1965 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

American college football season August 2023 February 2026 1965 Pittsburgh Panthers football Independent 3–7 John Michelosen 11th Pitt Stadium The 1965 Pittsburgh Panthers football team represented the University of Pittsburgh as an independent during the 1965 NCAA University Division football season. The team compiled a 3–7 record under head coach John Michelosen. The team's statistical leaders included Kenny Lucas with 1,921 passing yards and Barry McKnight with 406 rushing yards.1965 Pittsburgh Panthers Stats Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football May 21, 2016 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/pittsburgh/1965.html Schedule AP September 18 l Oregon Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 15–17 31,916 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-arizona-republic-qb-highlights-webfo/189722856/ The Arizona Republic QB highlights Webfoot win against Pitt September 19, 1965 March 12, 2026 Newspapers.com September 25 w Oklahoma Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 13–9 24,452 https://www.newspapers.com/article/fort-worth-star-telegram-pitt-beats-ou-f/193237932/ Fort Worth Star-Telegram Pitt beats OU first time, 13–9 September 26, 1965 March 12, 2026 Newspapers.com October 2 l y West Virginia Mountaineer Field Morgantown, WV rivalry 48–63 35,000 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-san-bernardino-county-sun-west-virgi/139192089/ The San Bernardino County Sun West Virginia stuns Pitt in 63–48 spree October 3, 1965 January 20, 2024 Newspapers.com October 9 l y Duke Duke Stadium Durham, NC 13–21 25,000 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-greenville-news-glacken-duke-dump-p/139208688/ The Greenville News Glacken, Duke dump Pitt, 21–13 October 10, 1965 January 20, 2024 Newspapers.com October 16 l y Navy District of Columbia Stadium Washington, DC 0–12 24,183 Middle Defense Holds: Navy 12–0 Victor Over Pittsburgh New York Times Werden Lincoln A. October 17, 1965 S1 October 23 w Miami (FL) Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 28–14 37,431 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-plain-dealer-pitt-lambasts-miami-28/193238098/ The Plain Dealer Pitt Lambasts Miami, 28 to 14 October 24, 1965 March 12, 2026 Newspapers.com October 30 l y Syracuse Shea Stadium Flushing, NY rivalry 13–51 24,590 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-star-ledger-syracuse-wins-5113-li/193238234/ The Star-Ledger Syracuse wins, 51–13, Little gets 4 TDs October 31, 1965 March 12, 2026 Newspapers.com November 6 l Notre Dame 4 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 13–69 57,169 https://www.newspapers.com/article/st-louis-post-dispatch-irish-trample-pi/193238328/ St. Louis Post-Dispatch Irish trample Pitt, 69–13 November 7, 1965 March 12, 2026 Newspapers.com November 13 l y USC 6 Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Los Angeles, CA 0–28 40,339 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-san-bernardino-county-sun-ucla-sc-g/189716037/ The San Bernardino Sun-Telegram UCLA, SC gallop toward War of Roses November 14, 1965 March 12, 2026 Newspapers.com November 20 w Penn State Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 30–27 35,567 https://www.newspapers.com/article/chicago-tribune-3-seconds-to-go-pitt-wi/193238503/ Chicago Tribune 3 seconds to go, Pitt wins, 30–27 November 21, 1965 March 12, 2026 Newspapers.com Schedule/Results (1965 Pittsburgh) https://stats.ncaa.org/teams/251111 National Collegiate Athletic Association NCAA Statistics March 12, 2026 Preseason The de-emphasis of the football program was felt most strongly from 1965 through 1972. Bill Cabin wrote in the April 28, 1965 Pitt News: “Rumors about financial problems have been circulating since November, and Chancellor Edward H. Litchfield admits the university is under financial stress.” Three assistant coaches (Ernie Hefferle, Bill Kaliden, Joe Pullikines) resigned along with head trainer Frank Weichec. Athletic Director Frank Carver dismissed the idea that finances influenced their decisions, but they all received jobs with substantial pay increases.Bill Cabin The Log The Pitt News 59 79 April 28, 1965 12 August 27, 2026 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062164680 On May 22, while Chancellor Litchfield attempted to solicit donations and funding, he suffered a heart attack. On July 28, he