81-yard drive capped by a 2-yard run by Fred Mazurek. Mazurek hit Al Grigaliunas for the two point conversion and Pitt led 8–7 at the end of the first quarter. Syracuse scored twice in the second quarter to lead 21–8 at halftime. On the fifth play of the second half Mazurek scored his second touchdown of the day on a 41-yard run. Mazurek passed to Rick Leeson for the 2-point conversion. The Pitt defense forced a punt, and the Pitt offense marched 85 yards for the go-ahead score. Paul Martha scored from 1-yard out, and the two-point pass attempt was batted down. Pitt regained possession and scored on a 13-yard pass from Mazurek to Grigaliunas. The two-point pass attempt failed, but Pitt led 28–21 at the end of 3 quarters. Syracuse answered in the final period on a 53-yard pass from Richard King to Mike Koski. Their two-point try failed and Pitt held a 1- point lead. Syracuse regained possession, but Marty Schottenheimer intercepted on the Syracuse 45-yard line. Leeson capped the 45-yard, 8-play drive with a touchdown run from the 3-yard line, and kicked the extra point for the final 35–27 margin.Bill Reddy Minus Mahle, Orange Loses 35–27 Thriller The Post-Standard Syracuse, New York November 3, 1963 31, 32, section IV https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-post-standard-minus-mahle-orange-lo/198102600/ May 23, 2026 Newspapers.com Pitt earned 24 first downs to Syracuse's 7, and Pitt outgained the Orange 338 yards to 203 yards. Quarterback Fred Mazurek led the Panthers with 119 yards rushing on 22 carries, and he completed 13 of 21 passes for 136 yards. He also scored two touchdowns and passed for another. The Pitt starting line-up for the Syracuse game was Al Grigaliunas (left end), John Maczuzak (left tackle), Jeff Ware (left guard), Charles Ahlborn (center), Ed Adamchik (right guard), Ernest Borghetti (right tackle), Joe Kuzneski (right end), Fred Mazurek (quarterback), Paul Martha (left halfback), Bill Bodle (right halfback) and Rick Leeson (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Howley, James Jones, Ray Popp, Martin Schottenheimer, Paul Cercel, James Irwin, Bernard LaQuinta, Ronald Linaburg, James Jenkins, Eugene Sobolewski, Kenny Lucas, Robert Roeder, Dale Stewart, Eric Crabtree, John Telesky, Glen Lehner and Tom Black.Chester L. Smith Panthers Outslug Orangemen, 35–27, in Wild Contest The Pittsburgh Press November 3, 1963 6, section 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-panthers-outslug-or/198106375/ May 23, 2026 Newspapers.com left Syracuse Orangemen SYR Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y 7 42–203 29–140 63 3-13-3 4 na 24 84–338 60–193 145 14–24–1 1 na right Syracuse Orangemen SYR Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y Richard King 3/12, 63 yards, 2 ints Gus Giardi 2 carries, 42 yards Mike Koski 1 reception, 53 yards Fred Mazurek 13/21, 136 yards Fred Mazurek 22 carries, 119 yards Joe Kuzneski 6 receptions, 70 yards at Notre Dame 1963 Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team Week 7: Notre Dame Pitt Notre Dame 0 0 0 12 3 7 0 14 November 9, 1963 Notre Dame Stadium Notre Dame, IN 1:30 p.m. 41,306 clear and warm Don Hamilton yes 1 ND Frank Budka 1-yard run (Ken Ivan kick) ND 7–0 1 PITT Paul Martha 92-yard kickoff return ( kick blocked) ND 7–6 2 PITT Rick Leeson1-yard run (pass failed) PITT 12–7 3 PITT Fred Mazurek 10-yard run ( Mazurek run) PITT 20–7 4 PITT William Howley 6-yard pass from Kenny Lucas (Leeson kick) PITT 27–7 yes On November 9, the Panthers traveled to South Bend, IN to play Coach Hugh Devore's Fighting Irish of Notre Dame for the 30th time. Notre Dame