1941 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

American college football season August 2023 February 2026 1941 Pittsburgh Panthers football 285px|1941 Pittsburgh Panthers football team Independent 3–6 Charley Bowser 3rd Pitt Stadium The 1941 Pittsburgh Panthers football team was an American football team that represented the University of Pittsburgh as an independent during the 1941 college football season. In their third year under head coach Charley Bowser, the Panthers compiled a 3–6 record and were outscored by a total of 171 to 82.1941 Pittsburgh Panthers Stats Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football September 12, 2019 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/pittsburgh/1941.html Guard Ralph Fife was selected as a first-team All-American by the Associated Press (AP).Herb Barker Ralph Fife, Panther Star, Named on A. P. 1941 All-American Team Pittsburgh Post-Gazette December 12, 1941 28 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117385846/ralph-fife-a-p-all-america-team/ January 27, 2023 Newspapers.com Fife was also selected by the AP as a first-team player on the 1941 All-Eastern football team. Halfback Edgar Jones was named to the second team on the All-Eastern team.MacKinney and Peabody on A.P. Eastern Eleven The Boston Daily Globe December 5, 1941 28 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/36483061/mackinney_and_peabody_on_ap_eastern/ Newspapers.com Pittsburgh was ranked at No. 74 (out of 681 teams) in the final rankings under the Litkenhous Difference by Score System for 1941.Gophers Grid Kings Over 6-Year Span: Tennessee 2d, Pitt 3d Over Period Litkenhous Ratins Are Published The Courier-Journal Dr. E. E. Litkenhous December 26, 1941 Sports 4 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/123088221/gophers-grid-kings-over-6-year-span/ Newspapers.com Schedule AP October 4 l Purdue Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 0–6 24,000 Panthers Drop Opening Game To Boilermakers, 6-0: Petty Hits Tackle For Purdue Score The Pittsburgh Press Chester L. Smith October 5, 1941 III-7 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/35807188/panthers_drop_opening_game_to/ Newspapers.com October 11 l y Michigan Michigan Stadium Ann Arbor, MI 0–40 34,403 Michigan Trounces Pitt, 40-0 Detroit Free Press John N. Sabo October 12, 1941 9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/35906541/michigan_trounces_pitt_400/ Newspapers.com October 18 l y Minnesota 1 Memorial Stadium Minneapolis, MN 0–39 35,000 Gophers Pound Pitt, 39-0: Higgins Is Sensation in Victory Minneapolis Sunday Tribune and Star Journal Charles Johnson October 19, 1941 Sports 1–2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/35795996/gophers_pound_pitt_390_higgins_is/ Newspapers.com October 25 l Duke 4 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 7–27 25,000–28,000 Duke Wins: Blue Devils Lick Colgate By 27 to 14 Asheville Citizen-Times October 19, 1941 29 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/35788484/duke_wins_blue_devils_lick_colgate_by/ Newspapers.comAll-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.pdf November 1 l Ohio State Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 14–21 50,000 Pitt Loses, 21-14: Jones, Fife Star Before 50,000 Fans The Pittsburgh Press November 2, 1941 Chester L. Smith 41 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/35807916/pitt_loses_2114_jones_fife_star/ Newspapers.com November 8 w Fordham 3 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 13–0 20,000–25,000 Rams Are Toppled: Bowl Hopes Crushed by Panthers, Who Gain First 1941 Victory Joseph C. Nichols New York Times November 9, 1941 S1Chester L. Smith Jones Sparks Pitt to First Victory The Pittsburgh Press November 9, 1941 Third Section-14 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118704489/pitt-upsets-fordham/ February 15, 2023 Newspapers.com November 15 w y Nebraska Memorial Stadium Lincoln, NE 14–7 35,000 Cornhuskers lose 5th in row, 14 to 7: Pitt scores two in final quarter Sunday Journal and Star Don Kellogg November 16, 1941 11 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/35912461/cornhuskers_lose_5th_in_row_14_to_7/ Newspapers.com November 22 l Penn State rivalry Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 7–31 33,000 Penn State Crushes Pitt, 31-7, In Stadium Upset: 'Pepper' Petrella Hero In Great Win The Pittsburgh Press Chester L. Smith November 23, 1941 III-9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/35912517/penn_state_crushes_pitt_317_in/ Newspapers.com November 29 w Carnegie Tech Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 27–0 19,000 Pitt Tramples Tech, 27-0: Panthers' Power Beats Game Scots The Pittsburgh Press Eddie Beachler November 30, 1941 III-11, III-12 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/35912596/pitt_tramples_tech_270_panthers/ Newspapers.com Preseason On March 1, Charles Hartwig, former Pitt All-American lineman, was added to coach Bowser's staff as guard coach. Former guard coach Luther Richards left the squad in September and Harold Klein stepped in temporarily while finishing his degree. Hartwig had been coaching at Martins Ferry High School in Ohio.Hartwig Returns to Pitt as Grid Aide to Bowser The Pittsburgh Press February 18, 1941 22 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117101987/hartwig-returns-to-pitt-as-assistant-coa/ January 23, 2023 Newspapers.com Dick Fullerton resigned to go into business and Bill Daddio signed a contract to play football for the Chicago Cardinals.Eddie Beachler Deflated Pitt Faces "Suicide" Schedule The Pittsburgh Press September 10, 1941 27 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117736172/pitt-had-brutal-schedule/ February 1, 2023 Newspapers.com Ted Konetsky was hired to aid Kliskey with the freshmen.Kliskey Calls Frosh Football Candidates The Pitt News 33 6 October 3, 1941 7 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062141266/viewer#page/7/mode/1up February 1, 2023 In mid-February, Coach Bowser had the football players attend meetings with their position coach to study film and techniques. Bowser faced the hardest schedule in Pitt history with only four returning starters.Bowser Opens Indoor Meetings, Prepares For Spring Football The Pitt News 32 44 February 14, 1941 3 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062149681/viewer#page/3/mode/1up January 23, 2023 Outdoor spring drills did not commence until late March due to inclement weather. Sixty-two candidates were given uniforms.62 Players Report to Bowser; Sophomore Gridders Show Well The Pitt News 32 62 March 28, 1941 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062150788/viewer#page/3/mode/1up January 23, 2023 On April 26, spring practice ended with a scrimmage starring halfback Jack Stetler. The White team scored first when halfback Stetler threw a 15-yard touchdown pass to Bill Fitchko. Stetler changed jerseys at halftime, and scored for the Blue squad on a 2-yard run to make the final score 6–6.Stetler Paces Blues (Whites) to 6–6 Tie With Whites (Blues) The Pitt News 32 71 April 28, 1941 3 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062150549/viewer#page/3/mode/1up January 23, 2023 On September 10, third-year Coach Bowser's 55-member squad began preseason practice.Tom Hopkins Fullerton Quits Panthers, Tech Adds Two Coaches Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 10, 1941 23 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117747846/fall-practice-opens/ February 1, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panthers wore plastic helmets that were similar