1955 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

American college football season August 2023 February 2026 1955 Pittsburgh Panthers football Independent 11 11 7–4 John Michelosen 1st Pitt Stadium Eastern champion Sugar Bowl L 0–7 vs. Georgia Tech The 1955 Pittsburgh Panthers football team represented the University of Pittsburgh as an independent during the 1955 college football season. The Panthers were led by first-year head coach John Michelosen and played their home games at Pitt Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In a season that included upsets over top-ten teams Duke and rival West Virginia, Pitt had their most successful season in years. The Panthers finished ranked in the polls for the first time since 1938 and played in their first bowl game since the 1937 Rose Bowl. Pittsburgh was invited to the 1956 Sugar Bowl, played against Georgia Tech. Intense controversy surrounded the bowl game, as Pittsburgh had a black player, Bobby Grier, at a time when the sport was not fully integrated. Many people opposed Pittsburgh playing in the bowl, and having desegregated seating sections in the stands, including Georgia governor Marvin Griffin. Georgia's Governor publicly threatened Georgia Tech's president Blake R. Van Leer in an attempt to bar Grier or stop the game.https://www.fromtherumbleseat.com/2019/11/14/20914927/rearview-revisited-segregation-and-the-sugar-bowl-georgia-tech-pittsburgh-bobby-grier-1955-1956-game Georgia Tech Rearview Revisited: Segregation and the Sugar Bowl Jake Grantl 2019-11-14 2019-11-14 The game ultimately was played without incident, and marked the first integrated Sugar Bowl.https://www.nytimes.com/2006/01/01/sports/ncaafootball/01grier.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0 Grier Integrated a Game and Earned the World's Respect Thamel Pete Pete Thamel January 1, 2006 New York Times Schedule 1955 AP Eastern September 17 w California Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 27–7 33,999–34,976 Pittsburgh vs California Summary of Football Game Statistics http://web1.ncaa.org/footballStatsArchive/FootballStats.pdf?id=5844023.0 NCAA Football Statistics NCAA 26 February 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20180302230102/http://web1.ncaa.org/footballStatsArchive/FootballStats.pdf?id=5844023.0 2 March 2018 deadSeptember 22, 1956 University of Pittsburgh Athletic Department 1955 Pitt Football Attendance Pitt 1956 for Press and Radio 27 September 24 w y 7 Syracuse Archbold Stadium Syracuse, NY 22–12 14,952 October 1 l y 12 Oklahoma 5 Owen Field Norman, OK 14–26 55,412–58,000 https://www.soonerstats.com/football/seasons/schedule.cfm?seasonid=1955 1955 OU Football Season Schedule - SoonerStats - Historical scores, records, and stats for Oklahoma Sooners football, basketball, baseball, and softball58,000 See OU Smack Ponderous Pitt 26-14: McDonald Earns Spot With Greats The Norman Transcript Jerry Magee October 2, 1955 1, 7 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99077078/58000-see-ou-smack-ponderous-pitt-26-14/ Newspapers.com October 8 l y Navy 12 Memorial Stadium Baltimore, MD 0–21 13,229–20,000 October 15 w Nebraska Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 21–7 19,350–21,006 October 22 w y Duke 5 Duke Stadium Durham, NC 26–7 19,451–31,000 https://www.newspapers.com/article/richmond-times-dispatch-panthers-win-26/138135069/ Richmond Times-Dispatch Panthers win, 26 to 7, for Devils' first loss October 23, 1955 January 5, 2024 Newspapers.com October 29 l 16 Miami (FL) Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 7–21 37,230–40,117 November 5 w Virginia Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 18–7 18,867–21,938 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-progress-index-pitt-passes-trip-cava/138140372/ The Progress-Index Pitt passes trip Cavaliers, 18–7 November 6, 1955 January 5, 2024 Newspapers.com November 12 w 17 West Virginia 6 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 26–7 55,772–57,996 https://www.newspapers.com/article/arizona-daily-star-pitt-storms-to-267-t/138110771/ The Arizona Daily Star Pitt storms to 26–7 triumph November 13, 1955 January 5, 2024 Newspapers.com November 19 w y 15 Penn State New Beaver Field University Park, PA rivalry 20–0 28,361–31,200 January 2 l y 11 Georgia Tech 7 Tulane Stadium New Orleans, LA Sugar Bowl ABC 0–7 76,535–80,175 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-georgia-tech-bea/133048170/ Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Georgia Tech beats Pitt in Sugar Bowl tilt, 7–0 January 3, 1956 October 7, 2023 Newspapers.comPast Sugar Bowl Game Information Sidearmsports AllState Sugar Bowl https://allstatesugarbowl.org/sports/2022/4/8/past-sugar-bowl-game-information.aspx 1955-56 Pittsburgh Panthers; Schedule/Results https://stats.ncaa.org/teams/333347 National Collegiate Athletic Association May 10, 2025 Preseason On December 5, the Sun-Telegraph reported that John Michelosen was the front runner for the Pitt head coaching job: “The former Pitt quarterback, who became an aide to the late Dr. Jock Sutherland and Steeler head coach and assistant to the resigned Red Dawson the past two seasons, is the choice of the Panthers' Varsity Letterman's Club, the Pitt players and legions of alumni members of the university."Jimmy Miller Sports Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph December 5, 1954 2, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-michelosen-for/169647876/ April 5, 2025 Newspapers.com On December 6, Athletic Director Tom Hamilton announced that John Michelosen had been approved by the Athletic Committee, the Board of Trustees and Chancellor Rufus Fitzgerald to be the eighth head coach of the University of Pittsburgh since the departure of Jock Sutherland in 1938.George Kiseda Michelosen Plans to Retain Split T Pittsburgh Post-Gazette December 7, 1954 20 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-michelosen-hire/168721825/ March 24, 2025 Newspapers.com Coach Michelosen retained Ernie Hefferle, Steve Petro, Robert Timmons and Walt Cummins from Dawson's staff, and added Jack Wiley and Victor Fusia.Jack Wiley Named Pitt Line Coach Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph February 15, 1955 14 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-wiley-named-pit/169649362/ April 5, 2025 Newspapers.comPitt Names Fusia As Grid Aide Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph February 3, 1955 18 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-fusia-named-pit/169649936/ April 5, 2025 Newspapers.com March 21 was the official start of the NCAA sanctioned 20-day spring practice session. Michelosen welcomed a squad of 70, including 22 lettermen, to the drills.Michelosen's First order: "Be in Shape" The Pittsburgh Press March 20, 1955 3, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-michelosens-first/169795757/ April 7, 2025 Newspapers.com The Panthers concluded the session with a high school coaches clinic and an intrasquad scrimmage on April 23.Carl Hughes Whites Rally and Defeat Blues, 14–6 The Pittsburgh Press April 24, 1955 3, section 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-whites-beat-blues-1/169796549/ April 7, 2025 Newspapers.com Pitt's opening game was on September 17 (earliest in history) and the NCAA ruled that fall practice started on September 1. The Panthers two-week preseason training took place on campus at Ellsworth Field for the fourth straight year.George Kiseda It's Official—Pitt To Stay at Home Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph August 21, 1955 2, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-fall-practice-s/169797827/ April 7, 2025 