led the all-time series 18–10–1. Pitt had only won twice previously at Notre Dame. The Irish were 2–4 for the season.Jack Sell Pitt Ponders Fate Against Irish Today Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 9, 1963 15 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-pitt-ponders-fat/198170432/ May 24, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt Panthers beat the Irish on their home turf for the third time 27–7. Notre Dame intercepted a Fred Mazurek pass on the Pitt 38-yard line early in the first quarter. The 12-play drive ended with Irish quarterback Frank Budka's 1-yard sneak for a touchdown. Ken Ivan booted the extra point and Pitt trailed 7–0. Pitt halfback Paul Martha answered with a 92-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. Rick Leeson's placement attempt was blocked and Pitt still trailed 7–6 at the end of the opening quarter. Eric Crabtree returned an Irish punt 45 yards to the Irish 25-yard line in the second period. Mazurek led an 8-play drive that was capped with a 1-yard plunge by Leeson. Mazurek's pass for the conversion was intercepted, but Pitt led 12–7 at halftime. Pitt gained possession on an interception on their 49-yard line in the third quarter. The Panthers scored in two plays. A 41-yard pass to Martha was followed by a 10-yard scamper by Mazurek for the touchdown. Mazurek ran for the 2-point conversion to increase the lead to 20–7. The second and third team substitutes scored in the final quarter on a 6-yard touchdown pass from Kenny Lucas to William Howley. Leeson booted the extra point to close the scoring.Jep Cadou Jr. Pitt's Offense Dazzles The Indianapolis Star November 10, 1963 4-Section 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-indianapolis-star-pitts-offense-daz/198173626/ May 24, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting line-up for the Notre Dame game was Al Grigaliunas (left end), John Maczuzak (left tackle), Jeff Ware (left guard), Charles Ahlborn (center), Ed Adamchik (right guard), Ernest Borghetti (right tackle), Joe Kuzneski (right end), Fred Mazurek (quarterback), Paul Martha (left halfback), Bill Bodle (right halfback) and Rick Leeson (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Howley, John Verkleeran, James Jones, Tom Raymond, Ray Popp, Joe Novogratz, Martin Schottenheimer, Paul Cercel, Fred Hoaglin, James Irwin, Bernard LaQuinta, Robert Sorochak, Ronald Linaburg, Dennis Bernick, James Jenkins, Eugene Sobolewski, Mitchell Zalnasky, Kenny Lucas, Francis Novak, Robert Roeder, Dale Stewart, Eric Crabtree, John Telesky, Glen Lehner, Barry McKnight, John Ozimek and Tom Black. left Pittsburgh Panthers PITT Notre Dame Fighting Irish ND y 18 63–288 46–158 130 11-17-3 4 na 13 57–167 44–87 80 6–13–1 3 na right Pittsburgh Panthers PITT Notre Dame Fighting Irish ND y Fred Mazurek 8/13, 111 yards, 1 int Fred Mazurek 14 carries, 42 yards Paul Martha 4 receptions, 63 yards John Huarte 5/8, 71 yards Bill Wolski 9 carries, 61 yards Jim Kelly 3 receptions, 34 yards Army 1963 Army Cadets football team Week 8: Army at Pitt Army Pitt 0 0 0 0 6 9 6 7 November 16, 1963 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 47,947 cloudy Gerald F. Hogan yes 1 PITT Paul Martha 48-yard run (pass failed) PITT 6–0 2 PITT Fred Mazurek 33-yard run (run failed) PITT 12–0 2 PITT Rick Leeson 29-yard field goal PITT 15–0 3 PITT Leeson 5-yard run ( pass failed) PITT 21–0 4 PITT Eric Crabtree 27-yard pass from Kenny Lucas (Leeson kick) PITT 28–0 yes The #6 ranked Pitt Panthers welcomed the Army Cadets for their fourth home game of the season. Coach Paul Dietzel's Cadets were 7–1, but an 