to the headgear worn by the RAF paratroopers.Alex Zelenski Sports From A to Z The Pitt News 33 3 September 26, 1941 6 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062141316/viewer#page/6/mode/1up February 1, 2023 Coaching staff 1941 Pittsburgh Panthers football staff Coaching staff Charley Bowser – Head coach Robert Hoel – Assistant coach Dr. Arnold Greene – fullback coach Harold Stebbins – halfback coach Charles Hartwig – guard coach John Dickinson – end coach Nick Kliskey– freshman team coach Ted Konetsky – assistant freshman team coach   Support staff Dr. H. A. Ralph Shanor – team physician Howard Waite – football trainer Harold Whitson – varsity equipment manager James Hagan - director of athletics Frank Carver – publicity director William Ritenbaugh – varsity student manager Roster 1941 Pittsburgh Panthers football rosterPittsburgh Panthers Player Position Games Height Weight Class Prep School Hometown Joseph Adamchichalfback15 ft 10 in1751943 Union City H. S. Union City, PA George Allshouse*center85 ft 10 in1881942Duquesne H. S.Duquesne, PA Vincent Antonelli*guard85 ft 10 in 1831943 Schenley H. S. Pittsburgh, PA William Benghouser*tackle96 ft2001942DuBois H. S. DuBois, PA Joseph Brodyend0 5 ft 11 in 1751943 Latrobe H. S. Latrobe, PA Joseph Broudyguard3 5 ft 11 in 1851944 Peabody H. S. Pittsburgh, PA James Clowescenter 2 6 ft 1 in1951944Har-Brack H. S. Tarentum, PA Joseph Connell*fullback 9 5 ft 11 in1921942 Charleroi H. S. Charleroi, PA Robert Costellotackle 06 ft 1 in1951944Schenley H. S. Pittsburgh, PA Robert Crissman*tackle26 ft 1 in1941942Butler H. S.Butler, PA William Dillon*guard76 ft1851944Trinity H. S.Marianna, PA Jack Durishan*tackle96 ft 2201944 Hazleton H. S. Hazleton, PA William Dutton*halfback95 ft 10 in 1701943 Weston H. S. Weston, WV Tom Economosquarterback 0 5 ft 11 in1801944Schenley H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Dwight Emerickquarterback 0 6 ft1771943Aspinwall H. S.Aspinwall, PA Ralph Fife*guard95 ft 11 in1851942Canton McKinley H. S. Canton, OH William Fitchkoend06 ft 1801942Gary H. S.Filbert, WV John Gatesguard05 ft 10 in2001942 Pittsburgh, PA Mat Gebelhalfback56 ft 1 in1851944East Pittsburgh H. S. East Pittsburgh, PA Stanley Gervelis*end96 ft 1 in1901942Charleroi H. S.Charleroi, PA Norbert Gestnerend36 ft 2 in1651944Tarentum H. S.Tarentum, PA Ralph Hammond*quarterback75 ft 11 in1801943 Fulton H. S. Wilkinsburg, PA Jack Heistercenter26 ft 2 in1851943Aspinwall H. S. Aspinwall, PA Harold Hinteend55 ft 11in 1851943 Mt. Hope H. S. Sun, WV Edgar Jones*halfback95ft 10 in1751942Scranton Technical H. S. Scranton, PA Jack Kerrhalfback 2 6 ft1861944Schenley H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Harry Kindelberger*tackle96 ft 3 in2001942 Warwood H. S. Oil City, PA Harry Kozic*end 0 6 ft 175 1944 Duquesne H. S. Duquesne, PA Albert Kunkel*center26 ft 1 in 1901942 Langley H. S. Pittsburgh, PA William Lohmeyerend0 6 ft 4 in1981943 Central Catholic H. S. Pittsburgh, PA James Mariadesguard 0 5 ft 9 in 1801944 Groveton H. S.Groveton, PA George Mitchell*guard86 ft1901942Ellsworth H. S.Ellsworth, PA Stephen Mlanarichguard 0 5 ft 8 in1801944East Pittsburgh H. S.East Pittsburgh, PA Leo Muellertackle 0 5 ft 10 in 2001944Perry H. S. Pittsburgh, PA Joe Pierreend 0 6 ft1751944 Windber H. S.Windber, PA Raymond Rabinek*quarterback15 ft 10 in1801942South H. S. Pittsburgh, PA Alex Ramseytackle 0 6 ft2051944 Pittsburgh, PA Bruce Reuterhalfback 1 5 ft 10 in1651944Aspinwall H. S.Aspinwall, PA Martin Rosepink*end 6 5 ft 11 in1901944Verona H. S.Verona, PA John Ross*fullback55 ft 10 in1841942Ellsworth H. S.Ellsworth, PA Frank Saksa*halfback85 ft 11 in1801943Braddock H. S. Braddock, PA Joe Salvucci*tackle 6 6 ft2101944Peabody H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Frank Scattonquarterback 2 5 ft 11 in1751944Hazleton H. S. Hazleton, PA John Shaffertackle 1 5 ft 10 in1801944 Pittsburgh, PA Mitchell Sinclairend 0 5 ft 11 in1651944Canonsburg H. S.Canonsburg, PA Steve Sinclaircenter 7 6 ft 1 in2101942Canonsburg H. S.Canonsburg, PA Joe Skladaneyhalfback 0 6 ft1851944Larksville H. S. Larksville, PA Michael Sotakend 5 5 ft 9 in1801944Hazleton H. S.Hazleton, PA John Stahl*end95 ft 10 in1851942Tarentum H. S.Tarentum, PA Jack Stetler*halfback 8 5 ft 10 in1681941 Glenshaw H. S.Glenshaw, PA Harold Stickel*halfback 3 5 ft 10 in1681944McKees Rocks H. S.McKees Rocks, PA Richard Stittguard 0 5 ft 11 in1801944Tarentum H. S. Tarentum, PA Robert Stodgellguard05 ft 11 in1851942Peru H. S. Peru, IN Walter Wardtackle05 ft 10 in 1801943 Bellevue H. S. Pittsburgh, PA Walter West*quarterback96 ft 1851943Burgettstown H. S. Atlasburg, PA William Rittenbaugh*varsity football manager 1942Peabody H. S. Pittsburgh, PA * LettermanOctober 11, 1941 University of Michigan, Board in Control of Physical Education University of Pittsburgh Roster–1941 Michigan vs. Pittsburgh 14Athletic Department Announces Lettermen The Pitt News 33 34 December 15, 1941 3 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062140565/viewer#page/3/mode/1up January 26, 2023 Game summaries Purdue Week 1: Purdue at Pitt Purdue Pitt 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 October 4, 1941 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 24,000 hot H. O. Dayhoff (Bucknell) 1941 Purdue Boilermakers football team thumb|left|Program for October 4 game versus Purdue thumb|Ticket stub for October 4 game versus Purdue On October 4, the Panthers opened the season against Mal Elward's Purdue Boilermakers, the supposed weakest of their 4 Western Conference opponents. Purdue had 21 returning lettermen, but they were upset 3 to 0 by Vanderbilt in their opener.1941 Purdue Boilermakers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 27, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/purdue/1941-schedule.html Their guard Tom Melton was named third team All-America by the Associated Press. Coach Bowser warned: "Don't be fooled by that defeat by Vanderbilt. Purdue is a tough ball club, both offensively and defensively...Any squad that has 21 lettermen, plus a lot of good sophomores, is bound to be good...Our chief lack is experience, and we'll pick that up as we go along." The Panthers starting lineup had one holdover, end Stanley Gervelis, from the 1940 squad.Tom Hopkins Boilermakers On Rebound—Bowser Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 2, 1941 23 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117594189/purdue-is-panthers-first-opponent/ January 30, 2023 Newspapers.com Frank Carver, Pitt Publicity Director, announced that children under 12 would be admitted the game for 25 cents and soldiers in uniform would be admitted for 50 cents.Service Men, Kiddies Get Special Rate The Pittsburgh Press September 30, 1941 28 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117748984/servicemen-and-kiddies-get-special-rates/ February 1, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panthers lost their first home opener since 1922 as the Boilermakers eked out a 6 to 0 win. Pitt received the opening kick-off and advanced the ball to the Purdue 9-yard line. Four running plays failed to move the ball beyond the 1-yard line, and Purdue took over on downs. Purdue scored in the second period. Pitt back Bill Dutton fumbled on his own 29-yard line and Tom Melton recovered for Purdue. John Petty ran through right guard from the 2-yard line for the touchdown. John Galvin missed the point after. The Pitt offense then advanced the ball to the Purdue 22-yard, from where they threw five incomplete passes (off-setting penalties gave the extra down) as time ran out in the first half. Purdue back Ken Smock ran the