Newspapers.com Game summaries California Week 1: California at Pitt California Pitt 7 0 0 0 0 7 0 20 September 17, 1955 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 33,999–34,976 hot and humid Albert J. Booth Jr. (Yale) yes 1 CAL Bill Vallotton 30-yard pass from Hugh Maguire (Nick Poppin kick) CAL 7–0 2 PITT Bobby Grier 2-yard run (Darrell Lewis kick) TIED 7– 7 4 PITT Dick Bowen 6-yard pass from Corny Salvaterra ( Ambrose Bagamery kick) PITT 14–7 4 PITT Dick Bowen 10-yard run (John Paluck kick) PITT 21–7 4 PITT Bobby Grier 33-yard run (kick missed) PITT 27–7 yes On September 17 – John Michelosen coached his first game as Pitt head coach; the California Golden Bears played the Pitt Panthers for the first time, and the Cal Bears opened their season on the road for the first time in their history. The Bears were coached for the ninth year by future College Football Hall of Famer Pappy Waldorf. They only returned 9 lettermen from their 5–5 previous season.George Kiseda Holdovers Numerous Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 16, 1955 22 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-holdovers-numer/169801196/ April 7, 2025 Newspapers.com Pitt, with 22 lettermen returning, was a touchdown favorite. Coach Michelosen started 9 holdovers from the previous year. He replaced Al Bolcovac with Bill Schmitt at guard and Corny Salvaterra with Darrell Lewis at quarterback. A Hall of Fame ceremony took place at halftime for Bob Peck, Pitt's first All-American. The Sun-Telegraph published a map of parking lots available for game day parking.Map For Pitt Football Parking 1955 Season Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 16, 1955 22 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-map-for-pitt-fo/169919930/ April 9, 2025 Newspapers.com With the temperature gauge reading 92 degrees, the Pitt Panthers opened the season with a 27–7 victory over the visiting Cal Bears. In the first quarter Cal recovered a Pitt fumble on their own 45-yard line. Their 55-yard scoring drive was capped with a 30-yard touchdown pass from Hugh Maguire to Bill Vallotton. Nick Poppin kicked the extra point. Pitt tied the score with seconds left in the first half on a 2-yard run by Bobby Grier, and an extra point by Darrell Lewis. After a scoreless third quarter, the Panthers ended a 66-yard drive with a 6-yard touchdown pass from Corny Salvaterra to Dick Bowen. Ambrose Bagamery converted the placement. Then Pitt end Fred Glatz recovered a fumble on the Cal 9-yard line. Bowen scored on first down, and John Paluck kicked the extra point. The final score was Bobby Grier's 33-yard run with less than five minutes to play. Pete Neft missed the extra point.George Kiseda 3 TDs in Fourth As Bears Wilt Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 18, 1955 1, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-wins-opene/169923562/ April 9, 2025 Newspapers.com Even though they fumbled 8 times and lost 5, Pitt's offense earned 16 first downs and gained 355 yards. Their defense held Cal to 4 first downs and 85 yards. Bobby Grier (57 yards) and Corky Cost (56 yards) were Pitt's rushing leaders. Corny Salvaterra completed 5 of 9 passes for 81 yards.Pitt Statistics Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 18, 1955 1, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-statistics/169924633/ April 9, 2025 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against California was Joe Walton (left end), Bob Pollock (left tackle), Harold Hunter (left guard), John Cenci (center), Bill Schmitt (right guard), Herman Canil (right tackle), John Paluck (right end), Darrell Lewis (quarterback), Corky Cost (left halfback), Lou Cimarolli (right halfback) and Bobby Grier (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Fred Glatz, Bob Kiesel, Jim McCusker, Howard Linn, Vince Scorsone, John Guzik, Ed Bose, Charles Brueckman, Don Agafon, Al Bolkovac, Dan Wisneiwski, Ronnie Kissel, Bob Rosborough, Dale Brown, Corny Salvaterra, Pete Neft, Jim Theodore, Dick Bowen, Ralph Jelic, Ray DiPasquale, Ambrose Bagamery, Tom Jenkins and Ralph Ciper. at Syracuse Week 2: Pitt at Syracuse Pitt SYR 0 7 6 9 0 6 6 0 September 24, 1955 Archbold Stadium Syracuse, NY 1:30 p.m. 14,952 rain and fog Gerald F. Hogan (Arkansas) yes 2 SYR Jim Ridlon 16-yard pass from Ed Albright (Jim Brown missed kick) SYR 6–0 2 PITT Tom Jenkins 8-yard run (Ambrose Bagamery kick) PITT 7– 6 3 SYR Bill Micho 64-yard pass from Ed Albright ( Jim Brown missed wide left) SYR 12–7 3 PITT Joe Walton 25-yard pass from Corny Salvaterra (Bagamery missed kick) PITT 13–12 4 PITT Pete Neft 1-yard run (Bagamery kick) PITT 20–12 4 PITT Bob Rosborough tackled Fred Kuczala for a safety PITT 22–12 yes On September 24, the Panthers traveled to upstate New York to play the Syracuse Orangemen. The teams last met in 1930, and the Panthers led the all-time series 6–2–2.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 158 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/159/mode/1up April 9, 2025 Syracuse was led by seventh-year coach Ben Schwartzwalder. This was the Orangemen's opening game. Future Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown headlined the Syracuse lineup. In spite of the rain and foggy weather, the #7 ranked Panthers won their second game in a row by beating the Orangemen 22–12. In the first period Syracuse advanced the ball to the Panthers 6-yard line, but the Panthers defense stiffened and took over on downs. In the second period, Pitt quarterback Darrell Lewis fumbled, and Syracuse recovered on the Pitt 26-yard line. On fourth and ten from the 16-yard line Ed Albright threw a touchdown pass to Jim Ridlon. Jim Brown missed the extra point. Pitt halfback Corky Cost returned the kick-off to the 34-yard line. The Panthers took 11 plays to travel 66 yards for the touchdown. Fullback Tom Jenkins scored from the 8-yard line, and Ambrose Bagamery added the extra point. Pitt led at halftime 7–6. Early in the third quarter Syracuse quarterback Albright completed a 64-yard pass to Bill Micho to put Syracuse back in the lead, 12–7, as Jim Brown's kick was wide left. Pitt gained possession on the Syracuse 31 after a Syracuse punt. On third down Corny Salvaterra threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Joe Walton. Bagamery missed the extra point, but Pitt led again 13–12. Pitt guard Harold Hunter recovered a fumble on the ensuing kick-off, and the Pitt offense was back in control on the Syracuse 45-yard line. Pete Neft engineered an 11-play drive that he ended with a 1-yard quarterback sneak. Bagamery added the point after for a 20–12 Pitt lead. Pitt end Bob Rosborough ended the Pitt scoring by tackling Syracuse back Fred Kuczala in the end zone for a safety.Bill Reddy Powerful Pitt Rallies to Down... The Post-Standard Syracuse, New York September 25, 1955 35 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-post-standard-pitt-beats-syracuse/169945816/ Newspapers.com The Panthers gained 230 yards to 190 for Syracuse. Pitt's Dick Bowen ran 10 times for 46 yards; Corky Cost carried 6 times for 39 yards; Ralph Jelic and Tom Jenkins both ran 7 times for 27 yards. Corny Salvaterra completed 1 pass for 29 yards. The Panthers held Jim Brown to 28 yards on 12 carries.Jack Durkin Pitt Turns Back Orange Boys Syracuse Herald-Journal September 25, 1955 59 https://www.newspapers.com/article/syracuse-herald-journal-pitt-turns-back/169947581/ Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Syracuse was Joe Walton (left end), Bob Pollock (left tackle), Harold Hunter (left guard), John Cenci (center), Bill Schmitt (right guard), Herman Canil (right tackle), John Paluck (right end), Corny Salvaterra (quarterback), Corky