8-point underdog. Pitt led the all-time series 6–2–2.Jimmy Jordan Panthers 8-Point Pick Over Cadets Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 16, 1963 12 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-panthers-8-point/198186832/ May 24, 2026 Newspapers.com In front of 47,947 fans, the Pitt Panthers improved their record to 7–1 with a 28–0 shutout of the Army Cadets. Pitt gained possession on their 20-yard line late in the opening quarter. Paul Martha ran through right tackle for a 48-yard touchdown on the fourth play. The two-point pass attempt failed and Pitt led 6–0. The Panthers scored twice in the second quarter. Quarterback Fred Mazurek went 33-yards on a keeper play for a touchdown, but his run for the extra points fell short. Rick Leeson then kicked a 29-yard field goal to make the halftime score 15–0. The Panthers offense started the third quarter with an 8-play, 66-yard drive capped by Leeson's 5-yard touchdown run. The Panthers substitutes added a touchdown in the final period when Kenny Lucas's 27-yard pass was deflected by Army defensive back James Bierschmitt into the hands of Pitt end Eric Crabtree. Leeson kicked the extra point.Chester L. Smith Pitt Wins, 28–0, Stays On Bowl List The Pittsburgh Press November 17, 1963 6, Sec. 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-wins-280-st/198251340/ May 25, 2026 Newspapers.comMartha, Mazurek Shatter Army's Defenses For Pitt The Philadelphia Inquirer November 17, 1963 3, sports https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-philadelphia-inquirer-marthe-mazure/198252066/ May 25, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting line-up for the Army game was Al Grigaliunas (left end), John Maczuzak (left tackle), Jeff Ware (left guard), Charles Ahlborn (center), Ed Adamchik (right guard), Ernest Borghetti (right tackle), Joe Kuzneski (right end), Fred Mazurek (quarterback), Paul Martha (left halfback), Bill Bodle (right halfback) and Rick Leeson (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Howley, John Verkleeran, Ron Long, Dan Picciano, James Jones, Tom Raymond, Ray Popp, Joe Novogratz, Martin Schottenheimer, Paul Cercel, Fred Hoaglin, Jock Beachler, James Irwin, Bernard LaQuinta, Robert Sorochak, Ronald Linaburg, Dennis Bernick, James Jenkins, Eugene Sobolewski, Mitchell Zalnasky, Kenny Lucas, Francis Novak, Robert Roeder, Dale Stewart, Eric Crabtree, John Telesky, Glen Lehner, Barry McKnight, John Ozimek and Tom Black. left Army Cadets ARMY Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y 12 60–175 40–105 70 9-20-1 4 na 15 60–443 49–359 84 6–11–1 4 na right Army Cadets ARMY Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y Carl Stichweh 7/14, 45 yards Carl Stichweh 18 carries, 46 yards Sam Champi 3 receptions, 17 yards Kenny Lucas 4/6, 72 yards, 1 int Paul Martha 6 carries, 103 yards John Jenkins 2 receptions, 29 yards at Miami 1963 Miami Hurricanes football team Week 9: Miami Pitt Miami 9 7 6 9 14 0 6 0 November 30, 1963 Miami Orange Bowl Miami, FL 8:00 p.m. 33,230 cool Johnny Cook yes 1 MIAMI Pete Banaszak 1-yard run (Don Cifra kick) MIAMI 7–0 1 PITT safety when ball centered over punter's head MIAMI 7–2 1 PITT Fred Mazurek 8-yard run (Rick Leeson kick) PITT 9–7 1 MIAMI Nick Spinelli 6-yard pass from George Mira ( Cifra kick) MIAMI 14–9 2 PITT Bill Bodle 2-yard run ( Rick Leeson kick) PITT 16–14 3 PITT William Howley 17-yard pass from Mazurek ( kick failed) PITT 22–14 3 MIAMI Spinelli 11-yard pass from Mira (pass failed) PITT 22–20 4 PITT Leeson 1-yard run (kick failed) PITT 28–20 4 PITT Leeson 24-yard field goal PITT 31–20 yes On November 30, the #5 ranked Panthers final road game was to Miami, Florida to play Coach Andy Gustafson's Hurricanes at Orange Bowl Stadium. The Hurricanes were 3–5 for the season. The all-time series was tied at 4 games apiece.Pitt–Miami Summary Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 30, 1963 14 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-pitt-miami-summa/198308322/ May 26, 2026 Newspapers.com The Panthers beat the Hurricanes 31–20 in front of 33,230 hostile fans to improve their record to 8–1. Each team scored two touchdowns in the first half, but Pitt led 16–14 thanks to a mishandled center snap that led to a safety. The Pitt defense held Miami's offense to one second half touchdown, while the Pitt offense scored two touchdowns and a field goal. Pitt quarterback Fred Mazurek led the Panthers with 146 rushing yards on 21 carries and 149 passing yards on 10 of 18 completions. Paul Martha gained 108 yards on 20 carries. Mazurek, Bill Bodle, Bill Howley and Rick Leeson scored for the Panthers. Pete Banaszak opened the scoring for Miami on a 1-yard run. George Mira passed to Nick Spinelli for their other two scores. Mira completed 25 of 43 passes for 309 yards.Larry Hill Powerful Pitt Grabs 31–20 Win Over UM Fort Lauderdale News and Sun-Sentinel December 1, 1963 1, Section D https://www.newspapers.com/article/fort-lauderdale-news-powerful-pitt-grabs/198310774/ May 26, 2026 Newspapers.com left Pittsburgh Panthers PITT Miami Hurricanes MIAMI y 29 84–498 66–349 149 10-18-1 1 na 25 59–405 16–98 309 25–43–3 3 na right Pittsburgh Panthers PITT Miami Hurricanes MIAMI y Fred Mazurek 10/18, 149 yards, 1 int Fred Mazurek 21 carries, 146 yards Joe Kuzneski 3 receptions, 51 yards George Mira 25/43, 309 yards, 3 ints Pete Banaszak 6 carries, 61 yards Nick Spinelli 9 receptions, 108 yards Penn State 1963 Penn State Nittany Lions football team Week 10: Penn State at Pitt Penn State Pitt 0 0 0 0 6 9 6 7 December 7, 1963 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:00 p.m. 52,349 sunny yes 1 PSU Gary Klingensmith 9-yard run (Ron Coates kick) PSU 7–0 2 PITT Paul Martha 1-yard run (pass failed) PSU 7–6 2 PSU Gerry Sandusky 9-yard pass from Pete Liske (Coates kick) PSU 14–6 2 PITT Rick Leeson 1-yard run ( pass failed) PSU 14–12 3 PITT Rick Leeson 35-yard field goal PITT 15–14 3 PSU Don Caum 10-yard pass from Liske ( Coates kick) PSU 21–15 4 PITT Fred Mazurek 17-yard run (Leeson kick) PITT 22–21 yes On December 7, the #4-ranked Pitt Panthers played their in-state rival Penn State for the sixty-third time. Pitt led the all-time series 33–26–3. Coach Rip Engle's Lions were 7–2 for the season.Stadium Summary Pittsburgh Post-Gazette December 7, 1963 13 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-stadium-summary/198467972/ May 28, 2026 Newspapers.com Sixteen seniors (Chuck Ahlborn, Jeff Ware, John Maczuzak, Ernie Borghetti, Ed Adamchik, John Jenkins, Glenn Lehner, Rick Leeson, Joe Kuzneski, Gene Sobolewski, Bob Long, Al Grigaliunas, John Telesky, Bob Roeder, John Ozimek and Paul Martha) suited up for their final game as Pitt Panthers. So far they were 0–3 against Penn State.Last Game Pittsburgh Post-Gazette December 7, 1963 12 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-last-game/198469300/ May 28, 2026 Newspapers.com Pitt kept the 52,349 fans on the edge of their seats as they defeated the Nittany Lions 22–21 in a hard fought come-from-behind victory. Penn State scored first on a 9-yard run by Gary Klingensmith, and Ron Coates kicked the extra point. Pitt answered with a 46-yard drive capped on a 1-yard plunge over right tackle by Paul Martha. The two-point