second half kick-off back 65 yards to the Panther 35-yard line for the highlight of the game. The Pitt defense kept Purdue from scoring, even though the second half was mostly played in Pitt territory.Tom Hopkins Purdue Beats Pitt, 6–0 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 5, 1941 Section III-6 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117599752/purdue-spoils-home-opener-60/ January 30, 2023 Newspapers.com The Boilermakers finished the season with a 2–5–1 overall record and tied for seventh place in the Western Conference at 1–3.1941 Western Conference Year Summary Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 30, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/conferences/western/1941.html The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Purdue was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Harry Kindelberger (left tackle), George Mitchell (left guard), Jack Heister (center), Vince Antonelli (right guard), William Benghouser (right tackle), Harold Hinte (right end), Walter West (quarterback), Jack Stetler (left halfback), William Dutton (right halfback) and John Ross (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Norbert Gestner, Jack Durishan, Joseph Broudy, Steve Sinclair, Ralph Fife, Joe Salvucci, John Stahl, Ralph Hammond, Edgar Jones, Joe Connell, Frank Saska, Jack Kerr and Mat Gebel. Purdue Pittsburgh collapsed 2 Purdue 5 29 RushTD John Petty 2 no good John Galvin run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 0 6 0 At Michigan Week 2: Pitt at Michigan Pitt Michigan 0 0 0 0 6 0 14 20 October 11, 1941 Michigan StadiumAnn Arbor, MI 2:00 p.m. 34,403 clear Frank Lane (Cincinnati) 1941 Michigan Wolverines football team thumb|left|Program for October 11 game versus Michigan thumb|Ticket stub for October 11 game versus Michigan On October 11, the Pitt Panthers traveled to Ann Arbor, MI for their first game against Fritz Crisler's Michigan Wolverines in “The Big House”. Michigan was 2–0 on the season, having beaten Michigan State 19–7 and Iowa 6–0.1941 Michigan Wolverines Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 30, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/michigan/1941-schedule.html Fullback Bob Westfall and tackle Al Wistert received recognition on both the 1941 College Football All-America Team and the 1941 All-Big Ten Conference football team. Even though the Wolverines were 7-5 favorites, Crisler told the Detroit Free Press: "We are prepared for anything...We are taking nothing for granted."John N. Sabo Drill Belies Team's Role As Underdog The Detroit Free Press October 11, 1941 12 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117816601/pitt-underdog-at-michigan/ February 2, 2023 Newspapers.com While his 34-man traveling squad worked out on Michigan Stadium, Coach Bowser noted: "We're the underdogs and we should be. Michigan has a distinct edge in experience and that veteran Michigan line will be a tough nut to crack." Coach Bowser was correct as the Wolverines routed the Panthers 40 to 0. The Pitt offense was limited to three first downs (27 yards rushing and 18 yards passing). They never penetrated beyond the Michigan 35-yard line. Michigan scored 6 touchdowns, had one called back on a clipping penalty, and ran out of time on the Pitt 1-yard line to end the game. The Panthers' defense gave up a 72-yard, 14 play drive in the opening period. Michigan back Harold Lockard scored on a 6-yard run. Merv Pregulman missed the point after. The rest of the first half was scoreless. Left halfback Tom Kuzma scored two touchdowns in the third quarter. His 7-yard scoring jaunt, after a recovered Pitt fumble, was followed by a 48-yard punt return. Bob Ingalls converted both placements. Three substitute backs – Don Boor, Don Robinson and Dave Nelson – scored in the final quarter. Bill Melzow converted two of the placements to reach 40 points.Bob Murphy Nelson Has Big Day as U. M. Routs Pitt Detroit Sunday Times October 12, 1941 Part 2–6 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117886815/nelson-has-big-day/ February 3, 2023 Newspapers.comBob Murphy Lockard, Kuzma, Boor, Robinson, Nelson Score Detroit Sunday Times October 12, 1941 part 2-1 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117887260/pitt-routed-by-michigan/ February 3, 2023 Newspapers.com The Wolverines finished the season #5 in the final Associated Press poll with a record of 6–1–1. The 40–0 defeat was the worst drubbing handed the Panthers since 1903 when the WUP athletic department was in disarray and both Penn State (59–0) and Geneva (57–0) ran up the score.It Happened Before, But Long, Long Ago The Pittsburgh Press October 12, 1941 third section -11 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117889673/it-happened-before/ February 3, 2023 Newspapers.com Eddie Beachler of The Pittsburgh Press lamented: "Thus life begins at “40” for the Panthers – a new life of 40–0 defeats, marking the end of one of football's greatest dynasties that made Pitt's 'Sock It To-Em!' one of the most feared cries in the grid world."Eddie Beachler Deflation's Dreary Path Due For Terrific Climax in Tests With Gophers, Irish The Pittsburgh Press October 13, 1941 19 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117891997/de-emphasis-means-losing-seasons/ February 3, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Michigan was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Harry Kindelberger (left tackle), George Mitchell (left guard), Jack Heister (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), William Benghouser (right tackle), Harold Hinte (right end), Walter West (quarterback), Jack Stetler (left halfback), William Dutton (right halfback) and John Ross (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were John Stahl, Norbert Gestner, Martin Rosepink, Jack Durishan, Joe Salvucci, Robert Crissman, Vince Antonelli, Joseph Broudy, William Dillon, Steve Sinclair, James Clowes, Ralph Hammond, George Allshouse, Frank Scatton, Edgar Jones, Joe Connell, Frank Saska, Jack Kerr and Mat Gebel.Pitt(y) Panther! The Pittsburgh Press October 12, 1941 III-11 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/116893211/pitty-panther/ January 20, 2023 Newspapers.com Pittsburgh Michigan collapsed 1 Michigan 14 72 RushTD Harold Lockard 6 no good Merv Pregulman run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 6 3 Michigan 2 29 RushTD Tom Kuzma 7 good Bob Ingalls run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 13 3 Michigan 1 48 PuntTD Tom Kuzma 48 good Bob Ingalls run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 20 4 Michigan 6 22 RushTD Don Boor 7 good Bill Melzow run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 27 4 Michigan 2 6 RushTD Don Robinson 5 good Bill Melzow run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 34 4 Michigan 2 24 RushTD Dave Nelson 27 no good Bill Melzow run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 40 0 40 At Minnesota Week 3: Pitt at Minnesota Pitt Minnesota 0 0 0 0 0 21 12 6 October 18, 1941 Memorial Stadium (University of Minnesota)Minneapolis, MN 2:00 p.m. 35,000 drizzle James Masker (Northwestern) 1941 Minnesota Golden Gophers football team thumb|left|Roster Sheet for October 18 game versus Minnesota On October 18, the Panthers traveled to Minneapolis, MN to play the defending National Champion Minnesota Gophers. 