1940 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

American college football season August 2023 February 2026 1940 Pittsburgh Panthers football 285px|1940 Pitt football squad Independent 3–4–1 Charley Bowser 2nd Pitt Stadium The 1940 Pittsburgh Panthers football team represented the University of Pittsburgh as an independent during the 1940 college football season. Led by second-year head coach Charley Bowser, the Panthers compiled a record of 3–4–1.1940 Pittsburgh Panthers Stats Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football May 21, 2016 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/pittsburgh/1940.html Pittsburgh was ranked at No. 30 (out of 697 college football teams) in the final rankings under the Litkenhous Difference by Score system for 1940.Final 1940 Litkenhous Ratings The Boston Globe Dr. E. E. Litkenhous December 19, 1940 22 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/123126338/final-1940-litkenhous-ratings/ Newspapers.com The team played home games at Pitt Stadium in Pittsburgh. Schedule 1940 AP September 28 l y Ohio State Ohio Stadium Columbus, OH 7–30 52,877 Ohio State Crushes Pittsburgh Eleven, 30-7; Maag, Langhurst Stand Out for Big 10 Champs https://www.newspapers.com/clip/111699529/palladium-item/ October 20, 2022 Palladium-Item Associated Press September 29, 1940 6 Newspapers.com October 5 w Missouri Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 19–13 26,000 Pitt Flashes Old Power to Top Missouri The Philadelphia Inquirer October 6, 1940 Sports 8 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114574131/pitt-flashes-old-power-to-top-missouri/ December 13, 2022 Newspapers.com October 12 t SMU Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 7–7 39,000 Harry Keck Passes Provide Both Tallies Before 39,000 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 13, 1940 Part 3-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114576821/passes-provide-both-tallies-before-3900/ December 13, 2022 Newspapers.com October 19 l Fordham 11 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 12–24 40,000 Pitt Bows in Storm Louis Effrat New York Times October 20, 1940 81 November 9 w Carnegie Tech Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 6–0 26,500 Tom Hopkins Tech Blocks Kick for Near Tally Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 10, 1940 Part 3-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114577472/ December 13, 2022 Newspapers.com November 16 l Nebraska 11 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 7–9 22,000 Chester L. Smith Francis' Field Goal Is Edge Over Pitt The Pittsburgh Press November 17, 1940 Section 3–9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114619550/field-goal-topples-pitt/ December 14, 2022 Newspapers.com November 23 w Penn State 20 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 20–7 30,083 Year-By-Year Results Penn State University Strategic Communications Office 2021 Penn State Football Media Guide 294 December 14, 2022 https://issuu.com/gopsusports/docs/2021_penn_state_football_media_guide_reduced November 30 l y Duke 20 Duke Stadium Durham, NC 7–12 21,000–27,000 All-Time Results Duke University Sports Information Office 2019 Duke Football Media Guide 108 December 14, 2022 https://goduke.com/documents/2019/7/30/2019_Duke_Football_Media_Guide.pdfDuke Defeats Pitt, 12 to 7, in Thrilling Grid Contest The Durham Herald-Sun December 1, 1940 IV-1 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/120924485/duke-defeats-pitt-12-to-7-in/ Newspapers.com Preseason thumb|left|Boy Scout usher pass On February 12, Coach Charles Bowser appointed Harold Stebbins and Luther Richards to his coaching staff. Stebbins replaced Mike Nicksick, who resigned and joined the staff at West Virginia. Richards replaced Walt Raskowski, who was finishing his dental degree. Henry Korp was named varsity manager for the 1940 season.Stebbins, Richards Pitt Football Aides The Pittsburgh Press February 12, 1940 20 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115083322/stebbins-richards-pitt-football-aides/ December 23, 2022 Newspapers.com Albert Stamen was appointed junior varsity football manager.Stamen Appointed Junior Grid Manager The Pitt News May 20, 1940 31 82 3 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062148790/viewer#page/3/mode/1up December 23, 2022 Spring practice commenced on March 14 after a freshman strike threat concerning the financial and working conditions of Code Bowman was thwarted by the Athletic Department. Sixty players, including 19 freshmen, appeared for the first session.Only three Pitt Freshmen Ignore Pitt Grid Call Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph March 15, 1940 34 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115274202/spring-practice-begins/ December 27, 2022 Newspapers.com The sessions ended on May 4 with a varsity scrimmage, which was the feature event of the Western Pennsylvania Scholastic Coaches' Association football clinic.Panther Varsity Eleven Wins Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph May 5, 1940 Part 3-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115273360/spring-practice-ends/ December 27, 2022 Newspapers.com 450px|thumb|Pitt football coaches On April 15, The Pitt News noted that Coach Bowser added three new coaches to his staff. Former Panthers Harold Klein, Dick Fullerton and John Dickinson were appointed as assistant freshmen team coaches while they continued their studies at the university.Three 1939 Panther Line Regulars to Aid Bowser The Pitt News 31 67 April 15, 1940 3 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062148642/viewer#page/3/mode/1up December 27, 2022 On September 10, Coach Bowser welcomed a squad of 56 for the start of fall two-a-day practices. He was not optimistic: “We have a lot of hard work ahead of us. Our spring training didn't mean much, rain washing out most of our outdoor practices. We haven't the reserves necessary to meet the kind of schedule we'll be up against this year...”Tom Hopkins Bowser Pessimistic As Pitt Begins Drills Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 10, 1940 19 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115280002/pitt-begins-fall-drills/ December 27, 2022 Newspapers.com Coach Bowser appointed tackle Ted Konetsky team captain for the 1940 season. Bowser announced that he would also name game captains to assist Konetsky. Konetsky was the first team captain since the 1934 season.Ted Konetsky Pitt Captain Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 22, 1940 Part 3–4 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115280601/ted-konetsky-pitt-captain/ December 27, 2022 Newspapers.com Coaching staff 1940 Pittsburgh Panthers football staff Coaching staff Charley Bowser – Head coach Robert Hoel – Assistant coach Dr. Arnold Greene – fullback coach Harold Stebbins – halfback coach William Daddio – end coach Nick Kliskey– freshman team coach Richard Fullerton – assistant freshman team coach Harold Klein – assistant freshman team coach John Dickinson – assistant freshman coach   Support staff Dr. H. A. Ralph Shanor – team physician Harold Whitson – varsity equipment manager Howard Waite - football trainer James Hagan - director of athletics Frank Carver – publicity director Henry Korp – varsity student manager Albert Stamen – junior varsity student manager Roster 1940 Pittsburgh Panthers football rosterPittsburgh Panthers Player Position Games Height Weight Class Prep School Hometown John Benz*tackle8 6 ft 2 in 2001941 Peabody H. S. Pittsburgh, PA Joseph Adamchichalfback 0 5 ft 10 in1751943Union City H. S.Union City, PA Melvin Andrewsguard 06 ft 1901942Etna H. S. Etna, PA Vincent Antonelli*guard75 ft 10 in 1831943 Schenley H. S. Pittsburgh, PA George Allshousecenter45 ft 10 in1881942Duquesne H. S.Duquesne, PA William Benghouser*tackle76 ft2001942Central Catholic H. S. Pittsburgh, PA Ernest Bonelli*fullback85 ft 9 in1851941 Aspinwall H. S. Aspinwall, PA Eli Bornheimhalfback05 ft 10 in1651943 Elkins Park, PA Joseph Connell*fullback 3 5 ft 11 in1921942 Charleroi H. S. Charleroi, PA Robert Crissmantackle06 ft 11941942Butler H. S.Butler, PA William Duttonhalfback55 ft 10 in 1701943 Weston H. S.Weston, WV Dwight Emerickguard05 ft 9 in1801943Aspinwall H. S. Aspinwall, PA Ralph Fife*guard85 ft 11 in1851942Canton McKinley H. S. Canton, OH William Fitchkoend26 ft 1801942Gary H. S.Filbert, WV Paul Foleyguard25 ft 10 in1851941Swissvale H. S.Swissvale, PA Allen Gartnertackle06 ft 1 in 2101942 Carrick H. S. Pittsburgh, PA John Gates*guard35 ft 10 in2001942 Pittsburgh, PA Stanley Gervelis*end86 ft 1 in1901942Charleroi H. S.Charleroi, PA Jack Goodridge*end85 ft 11 in1751941Washington H. S.Washington, PA Rudolph Gradisek*guard85 ft 11 in1931941 Sewickley Township H. S. Herminie, PA Albert Gurczenski*tackle 6 6 ft 1 in1951941Jeannette H. S.Jeannette, PA Ralph Hammondquarterback15 ft 11 in1801943 Wilkinsburg H. S. Wilkinsburg, PA Harris Hawkins*guard 2 5 ft 10 in1661941New Martinsville H. S. New Martinsville, WV Jack Heistercenter06 ft 2 in1851943Aspinwall H. S. Aspinwall, PA Harold Hinteend15 ft 11 in 1851943 Mt. Hope H. S. Sun, WV Edgar Jones*halfback85 ft 10 in1751942Scranton H. S. Scranton, PA Bud Kincaidguard05 ft 10 in1851942 Peru H. S. Peru, IN Harry Kindelberger*tackle66 ft 3 in2951942 Oil City H. S. Oil City, PA Lawrence Klotzend05 ft 11 in1961940 Pittsburgh, PA Ted Konetsky*tackle86 ft 1 in1951941German Township H. S.McClelland, PA George Kracum*halfback86 ft 1 in1911941Hazelton H. S.Hazleton, PA Albert Kunkelcenter46 ft 1 in 1901942 Pittsburgh, PAWilliam Lohmeyerend0 6 ft 4 in1981943 Pittsburgh, PA Robert Malloyfullback15 ft 10 in1781943 Oakmont H. S. Oakmont, PA Mario Martorelliguard06 ft 1901943 Pittsburgh, PA George Mitchell*guard66 ft 1901942Ellsworth-Cokeburg H. S.Ellsworth, PA Thomas Murphy*quarterback 55 ft 11 in1751942 Pittsburgh. PA Earl Presselend26 ft1801941Hollidaysburg H. S. Hollidaysburg, PA Raymond Rabinekquarterback05 ft 10 in1801942 Pittsburgh, PA Joseph Rettinger*end 3 5 ft 11 in1801941Ashland H. S.Ashland, PA John Ross*fullback55 ft 10 in1841942Ellsworth-Cokeburg H. S.Ellsworth, PA Frank Saksahalfback45 ft 11 in1801943Braddock H. S. Braddock, PA Albert Samsonguard 0 5 ft 10 in 1751942 Pittsburgh, PA Carl Sardiend 0 5 ft 10 in1701941Clarion H. S. Clarion, PA Michael Sekela*quarterback 8 6 ft 2001941 Windber H. S. Windber, PA Stephen Sinco*center85 ft 11 in2051942Canonsburg H. S. Canonsburg, PA Louis Sleberhalfback15 ft 9 in1701941Sewickley Township H. S.Herminie, PA John Stahlend45 ft 10 in1851942Tarentum H. S.Tarentum, PA Jack Stetler*halfback 8 5 ft 10 in1681941 Glenshaw H. S.Glenshaw, PA Robert Stodgellguard05 ft 11 in1851942Peru H. S. Peru, IN Robert Thurbon*halfback 8 5 ft 10 in1701941 Erie H. S.Erie, PA Joseph Walkerfullback0 5 ft 10 in1721943 Pittsburgh, PA Walter Wardtackle25 ft 10 in 1801943 Pittsburgh, PA Walter West*quarterback56 ft 1851943Atlasburg H. S. Atlasburg, PA William Wilsonend 0 6 ft 1901942 Canonsburg H. S. Muse, PA Henry Korp*varsity student manager 1941 Pittsburgh, PA * LettermanSeptember 28, 1940 Ohio State University Athletic Department 1940–Pittsburgh Roster–1940 Ohio State Vs. Pittsburgh Football Program 31October 5, 1940 Athletic Departments of the University of Pittsburgh and the Carnegie Institute of Technology University of Pittsburgh Varsity Roster Pitt Versus Missouri Football Program 16Harry Keck Sports Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph December 14, 1940 11 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116740720/1940-letter-winners/ January 18, 2023 Newspapers.com Game summaries At Ohio State Week 1: Pitt at Ohio State Pitt Ohio State 0 0 7 0 0 3 21 6 September 28, 1940 Ohio StadiumColumbus, OH 2:00 p.m. 52,877 warm and sunny Frank Birch (Earlham) 1940 Ohio State Buckeyes football team thumb|left|Program for September 28 game versus Ohio State thumb|Ticket stub for September 28 game versus Ohio State The Panthers opened the 1940 season against the defending Big Ten (Western) Conference champion Ohio State Buckeyes in Columbus. This was coach Francis Schmidt's seventh and final season as leader of the Buckeyes.Francis Schmidt Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football December 24, 2022 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/coaches/francis-schmidt-1.html OSU's lineup had 10 returning lettermen, featuring All-American quarterback Don Scott. Ohio State First-Team All-Americans Ohio State University December 24, 2022 https://ohiostatebuckeyes.com/all-americans-5/ Even though Ohio State trailed 1–2–1 in the all-time series, they were 5 to 1 favorites and had not lost an opening game since 1894.Fritz Howell Ohio State Fans Look For Title The Akron Beacon Journal Akron, Ohio September 27, 1940 33 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115116573/ohio-state-fans-look-for-title/ December 24, 2022 Newspapers.com50,000 Expected To Witness Ohio-Pittsburgh Tilt Today The Akron Beacon Journal Akron, Ohio September 28, 1940 10 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115117101/50000-expected-to-witness-ohio-pittsbur/ December 24, 2022 Newspapers.com The outmanned Panthers succumbed to the Ohio State Buckeyes 30 to 7. The Panthers held the Buckeyes to a first half 25-yard field goal by Charles Maag. Early in the third period Maag blocked Edgar Jones' quick kick and recovered on the Pitt 4-yard line. On first down James Langhurst scored the touchdown. Don Scott booted the extra point to make the score 10–0. The Pitt offense answered with a 12-play, 65-yard scoring drive. George Kracum carried the ball six times for 43 yards and James Thurbon carried four times. Thurbon scored through the middle from the one. Mike Sekela added the extra point and Pitt trailed 10 to 7. The Ohio State aerial offense added two more touchdowns in the third period. Don Scott threw a 45-yard touchdown pass to Langhurst and an 18-yard touchdown pass to Charles Anderson. Scott and Jack Graf added the extra points and Ohio led 24–7. The Buckeye second string scored in the fourth quarter on an 8-yard touchdown pass from James Sexton to Sam Fox. Graf missed the placement. Final score: Ohio State 30 to Pittsburgh 7. Statistics were deceiving as the Panthers earned 16 first downs to 8 for the Buckeyes and Pitt out-rushed the Buckeyes 217 yards to 191. Ohio State won the passing game 91 yards