conversion failed. Penn State recovered a Fred Mazurek fumble on the Pitt 36-yard line. Pete Liske hit Gerry Sandusky with a 9-yard touchdown pass on the seventh play. Coates kicked the extra point. Pitt countered before halftime with an 80-yard, 9-play drive. Rick Leeson went through right guard from the 1-yard line for the touchdown, but the two-point conversion failed again. Pitt trailed at halftime 12–14. Pitt managed to score first and last in the second half. The Staties drove to the Panthers 10-yard line, but the Pitt defense held and took over on downs. The Panthers drove to the State 7-yard line, and had to settle for a 25-yard Rick Leeson field goal for their first lead of the game. (15–14) It was short-lived as Penn State took the kick-off and drove 75-yards in 8 plays. Liske threw a 10-yard pass to Don Caum for the go-ahead score and Coates added the point after. Pitt regained the lead for good in the final quarter with a 77-yard, 11-play drive. Fred Mazurek ran the final 17-yards for the touchdown and Leeson booted the extra point to put the Panthers ahead 22–21. Penn State managed to get into field goal range, but Coates was wide-left on his 37-yard attempt. Pitt finished the season with a 9–1 record.Chester L. Smith Pitt Edges State, 22–21 The Pittsburgh Press December 8, 1963 6, Sec. 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-edges-state-2/198474138/ May 28, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting line-up for the Penn State game was Al Grigaliunas (left end), John Maczuzak (left tackle), Jeff Ware (left guard), Charles Ahlborn (center), Ed Adamchik (right guard), Ernest Borghetti (right tackle), Joe Kuzneski (right end), Fred Mazurek (quarterback), Paul Martha (left halfback), Bill Bodle (right halfback) and Rick Leeson (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Howley, Ron Long, James Jones, Tom Raymond, Ray Popp, Martin Schottenheimer, Paul Cercel, James Irwin, Bernard LaQuinta, Ronald Linaburg, James Jenkins, Eugene Sobolewski, Kenny Lucas, Robert Roeder, Dale Stewart, Eric Crabtree, John Telesky, Glen Lehner and Tom Black. left Penn State Nittany Lions PSU Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y 12 54–279 31–106 173 11-23-1 1 na 23 83–421 63–276 145 10–20 2 na right Penn State Nittany Lions PSU Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y Pete Liske 11/23, 173 yards, 1 int Gary Klingensmith 14 carries, 47 yards Don Caum 4 reception, 99 yards Fred Mazurek 7/15, 108 yards Fred Mazurek 23 carries, 142 yards Al Grigaliunas 2 receptions, 33 yards Postseason Pitt ended the season with a 9–1 record. They were ranked #3 by the United Press International and #4 by the Associated Press, but they were not extended a bowl invitation. Ten years later Randy L. Jesick, a researcher, documented what the members of the 1963 roster were doing. "Of the 75 players on his (Michelosen's) roster, Jesick found that 66 had graduated; 33 from that lot enrolled in post-graduate programs. There were three doctors, 15 dentists, five lawyers, seven educators, 28 involved in industry and two ministers."Tim Panaccio Beast Of the East 1982 0-88011-068-6 Leisure Press 205 Even though the Panthers were overlooked for a bowl invitation, several players were chosen for the various all-star games. On December 21, guard Jeff Ware and end Al Grigaliunas played in the North-South Shrine Game in Miami, Florida. On December 28, halfback Paul Martha, fullback Rick Leeson and tackle Ernie Borghetti played in the East-West Shrine Game in San Francisco, California. On December 25, tackle John Maczuzak played in the Blue-Gray Football Classic