10-year coach Bernie Bierman's Gophers were on an eleven game win streak. They beat Washington and Illinois to open the season.1941 Minnesota Golden Gophers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football February 6, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/minnesota/1941-schedule.html All-America halfback and Heisman Trophy winner Bruce Smith led the backfield and All-America tackle Dick Wildung anchored the Gopher line.Consensus All-America Teams (1940-1949) Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football February 6, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/all-america-1940-1949.html#1941Bruce Smith Heisman Trophy Trust Heisman Trophy February 6, 2023 https://www.heisman.com/heisman-winners/bruce-smith/ Coach Bowser altered the lineup for the Gophers: George Allshouse replaced Jack Heister at center; Edgar Jones and Joe Connell replaced Jack Stetler and William Dutton at halfback and Mat Gebel replaced John Ross at fullback. The Gophers were favored by more than 25 points.Bob Beebe Pitt Better Than Rated, Says Coach Minneapolis Morning Tribune October 18, 1941 7 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118111385/pitt-better-than-rated-says-coach/ February 6, 2023 Newspapers.com Bowser told the Star Journal: "I'd say our morale is good under the circumstances and the changes we have made in the lineup this week have improved our team somewhat, but I'm not going to hazard any guess on what will happen until I see for myself."Charles Johnson Team Better, Morale Okay Upon Arrival The Minneapolis Star Journal October 17, 1941 26 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118110888/bowser-not-making-predictions/ February 6, 2023 Newspapers.com The Minnesota Gophers continued their winning streak buy routing the Panthers 39 to 0. The Panthers were shutout for the third week in a row. Statistically Pitt matched the Gophers in first downs (13 to 13) and gained 277 yards to the Gophers 340, but could not reach the end zone.Gopher Statistics Minneapolis Sunday Tribune and Star Journal October 19, 1941 Peach Section-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118168836/gopher-statistics/ February 7, 2023 Newspapers.com After a scoreless first quarter, Bill Daley scored twice in the second on 1-yard plunges. All-America back Bruce Smith was injured and replaced by Bob Higgins, who scampered 47 yards for the third touchdown. Bill Garnaas converted the extra points and Minnesota led 21 to 0 at halftime. The Gophers scored three second half touchdowns. Bill Garnaas's 70-yard interception return for a touchdown was sandwiched between two Bob Higgins short touchdown runs. One placement was blocked, one hit the crossbar and bounced back and one was wide. Final score 39–0.Gopher-Pitt Play-By-Play Minneapolis Sunday Tribune and Star Journal October 19, 1941 Peach Section-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118168409/gopher-pitt-play-by-play/ February 7, 2023 Newspapers.com The Minnesota Gophers finished the season unbeaten and were named National Champions in the final Associated Press football poll for the second year in a row. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Minnesota was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Harry Kindelberger (left tackle), George Mitchell (left guard), George Allshouse (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), William Benghouser (right tackle), Harold Hinte (right end), Walter West (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), Joe Connell (right halfback) and Mat Gebel (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Michael Sotak, Jack Durishan, Steve Sinclair, James Clowes, Vincent Antonelli, Joe Salvucci, John Stahl, Ralph Hammond, Jack Stetler, Harold Stickel, William Dutton and John Ross.Hey, No Score Yet? The Pittsburgh Press October 19, 1941 III-9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117388464/pitt-vs-minnesota-lineup/ January 27, 2023 Newspapers.com Pittsburgh Minnesota collapsed 2 Minnesota 7 65 RushTD Bill Daley 1 good Bill Garnaas run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 2 Minnesota 5 52 RushTD Bill Daley 1 good Bill Garnaas run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 14 2 Minnesota 6 60 RushTD Bob Higgins 47 good Bill Garnaas run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 21 3 Minnesota 4 21 RushTD Bob Higgins 2 no good (blocked) Bill Garnaas run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 27 3 Minnesota 1 70 IntTD Bill Garnaas 70 no good Bill Daley run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 33 4 Minnesota 6 55 RushTD Bob Higgins 1 no good Bill Garnaas run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 39 0 39 Duke Week 4: Duke at Pitt Duke Pitt 6 0 14 7 0 0 0 7 October 25, 1941 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 28,000 sunny and cool Leo Daley (Boston College) 1941 Duke Blue Devils football team thumb|left|Program for October 25 game versus Duke thumb|Ticket stub for October 25 game versus Duke On October 25, the Duke Blue Devils came to Pittsburgh for the second time in the six-game series. Pitt led the series 3–2, but Wallace Wade's club had won two of the past three.Football Lettermen University of Pittsburgh 2008 Pitt Football Media Guide 135 February 8, 2023 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/136/mode/1up The Devils were 4–0, ranked #4 and had outscored their opposition 139–28.1941 Duke Blue Devils Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football February 8, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/duke/1941-schedule.html Fullback Steve Lach and tackle Mike Karmazin received All-American honors.All-America Selections Duke University Media Relations Department 2022 Duke Football Media Guide 138 https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sidearm.nextgen.sites/goduke.com/documents/2022/7/21/2022_Duke_Football_Media_Guide.pdf February 8, 2023 Coach Wade told the Sun-Telegraph: "Some people have the idea we are shooting for a Rose Bowl bid. That idea definitely is wrong. We are not thinking of any post-season game. I doubt if the faculty committee would accept a bid if we were to receive one. The committee debated a full day before accepting the 1938 Rose Bowl bid. The school authorities feel that the football players are away from their work too long by the extension of the season through the holidays."Tom Hopkins 'Not Interested,' Says Blue Devil Grid Mentor Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 24, 1941 32 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118239102/duke-visits-pittsburgh/ February 8, 2023 Newspapers.com In front of 28,000 faithful fans, the Panthers suffered their fourth loss in a row to the Devils 27–7. Duke opened the scoring in the first period with a 35-yard touchdown pass from halfback Moffat Storer to halfback Steve Lach. Blue Devils' quarterback Tommy Prothro missed the point after. At the end of the second quarter, Pitt's Edgar Jones threw a 60-yard pass to end Stanley Gervelis but Duke halfback Tom Davis intercepted it on the 3-yard line as time ran out in the first half. The Panthers' defense gave up three touchdowns in the second half. Duke fullback Winston Siegfried plunged into the end zone from the 1-yard line, after a 55-yard, 16-play drive. Panther errors resulted in the final two Blue Devil scores. A Walter West fumble recovered by center Bob Barnett gave Duke possession on the Panthers' 26-yard line. Tom Davis scored on the second play. Later, Duke end Bob Gantt blocked a Joe Connell punt and Duke recovered on the Pitt 31-yard line. Duke's seventh play was a 5-yard touchdown pass from Tom Davis to Steve Lach. Tom Prothro converted the three placements and Duke led 27 to 0. The Pitt offense answered with a 17-play, 65-yard drive for their first score of the season. Substitute running back