to 21.Statistics The Pittsburgh Press September 29, 1940 Section 2–8 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115725198/statistics/ January 3, 2023 Newspapers.com Ohio State finished the season with a 4–4 record.1940 Ohio State Buckeyes Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football December 24, 2022 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/ohio-state/1940-schedule.html The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Ohio State was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Ted Konetsky (left tackle), Rudy Gradisek (left guard), Stephen Sinco (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), John Benz (right tackle), Joe Rettinger (right end), Mike Sekela (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), Robert Thurbon (right halfback) and George Kracum (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Jack Goodridge, John Stahl, William Benghouser, Harry Kindelberger, Vincent Antonelli, Harris Hawkins, John Gates, Albert Kunkel, Robert Malloy, Jack Stetler, Ernest Bonelli, William Dutton, John Ross, Frank Saksa, Thomas Murphy and Walter West.Tom Hopkins 52,877 See Bucks Run Wild Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 29, 1940 Part 3–2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114571946/bucks-run-wild/ December 13, 2022 Newspapers.com Pittsburgh Ohio State collapsed 2 Ohio State 10 59 FG 25 Charles Maag 0 3 3 Ohio State 1 4 RushTD James Langhurst 4 good David Scott run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 10 3 Pittsburgh 15 65 RushTD Robert Thurbon 1 good Mike Sekela run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 10 3 Ohio State 3 71 RecTD James Langhurst David Scott 45 good David Scott run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 17 3 Ohio State 6 36 RecTD Charles Anderson David Scott 18 good Jack Graf run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 24 4 Ohio State 7 54 RecTD Sam Fox James Sexton 8 no good Jack Graf run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 30 7 30 Missouri Week 2: Missouri at Pitt Missouri Pitt 0 6 0 7 7 0 6 6 October 5, 1940 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 26,000 cloudy and warm W. T. Halloran (Providence) 1940 Missouri Tigers football team thumb|left|Program for October 5 game versus Missouri thumb|Ticket stub for October 5 game versus Missouri For the home opener, the Panthers welcomed the defending Big Six Conference Champion Missouri Tigers. Sixth-year coach Don Faurot led the 1939 Tigers to an 8–2 record and sixth place ranking in the Associated Press final poll.1939 Missouri Tigers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football December 28, 2022 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/missouri/1939.html This season they opened with a 40–26 victory over the St. Louis Billikens.1940 Missouri Tigers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 4, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/missouri/1940.html The Tigers were led by All-American and future College Football Hall of Famer, quarterback Paul Christman.Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Inductee Missouri Sports Hall of Fame January 3, 2023 https://mosportshalloffame.com/inductees/paul-christman-2/Paul Joseph Christman College Football Hall of Fame Inductees January 3, 2023 https://www.cfbhall.com/about/inductees/inductee/paul-christman-1956/ Tom Hopkins of the Sun-Telegraph wrote: “Coach Bowser has decided to give the 11 starters another chance to prove their right to first-team ranking but this will be the last chance. If the Panthers don't show improvement against Missouri there will be wholesale revision of the lineup for the Southern Methodist game...”Tom Hopkins Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph Missouri Offers Pass Test For Pitt Eleven October 2, 1940 20 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115736167/missouri-next-game-for-panthers/ January 3, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panther offensive ground game out-performed the Missouri passing game by the score of 19 to 13. Pitt scored in the first period. The Panthers recovered a Tiger fumble on the Missouri 49-yard line. Twelve plays later fullback George Kracum bulled into the end zone from the 2-yard line. Missouri blocked Mike Sekela's placement attempt, but Rudy Gradisek recovered the ball and lateraled to Edgar Jones who carried it across the goal for the extra point.Pitt Paragraphs Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 12, 1940 9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115789339/pitt-paragraphs/ January 4, 2023 Newspapers.com In the second quarter the Tigers responded with a 55-yard, 7-play drive. A pass interference penalty kept the drive alive before Bill Cunningham rushed the final five yards for the score. Robert Steuber's placement attempt was wide, but the Panthers were offside. Cunningham was unsuccessful on the second attempt and Pitt led 7 to 6 at halftime. Pitt got the ball to start the third quarter and marched 80-yards on 15 running plays. Edgar Jones carried the ball into the end zone from the 12-yard line. Sekela's placement went wide and Pitt led 13 to 6. Late in the third period, the Panthers intercepted a Paul Christman pass to gain possession on their own 38-yard line. On the seventeenth play, Ernest Bonelli scored on a 1-yard plunge and Sekela missed the point after. Pitt 19 to Missouri 6. The Tigers answered with an 88-yard, 11-play drive to cut the lead to 19 to 13. Missouri recovered an onside kick on the Pitt 44-yard line with 50 seconds remaining in the game. Christman completed a pass to Jack Lister for a first down on the Panther 31-yard line. The Panther defense sacked Christman on third down to secure the win.C. E. McBride Power On Parade The Kansas City Star Kansas City, Missouri October 6, 1940 Section B-1 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115739030/power-on-parade/ January 3, 2023 Newspapers.com C. E. McBride Power On Parade The Kansas City Star Kansas City, Missouri October 6, 1940 Section B-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115739208/power-on-parade-part-2/ January 3, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Faurot told the Sun-Telegraph: “Pitt has a fine team and deserved to beat us. Our passing attack wasn't quite up to par and I was disappointed in our running attack...” Coach Bowser: “refused to admit press representatives to the Panther dressing room, establishing a precedent in Pitt football history.”Panthers Praised Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 6, 1940 Part 2–7 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115768999/ January 4, 2023 Newspapers.com Missouri finished the season in third place in the Big Six Conference with an overall 6–3 record.1940 Big Six Conference Year Summary Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 3, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/conferences/big-6/1940.html The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Missouri was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Ted Konetsky (left tackle), Rudy Gradisek (left guard), Stephen Sinco (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), John Benz (right tackle), Joe Rettinger (right end), Mike Sekela (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), Robert Thurbon (right halfback) and George Kracum (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Jack Goodridge, William Benghouser, Harry Kindelberger, Vincent Antonelli, Harris Hawkins, John Gates, Albert Kunkel, Jack Stetler, Ernest Bonelli, Thomas Murphy, Albert Gurczenski, Earl Pressel, George Mitchell and Joseph Connell. Missouri Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Pittsburgh 12 49 RushTD George Kracum 2 no good (blocked), but Rudy Gradisek recovered the ball and lateraled to Edgar Jones, who ran into the end zone Mike Sekela run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 2 Missouri 7 55 RushTD Bill Cunningham 5 no good (miss short) Bill Cunningham run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 7 3 Pittsburgh 15 80 RushTD Edgar Jones 12 no good Mike Sekela run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 13 4 Pittsburgh 17 61 RushTD Ernest Bonelli 1 no good Mike Sekela run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 19 4 Missouri 11 88 RushTD Paul Christman 1 good Robert Steuber run/pass good/failed/incomplete 13 19 13 19 SMU Week 3: SMU at Pitt SMU Pitt 0 0 0 7 0 7 0 0 October 12, 1940 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 39,000 warm and sunny H. O. Dayoff (Bucknell) 1940 Southern Methodist Mustangs football team thumb|left|Program for October 12 game versus SMU thumb|Ticket stub for October 12 game versus SMU Game three on the schedule pitted the Pitt Panthers against the Southern Methodist Mustangs. Pitt led the series 1–0, having beaten the Mustangs 34 to 7 in their 1938 meeting.1938 SMU Mustangs Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 4, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/southern-methodist/1938-schedule.html Sixth-year coach Madison Bell led the Mustangs to a third place finish in the Southwest Conference in 1939.1939 Southwest Conference year Summary Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 4, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/conferences/swc/1939.html They opened this season with victories over UCLA and North Texas.1940 SMU Mustangs Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 4, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/southern-methodist/1940-schedule.html Coach Bell's squad was a veteran team, having only lost 8 lettermen to graduation. The Mustangs were favored, but Bell was cautious when discussing the game: "I can't tell much about this team yet...We have no outstanding players such as we boasted in 1935 and it seems to be more of a team unit than any I've coached in the past few seasons." Three Mustangs missed the train in Dallas and tried to drive to the next station by car to catch up. They had an accident and starting halfback Foster Elder was hospitalized with a fractured pelvis and hip injuries. Bill Thomas and Red McLan were able to fly to Indianapolis and join the team.35,000 To Watch Favored Mustangs Clash With Pitt The Pittsburgh Press October 12, 1940 11 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115835858/pitt-versus-smu/ January 5, 2023 Newspapers.com After the SMU swing band performed to the delight of the crowd in 1938, Chester L. Smith of The Pittsburgh Press noted that "more folks called up to inquire if Southern Methodist was bringing along its swing band than to ask if the football team was making the trip." Chester L.. Smith The Village Smithy The Pittsburgh Press October 12, 1940 11 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115838073/smu-brings-swing-band/ January 5, 2023 Newspapers.com In front of 39,000 fans, the underdog Panthers and Mustangs fought to a 7–7 tie. Pitt was the better team statistically: the Panthers earned 16 first downs to 5; gained 188 rushing yards to 51; gained 103 passing yards to 77; intercepted 2 passes and recovered 3 Mustang fumbles. The Panthers had three drives deep into SMU territory in the opening quarter, but lost the ball on downs each time. Late in the second period, SMU fullback Clint McClain fumbled and Pitt tackle Rudy Gradisek recovered on the Mustang 31-yard line. On two carries James Thurbon advanced the ball to the 16-yard line. Edgar Jones threw two incompletions before connecting with John Goodridge on the 1-yard line. Pitt was penalized 5 yards for excessive time outs. With 15 seconds left on the clock, Jones threw a 6-yard touchdown pass to Thurbon in the corner of the end zone. Mike Sekela booted the point after and Pitt led 7 to 0 at halftime. In the second half, the Panther offense advanced the ball to the SMU 30-yard line, but lost the ball on a Bobby Brown interception. The Panther defense held, but the offense gave the ball back on an interception by Raymond Pope, who carried the ball to the Pitt 20-yard line. The Panther defense forced a fumble and end John Goodridge recovered for Pitt on their own 34-yard line. The Panthers were thrown for losses on three straight plays. Thurbon's punt went out of bounds on the Panther 41-yard line. SMU back Ray Mallouf's pass to Bob Baccus gained 8 yards. Fullback McClain was stopped for no gain. Mallouf hit Billy Thomas with a 33-yard scoring pass on third down. Thomas was good on the placement and the game was tied. The Panthers advanced the ball into SMU territory and punted out of bounds on the Mustang 6-yard line. The Mustangs lined up in punt formation and Preston Johnston "flipped the field" with a 92-yard punt from scrimmage. The Panthers later needed a George Kracum interception to insure the tie.Pitt Yardstick Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 13, 1940 Part 3-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115854512/pitt-yardstick/ January 5, 2023 Newspapers.comHarry Keck Panthers, Mustangs Play 7–7 Deadlock Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 13, 1940 Part 2–4 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115854941/panthers-mustangs-play-77-deadlock/ January 5, 2023 Newspapers.com The SMU Mustangs finished the season tied for first-place in the Southwest Conference with an 8–1–1 record. They were ranked number 16 in the final Associated Press football poll. Two Panthers suffered season-ending injures. End Joe Rettinger broke his leg and back-up guard John Gates tore a ligament in his leg.Tom Hopkins Panther End Breaks Leg, Gates Hurt Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 14, 1940 18 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115913149/two-panthers-lost-for-season/ January 6, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against SMU was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Ted Konetsky (left tackle), Rudy Gradisek (left guard), Stephen Sinco (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), John Benz (right tackle), Joe Rettinger (right end), Mike Sekela (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), Robert Thurbon (right halfback) and George Kracum (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Jack Goodridge, William Benghouser, Harry Kindelberger, Vincent Antonelli, John Gates, Albert Kunkel, Jack