Cost (left halfback), Ralph Jelic (right halfback) and Bobby Grier (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Fred Glatz, Bob Kiesel, Jim McCusker, Howard Linn, Vince Scorsone, John Guzik, Ed Bose, Charles Brueckman, Al Bolkovac, Dan Wisneiwski, Ronnie Kissel, Bob Rosborough, Dale Brown, Darrell Lewis, Pete Neft, Dick Bowen, Ray DiPasquale, Ambrose Bagamery, Lou Cimarolli, Tom Jenkins and Ralph Ciper. at Oklahoma Week 3: Pitt at OKLA Pitt OKLA 0 0 7 7 7 12 0 7 October 1, 1955 Owen Field Norman, OK 2:00 p.m. 55,412–58,000 hot and cloudy Ronald Gibbs (St. Thomas) yes 1 OKLA Tommy McDonald 43-yard run (Jim Harris kick) OKLA 7–0 2 OKLA Robert Burris 1-yard run (kick missed) OKLA 13– 0 2 OKLA Clendon Thomas 32-yard run (kick missed) OKLA 19–0 3 PITT Joe Walton 18-yard pass from Corny Salvaterra (Ambrose Bagamery kick) OKLA 19–7 4 PITT Corky Cost 1-yard run (Bagamery kick) OKLA 19–14 4 OKLA McDonald 8-yard run (Harris kick) OKLA 26–14 yes On October 1, the Panthers traveled to Norman, Oklahoma to play Bud Wilkinson's Oklahoma Sooners. The Sooners were on a 20-game win streak, since Pitt tied them 7–7 in 1953. Oklahoma led the all-time series 1–0–1. The Sooners roster had six future All-Americans: halfbacks Tommy McDonald and Clendon Thomas, guards Bo Bolinger, Ed Gray and Bill Krisher and center Jerry Tubbs.All-Americans University of Oklahoma Athletic Department OU Football History & Tradition April 10, 2025 https://soonersports.com/sports/2019/8/14/208798539 They opened their season with a victory over North Carolina and were ranked #5. After their opening victory over California, the Panthers were ranked #7. After beating Syracuse to go 2–0, they were ranked #12. The Panther contingent arrived in Norman on Friday afternoon by chartered plane. Coach Michelosen held a workout on Owen Field. They stayed in Norman at the Lockett Hotel. Coach Michelosen used the same starting lineup as the Syracuse game.Scattered Showers, Hot Weather Due Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 1, 1955 11 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-pitt-at-oklahoma/170019122/ April 10, 2025 Newspapers.com Oklahoma ran their winning streak to 21 with a 26–14 victory over the Panthers. Oklahoma scored three touchdowns in the first half to build a 19–0 halftime lead. Tommy McDonald ran 43-yards for the first touchdown. Robert Burris plunged in from the 1-yard line for the second score, and Clendon Thomas raced 32-yards for the third. Jim Harris converted one extra point. The Panther offense answered in the second half by scoring two unanswered touchdowns. The first was an 18-yard scoring pass from Corny Salvaterra to Joe Walton. Then Corky Cost capped a 10-play drive with a 1-yard run. Ambrose Bagamery was good on both placements, as Pitt cut the lead to 19–14. With less than 10 minutes remaining, the Panthers regained possession on their 20-yard line, but stalled on the 39 and had to punt. Oklahoma needed 8 plays for McDonald to score his second touchdown and run out the clock. Harris converted the placement.John Cronley McDonald Shines As OU Rips Pitt The Daily Oklahoman Oklahoma City, Oklahoma October 2, 1955 D-5 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-daily-oklahoman-oklahoma-beats-pitt/170143678/ April 12, 2025 Newspapers.comCarl Hughes Oklahoma Victor In 21st Straight After Stiff Battle The Pittsburgh Press October 2, 1955 1, section 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-oklahoma-wins-21-st/170144363/ April 12, 2025 Newspapers.com Corny Salvaterra led the Pitt running attack with 67 yards on 13 carries. Corky Cost gained 51 yards on 13 carries. Salvaterra also completed 8 of 18 passes for 78 yards. Oklahoma's Tommy McDonald led all rushers with 124 yards on 11 carries, and he completed 2 of 5 passes for 39 yards.Pitt-Okla. Statistics Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 2, 1955 3, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-okla-stat/170145611/ April 12, 2025 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Oklahoma was Joe Walton (left end), Bob Pollock (left tackle), Harold Hunter (left guard), John Cenci (center), Bill Schmitt (right guard), Herman Canil (right tackle), John Paluck (right end), Corny Salvaterra (quarterback), Corky Cost (left halfback), Ralph Jelic (right halfback) and Bobby Grier (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Fred Glatz, Jim McCusker, Howard Linn, Vince Scorsone, Ed Bose, Al Bolkovac, Ronnie Kissel, Bob Rosborough, Darrell Lewis, Pete Neft, Dick Bowen, Ray DiPasquale, Ambrose Bagamery, Lou Cimarolli, Nick Passodelis, Tom Jenkins and Ralph Ciper. at Navy Week 4: Pitt at NAVY Pitt Navy 0 0 0 0 0 7 7 7 October 8, 1955 Memorial Stadium Baltimore, MD 2:00 p.m. 13,229–20,000 partly cloudy Albert Booth (Yale) yes 1 NAVY Jim Owen 7-yard pass from George Welsh (Edwin Oldham kick) NAVY 7–0 3 NAVY Dick Guest 4-yard run (Oldham kick) NAVY 14–0 4 NAVY Guest 3-yard run (Oldham kick) NAVY 21–0 yes On October 8, the Panthers third road trip in a row was to Baltimore, MD to play the Midshipmen of the Naval Academy. Pitt upset the Eastern champion Middies 21–19 in 1954 and led the all-time series 6–1–1.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 155 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/156/mode/1up April 12, 2025 The 1955 Sugar Bowl champs were led by sixth-year Coach Eddie Erdelatz. They opened their season 2–0 and were ranked #12.1955 Navy Midshipmen Schedule and results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football April 12, 2025 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/navy/1955-schedule.html Ron Beagle (end) and George Welsh (quarterback) earned All-American honors.Red McQueen Consensus All-America Team for 1955 The Honolulu Advertiser December 14, 1955 B2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/15802366/consensus_allamerica_team_for_1955/ April 12, 2025 Newspapers.com Coach Michelosen made two changes to the starting lineup. Guard Herman Canil injured his knee against Oklahoma and was replaced by Ronnie Kissel, and Tom Jenkins replaced Bobby Grier at fullback.George Kiseda Middies Can Pass and Win Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 7, 1955 22 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-middies-can-pas/170167837/ April 12, 2025 Newspapers.com Navy earned their revenge for the 1954 upset by shutting out the Panthers 21–0. The road-weary Panthers earned 4 first downs and gained a total of 59 yards. Quarterback Corny Salvaterra attempted 1 pass, and that was intercepted. Ted Jenkins gained 39 yards on 9 carries. Pitt recovered a fumble on the second play of the game on Navy's 35-yard line. They drove to the Navy 4-yard line and turned the ball over on downs. Then, Navy went 96-yards in 20 plays. George Welsh threw a 7-yard pass to Jim Owen for the score. Ned Oldham tacked on the extra point and Navy led 7–0 at halftime. Navy added two rushing touchdowns by Dick Guest and conversions by Oldham to pad their lead. Welsh completed 8 of 16 passes for 121 yards and the Middies rushed for 117 yards.George Kiseda Panthers Gain Only 59 Yards Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 9, 1955 1, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-gain-o/170169971/ April 12, 2025 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Navy was Joe Walton (left end), Bob Pollock (left tackle), Harold Hunter (left guard), John Cenci (center), Bill Schmitt (right guard), Ronnie Kissel (right tackle), John Paluck (right end), Corny Salvaterra (quarterback), Corky Cost (left halfback), Ray DiPasquale (right halfback) and Tom Jenkins (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Fred