William Dutton gained 48 of the yards on seven carries, but John Ross broke through center from the 2-yard line for the touchdown. Ralph Fife converted the extra point to make the final score 27–7.Tom Hopkins Pitt Gets Touchdown, But Loses to Duke, 27–7 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 26, 1941 Section III-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118300508/pitt-finally-scores/ February 9, 2023 Newspapers.com Duke finished the regular season ranked #2 in the final Associated Press football poll with a record of 9–0. They were invited to play in the 1942 Rose Bowl, that was played in Durham, NC for national safety reasons, and lost to the Oregon State Beavers 20–16. Coach Bowser told The Press: "Well, we finally cracked the ice. The boys showed they at least can score, and now mebbe [sic] we can go ahead from here." The Pitt News reporters joked: "Hooray, no school Monday. Our side got a touchdown."Eddie Beachler Lach Shows Pitt How The Pittsburgh Press October 26, 1941 Third Section-12 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118304356/lach-shows-pitt-how/ February 9, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Duke was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Harry Kindelberger (left tackle), George Mitchell (left guard), George Allshouse (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), William Benghouser (right tackle), Harold Hinte (right end), Walter West (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), Joe Connell (right halfback) and Mat Gebel (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Jack Durishan, William Dillon, Joe Salvucci, John Stahl, Ralph Hammond, Jack Stetler, Frank Saksa, William Dutton and John Ross.We Scored, Anyhow! The Pittsburgh Press October 26, 1941 III-11 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117389100/pitt-versus-duke-lineup/ January 27, 2023 Newspapers.com Duke Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Duke 4 64 RecTD Steve Lach Moffat Storer 35 no good Tommy Prothjro run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 0 3 Duke 16 55 RushTD Winston Siegfried 1 good Tommy Prothro run/pass good/failed/incomplete 13 0 3 Duke 2 26 RushTD Tom Davis 8 good Tommy Prothro run/pass good/failed/incomplete 20 0 4 Duke 7 31 RecTD Steve Lach Tom Davis 5 good Tommy Prothjro run/pass good/failed/incomplete 27 0 4 Pitt 17 65 RushTD John Ross 2 good Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 27 7 27 7 Ohio State Week 5: Ohio State at Pitt Ohio State Pitt 6 6 7 2 0 7 7 0 November 1, 1941 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 50,000 sunny and cool W. T. Halloran (Holy Cross) 1941 Ohio State Buckeyes football team thumb|left|Photographer pass for the November 1 game versus Ohio State thumb|Program for November 1 game versus Ohio State On November 1, the Panthers played the Ohio State Buckeyes, their fourth Western Conference opponent. The all-time series stood at 2–2–1. Paul Brown was in his first year and had the Buckeyes at 3–1 with victories over Missouri, USC and Purdue. Their only loss was to Northwestern who were led by Otto Graham.1941 Ohio State Buckeyes Schedule and results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/ohio-state/1941-schedule.html February 13, 2023 Buckeye tackle Jim Daniell (brother of Pitt great Averell Daniell) was named to the first team Central Press Association All-America squad.Walter L. Johns Midwest, South Top Captains' All-Americas Reading Eagle December 7, 1941 https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=YI8hAAAAIBAJ&sjid=uJcFAAAAIBAJ&pg=4839,1948324&dq=wildung+sinkwich&hl=en Prior to the Pitt game Coach Brown dismissed starting left end Charley Anderson from the squad for disobeying team rules. Sam Fox took his place and Dick Burgett started at fullback for the injured Jack Graf.Tom Hopkins Bowser Revamps Pitt Lineup in Move to Generate Power Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 1, 1941 9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118637457/bowser-changes-lineup-for-buckeye-game/ February 14, 2023 Newspapers.com Charley Bowser revamped the Panther lineup for the Buckeyes - Jack Durishan replaced Harry Kindelberger at left tackle, John Stahl replaced Harold Hinte at right end, William Dutton replaced Joe Connell at right halfback, and Frank Saksa replaced Mat Gebel at fullback. Coach Bowser's new lineup gave the Buckeyes a battle, but the Ohio eleven prevailed and kept the Panthers winless with a 21 to 14 victory. In the first quarter, Ohio guard Lindell Houston recovered a Stan Gervelis fumble on the Buckeyes 40-yard line. The Buckeyes drove 60 yards in three plays. Tom Kinkade went 32 yards around left end for the touchdown. Leon Schoenbaum's extra point was blocked. The next Ohio touchdown came in the second quarter. Fullback Burgett went over left guard from the 1-yard line to culminate a 7-play, 43-yard drive. Schoenbaum's kick was blocked again. The Panthers' offense answered with an 11-play, 82-yard drive. Frank Saksa bulled over center for the touchdown and Ralph Fife added the placement. Pitt got the ball back via fumble recovery on the Ohio 35-yard line. The Pitt offense moved the ball to the Ohio 14-yard line, where the Ohio State defense held and took over on downs. Ohio led 12 to 7 at halftime. The Buckeyes took the second half kick-off and drove 84-yards in 5 plays for their final touchdown of the game. Ohio back Dick Fisher ran 35-yards through right tackle for the score. Schoenbaum converted the placement and Ohio led 19 to 7. Ohio regained possession and tried to pass. Pitt's Edgar "Special Delivery" Jones intercepted Fisher's pass and raced 45-yards for a touchdown. Fife kicked the point after and Pitt trailed 19 to 14. The OSU punter kept the Panthers deep in their own territory in the final period. Ohio guard George Cheroke broke through the Panthers' line and blocked a Jones punt into the end zone. Jones recovered the ball for a safety to end the scoring.Tom Hopkins Jones Hero in Panther Showing Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 2, 1941 Section 3-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118643556/ohio-state-prevails-but-panthers-close/ February 14, 2023 Newspapers.com Ohio State finished the season ranked #13 in the Associated Press football poll with a 6–1–1 record. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Ohio State was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Jack Durshan (left tackle), George Mitchell (left guard), George Allshouse (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), William Benghouser (right tackle), John Stahl (right end), Walter West (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), William Dutton (right halfback) and Frank Saksa (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Michael Sotak, Harry Kindelberger, William Dillon, Joseph Broudy, Vincent Antonelli, Harold Hinte, Martin Rosepink, Ralph Hammond, Jack Stetler, and Joe Connell.Closer and Closer The Pittsburgh press November 2, 1941 III-9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117390294/pitt-versus-ohio-state-lineup/ January 27, 2023 Newspapers.com Ohio State Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Ohio State 3 60 RushTD Tom Kincade 32 no good (blocked) Leon Schoenbaum run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 0 2 Ohio State 7 43 RushTD Richard Burgett 1 no good (blocked) Leon Schoenbaum run/pass good/failed/incomplete 12 0 2 Pitt 11 82 RushTD Frank Saksa 1 good Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 12 7 3 Ohio State 5 84 RushTD Dick Fisher 35 good Leon Schoenbaum