Stetler, Ernest Bonelli, Frank Saksa, Thomas Murphy, Albert Gurczenski, George Mitchell and Joseph Connell. SMU Pittsburgh collapsed 2 Pittsburgh 6 31 RecTD Robert Thurbon Edgar Jones 6 good Mike Sekela run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 4 SMU 3 41 RecTD Billy Thomas Ray Mallouf 34 good Billy Thomas run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 7 7 7 Fordham Week 4: Fordham at Pitt Fordham Pitt 6 18 0 0 6 0 6 0 October 19, 1940 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 40,000 snow E. A. Geiges (Temple) 1940 Fordham Rams football team thumb|left|Program for October 19 game versus Fordham thumb|Ticket stub for October 19 game versus Fordham On October 19, Jimmy Crowley's Fordham Rams played the Panthers for the sixth time. The series was tied at 1–1–3, each team having won a game after playing three scoreless ties in a row.Game-by-Game Results University of Pittsburgh 2008 Pitt Football Media Guide 140 January 6, 2023 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/137/mode/1up The Rams opened this season by beating West Virginia and Tulane by identical 20 to 7 scores.1940 Fordham Rams Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 6, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/fordham/1940-schedule.html Fordham with All-America picks tackle Joe Ungerer, fullback Steve Filipowicz and end Jim Lansing, along with star backs Len Eshmont and Jim Blumenstock, was a veteran squad that had eight returning starters from the 1939 team that beat Pitt 24–13.Tom Hopkins Unbeaten Rams Favored Over the Panthers Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 15, 1940 24 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115920573/unbeaten-rams-favored-over-panthers/ January 6, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Crowley was cautious: "The game that Pitt played against the Mustangs put a different complexion on our impending battle. Apparently, Pitt's offense has been highly underrated and we probably are in for a harder game than any of us anticipated."Tom Hopkins Play of Jones Shows Marked Improvement Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 16, 1940 22 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115922833/play-of-jones-shows-improvement/ January 6, 2023 Newspapers.com On October 15, thousands of eligible men registered for the selective service draft. 600 University of Pittsburgh students were eligible including James Hagan, Pitt Athletic Director, 28 squad members and 8 coaches of the Pitt football team.Buff Donelli Registered For the Draft Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 16, 1940 22 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115922078/panthers-register-for-selective-service/ January 6, 2023 Newspapers.com This was Pitt's Homecoming and The Pittsburgh Press wrote: "There was to be a batch of added color, with both the Pitt and Fordham bands supplying the musical tempo and a host of celebrities from all fields attending. U. S. Senator Josh Lee, Oklahoma's 'draft-the-wealth' politico; Joe E. Brown, the movie comedian and long-time Pitt rooter; Frankie Frisch, Pirate baseball manager and exFordham (sic) Flash; Charles Laughton, actor, were to attend."Eddie Beachler Free-Scoring Contest is Anticipated The Pittsburgh Press October 19, 1940 9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115926502/ January 6, 2023 Newspapers.com The Fordham Rams ran roughshod over the hapless Panthers 24 to 12. The prevalent color seen by the crowd of 40,00 shivering fans was white, as an early snowstorm covered the field. The Panthers scored first by advancing 65 yards in 5 plays. Edgar Jones raced the final 34 yards for the touchdown. Mike Sekela's placement was blocked. Pitt led 6 to 0. The rest of the first half was all Fordham, as they countered Pitt's drive with 4 touchdown runs. James Blumenstock went 49 yards on a reverse for the first touchdown. Len Eshmont scored the second from the 5-yard line after the Rams recovered a botched Pitt center snap. On the Panthers next possession, Fordham blocked James Thurbon's punt and recovered on the Pitt 3-yard line. Stephen Filipowicz went through left guard for the score. The final Fordham score came after a 33-yard, 4-play drive capped by an Eshmont 13-yard run. Fordham led 24–6 as all extra points failed. The Panthers managed a 5-play, 53-yard drive in the third quarter to trim the lead to 24 to 12, as Jones scored on an 18-yard run around end. Fordham spent the final quarter in Pitt territory but was unable to score.Jack Smith Rams Whip Pitt Sunday News New York, New York October 20, 1940 92 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116124133/fordham-beats-pitt-2412/ January 8, 2023 Newspapers.com The Rams finished the regular season with a 7–1 record and were invited to the Cotton Bowl. They lost to Texas A&M 13–12 and ended up ranked number 12 in the final Associated Press football poll. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Fordham was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Ted Konetsky (left tackle), Rudy Gradisek (left guard), Stephen Sinco (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), John Benz (right tackle), Jack Goodridge (right end), Mike Sekela (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), Robert Thurbon (right halfback) and George Kracum (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Benghouser, Vincent Antonelli, Albert Kunkel, Jack Stetler, Ernest Bonelli, William Dutton, Frank Saksa, Albert Gurczenski, George Mitchell and George Allshouse.First-Half Victory Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 20, 1940 Part 2-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114579086/first-half-victory/ December 13, 2022 Newspapers.com Fordham Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Pittsburgh 5 65 RushTD Edgar Jones 34 no good (blocked) run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 6 1 Fordham 2 55 RushTD James Blumenstock 49 no good Stanley Krivik run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 6 2 Fordham 1 5 RushTD Leonard Eshmont 5 good/no good (blocked)/no good (miss right)/no good (miss left)/no good (miss short)/no good Stanley Krivik run/pass good/failed/incomplete 12 6 2 Fordham 3 3 RushTD Stephen Filipowicz 3 no good James Noble run/pass good/failed/incomplete 18 6 2 Fordham 4 33 RushTD Leonard Eshmont 13 no good Leonard Eshmont (failed run) run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 24 3 Pittsburgh 5 53 RushTD Edgar Jones 18 no good Edgar Jones (failed run) run/pass good/failed/incomplete 12 24 24 12 Carnegie Tech Week 5: Carnegie Tech at Pitt Carnegie Tech Pitt 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 November 9, 1940 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 26,500 cloudy and warm W. T. Halloran 1940 Carnegie Tech Tartans football team thumb|left|Program for November 9 game versus Carnegie Tech thumb|Ticket stub for November 9 game versus Carnegie Tech The annual “City Game” between the Panthers and their Forbes Street neighbor Carnegie Tech took place on November 9. The Tartans were coached by Eddie Baker, a former Pitt player and assistant coach for 6 years (1931–1936) under Jock Sutherland. They had a 2–3 record, having beaten Geneva (21–0) and Case (14–0), and losing to Holy Cross (18–0), Notre Dame (61–0) and Cincinnati (7–6).1940 Carnegie Mellon Tartans Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 9, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/carnegie-mellon/1940-schedule.html Coach Baker told The Press: “I think we're capable of playing much better ball than has showed to date. At full strength, that is, with the few good players we have in top condition. I believe we could give any team in the country a good game if the boys decide to play ball and go the limit.”Eddie Beachler Baker Says Alert Techs Have Chance Against Panthers The Pittsburgh Press November 7, 1940 24 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116123115/tech-coach-likes-his-chances/ January 9, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panthers led the series 20–5–1.