Glatz, Jim McCusker, Howard Linn, Vince Scorsone, Ed Bose, Charles Breuckman, Al Bolkovac, Bob Rosborough, Pete Neft, Dick Bowen, Ralph Jelic, Ambrose Bagamery, Lou Cimarolli, Nick Passodelis and Bobby Grier. Nebraska Week 5: Nebraska at Pitt Nebraska Pitt 7 0 0 0 14 0 7 0 October 15, 1955 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 19,350–21,006 rain showers Leroy J. Kelley (Dartmouth) yes 1 NEBR Rex Fischer 3-yard run (Don Erway kick) NEBR 7–0 2 PITT Lou Cimarolli 1-yard run (Ambrose Bagamery kick) TIED 7– 7 2 PITT Nick Passodelis 5-yard run (Bagamery kick) PITT 14–7 4 PITT Joe Walton 10-yard from Pete Neft (Bagamery kick) PITT 21–7 yes On October 15, after a month on the road, the Panthers played the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Pitt Stadium. The Huskers were 1–3 for the season, and the Panthers led the all-time series 13–3–3.Borghetti E. J. All-Time Series University of Pittsburgh 2008 Pitt Football 142 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/139/mode/1up March 18, 20251955 Nebraska Cornhuskers Schedule and results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football April 17, 2025 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/nebraska/1955-schedule.html Coach Michelosen was not pleased with the effort against Navy, so he adjusted his lineup. Quarterback Pete Neft, guards Al Bolkovac and Vince Scarsone got their first starting assignment and halfback Lou Cimarolli was reinserted into the starting backfield. Third-string quarterback Pete Neft made Michelosen look like a genius as he led the Panthers to three touchdowns and a 21–7 victory. Pitt end Joe Walton fumbled the opening kick-off, and the Huskers recovered on the Panther 42-yard line. Five plays later Husker back Rex Fischer scored from the 3-yard line. Don Erway added the extra point, and Pitt was trailing 7–0 less than four minutes into the contest. The Panthers answered with a 75-yard, 15-play drive to tie the score. Lou Cimarolli plunged the last yard for the touchdown, and Ambrose Bagamery made the placement. Pitt kicked off, and on the second play, Pitt center John Cenci, recovered a fumble on the Nebraska 26-yard line. On the fourth play, halfback Nick Passodelis ran the last 5-yards for the go-ahead score. Bagamery made the extra point and Pitt led 14–7 at halftime. The teams traded interceptions to start the third quarter. After Neft was intercepted, Panther back Dick Bowen reciprocated and returned the ball to the Panther 35-yard line. The 17-play drive ended with a 10-yard touchdown pass from Neft to Walton, and Bagamery's kick made it 21–7. Nebraska drove to the Panthers 28-yard line, and lost possession on a fumble. The Panthers were on the Huskers 26-yard line as time expired.Harry Keck Long Drives Wear Down Huskers Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 16, 1955 1, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-outlasts-h/170531233/ April 17, 2025 Newspapers.com Pitt dominated statistically with 19 first downs to 9, and 307 total yards to 202. Bobby Grier led the Panthers with 46 yards rushing. Neft ran for 45 yards. Conversely, the Panthers fumbled 7 times, but only lost one.Pitt Statistics Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 16, 1955 3, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-statistics/170532561/ April 17, 2025 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Nebraska was Joe Walton (left end), Bob Pollock (left tackle), Vince Scorsone (left guard), John Cenci (center), Al Bolkovac (right guard), Herman Canil (right tackle), John Paluck (right end), Pete Neft (quarterback), Corky Cost (left halfback), Lou Cimarolli (right halfback) and Tom Jenkins (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Fred Glatz, Dale Brown, Jim McCusker, Harold Hunter, John Guzik, Ed Bose, Charles Breuckman, Bill Schmitt, Dan Wisniewski, Ronnie Kissel, Bob Rosborough, Corny Salvaterra, Darrell Lewis, Dick Bowen, Jim Theodore, Ralph Jelic, Ambrose Bagamery, Nick Passodelis, Ralph Ciper and Bobby Grier.Husking Bee! Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 16, 1955 1, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-husking-bee/170535193/ April 17, 2025 Newspapers.com at Duke Week 6: Pitt at Duke Pitt Duke 0 6 7 13 0 7 0 0 October 22, 1955 Duke Stadium Durham, NC 2:30 p.m. 19,451–31,000 fair and cool Albert Booth (Yale) yes 2 PITT Joe Walton 36-yard pass from Corny Salvaterra (Ambrose Bagamery's kick went wide) PITT 6–0 2 DUKE Blaney 75-yard pass from Sonny Jurgensen (Jim Nelson kick) DUKE 7– 6 3 PITT Lou Cimarolli 1-yard run ( Bagamery kick) PITT 13–7 4 PITT Corky Cost 1-yard run (John Paluck's kick went wide) PITT 19–7 4 PITT Joe Walton 16-yard pass from Darrell Lewis (Bagamery kick) PITT 26–7 yes On October 22, the Panthers were on the road again. Their destination was Durham, NC to play the #5 Duke Blue Devils in their Homecoming game. Duke, led by coach William D. Murray and quarterback Sonny Jurgensen, was looking to extend its 8-game win streak, which included the 1955 Orange Bowl. Duke led the all-time series 6–3.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 153 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/154/mode/1up April 19, 2025 The Panthers chartered flight was late taking off from Pittsburgh, causing the Panthers to forgo their usual "day before practice" on the opponent's field. The Sun-Telegraph noted that the same circumstance occurred the previous week to Duke on their trip to Ohio State, and the Devils ended up winning the game. Coach Michelosen started Dick Bowen at left halfback.George Kiseda Bowen Replaces Cost, Becoming First Sophomore to Get Honor Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 22, 1955 9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-bowen-replaces/170601896/ April 18, 2025 Newspapers.com The Panthers did not need the "day before practice", as they upset the Blue Devils 26–7. The Panthers scored first. After a scoreless first quarter, Pitt blocked a Bob Hagle punt and recovered on their own 49-yard line. On the third play, Corny Salvaterra completed a 35-yard touchdown pass to Joe Walton. Ambrose Bagamery's extra point was wide. Duke answered with a 75-yard touchdown pass from Sonny Jurgensen to Bunny Blaney, and placement from Jim Nelson for a 7–6 halftime lead. The first time they had possession in the third period, Pitt drove 56 yards in 7 plays for the go-ahead touchdown. Lou Cimarolli capped the drive with 1-yard plunge. Bagamerey converted the extra point, and Pitt led 13–7. The Panthers were able to score two touchdowns in the final period, while their defense frustrated the Devils' offense. Pitt tackle Herman Canil recovered one of Duke's four lost fumbles on the Devils' 33-yard line. Corky Cost scored from 1-yard out on the sixth play of the drive. John Paluck missed the extra point. The final score was a 15-yard touchdown pass from Darrell Lewis to Joe Walton with 20 seconds remaining. Bagamery converted to make it 26–7.Jack Horner Panthers Spoil Local Homecoming By Defeating Duke Before 31,000 Crowd The Herald-Sun Durham, North Carolina October 23, 1955 1, section 2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-herald-sun-pitt-upsets-duke/170604672/ April 19, 2025 Newspapers.com Pitt had 15 first downs to 10 for the Blue Devils. The Panthers gained 321 total yards and gave up 204. Quarterback Pete Neft ran for 69 yards on 5 carries, and Dick Bowen ran for 65 yards on 10 carries. Joe Walton caught 2 passes for 52 yards and 2 touchdowns. Duke quarterback Sonny Jurgensen completed 6 of 9 passes for 166 yards.Pitt Statistics Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 23, 1955 3, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-statistics/170808977/ April 21, 2025 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Duke was Joe Walton (left end), Bob Pollock (left tackle), Vince Scorsone (left guard), John Cenci (center), Al Bolkovac (right guard), Herman Canil (right tackle), John Paluck (right end), Pete Neft (quarterback), Corky Cost (left halfback), Lou Cimarolli (right halfback) and Bobby Grier (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Fred Glatz, Bob Kiesel, Jim McCusker, Harold Hunter, John Guzik, Ed Bose, Charles Breuckman, Bill Schmitt, Dan Wisniewski, Ronnie Kissel, Bob Rosborough, Dale Brown, Gordon Oliver, Corny Salvaterra, Darrell Lewis, Dick Bowen, Ralph Jelic, Ambrose Bagamery, Ray DiPasquale, Nick Passodelis, Ralph Ciper and Bobby Grier.Cop The Duke! Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 23, 1955 1, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph/170808007/ April 19, 2025 Newspapers.com Miami (FL) Week 7: Miami at Pitt Miami Pitt 14 0 0 7 0 7 0 0 October 29, 1955 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 37,230–40,117 showers Albert J. Booth Jr. (Yale) yes 1 MIA John Varone 31-yard run (Jack Losch pass from Sam Scarnecchia) MIA 7–0 2 MIA Losch 41-yard pass from Scarecchia (Ed Oliver kick) MIA 14– 0 4 PITT Tom Jenkins 1-yard run (Ambrose Bagamery kick) MIA 14–7 4 MIA Scarnecchia 1-yard run (Bob Nolan kick) MIA 21–7 yes On October 29, Pitt's homecoming opponent was the Miami Hurricanes. The all-time homecoming series was tied 1–1. Miami ruined Pitt's homecoming in 1950, and Pitt returned the favor in 1951.Borghetti E. J. All-Time Series University of Pittsburgh 2008 Pitt Football 141 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/138/mode/1up January 22, 2025 Miami was 1–3 on the season, having lost to Notre Dame, Georgia Tech and TCU.1955 Miami (FL) Hurricanes Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football April 19, 2025 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/miami-fl/1955-schedule.html Miami Coach Andy Gustafson's roster had 13 players from Pennsylvania.Steve Butchock Gridders Seeking Third Straight In Homecoming Against Miami The Pitt News 50 11 October 26, 1955 1 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062165059/viewer#page/1/mode/1up April 21, 2025 The Panthers followed their usual home routine of walk-through practice on Friday, and then staying at the Penn-Lincoln Hotel in Wilkinsburg until game time.Jack Sell Gustafson Brings Squad of 34 Men Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 28, 1955 24 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-pitt-prepares-fo/170798023/ April 21, 2025 Newspapers.com The 37,230 fans sat through both rain and bright sunshine, and were entertained at pre-game and halftime by Homecoming floats, majorettes, Boy Scouts and 200 members of the Orange Bowl committee. Game-wise, Miami ruined the Panthers Homecoming again with a decisive 21–7 victory. Miami scored twice in the first quarter. On their first possession they drove 76-yards in 9 plays. John Varone raced 31-yards around left end for the touchdown. Miami quarterback Sam Scarnecchia passed to Jack Losch for the extra point. The Miami defense forced Pitt to punt. The Panthers were penalized 15 yards for interfering with a fair catch, and Miami had possession on the Panthers 41-yard line. On first down Scarnecchia connected with Losch for a 41-yard touchdown pass. Bob Nolan booted the extra point and Pitt trailed 14–0. Pitt made the score respectable with a 1-yard plunge by Tom Jenkins and placement by Ambrose Bagamery with less than a minute left in the first half. The second half was scoreless until Miami added an insurance touchdown with 18 seconds to go in the game. Scarnecchia ran a quarterback keeper from the 3-yard line, and Ed Oliver added the placement.George Kiseda Hurricanes Win In Rain, 21–7 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 30, 1955 1, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-miami-wins-217/170802710/ April 21, 2025 Newspapers.comHarry Keck Miami Gives It That Touch Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 30, 1955 1, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-miami-gives-it/170803125/ April 21, 2025 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Miami was Joe Walton (left end), Bob Pollock (left tackle), Vince Scorsone (left guard), John Cenci (center), Al Bolkovac (right guard), Herman Canil (right tackle), John Paluck (right end), Pete Neft (quarterback), Dick Bowen (left halfback), Lou Cimarolli (right halfback) and Bobby Grier (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Fred Glatz, Dale Brown, Jim McCusker, Harold Hunter, John Guzik, Ed Bose, Bill Schmitt, Dan Wisniewski, Ronnie Kissel, Bob Rosborough, Corny Salvaterra, Darrell Lewis, Corky Cost, Jim Theodore, Ralph Jelic, Ambrose Bagamery, Ray DiPasquale and Tom Jenkins. Virginia Week 8: Virginia at Pitt Virginia Pitt 0 7 0 0 6 0 6 6 November 5, 1955 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 18,867–21,938 cloudy Gerald F. Hogan (Arkansas) yes 1 PITT Joe Walton 18-yard pass from Pete Neft (bad center snap on extra point ) PITT 6–0 2 VIRG Ralph Kneeland 8-yard run (Jim Bakhtiar kick) VIR 7– 6 3 PITT Lou Cimarolli 32-yard run ( kick missed) PITT 12–7 4 PITT Walton 14-yard pass from Neft (kick missed) PITT 18–7 yes On November 5, the Panthers played the Virginia Cavaliers. This was the second game in the series, with Pitt having beaten the Cavaliers 26–0 in 1953. Third-year Coach Ned McDonald's Cavaliers were 1–5 on the season, having beaten only winless VMI.1955 Virginia Cavaliers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC\work=SR/College Football April 22, 2025 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/virginia/1955-schedule.html Virginia's leading rusher, Herb Hartwell, did not play.Cavaliers Rate Underdog's Role Against Hosts The Daily Progress Charlottesville, Virginia November 4, 1955 13 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-daily-progress-cavaliers-underdogs-v/170871978/ April 22, 2025 Newspapers.com The attendance was bolstered by High School Day and Band Day promotions. 26 high school bands (over 2,000 musicians) performed at halftime, and approximately 6,500 high school and middle school students took advantage of reduced ticket prices to enjoy the game. Coach Michelosen altered the interior line. Right guard Al Bolkovac injured his hip and did not play. Center John Cenci moved to right guard and Ed Bose started at center. Harold Hunter replaced Vince Scarsone at left guard. The Panthers were three-touchdown favorites.George Kiseda Pitt Tries New Combo Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 5, 1955 9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-tries-new/170874296/ April 22, 2025 Newspapers.com Pitt managed to do enough to beat the Cavaliers 18–7. The Panthers' defense recovered 3 fumbles, intercepted two passes and blocked two punts. Joe Walton blocked a punt in the first quarter that led to his 18-yard touchdown reception from Pete Neft. The Panthers converted no extra points. The Cavaliers answered with a touchdown in the second period. Virginia drove 88-yards, with Ralph Kneeland running inside right end from the 8-yard line for the score. Jim Bakhtiar booted the point after and Virginia led 7–6 at halftime. The Panthers regained the lead late in the third quarter on a 61-yard drive. Lou Cimarolli ran 32 yards around left end for the score. In the final quarter, Pete Neft hit Walton with a 14-yard touchdown pass to close out the scoring.George Kiseda Walton Snares 2 TD Passes Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 