run/pass good/failed/incomplete 19 7 3 Pitt 1 45 IntTD Edgar Jones 45 good Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 19 14 4 Ohio State SafetyOther Jones recovered blocked punt 21 14 21 14 Fordham Week 6: Fordham at Pitt Fordham Pitt 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 6 November 8, 1941 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 50,000 cold E. A. Geiges (Temple) 1941 Fordham Rams football team thumb|left|Program for November 8 game versus Fordham thumb|Ticket stub for November 8 game versus Fordham On November 8, the Panthers met the unbeaten (5–0) Fordham Rams at Pitt Stadium. Jim Crowley's Rams had outscored their previous opponents 115–38, and, as 8–1 favorites with a #3 ranking in the AP poll, were favored to win their remaining games and return to a bowl.1941 Fordham Rams Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football February 15, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/fordham/1941-schedule.htmlJack Smith Rams, 8–1, to Wallop Pittsburgh's Amateurs The Daily News New York, New York November 8, 1941 28 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118695551/rams-heavily-favored-over-pitt/ February 15, 2023 Newspapers.com Fordham led the all-time series 2–1–3, and due to Pitt's football de-emphasis, this was the final meeting on the gridiron between the two schools.Tom Hopkins Rams Seek Sixth Win In Row Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 8, 1941 9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118694372/rams-seek-sixth-win-in-row/ February 15, 2023 Newspapers.com Sportswriters considered this Crowley's best team with end Jim Lansing, halfback Jim Blumenstock and fullback Steve Filipowicz earning All-America laurels.Fordham All-Americans Fordham University Libraries 1965 Fordham University Football Press Brochure 17 https://www.library.fordham.edu/digital/item/collection/p17265coll9/id/1700 February 15, 2023 Crowley was cautious: "We are not over the hump yet by any means. We still have three ball clubs to meet and any one of them might come through with an upset...Fordham is in fine physical condition. The boys have played fine ball to date and I hope they can continue their fine pace."Tom Hopkins Crowley Sees Pitt in Fine Spot For Great Upset Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 7, 1941 29 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118700736/crowley-worried-about-upset/ February 15, 2023 Newspapers.com In front of 20,000 fans, the Panthers shocked the football world with a 13–0 shutout of the Rams. After two exchanges of punts, the Panthers' offense gained possession on the Pitt 30-yard line. The Panthers' 11-play drive ended with fullback Frank Saksa's 1-yard plunge into the end zone. Ralph Fife converted the point after and Pitt led 7 to 0. The rest of the first half was mainly a punting duel. Late in the quarter, Fordham advanced into Pitt territory but Saksa intercepted an errant Filipowicz pass on the 12-yard line and returned the ball to the 37-yard line as time expired. In the third period, Fordham advanced the ball to the Pitt 13-yard line. A bad center snap lost 9 yards and the Pitt defense stiffened and took over on downs. In the fourth quarter, Edgar "Special Delivery" Jones intercepted a Benny Babula pass and raced 33 yards for the second touchdown. The extra point was blocked and Pitt led 13 to 0. The Panthers had to intercept two more passes before the upset was final.Tom Hopkins Panthers Ruin Rams' Bowl Dreams Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 9, 1941 Section 3-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118768880/panthers-upset-rams-bowl-dreams/ February 16, 2023 Newspapers.com Bowser was upbeat: "I believe this thing had been building up over quite some time. The boys have been improving steadily in recent games. For the first time this season they didn't make any mistakes. The boys were alert mentally, had lots of poise and most important, worked together as a unit....All our players did a grand job, and while the game proved our squad doesn't have much depth in material–it proved we could play good football."Pitt Lauded By Faculty The Pittsburgh Press November 10, 1941 27 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118773156/pitt-lauded-by-faculty/ February 16, 2023 Newspapers.com Fordham finished the regular season with a 7–1 record and earned an invitation to the Sugar Bowl. They beat Missouri2–0 and were ranked #6 in the final Associated Press football poll. Coach Charles Bowser was selected "Coach of the Week" by the United Press for the upset victory over the Rams.Bow to Bowser The Pittsburgh Press November 12, 1941 31 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118778971/bowser-coach-of-the-week/ February 16, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Fordham was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Jack Dursihan (left tackle), William Dillon (left guard), George Allshouse (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), William Benghouser (right tackle), John Stahl (right end), Walter West (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), William Dutton (right halfback) and Frank Saksa (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Michael Sotak, Harry Kindelberger, Vincent Antonelli, Steve Sinclair, Albert Kunkel, Vincent Antonelli, Martin Rosepink, Jack Stetler and Joe Connell.Sweet Victory The Pittsburgh Press November 9, 1941 III-14 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117391430/ January 27, 2023 Newspapers.com Fordham Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Pitt 11 70 RushTD Frank Saksa 1 good Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 4 Pitt 1 33 IntTD Edgar Jones 33 no good (blocked) Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 13 0 13 At Nebraska Week 7: Pitt at Nebraska Pitt Nebraska 0 0 0 14 0 7 0 0 November 15, 1941 Memorial Stadium (Lincoln)Lincoln, NE 2:00 p.m. 35,000 clear and warm Dwight Ream (Washburn) 1941 Nebraska Cornhuskers football team thumb|left|Program for the November 15 game versus Nebraska On November 15, the Panthers traveled to Lincoln, NE for their annual game with the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Pitt led the series 9–3–3, but Nebraska won the previous two meetings in Pittsburgh. The Panthers were unbeaten in Lincoln (4–0–3).All-Time Series University of Pittsburgh Media Relations Office 2008 Pitt Football Media Guide 142 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/139/mode/1up February 16, 2023 Eddie Beachler of The Press noted: "With Major Lawrence 'Biff' Jones losing 18 members of last year's Rose Bowl squad through graduation and the draft, the Huskers are no longer bossing the Big Six, a group which they ruled with an iron fist for nine of the past 13 years."Eddie Beachler Panthers Out to 'Get Even' With Huskers The Pittsburgh Press November 13, 1941 26 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/118780605/panthers-off-to-play-nebraska/ February 16, 2023 Newspapers.com The Huskers, after starting the season with 2 victories, were on a 4-game losing streak.1941 Nebraska Cornhuskers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football February 16, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/nebraska/1941-schedule.html On Wednesday at 11 pm the 33-member Pitt squad boarded the train to Chicago, IL. The layover included a workout on Thursday at Chicago Stadium. They departed Thursday night and arrived in Omaha, NE on Friday morning. After a morning visit to Boys Town, Bowser held another workout at Benson field on Friday afternoon. The squad