in Montgomery, Alabama. On January 4, 1964, Paul Martha, Rick Leeson and Ernie Borghetti played in the Hula Bowl in Honolulu, Hawaii. On August 7, 1964, Paul Martha, Ernie Borghetti and John Maczuzak played in the College All-Star Football Classic in Chicago, Illinois. Post Season & All-Star Players Pitt 1964 Football Preview For Press, Radio & TV University of Pittsburgh 56-59 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A1964d004652/viewer#page/56/mode/1up August 4, 2026 Halfback Paul Martha was named first team All-America by the Newspaper Enterprise Association, The Sporting News and the Central Press Association. He was named to the second team by United Press International, Look magazine and the American Football Coaches Association. Ernie Borghetti was named first team All-America on the Look magazine squad and third team by the Newspaper Enterprise Association. Guard Ed Adamchik was named second team All-America by the Newspaper Enterprise Association.Gridders Receive Many Honors The Pitt News December 9, 1963 58 32 14 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062163542 August 4, 2026NEA Names Martha To All-America Squad The Pitt News November 27, 1963 58 30 6 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062163518 August 4, 2026Coaches Association Says Jay Wilkinson All-American Star News, Wilmington, N.C. November 26, 1963 11 https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1454&dat=19631126&id=cDtjAAAAIBAJ&sjid=NXQNAAAAIBAJ&pg=2841,4209308College Football TSN All-American Teams The Sporting News August 4, 2026 https://www.webcitation.org/5gWo9xU2T Coaching staff 1963 Pittsburgh Panthers football staff Coaching staff John Michelosen – head coach Carl DePasqua –defensive backs coach Walter Cummins – center coach Steve Petro – guard coach Lou Cecconi– backfield coach Ernie Hefferle – end coach Joe Pullekines – line coach Bill Kaliden – freshman coach   Support staff Frank Carver– athletic director J. Clyde Barton – assistant athletic director Walter Cummins – assistant athletic director Carroll Cook– athletic publicity director Dr. W. K. Smith – team doctor Dr. Chester Phillips – team doctor Dr.Richard Deitrick – team doctor Howard Waite – trainer Walter O. Willoughby – trainer Frank Wiechec - trainer James L. Hogan – student manager Roster 1963 Pittsburgh Panthers football rosterPittsburgh Panthers Player Position Games Weight Height Class Prep School Hometown Tom Abelefullback02056 ft 2 injuniorNiskatuna H. S.Schenectady, NY Ed Adamchik*guard102306 ft 2 in senior Johnstown H. S. Johnstown, PA Charles Ahlborn*center 10 2106 ft 2 in senior Rostraver Twp. H. S. Belle Vernon, PA Ed Assidquarterback 0 1856 ft 3 insophomoreNew Castle H. S.New Castle, PA Jock Beachlercenter21855 ft 11 insophomoreMt. Lebanon H. S.Mt. Lebanon, PA William Beckhalfback01855 ft 10 injuniorPortage Area H. S.Portage, PA Dennis Bernicktackle42156 ft juniorMcKeesport H. S.McKeesport, PA Peter Billeyhalfback01705 ft 9 in senior Hurst H. S. United, PA Tom Black*quarterback101806 ft 1 injuniorWashington Twp. H. S.Apollo, PA William Bodle*halfback101956 ft juniorHighland Park H. S.Deerfield, IL Ernest Borghetti*tackle102426 ft 4 in seniorUrsuline H. S.Youngstown, OH Bill Buchananguard02136 ft 2 in sophomoreWaynesburg H. S.Waynesburg, PA Paul Cercel*center102256 ft 1 in juniorAustintown-Fitch H. S. Youngstown, OH Gerald Cherry* tackle02256 ft junior West Mifflin H. S. Munhall, PA Ronald Ciminoguard01855 ft 11 in sophomoreSwissvale H. S.Swissvale, PA Ray Conway*halfback 0 1836 ft junior Peabody-Shadyside H. S. Pittsburgh, PA Eric Crabtree*halfback101806 