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 153 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/154/mode/1up January 12, 2023 Pitt was heavily favored in spite of their 1–1–2 record. "About the only sidelight to the match is the first clash of Charley Bowser and Dr. Eddie Baker of Carnegie Tech as head coaches. It will be the Brentwood dentist's initial attempt as big boss against his Alma Mater as well as against Bowser, a frat brother of Phi Delta Theta."Jack Sell Panthers Go After 21st Victory Over Skibo Team Today Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 9, 1940 14 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116129135/pitt-and-tartans-clash-today/ January 9, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panthers managed to squeak by the Tartans 6–0 to win their 21st game in the series. The Pitt offense earned only 2 first downs in the first half. They did manage to reach the Tech 29-yard line, before losing possession on a John Ross fumble. The Tartans answered with a drive to the Panther 34-yard line, but lost the ball on downs. The Panther offense generated a 14-play, 72-yard scoring drive on their second possession after halftime. The highlight play was a 27-yard run through guard by fullback George Kracum from midfield to the Tech 23-yard line. In the 1939 game Edgar Jones threw a late 39-yard touchdown pass to Bob Thurbon to win the game for the Panthers. This time Jones raced around right end from 8 yards out for a third quarter touchdown that eventually decided the ball game. The Panthers threatened again in the third period, when Jones passed to John Goodridge for a first down on the Carnegie 29-yard line. Tech halfback George Muha intercepted Jones' next pass to halt the drive. Late in the game, Pitt back Ernie Bonelli's punt from the 36-yard line was blocked by Tech center Harold Dunn, who recovered the ball on the Pitt 2-yard line. Four plunges into the line by Muha failed to penetrate the Pitt defensive wall. Pitt punted out of trouble and played sound defense as time expired. Coach Bowser was relieved: "Whew, I'm just glad we got by this one. That was the greatest goal-line stand I've ever seen. Our team showed the effects of a three-week lay off, particularly in timing. But that doesn't take anything away from the great play of Eddie Baker's Tech team. He really had his boys up for this game."Eddie Beachler What a Stand The Pittsburgh Press November 10, 1940 Third Section 11 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116187566/what-a-stand/ January 10, 2023 Newspapers.com Carnegie Tech finished the season with a 3–5 record. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Carnegie Tech was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Ted Konetsky (left tackle), Rudy Gradisek (left guard), Stephen Sinco (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), John Benz (right tackle), Jack Goodridge (right end), Mike Sekela (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), Robert Thurbon (right halfback) and George Kracum (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were John Stahl, William Benghouser, Harry Kindelberger, Vincent Antonelli, Jack Stetler, Ernest Bonelli, William Dutton, John Ross, Frank Saksa, Albert Gurczenski, Earl Pressel, George Mitchell, George Allshouse and Walter West. Carnegie Tech Pittsburgh collapsed 3 Pittsburgh 14 72 RushTD Edgar Jones 8 no good Mile Sekela run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 6 0 6 Nebraska Week 6: Nebraska at Pitt Nebraska Pitt 0 6 3 0 0 7 0 0 November 16, 1940 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 22,000 frigid E. A. Geiges (Temple) 1940 Nebraska Cornhuskers football team thumb|left|Program for November 16 game versus Nebraska thumb|Ticket stub for November 16 game versus Nebraska On November 16, Biff Jones' Nebraska Cornhuskers beat the Panthers 9–7 for their second win in a row in the series. Nebraska went on to win the Big 6 Conference title with a 5–0 record and earned an invitation to the Rose Bowl, where they would lose to Stanford 21–13. They ended the season with an overall 8–2 record and were ranked #7 in the final Associated Press football poll.1940 Nebraska Cornhuskers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 11, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/nebraska/1940-schedule.html Tackle Forrest Behm and guard Warren Alfson received All-America mention.Husker Football First-Team All-Americans (Alphabetical) University of Nebraska https://huskers.com/sports/2020/6/18/nebraskas-first-team-all-americans-alphabetical.aspx?id=3171 https://web.archive.org/web/20230112194309/https://huskers.com/sports/2020/6/18/nebraskas-first-team-all-americans-alphabetical.aspx?id=3171 dead January 12, 2023 January 11, 2023 Late in the first period, the Huskers gained possession on the Panther 49-yard line. They advanced the ball to the 1-yard line as time expired in the quarter. Harry Hopp scored on the next play. Vike Francis' placement attempt was wide and low. Pitt answered with a 4-play, 46-yard touchdown drive. James Thurbon ran the final 6 yards around left end for the touchdown. Mike Sekela added the extra point and Pitt led 7 to 6 at halftime. The final points of the game came after a Panther punt from their own 20-yard line was shanked and went out of bounds on the Panther 22-yard line. Nebraska advanced the ball to the Pitt 4-yard line. The Panther defense held, but Francis booted a 10-yard field goal to put Nebraska back in the lead 9–7. Late in the game, the Panthers gained possession on their own 47-yard line. The Pitt offense ran 14 plays and advanced the ball to the Nebraska 3-yard line. With 40 seconds remaining in the game, Ernest Bonelli lost 2 yards. Pitt was penalized 5 yards for too many timeouts. Substitute end John Stahl's field goal attempt from the 17-yard line “was bad.” Nebraska wins 9–7.Play by play description of Nebraska's thrilling victory The Lincoln Star Lincoln, Nebraska November 17, 1940 B-four https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116258997/play-by-play-of-nebraska-win/ January 11, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Nebraska was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Ted Konetsky (left tackle), Rudy