traveled the final 55 miles to Lincoln on Saturday morning. Harry Kindelberger started at tackle in place of the injured Jack Durishan.Pitt Gridders Halt at Omaha The Lincoln Star Lincoln, Nebraska November 14, 1941 11 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119829268/pitt-arrives-in-omaha/ February 27, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panthers won their second game and kept their unbeaten streak in Lincoln intact with a 14 to 7 victory over the Cornhuskers. Nebraska scored first. In the second period Dale Bradley scored from the 3-yard line after the Huskers offense drove 68 yards in 10 plays. Vic Schleich converted the extra point and Nebraska led 7 to 0 at halftime. After the break, the Huskers offense drove 77 yards in 18 plays to the Pitt 3-yard line, but lost the ball on downs. With ten minutes left in the game, Pitt gained possession on their own 38-yard line. Eleven plays later Bill Dutton bulled into the end zone from the 1-yard line, and Ralph Fife converted the point after to tie the score. The teams exchanged punts. Pitt back Edgar "Special Delivery" Jones intercepted Bradley's pass and raced 75 yards for a touchdown. Fife booted the point and Pitt led 14 to 7 with 15 seconds left. Nebraska went to the air again and Jones intercepted an errant Howard Debus pass and raced 48 yards before he was tackled on the 3-yard line as time ran out.Play By Play of Pitt's Victory on Late Rally on U. N. Sunday World-Herald Omaha, Nebraska November 16, 1941 B-Five https://www.newspapers.com/clip/119838820/play-by-play-of-pitt-versus-nebraska/ February 27, 2023 Newspapers.com In what was Biff Jones' final season, Nebraska finished with a 4–5 record. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Nebraska was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Harry Kindelberger (left tackle), William Dillon (left guard), George Allshouse (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), William Benghouser (right tackle), John Stahl (right end), Walter West (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), Joe Connell (right halfback) and Frank Saksa (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Jack Durshan, George Mitchell, Steve Sinclair, Vincent Antonelli, Martin Rosepink, Ralph Hammond, Harold Stickel and William Dutton.Superman Stuff The Pittsburgh Press November 16, 1941 III-9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117392377/pitt-versus-nebraska-lineup/ January 27, 2023 Newspapers.com Pittsburgh Nebraska collapsed 2 Nebraska 10 67 RushTD Dale Bradley 2 good Vic Schleich run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 4 Pittsburgh 11 62 RushTD Bill Dutton 1 good Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 7 4 Pitt 1 75 IntTD Edgar Jones 75 good Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 14 7 14 7 Penn State Week 8: Penn State at Pitt Penn State Pitt 0 14 10 7 7 0 0 0 November 22, 1941 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 33,000 sunny and cool F. X. Keating (Fitchburg) 1941 Penn State Nittany Lions football team thumb|left|Program for November 22 game versus Penn State On November 22, the 5–2 Penn State Nittany Lions, led by 12-year coach Bob Higgins, was Pitt's opponent. The Lions lost 2 of their first 3 games, but arrived in Pittsburgh on a 4-game win streak.1941 Penn State Nittany Lions Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football March 6, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/penn-state/1941-schedule.html The Panthers led the all-time series 24–14–2, but Coach Higgins was optimistic: "In past years we just haven't had a chance. Pitt's third team usually was as good as our varsity. Last year we had a pretty good chance but got off to a bad start and never regained our balance. We'll give them a battle this time, right down to the finish."Tom Hopkins Lions Seek Fifth Win In Row Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 22, 1941 9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/120362769/lions-seek-fifth-win-in-row/ March 7, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Higgins was right as his Lions pummeled the Panthers 31 to 7. Pitt opened the scoring in the first quarter. The Panther offense engineered a 3-play, 57-yard drive highlighted by a 43-yard touchdown run by Edgar Jones on a reverse. Jones ran the fumbled extra point snap into the end zone to make the score 7 to 0. The Penn State eleven dominated the rest of the contest. John "Pepper" Petrella scored three touchdowns and Ralph Ventresco added another. Bill Smaltz converted on all four extra points and booted a 16-yard field goal. The Lions earned 14 first downs. They gained 171 yards rushing and 90 yards through the air by completing 6 of 12 passes. The Panthers only managed 4 first downs and 81 yards rushing.Tom Hopkins Smaltz, Petrella Star as Lions Shatter 22-Year-Old Jinx Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 23, 1941 Section 3-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/120434725/lions-massacre-panthers/ March 8, 2023 Newspapers.comPitt-State Yardstick Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 23, 1941 Section 3-2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/120435036/pitt-state-yardstick/ March 8, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Bowser stated: "We were simply outcharged and outfought." Penn State was "as tough a team as we've met this year."Eddie Beachler 'We've Waited a Long Time' – Bob Higgins The Pittsburgh Press November 23, 1941 Third Section-12 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/120521072/pitt-outfought-in-loss/ March 8, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Penn State was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Jack Durishan (left tackle), William Dillon (left guard), George Allshouse (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), William Benghouser (right tackle), John Stahl (right end), Walter West (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), William Dutton (right halfback) and Frank Saksa (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Michael Sotak, Harry Hindelberger, George Mitchell, Steve Sinclair, Vincent Antonelli, Joe Salvucci, Martin Rosepink, Ralph Hammond, Jack Stetler and Joe Connell.Jinx Breakers The Pittsburgh Press November 23, 1941 III-9 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117392971/pitt-versus-penn-state-lineup/ January 27, 2023 Newspapers.com Penn State Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Pittsburgh 3 57 RushTD Edgar Jones 43 not attempted, Jones recovered fumbled snap for extra point Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 2 Penn State 7 53 RushTD John “Pepper” Petrella 1 good Bill Smaltz run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 7 2 Penn State 4 12 RushTD John “Pepper” Petrella 2 good Bill Smaltz run/pass good/failed/incomplete 14 7 3 Penn State 6 51 RushTD John “Pepper” Petrella 24 good Bill Smaltz run/pass good/failed/incomplete 21 7 3 Penn State 4 3 FG 16 Bill Smaltz good/failed/incomplete 24 7 4 Penn State 8 44 RushTD Ralph Ventresco 1 good Bill Smaltz run/pass good/failed/incomplete 31 7 31 7 Carnegie Tech Week 9: Carnegie Tech at Pitt Carnegie Tech Pitt 0 0 0 0 0 13 7 7 November 29, 1941 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 19,000 sunny and cool H. O. Dayhoff (Bucknell) 1941 Carnegie Tech Tartans football team thumb|left|Program for November 29 game versus Carnegie Tech thumb|Ticket stub for November 29 game versus Carnegie Tech On November 29, the (2–6) Pitt Panthers were matched against the (1–6) Carnegie Tech Tartans in the final game