ftsophomoreMonessen H. S.Monessen, PA John Cullen*guard02056 ft juniorMunhall H. S.Munhall, PA Phil Daharend 0 1976 ft 2 in sophomore Dillonvale H. S. Dillonvale, OH Dick Dobrowolski*tackle02156 ft junior Tarentum H. S. Tarentum, PA James Dodarohalfback01956 ft 1 insophomoreNorth Catholic H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Ronald Dodsonend01956 ft juniorAltoona H. S.Altoona, PA James Eskridgeend01956 ft 2 injuniorRootstown H. S.New Milford, OH James Ferracohalfback01756 ft 1 injuniorHampton Twp. H. S.Allison Park, PA Tom Furjanictackle02006 ft 3 insophomoreBishop-McDevitt H. S.Steelton, PA Bill Galellaguard02156 ft 1 insophomoreWest Scranton H. S.Scranton, PA Al Grigaliunis*end102005 ft 11 inseniorBenedictine H. S.Cleveland, OH Bob Guzinskytackle22246 ft 2 in sophomoreMahonoy, Manlius H. S.Mahonoy City, PA Sanford Hillhalfback01906 ft sophomoreMcCaskey H. S.Lancaster, PA Fred Hoaglincenter42056 ft 4 in sophomore East Palestine H. S. East Palestine, OH William Howley*end102056 ft 2 injuniorMunhall H. S.Munhall, PA James Irwin*guard102106 ft juniorTaylor-Allderdice H. S.Pittsburgh, PA John Jenkins*end102156 ft 4 inseniorUnion Area Joint H. S.New Castle, PA James Jones*tackle102656 ft 1 in sophomoreEaston H. S.Easton, PA Mike Karnishend01976 ft sophomoreLansford H. S.Lansford, PA Paul Kisidaycenter02106 ft 2 injuniorAmbridge H. S.Ambridge, PA Joe Kuzneski*end101956 ft 3 inseniorIndiana Joint H. S.Indiana, PA Edward Lallytackle02256 ft 2 in juniorSharpsville H. S.Sharpsville, PA Bernard LaQuinta*fullback102005 ft 10 in juniorMt. Lebanon H. S.Mt. Lebanon, PA Rick Leeson*fullback101956 ft 1 inseniorScott Twp. H. S.Scott Twp., PA Glen Lehner*quarterback101906 ft 1 inseniorBaldwin H. S.Baldwin, PA Ronald Linaburg*tackle102206 ft 3 in juniorMonongahela H. S.Monongahela, PA Marvin Lippincott*halfback21956 ftseniorPhillipsburg H. S.Riegelsville, NJ Robert Long*end52006 ft 3 inseniorSharon H.S.Sharon, PA Kenny Lucas*quarterback101806 ftsophomoreGlassport H. S.Glassport, PA George Mackotackle02356 ft sophomoreGreensburg, Manlius H. S.Greensburg, PA John Maczuzak*tackle102336 ft 5 inseniorEllsworth H.S.Ellsworth, PA Paul Martha*halfback101806 ft seniorShady Side H. S.Wilkinsburg, PA Fred Mazurek*quarterback101905 ft 10 injuniorRedstone H. S.Republic, PA Barry McKnight*fullback52046 ft sophomoreIndiana H. S.Indiana, PA Bob Milkovitztackle02306 ft 2 in sophomoreEaston H. S.Easton, PA Jake Mulletthalfback01876 ft 1 insophomoreMagnolia H. S.North Martinsville, WV Francis Novak*quarterback41866 ft juniorSouth Union H. S.Uniontown, PA Joe Novogratzguard52106 ft 2 insophomoreNorthampton, Bordentown H. S.Northampton, PA John Ozimek*halfback41855 ft 10 inseniorBurgettstown-Union H. S.Bulger, PA Ken Perryquarterback01855 ft 11 insophomoreMonongahela H. S.Finleyville, PA Dan Piccianoend21856 ft 1 injuniorJeannette H. S.Jeanette, PA Ray Popp*guard102256 ft 1 inseniorMonongahela H. S.Monongahela, PA Tom Raymondtackle52246 ft 1 insophomoreBeth-Center H. S.Centerville, PA Robert Roeder*halfback101855 ft 11 inseniorEmmaus H. S.Emmaus, PA Martin Schottenheimer*center102156 ft 3 in juniorFort Cherry H. S.McDonald, PA Ronald Simantelend02106 ft 7 in juniorNew Kensington H. S.New Kensington, PA Stephen Sisaktackle02206 ft 2 injuniorLaura Lamar H. S.Graceton, PA Eugene Sobolewski*end91906 ft 2 inseniorFreeport H. S.Freeport, PA Robert Sorochakguard32155 ft 10 in juniorKingston H. S.Kingston, PA Carmen Sporiofullback01976 ftsophomoreThomas Jefferson H. S.Clairton, PA Dale Stewarthalfback92056 ft 1 insophomoreHazelton, Manlius H. S.Hazelton, PA Gabe Tamburinocenter02156 ft 3 insophomoreUrsuline