Gradisek (left guard), Stephen Sinco (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), John Benz (right tackle), Jack Goodridge (right end), Mike Sekela (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), Robert Thurbon (right halfback) and George Kracum (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were John Stahl, Jack Stetler, Ernest Bonelli, Thomas Murphy and Walter West. Nebraska Pittsburgh collapsed 2 Nebraska 8 40 RushTD Harry Hopp 1 no good Vike Francis run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 0 2 Pittsburgh 4 47 RushTD James Thurbon 6 good Mike Sekela run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 7 3 Nebraska 5 18 FG 13 Vike Francis 9 7 9 7 Penn State Week 7: Penn State at Pitt Penn State Pitt 0 0 0 7 6 0 7 7 November 16, 1940 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 30,083 W. D. Maginnes (Lehigh) 1940 Penn State Nittany Lions football team thumb|left|Program for November 23 game versus Penn State thumb|Ticket stub for November 23 game versus Penn State On November 16, the #20 ranked and undefeated Penn State Nittany Lions, hoping to clinch a bowl invitation, arrived in Pittsburgh with a 6–0–1 record. A 13–13 tie at Syracuse was the only blemish on their record.1940 Penn State Nittany Lions Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 13, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/penn-state/1940-schedule.html The Panthers led the series 23–14–2, but State won 10–0 last year after a 20-year winless stretch.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 157 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/158/mode/1up January 12, 2023 The Lions were healthy, plus the State line, nicknamed the “Seven Mountains,” was anchored by All-American center Leon Gajecki.Former Nittany Lion Football All-American Leon Gajecki Dies Penn State University GoPSUsports January 13, 2023 https://gopsusports.com/news/2000/11/6/Former_Nittany_Lion_Football_All_American_Leon_Gajecki_Dies.aspx Penn State was favored 3–2 over the Panthers, but State coach Bob Higgins was worried: "I don't know whether we have a really good team or not. We haven't played anyone with a lot of power yet. This game will be our toughest. It will tell whether we are good or just mediocre. Pitt was plenty good last week from the reports I got and I just hope they've lost some of that speed and power."Tom Hopkins Pitt to Battle Penn State Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 23, 1940 1 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116385078/pitt-to-battle-penn-state/ January 13, 2023 Newspapers.com Pitt quarterback Mike Sekela and running back James Thurbon suffered leg injuries in the Nebraska game and were unable to start. Coach Bowser started Walt West at quarterback and Ernest Bonelli at halfback. Edgar Jones boasted: "If we can't beat this State team we ought to quit. We should take them by a couple of touchdowns. We haven't been too bad this year. With a break here or there our record would be much better."Tom Hopkins West, Bonelli to Start for Panthers Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 23, 1940 9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116388414/west-bonelli-to-start-for-panthers/ January 13, 2023 Newspapers.com Bill McElwain of The Pitt News reported: "There was a pep rally at Memorial Hall last Friday, not a very successful pep rally. In fact, an over-enthused bunch of near-rowdies, plus a broken microphone on the public address system, turned what was intended as a tribute to the football team into a farce. It became so much of a farce that the football team walked off the stage thoroughly disgusted, and head coach Charley Bowser gave the students who were still in the hall a sizzling and unequivocal tongue-lashing."Bill McElwain Jones, Kracum, Fife Lead Pitt Attack on Favored Nittany Lion The Pitt News 32 26 November 25, 1940 3 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062150168/viewer#page/3/mode/1up January 17, 2023 The riled-up Panthers erased the Nittany Lions bowl game aspirations with a 20–7 upset. The Panthers took the lead in the first quarter on a 49-yard touchdown run. Fullback George Kracum ran the first 44 yards and, as he was about to be tackled, he lateraled to Ralph Fife, who raced the final 5 yards for the touchdown. Ernest Bonelli missed the extra point. Late in the half Penn State drove to the Panther 28-yard line, but lost the ball on downs. The Panthers scored in the third period on a 19-yard touchdown pass from Edgar Jones to Robert Thurbon. Fife added the placement and Pitt led 13–0 at the end of three quarters. The Lions offense answered with a 5-play, 53-yard touchdown drive to start the final period. William Smaltz connected with Leonard Krouse on a 14-yard touchdown pass. Ben Pollack added the point after to cut the lead to 13–7. Kracum then picked off an errant Penn State pass and returned it 35 yards for Pitt's final touchdown. Fife booted the extra point. Pitt 20 to Penn State 7.Tom Hopkins Pitt Defeats State, 20–7, Jones Big Star Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 24, 1940 Part 3–4 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116392493/pitt-upsets-nittany-lions-bowl-hopes/ January 13, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Higgins stated: "Pitt played great football all the way. I was disappointed when Kracum got away for that long run on that fake reverse early in the game....But the Panthers played smart football and deserved to win."Charles J. Doyle Konetsky Outstanding Lineman in State Game Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 24, 1940 Part 3-3 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116675955/konetsky-outstanding-lineman/ January 17, 2023 Newspapers.com Penn State ended their season with a 6–1–1 record, received no bowl bid and dropped out of the top 20. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Penn State was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Ted Konetsky (left tackle), Rudy Gradisek (left guard), Stephen Sinco (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), John Benz (right tackle), Jack Goodridge (right end), Walter West (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), Ernest Bonelli (right halfback) and George Kracum (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were John Stahl, William Benghouser, Harry Kindelberger, Vincent Antonelli, Harris Hawkins, Jack Stetler, William Dutton, John Ross, Thomas Murphy, Alfred Gurczenski, George Mitchell, Joseph Connell, George Allshouse, Harold Hinte, Walter Ward, Paul Foley, Robert Thurbon, Thomas Murphy, Mike Sekela, Joseph Connell, Ralph Hammond, Louis Sleber and William Fitchco.Lion Limps Home The Pittsburgh Press November 24, 1940 Section 3–9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114624144/lion-limps-home/ December 14, 2022 Newspapers.com Penn State Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Pittsburgh 2 51 RushTD George Kracum and Ralph Fife 49 no good Ernest Bonelli run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 6 3 Pittsburgh 4 41 RecTD Robert Thurbon Edgar Jones 19 good Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 13 4 Penn