of the season for both schools. Pitt led the once heralded "City Game" series 21–5–1.All-Time Series University of Pittsburgh Media Relations Office 2008 Pitt Football Media Guide 139 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/136/mode/1up February 16, 2023 Tartan coach Eddie Baker's squad numbered only 23 and his best running back, Virgil Cantini, was injured and would not play.Tom Hopkins Tartans In Danger of Dropping Last Major Opponent Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 28, 1941 29 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/120564733/tartans-in-danger-of-dropping-last-major/ March 10, 2023 Newspapers.com Tackle Lou Zelenka, who enlisted in the Army earlier in the week, received permission to play. Fifteen seniors were playing their final game as Panthers – Al Kunkel, Ralph Fife, Stan Gervelis, Joe Connell, John Ross, Hap Stickel, Ray Rabinek, Stave Sinclair, Bill Benghouser, John Stahl, Robert Crissman, Harry Kindelberger, George Mitchell, George Allshouse and Edgar Jones.Eddie Beachler 20,000 to See Rivals Clash at Stadium – Final Game for 21 Seniors The Pittsburgh Press November 29, 1941 7 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/120576466/city-game-saturday/ March 10, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panthers dominated the Tartans and won 27–0 for their third victory of the season. The Panther offense drove the ball 78-yards to open the game, but the Tartan defense held and took over on downs at their 1-yard line. After an exchange of punts the Panther offense gained possession on the Tartan 43-yard line. Bill Dutton capped the touchdown drive with a two-yard plunge. Ralph Fife's point after was blocked by Bill Philipchuck. Late in the half, Edgar Jones fielded a punt on the Tech 39-yard line. He lost 6 yards on first down, but on second down he raced 45 yards for the touchdown. Fife was good on the placement and Pitt led 13–0 at halftime. Early in the third period Dutton intercepted an errant Tartan pass on the Panther 34-yard line. The 5-play, 66-yard drive ended with an 18-yard reverse from Joe Connell to Edgar Jones for the touchdown. Fife booted the point and Pitt led 20–0. The Pitt reserves played most of the second half. Late in the game the Panther offense marched 78 yards for the final touchdown. Dutton bulled into the end zone from 2-yards out. The referees debated for some time before awarding the touchdown. Joe Connell added the point after to close the scoring.Tom Hopkins Panthers Defeat Tartans in Listless Battle, 27–0 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 30, 1941 Section 4–5 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/120582529/pitt-beats-city-rival-27-to-0/ March 10, 2023 Newspapers.com Statistics proved Pitt's domination. The Panthers had 18 first downs to Tech's 4 and 293 rushing yards to Tech's 24.Pitt-Tech Statistics The Pittsburgh Press November 30, 1941 Third Section-11 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/120584782/pitt-tech-statistics/ March 10, 2023 Newspapers.com Immediately after the game, Edgar "Special Delivery" Jones left for New York to participate in a charity football game on Sunday at the Polo Grounds. An All-Star Negro eleven played against a team of college stars and some New York Yankee pros.Girl and Mother Kiss Jones Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 30, 1941 Section 4–5 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/120585565/girl-and-mother-kiss-jones/ March 10, 2023 Newspapers.com The Yankees won 24–20.Hy Turkin Yanks Dim Stars, 24–20; DeCorrevont Best The Daily News New York, New York December 1, 1941 53 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/120586940/yanks-win-charity-contest/ March 10, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Carnegie Tech was Stanley Gervelis (left end), Jack Durishan (left tackle), William Dillon (left guard), George Allshouse (center), Ralph Fife (right guard), William Benghouser (right tackle), John Stahl (right end), Walter West (quarterback), Edgar Jones (left halfback), William Dutton (right halfback) and Frank Saksa (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Michael Sotak, Norbert Gestner, Harry Kindelberger, John Shaffer, George Mitchell, Steve Sinclair, Albert Kunkel, Vincent Antonelli, Ray Rabinek, Joe Salvucci, Robert Crissman, Martin Rosepink, Frank Scatton, John Stetler, Harold Stickel, Joseph Connell, Bruce Reuter, Joseph Adamchic, Mat Gebel and John Ross.Jones' Farewell The Pittsburgh Press November 30, 1940 III-11 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/117592452/pitt-ends-season-with-win/ January 30, 2023 Newspapers.com Carnegie Tech Pittsburgh collapsed 2 Pittsburgh 43 RushTD Bill Dutton 2 blocked Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 6 2 Pittsburgh 2 39 RushTD Edgar "Special Delivery" Jones 45 good Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 13 3 Pittsburgh 5 66 RushTD Edgar "Special Delivery" Jones 18 good Ralph Fife run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 20 4 Pittsburgh 78 RushTD Bill Dutton 1 good Joe Connell run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 27 0 27 Individual scoring summary 1941 Pittsburgh Panthers scoring summaryPittsburgh Panthers Player Touchdowns Extra points Field goals Safety Points Edgar Jones610037 Bill Dutton300018 Frank Saksa200012 Ralph Fife08008 John Ross10006 Joe Connell01001 Totals12100082 Postseason Guard Ralph Fife was named first team All-America by the Associated Press.Ralph Fife Named on A. P. All-America Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph December 12, 1941 34 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/120645778/ralph-fife-first-team-a-p-all-americ/ March 11, 2023 Newspapers.com On December 5, Fife was awarded a gold watch during the Kate Smith radio hour by Fordham coach Jim Crowley for being a member of the "Kate Smith All-American Football squad."Fife Honored By Radio Star The Pitt News 33 30 December 5, 1941 1 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062140607/viewer#page/1/mode/1up March 11, 2023 He was named second team All-American by NEA, Ted Husing of CBS, and the United Press.Earl Surloff Fife, Jones Picked by Sportswriters, Announcers On All-American Elevens The Pitt News 33 30 December 5, 1941 6 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062140607/viewer#page/6/mode/1up March 11, 2023 Halfback Edgar "Special Delivery" Jones received honorable mentions on both the International News Service and United Press All-American football teams. Coach Carl Snavely chose Jones for the North squad in the annual North-South All-Star game on Christmas Day. Coaches Andy Kerr and Bernie Bierman chose Fife and end Stanley Gervelis to play for the East squad in the annual East-West Shrine Game in San Francisco on New Year's Day. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, the game was moved to Tulane Stadium in New Orleans and played on January 3, 1942 for security reasons.Fife, Gervelis Depart for Drills The Pitt News 33 36 December 19, 1941 6 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062140508/viewer#page/6/mode/1up March 13, 2023 Team players drafted into the NFL The following players were selected in the 1942 NFL draft. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1942/draft.htm Pro Football Reference Sports Reference LLC SR/Pro Football January 11, 2023 2 Pittsburgh Panthers Player Position Round Pick NFL club Stan GervelisEnd14127Brooklyn Dodgers Edgar JonesBack19180Chicago Bears References Pittsburgh Category:Pittsburgh Panthers football seasons Pittsburgh Panthers football