H. S.Youngstown, OH John Telesky*fullback102055 ft 10 inseniorBloomsburgH. S. Bloomsburg, PA John Verkleeren*end71956 ft 3 in sophomoreCharleroi H. S.Charleroi, PA Jeff Ware*tackle102156 ft 1 inseniorCedar Cliff H. S.Rocky River, OH John Zabkarguard02105 ft 11 injuniorLatrobe H. S.Latrobe, PA Mitchell Zalnaskyend42006 ft 2 insophomoreWest Allegheny H. S.Tyre, PA * Letterman 1963 Pitt Roster Pitt Football 1963 For Press, Radio & TV University of Pittsburgh 50, 51 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735055723328/viewer#page/51/mode/1up March 16, 2026Football Lettermen University of Pittsburgh 2008 Pitt Football Media Guide 178–182 February 1, 2025 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/175/mode/1upLetters Awarded To 37 Gridders For 1963 Season The Pitt News 58 37 January 17, 1964 7 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062163609 August 5, 2026 Individual scoring summary 1963 Pittsburgh Panthers scoring summaryPittsburgh Panthers Player Touchdowns Extra points Two pointers Field goals Safety Points Rick Leeson71315072 Paul Martha8000048 Fred Mazurek7020046 Eric Crabtree4000024 Joe Kuzneski2000012 William Howley2000012 Al Grigaliunas101008 Barry McKnight100006 Bill Bodle100006 Team000012 Totals3313451236 Statistical leaders Pittsburgh's individual statistical leaders for the 1963 season include those listed below. Pitt Football Statistical Summary 1963 Pitt Football 1964 University of Pittsburgh 45, 46 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A1964d004652/viewer#page/46/mode/1up April 2, 2026 Rushing 2 Pittsburgh Panthers Player Attempts Net yards Yards per attempt Touchdowns Fred Mazurek1326464.97Rick Leeson985015.16Paul Martha894855.47 Passing 2 Pittsburgh Panthers Player Attempts Completions Interceptions Comp % Yards Yds/Comp TD Fred Mazurek12774758.394912.85Ken Lucas5530554.543614.55 Receiving 2 Pittsburgh Panthers Player Receptions Yards Yds/Recp TD Joe Kuzneski2125812.32William Howley1823513.12Bill Bodle1718310.80Paul Martha1525316.91John Jenkins131219.30Al Grigaliunas912213.61Eric Crabtree913815.33 Kickoff returns 2 Pittsburgh Panthers Player Returns Yards Yds/Return TD Paul Martha928631.81Eric Crabtree612921.50Fred Mazurek46917.20 Punt returns 2 Pittsburgh Panthers Player Returns Yards Yds/Return TD Eric Crabtree1212110.10Paul Martha6508.30 Team players drafted into the NFL The following Panthers were chosen by NFL teams during their 1964 draft. 1964 NFL Draft Pro Football Reference https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1964/draft.htm Pro-Football-Reference.com March 3, 2026 2 Pittsburgh Panthers Player Position Round Pick NFL club Paul Martha Defensive back 110 Pittsburgh SteelersRay Popp Guard8 100 New York GiantsRick Leeson Back10 130 Washington RedskinsPaul Cercel Center16 213 Dallas CowboysBrian Generalovich End 20 275 Pittsburgh Steelers Team players drafted into the AFL The following Panthers were chosen by AFL teams during their 1964 draft. 1964 AFL Draft Pro Football Reference https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1964_AFL/draft.htm Pro-Football-Reference.com March 3, 2026 2 Pittsburgh Panthers Player Position Round Pick AFL club Paul Martha defensive back9 69 Buffalo Bills Jeff Ware linebacker13 99 New York Jets Ray Popp linebacker 16 123 New York Jets Paul Cercel center 19 152 San Diego Chargers Brian Generalovich end25 196 Boston Patriots Media Radio Pittsburgh Panthers Flagship station Play-by-play Color commentator Sideline reporter Studio host WWSW–AM 970 References Pittsburgh Category:Pittsburgh Panthers football seasons Pittsburgh Panthers football