6, 1955 1, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-walton-snares-2/170877708/ April 22, 2025 Newspapers.com Joe Walton broke Chris Warriner's record of 5 career touchdown catches. Walton broke the record with his first quarter reception and padded his record with the last quarter catch. Through 8 games Walton had 9 receptions and 7 resulted in touchdowns.Walton Sets Record For Ends On TDs The Pittsburgh Press November 6, 1955 1, section 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-walton-breaks-td-re/170879205/ April 22, 2025 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Virginia was Joe Walton (left end), Bob Pollock (left tackle), Harold Hunter (left guard), Ed Bose (center), John Cenci (right guard), Ronnie Kissel (right tackle), John Paluck (right end), Pete Neft (quarterback), Dick Bowen (left halfback), Ray DiPasquale (right halfback) and Tom Jenkins (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Fred Glatz, Bob Kiesel, Dale Brown, Jim McCusker, Don Agafon, Vince Scorsone, John Guzik, Charles Breuckman, Bill Schmitt, Dan Wisniewski, Howard Linn, Bob Rosborough, Corny Salvaterra, Darrell Lewis, Corky Cost, Jim Theodore, Lou Cimarolli, Ralph Jelic, Ambrose Bagamery, Nick Passodelis, Ralph Ciper and Bobby Grier.Slow But Sure! Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 6, 1955 1, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-slow-but-sure/170879773/ April 22, 2025 Newspapers.com West Virginia Week 9: West Virginia at Pitt West Virginia Pitt 0 0 0 7 7 0 12 7 November 12, 1955 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 55,772–57,996 sunny and warm yes 1 PITT Joe Walton 6-yard pass from Pete Neft (Ambrose Bagamery kick ) PITT 7–0 3 PITT Pete Neft 7-yard run (kick missed) PITT 13– 0 3 PITT Tom Jenkins 1-yard run (kick missed) VIR 19– 0 4 PITT Darrell Lewis 6-yard run ( John Paluck kick) PITT 26–0 4 WVU Joe Marconi 5-yard run (referee's award) PITT 26–7 yes On November 12, the Backyard Brawl featured the unbeaten #6 West Virginia Mountaineers against the #17 Pitt Panthers. Pitt led the all-time series 35–11–1.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 160 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/161/mode/1up April 25, 2025 The revenge-minded Mountaineers were unbeaten and awaiting a bowl bid last year, but Pitt scored in the last 2 minutes for the upset that ruined their season. West Virginia was favored again, and bowl reps from the Gator Bowl and Sugar Bowl were in attendance. Coach Art Lewis's line-up featured All-American tackles Bruce Bosley and Sam Huff, plus future pro, fullback Joe Marconi.George Kiseda Pass Defense of Both LeakyApril 25, 2025 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 11, 1955 20 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pass-defense-of/171063640/ April 25, 2025 Newspapers.com The Panthers injured linemen were healthy. Coach Michelosen put guard Al Bolkovac and tackle Herman Canil back in the starting lineup, and John Cenci moved back to center. Fullback Bobby Grier did not play. History repeated as the Panthers upset the Mountaineers' dream season 26–7. After an exchange of punts, the Panthers drove 63-yards for the opening touchdown. Halfback Dick Bowen's 38-yard run through tackle to the 8-yard line was the highlight of the drive. Joe Walton scored on a 6-yard pass from Pete Neft. Ambrose Bagamery's placement made it 7–0 Pitt. The rest of the first half was scoreless. The Panthers scored twice in the early minutes of the third quarter. A fumble by West Virginia quarterback Fred Wyant was recovered by John Paluck on the Mountaineers' 25-yard line. The short drive ended with a 7-yard quarterback keeper play touchdown by Pete Neft. Bagamery missed the extra point. On the second play after the kick-off, West Virginia fumbled again, and Joe Walton recovered for Pitt on the Mountaineers' 24-yard line. On first down, Corny Salvaterra ran to the 1-yard line. Then fullback Tom Jenkins went over center to up the lead to 19–0. The Panthers third string managed a 78-yard drive in 9 plays for the final Pitt touchdown. Darrell Lewis scored on a 6-yard quarterback sneak. John Paluck added the extra point, to supposedly close out the scoring, with 96 seconds left. However, the Pitt defense was flagged for pass interference, and West Virginia had the ball on the Pitt 21-yard line with time for one last play. The pass fell incomplete, and the Panther faithful stormed the field and tore down the goal posts. But, there was a flag on the play for pass interference. The officials cleared the field for one more play. Mountaineer halfback Joe Marconi scored around left end from the 6-yard line. The goal posts were gone, so the officials forfeited an extra point to West Virginia. Pitt 26 –West Virginia 7.George Kiseda Paluck, Neft, Walton Big Stars In Bizarre Reversal Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 13, 1955 1, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-upsets-wes/171093270/ April 25, 2025 Newspapers.comCarl Hughes Mountaineer Bowl Hopes Go Tumbling The Pittsburgh Press November 13, 1955 1, section 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-mountaineer-bowl-ho/171093574/ April 25, 2025 Newspapers.com Coach Michelosen praised his team: “They made up their minds to play a good game against a good team and won. It was a great team win. Nothing fancy. Just good football.” Dick Bowen led the Pitt ground game with 59 yards on 5 carries and Lou Cimarolli added 47 yards on 5 carries. The Pitt defense stifled the Mountaineers passing game, as they only completed 4 of 23.Bob Drum Pitt Catches Fancy Of Gator Bowl Scout The Pittsburgh Press November 13, 1955 5, section4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-in-bowl-conten/171094952/ April 25, 2025 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against West Virginia was Joe Walton (left end), Bob Pollock (left tackle), Harold Hunter (left guard), John Cenci (center), Al Bolkovac (right guard), Herman Canil (right tackle), John Paluck (right end), Pete Neft (quarterback), Dick Bowen (left halfback), Lou Cimarolli (right halfback) and Tom Jenkins (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Fred Glatz, Bob Kiesel, Dale Brown, Jim McCusker, Don Agafon, Vince Scorsone, John Guzik, Ed Bose, Bill Schmitt, Dan Wisniewski, Ronnie Kissel, Bob Rosborough, Charles Breuckman, Corny Salvaterra, Darrell Lewis, Corky Cost, Jim Theodore, Dick Manson, Ralph Jelic, Ambrose Bagamery, Ray DiPasquale, Nick Passodelis and Ralph Ciper. at Penn State Week 10: Pitt at Penn State Pitt Penn State 0 7 7 6 0 0 0 0 November 19, 1955 New Beaver Field State College, PA 1:30 p.m. 28,361–31,200 snow William T. Halloran yes 2 PITT Pete Neft 1-yard run (Ambrose Bagamery kick) PITT 7–0 3 PITT Bobby Grier 2-yard run (Ambrose Bagamery kick) PITT 14–0 4 PITT Corny Salvaterra 62-yard run (kick missed) PITT 20–0 yes The final game of the regular season against Penn State was played in State College, PA because the Nittanies were having their Centennial celebration. Pitt led the all-time series 30–22–2.