State 5 53 RecTD Leonard Krouse William Smaltz 14 good Ben Pollack run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 13 4 Pittsburgh 1 35 IntTD George Kracum 35 good Ralph Fifie run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 20 7 20 At Duke Week 8: Pitt at Duke Pitt Duke 0 7 0 0 7 3 2 0 September 28, 1940 Duke StadiumDurham, NC 2:00 p.m. 27,000 fair and chilly B. L. Eberts (Catholic U.) 1940 Duke Blue Devils football team thumb|left|Program for November 30 game versus Duke thumb|Ticket stub for November 30 game versus Duke The Panthers closed their season with a trip to Durham, NC to play the Duke Blue Devils. Wallace Wade's squad had a 6–2 record. Duke beat VMI, Colgate, Wake Forest, Georgia Tech, Davidson, and NC State. They lost to Tennessee and UNC. The Devils finished in second place in the Southern Conference and ranked #18 in the final Associated Press football poll.1940 Duke Blue Devils Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 16, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/duke/1940-schedule.html All-American tackle Tony Ruffa anchored the Duke line,All-America Selections Duke University 2022 Duke Football Media Guide 140 https://s3.amazonaws.com/goduke.com/documents/2022/7/21/2022_Duke_Football_Media_Guide.pdf January 16, 2023 and Tommy Prothro led the Devils at quarterback. Coach Bowser took a squad of 33 Panthers to Durham. Seven Pitt starters were seniors suiting up for their final game. They were Ted Konetsky, Jack Benz, Rudy Gradisek, Jack Goodridge, Bob Thurbon, George Kracum and Mike Sekela. The senior substitutes were Joe Rettinger (injured), Al Gurczenski, Harris Hawkins, Lou Sleber, Ernie Bonelli, Earl Pressel, Carl Sardi and Paul Foley.Panthers Leave Thursday for Game With Duke Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 26, 1940 19 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116680825/panthers-leave-thursday-for-durham/ January 17, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panthers came within 2 yards of victory but the Duke Blue Devils prevailed 12–7 and sent the Panthers home with their first losing record since 1912. The Devils amassed their points by means of a touchdown, extra point, field goal and safety. Duke opened the scoring in the first period with a 10-play, 53-yard drive, that ended with a 11-yard touchdown pass from Wes McAfee to Steve Lach. Tony Ruffa added the extra point. Early in the second period, Pitt gained possession on their 21-yard line. Jack Stetler scampered 78 yards to the Duke 1-yard line on first down. George Kracum scored the touchdown and Ralph Fife was good on the point after to tie the game. Duke answered with a 14-play, 68-yard drive that placed the ball on the Pitt 4-yard line. The Panther defense stiffened, but Tony Ruffa booted an 11-yard field goal for a 10–7 Duke lead at halftime. Duke added the safety in the third period. Pitt was on their own 12-yard line and a poor center snap rolled into the end zone. It was recovered by Pitt's Edgar Jones but he was tackled for the two-pointer. The Pitt offense drove the ball to the Duke 3-yard line late in the game. Four Panther rushing plays only moved the ball to the 2-yard line. Pitt's final record was 3–4–1.Tom Hopkins Panthers Bow, 12–7, In Season Finale Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph December 1, 1940 Part 3–6 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116685398/panthers-lose-to-duke-12-to-7/ January 17, 2023 Newspapers.comEdward V. Mitchell 21,000 See Rivals In Even Contest; Season Closes The Durham Herald-Sun Durham, North Carolina December 1, 1940 Part IV-1 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116685623/21000-see-rivals-in-even-contest/ January 17, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Duke was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Ted Konetsky (left tackle), Rudy Gradisek (left guard), Stephen Sinco (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), John Benz (right tackle), Jack Goodridge (right end), Mike Sekela (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), Robert Thurbon (right halfback) and George Kracum (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Benghouser, Harry Kindelberger, Vincent Antonelli, Jack Stetler, Ernest Bonelli, William Dutton, John Ross, Alfred Gurczenski, George Mitchell, George Allshouse, Walter West, Walter Ward, Paul Foley and William Fitchco.Almost Did It! The Pittsburgh Press December 1, 1940 Section 3–11 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/114624616/almost-did-it/ December 14, 2022 Newspapers.com Pittsburgh Duke collapsed 1 Duke 10 53 RecTD Steve Lach Wesley McAfee 11 good Tony Ruffa run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 2 Pittsburgh 2 79 RushTD George Kracum 1 good Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 7 2 Duke 14 68 FG 11 Tony Ruffa 7 10 3 Duke 2 14 SafetyTackle Edgar Jones Mike Karmazin 7 12 7 12 Individual scoring summary 1940 Pittsburgh Panthers scoring summaryPittsburgh Panthers Player Touchdowns Extra points Field goals Safety Points Edgar Jones410025 Robert Thurbon400024 George Kracum300018 Ralph Fife13009 Ernest Bonelli10006 Michael Sekela03006 Totals1370085 Postseason George Kracum was selected for the annual East-West Shrine Game played in San Francisco on New Year's Day.https://shrinebowl.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/16_January_1_1941.pdf Past Rosters East-West Shrine Bowl January 17, 2023 Letters were awarded to 23 football players and the varsity manager at the first Sports Assembly and Banquet on December 13, 1940. The following received letters: Vincent Antonelli, John Benz, Thomas Murphy, John Gates, William Benghouser, Ernie Bonelli, Ralph Fife, Stanley Gervelis, Jack Goodridge, Rudy Gradisek, Al Gurczenski, Harris Hawkins, Edgar Jones, Harry Kindelberger, Ted Konetsky, George Kracum, George Mitchell, Joe Rettinger, Mike Sekela, Stephen Sinco, Jack Stetler, Robert Thurbon, Walter West and Harry Korp.Eddie Beachler Pitt Draws Closer to Conference The Pittsburgh Press December 14, 1940 10 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116748579/pitt-awards-letters-at-banquet/ January 18, 2023 Newspapers.com Frank Mecca, Pitt Stadium groundskeeper from 1925-1940, died on December 27, 1940. He was so devoted to the stadium turf that the players referred to it as "Mecca Stadium." His last wish was to be carried to his grave by 6 of his football boys. Ernie Bonelli, John Benz, Nick Kliskey, John Dickinson, Luby DeMeleo and Jess Quatse honored his wishes.Stadium Groundskeeper Has Old Wish Fulfilled As 6 Ex-Gridders Carry His Body to Grave The Pitt News 32 35 January 6, 1941 1 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062150044/viewer#page/1/mode/1up January 18, 2023 Team players drafted into the NFL The following player was selected in the 1941 NFL draft. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1941/draft.htm Pro Football Reference Sports Reference LLC SR/Pro Football January 11, 2023 2 Pittsburgh Panthers Player Position Round Pick NFL club George KracumBack863Chicago Cardinals References Pittsburgh Category:Pittsburgh Panthers football seasons Pittsburgh Panthers football