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 157 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/158/mode/1up April 26, 2025 Rip Engle's squad was 5–3 for the season, and had shut out the favored Panthers the past three seasons.1955 Penn State Nittany Lions Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football April 26, 2025 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/penn-state/1955-schedule.html Future pros, halfback Lenny Moore and quarterback Milt Plum, led the State offense. The Panthers needed a win for a possible invitation to the Sugar Bowl or Gator Bowl. If they won, it would be the best record for the Panthers since John Sutherland's departure in 1938, and Pitt would regain possession of Old Ironsides for being district champions.George Kiseda State Under No Pressure Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 19, 1955 9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-state-under-no/171225694/ April 27, 2025 Newspapers.com 28,361 fans sat through an all day snowstorm to watch the Panthers shut out the Lions 20–0. The Panthers scored on the Lions, “after three years, 26 minutes and ten seconds,” in the second quarter. On fourth down, quarterback Pete Neft finished the 32-yard drive with a 1-yard sneak, and Ambrose Bagamery added the point for a 7–0 halftime lead. At the start of the third period, Penn State gained possession on the Panthers 23-yard line. The Pitt defense held and took over on downs on their 24-yard line. Neft directed the 76-yard drive, and Bobby Grier ran the final 2-yards for the touchdown. Bagamery converted and Pitt led 14–0. Penn State answered with an offensive drive to the Panthers 8-yard line. The Panthers defense held again and took over on downs. In the final quarter, State halfback Lenny Moore fumbled and Pitt recovered on their 38-yard line. Second -string quarterback Corny Salvaterra scampered 62-yards for the final score (longest scoring run of the season).George Kiseda Snowstorm Fails To Halt Panthers Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 20, 1955 1, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-snowstorm-fails/171279527/ April 28, 2025 Newspapers.com Coach Michelosen enjoyed the outcome: “Those three zeros for three years were in our seniors minds. It's nice to have the zero on the other side of the fence for a change.” And assessing the season he told the Post-Gazette: “It's just been all for one and one for all – a real fine experience.”Myron Cope Jacksonville Group Will Meet today Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 21, 1955 31 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-maybe-the-gator/171281739/ April 28, 2025 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Penn State was Joe Walton (left end), Bob Pollock (left tackle), Harold Hunter (left guard), John Cenci (center), Al Bolkovac (right guard), Herman Canil (right tackle), John Paluck (right end), Pete Neft (quarterback), Dick Bowen (left halfback), Lou Cimarolli (right halfback) and Tom Jenkins (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Fred Glatz, Bob Kiesel, Dale Brown, Jim McCusker, Don Agafon, Howard Linn, Vince Scorsone, John Guzik, Ed Bose, Bill Schmitt, Dan Wisniewski, Ronnie Kissel, Bob Rosborough, Charles Breuckman, Corny Salvaterra, Darrell Lewis, Corky Cost, Ambrose Bagamery, Ray DiPasquale, Nick Passodelis, Bobby Grier and Ralph Ciper. Sugar Bowl: Georgia Tech Sugar Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Georgia Tech Pittsburgh (7–3) Georgia Tech (8–1–1) 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 0 January 2, 1956 Tulane Stadium New Orleans, LA 1:00 p.m. 76,535–80,175 cloudy John Coles (Westminster) yes 1 TECH Wade Mitchell 1-yard quarterback sneak (Wade Mitchell kick) TECH 7–0 yes 1956 Sugar Bowl On November 22, 1955, the Pitt Panthers accepted an invitation to play in 1956 Sugar Bowl, contested on January 2 at New Orleans. The contract was for $160,000.George Kiseda Panthers To Receive $160,000 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 22, 1955 16 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-in-sug/171287001/ April 28, 2025 Newspapers.com Pitt fullback Bobby Grier was the first Afro-American to actually play in the Sugar Bowl. In the 1941 edition, Boston College halfback Lou Montgomery had not been allowed to take the field.https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-morning-union-speaking-of-sports/175004724/ Speaking of Sports Vic Wall The Morning Union Springfield, Massachusetts 19 December 11, 1940 June 21, 2025 newspapers.com The Sun-Telegraph reported: “ Sugar Bowl officials already have said that they placed no restrictions whatsoever on Pitt concerning the possibility of Grier's playing. Furthermore, Sugar Bowl General Manager Fred Digby said Pitt is free to sell tickets to Negroes and the tickets no longer will be stamped 'to be used only by members of the caucasian race.' The Pitt stands will be unsegrated, (sic) but the rest of the 82,289 seat Tulane Stadium will be segregated, as in the past.”Grier First Negro In Bowl Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 22, 1955 16 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-grier-first-neg/171336918/ April 29, 2025 Newspapers.com Coach Bobby Dodd's Jackets were 8–1–1 on the season, having only lost to Auburn 14–12. The Yellow Jackets were undefeated in six previous bowl games under Coach Dodd.1955 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Schedule and results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football May 3, 2025 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/georgia-tech/1955-schedule.html Pitt led the all-time series 3–0, but they had not played since 1920.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 154 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/155/mode/1up April 9, 2025 Georgia Tech won the game 7–0. In the opening quarter, the Jackets recovered a Pitt fumble on the Panthers 32-yard line. A controversial pass interference call against Bobby Grier in the end zone placed the ball on the 1-yard line. A Wade Mitchell quarterback sneak and a Michell extra point was all the scoring the 76,535 spectators would see. The Pitt Panthers dominated the statistics. On the plus side, they rushed for 217 yards and gained 94 yards passing. Tech rushed for 142 yards and did not complete a pass. Pitt made 19 first downs to 10 for Tech. Pitt ran 24 more plays than Tech. On the negative side, the Panthers were penalized 72 yards, fumbled four times and lost 2 of them, and had 1 pass intercepted. Additionally, the stadium clock did not work so the officials on the field kept time. The clock ran out in the first half with the Panthers on the Tech 1-yard line. The Panthers were on the Tech 5-yard line at the conclusion of the game.Carl Hughes Pitt Did Everything But Outscore Good, Lucky Tech The Pittsburgh Press January 3, 1956 28 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-loses-to-georg/171705280/ May 4, 2025 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Georgia Tech was Joe Walton (left end), Bob Pollock (left tackle), Vince Scorsone (left guard), John Cenci (center), Al Bolkovac (right guard), Herman Canil (right tackle), John Paluck (right end), Pete Neft (quarterback), Corky Cost (left halfback), Lou Cimarolli (right halfback) and Tom Jenkins (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Fred Glatz, Bob Kiesel, Jim McCusker, Howard Linn, Harold Hunter, John Guzik, Ed Bose, Bill Schmitt, Dan Wisniewski, Ronnie Kissel, Bob Rosborough, Charles Breuckman, Corny Salvaterra, Darrell Lewis, Dick Bowen, Ray DiPasquale, Nick Passodelis, Bobby Grier and Ralph Jelic. Postseason The Panthers graduated 15 players off their roster, 12 of whom played significant minutes - Bobby Grier, Howard Linn, Pete Neft, John Cenci, John Paluck, Bill Schmitt, Fred Glatz, Al Bolkovac, Harold Hunter, Ed Bose, Lou Cimarolli, Don Agafon, Dick Manson, Paul Kacik and Don Michaels.They'll Play Last Game For Pitt - Unless Bowl Develops Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 18, 1955 28 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-pitt-graduating/171560123/ May 2, 2025 Newspapers.com Joe Walton and John Paluck received All-American mentions.Walter L. Johns Cassady Repeats On All-American Mansfield News-Journal Mansfield, Ohio November 26, 1955 7 https://www.newspapers.com/article/news-journal-central-press-captains-all/171288898/ April 28, 2025 Newspapers.comJohn Barrington INS All-America Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 27, 1955 2, section 3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-ins-all-america/171292016/ April 28, 2025 Newspapers.comCassady Tops All-America Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph December 2, 1955 28 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-cassady-tops-al/171292478/ April 28, 2025 Newspapers.comName Arnett On UP First All-America Lodi News-Sentinel Lodi, California November 29, 1955 6 https://www.newspapers.com/article/lodi-news-sentinel-1955-up-all-america-f/171293859/ April 28, 2025 Newspapers.com Pitt was the recipient of the Lambert Trophy, which annually goes to the best team in the East.Pitt Awarded Lambert Trophy The Pittsburgh Press December 2, 1955 44 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-awarded-lamber/171310992/ April 28, 2025 Newspapers.com Center John Cenci and end John Paluck played in the Senior Bowl in Mobile, AL.George Kiseda Injuries to Backs Handicaps Panthers Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph January 3, 1956 16 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-injuries-ti-bac/171695136/ May 4, 2025 Newspapers.com Personnel Coaching staff 1955 Pittsburgh Panthers football staff Coaching staff John Michelosen – head coach Jack Wiley – head line coach Victor Fusia – backfield coach Robert Timmons – end coach Ernie Hefferle – offensive line coach Steve Petro – freshman coach Walter Cummins– assistant freshman coach   Support staff Thomas J. Hamilton – athletic director Walter P. Cummins – assistant athletic director Robert Wycoff – athletic news service director Bill Smith - team doctor Howard Waite – trainer Roger McGill – assistant trainer Barry Fisher – student manager Roster 1955 Pittsburgh Panthers football rosterPittsburgh Panthers Player Position Games Weight Height Class Prep School Hometown Charles Abrachinskyfullback 0 1905 ft 11 in sophomoreMahonoy H. S.Shenandoah, PA Don Agafon*tackle 5 2206 ft 1 inseniorBerwick H.S.Berwick, PA Bill Amos quarterback 0 1906 ft 1 injunior Washington H. S./Univ. of Maryland Washington, PA Ambrose Bagamery*halfback 9 1806 ft junior Zelienople H. S.Zelienople, PA Al Bolkovac*guard 10 2006 ftseniorWoodrow Wilson H. S.Youngstown, OH Ed Bose*center 11 2106 ft seniorOld Westbury H. S.Westbury, NY Dick Bowen*quarterback 11 1806 ft sophomore Duquesne H. S. White Oak, PA Dale Brown*end 8 1856 ft juniorLincoln H. S.Elwood City, PA Charles Brueckman*center 9 2006 ft 2 injunior Stowe Township H. S. McKees Rocks, PA Herman Canil*tackle 10 2006 ft 1 injuniorVandergrift H. S.Vandergrift, PA Dick Carrguard 0 2106 ft 1 in sophomore Stonewall Jackson H. S. Charleston, WV John Cenci*center 11 2105 ft 11 in seniorSchenley H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Lou Cimarolli*halfback 11 170 5 ft 11 in seniorBridgeville H. S. Bridgeville, PA Ralph Ciper*fullback 8 1905 ft 10 injuniorAmbridge H. S.Ambridge, PA Charles Cost*halfback 11 1705 ft 9 injunior Wilkinsburg H. S. Wilkinsburg, PA Don Craftoncenter 0 1856 ft sophomoreDonora H. S.Donora, PA Ray DiPasquale*halfback 10 1855 ft 10 in junior Central Catholic H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Fred Glatz*end 111906 ft 1 inseniorCentral Catholic H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Bob Grier*fullback 10 2006 ft 1 inseniorWashington H. S.Massillon, OH John Guzikguard 72106 ft 3 insophomoreCecil Twp. H. S.Cecil Twp., PA Ed Humestonend 0 2006 ft 2 in sophomore Washington Irving H. S. Clarksburg, WV Harold Hunter*guard 11 2006 ft 1 inseniorCanonsburg H. S.Canonsburg, PA Ralph Jelic*fullback 10 1956 ft juniorSouth Hills H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Tom Jenkins*fullback 11 1856 ft juniorMercersburg Academy East Liverpool, OH Paul Kacik end 0 185 6 ft 1 insenior Monessen H. S.Monessen, PA Bob Kieselfullback 10 2106 ft juniorScranton Central H. S.Scranton, PA Ronnie Kissel* tackle9235 6 ft 2 in sophomoreMcKeesport Technical H. S.McKeesport, PA Jim Lenhartquarterback 0 1906 ft 1 injuniorCharleroi H. S.Fairmont, WV Darrell Lewis*quarterback 10 1855 ft 10 injuniorWilkinsburg H. SWilkinsburg, PA Howard Linntackle 7 2056 ft seniorSteubenville H.S.Steubenville, OH Joe Mazurleft end 0 1905 ft 10 in juniorTrafford H. S.Trafford, PA Dick Mansonhalfback 1 1905 ft 10 inseniorFranklin H. S.Franklin, PA Dan McCannquarterback 0 1906 ft 2 in sophomoreNorth Catholic H. S. Pittsburgh, PA Jim McCusker*tackle 11 2356 ft 2 insophomoreJamestown H. S.Jamestown, NY Don Michaelsfullback 0 1906 ft seniorBeaverdale H. S.Beaverdale, PA Pete Neft*quarterback 11 1756 ft seniorPeabody H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Gordon Oliverend 0 1856 ftsophomorePunxsutawney H. S.Punxsutawney, PA Charles Pallaend 0 2056 ft 1 insophomoreScranton Central H. S.Scranton, PA Joe Paluck*end 11 2156 ft 1 insenior Swoyersville H. S. Swoyersville, PA Nick Passodelis*halfback 8 1805 ft 10 injunior Aliquippa H. S. Aliquippa, PA Bob Pollock*tackle 11 2156 ft 2 injunior Mt. Carmel H. S. Mt. Carmel, PA Bob Rosborough*end 10 1856 ft 1 injunior Donora H. S. Donora, PA James Sabatinicenter 0 2006 ft 1 in sophomoreWilkes-Barre H. S.Plains, PA Cornelius Salvaterra* quarterback 11 1906 ft junior GAR Memorial H. S. Wilkes-Barre, PA Dick Schererend 0 2006 ft 1 injuniorNorth Catholic H. S. Pittsburgh, PA William Schmitt*guard 11 2156 ft 1 inseniorSouth Hills H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Vince Scorsone*guard 11 2206 ft juniorMcKeesport Technical H. S.McKeesport, PA John Stock end 0 2206 ft 2 in sophomore Carnegie H. S.Carnegie, PA Jim Theodorehalfback 6 1755 ft 10 insophomoreWestinghouse Memorial H. S. Wilmerding, PA Eugene Uhlman tackle 0 1906 ft sophomore Charleroi H. S.Charleroi, PA Bob Verna fullback 0 2176 ft junior Conemough Twp. H. S.Jerome, PA Bill Walinchustackle 0 2156 ft 2 in sophomoreMahanoy City H.S.Mahanoy City, PA Joe Walton*end 11 2155 ft 11 injuniorBeaver Falls H. S.Beaver Falls, PA Dan Wisniewski*guard 8 2055 ft 11 injuniorErie East H. S.Erie, PA Letterman September 17, 1955 University of Pittsburgh Athletic Department 1955 Pitt Roster Pitt 1955 Football Preview for Press and Radio 28Football 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/1up September 24, 1955 Syracuse University Athletic Department University of Pittsburgh Football Roster Official Program Pittsburgh Vs Syracuse 25 Individual scoring summary 1955 Pittsburgh Panthers scoring summaryPittsburgh Panthers Player Touchdowns Extra points Field goals Safety Points Joe Walton800048 Pete Neft300018 Tom Jenkins300018 Bobby Grier300018 Lou Cimarolli300018 Ambrose Bagamery0140014 Dick Bowen200012 Corky Cost200012 Darrell Lewis11007 Corny Salvaterra10006 Nick Passodelis10006 John Paluck02002 Bob Rosborough00012 Totals271701181 Team players drafted into the NFL The following players were selected in the 1956 NFL draft. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1956/draft.htm Pro Football Reference Sports Reference LLC SR/Pro Football March 20, 2025 2 Pittsburgh Panthers Player Position Round Pick NFL club John Paluck Defensive end224 Washington RedskinsBill Schmitt Guard17 196 Pittsburgh SteelersFred Glatz Back20 231 Pittsburgh SteelersRay DiPasquale Back22 255 Pittsburgh SteelersPete Neft Quarterback 23 268 Pittsburgh Steelers References Pittsburgh Category:Pittsburgh Panthers football seasons Category:Lambert-Meadowlands Trophy seasons Pittsburgh Panthers football