decided to resign and Dr. Stanton C. Crawford was named Acting Chancellor. On August 23, 1966, the University of Pittsburgh became a state-related school.Kenneth Eskey Litchfield Era Ends In Pitt Crisis The Pittsburgh Press July 28, 1965 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-litchfield-era-ends/205648658/ September 9, 2026 Newspapers.com Robert C. Alberts Pitt: The Story of the University of Pittsburgh 1787–1987 1986 978-0-8229-1150-0 University of Pittsburgh Press 342, 343 Athletic Director, Frank Carver, hired former Pitt end Bob Rosborough, former Panther tackle Dick Mills and former Penn and Rutgers head coach John Stiegman to complete Michelosen's staff.Rosborough Panther Aide Pittsburgh Post-Gazette July 9, 1965 19 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-rosborough-panth/204801333/ August 28, 2026 Newspapers.comDick Mills Joins Pitt Grid Staff Pittsburgh Post-Gazette July 23, 1965 18 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-dick-mills-joins/204800455/ August 28, 2026 Newspapers.comStiegman Hired as Pitt Assistant Pittsburgh Post-Gazette February 25, 1965 28 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-stiegman-hired-a/204802622/ August 28, 2026 Newspapers.com Due to the assistant coaching matters, the football staff was able to only recruit 16 incoming freshmen.Roy McHugh Recruiting Woes Mount For Panthers The Pittsburgh Press July 18, 1965 2, Sec. 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-recruiting-woes-mou/204781885/ August 28, 2026 Newspapers.com On March 18, Coach Michelosen welcomed 67 varsity hopefuls, including 20 lettermen, for spring practice. The NCAA allowed 20 days of practice, but the Pitt trimester break interfered with the calendar. The Blue-White intra-squad game was played on April 24. The Blues beat the Whites 30–25. Halfback Eric Crabtree scored 4 touchdowns for the winners. Quarterback Jim Alcorn threw 2 touchdown passes to end Bob Longo for the losing side. “I” Formation, Enthusiasm Highlight Spring Training The Pitt News 59 73 March 24, 1965 6 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062164623 August 28, 2026Bill Cabin Ken Lucas, Eric Crabtree Dominate Spring Grid Game The Pitt News 59 79 April 28, 1965 13 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062164680 August 28, 2026 On Sunday August 22, over 60 Panthers reported to the Stadium for their final camp, under the direction of Coach Michelosen, at Allegheny College. On Monday the squad bussed to Meadville. Tuesday was photo day, and on Wednesday 10 days of two-a-day drills began. On Saturday, September 4 a final scrimmage was played before bussing back to Pittsburgh for 12 more days of preparation prior to their opening game against Oregon.Jimmy Jordan Depleted Panthers Open Allegheny Training Camp Pittsburgh Post-Gazette August 19, 1965 33 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-depleted-panther/204799155/ August 28, 2026 Newspapers.com Game summaries Oregon Week 1:Oregon at Pitt Oregon Pitt 0 3 14 0 0 7 0 8 September 18, 1965 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 31,916 hot and humid Harry Roche yes 2 ORE Len Scholl 36-yard field goal ORE 3–0 2 PITT Bobby Dyer 1-yard run (Frank Clark kick) PITT 7–3 3 ORE Tom Trovato 8-yard pass to Scott Cress (Scholl kick) ORE 10–7 3 ORE Cress 6-yard run (Scholl kick) ORE 17–7 4 PITT Dyer 9-yard pass to Mitch Zalnasky (Dyer pass to Eric Crabtree) ORE 17–15 yes The Panthers opened the season against Coach Len Casanova's Oregon Ducks. Pitt led the all-time series 2–1, but Oregon had won the previous game played in Portland, OR. Pitt and Oregon have not met since on the gridiron.Jerry Uhrhammer Many Still Wondering Who Will Start? Eugene Register-Guard Eugene, Oregon September 17, 1965 1, Section C https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-register-guard-many-still-wondering/205636936/ September 9, 2026 Newspapers.com In front of an opening day crowd of 31,916 at Pitt Stadium, Oregon evened the all-time series at 2–2 with a 17–15 victory. After a scoreless opening period, the Ducks offense stalled on the Pitt 23-yard line and Len Scholl booted a 36-yard field goal. Pitt answered with a 13-play, 80-yard drive capped by a 1-yard touchdown dive by Bob Dyer. Frank Clark kicked the extra point. Pitt led 7–3 at halftime. The Oregon offense scored twice in the third period. First, halfback Scott Cress caught an 8-yard pass from Tom Trovato to end an 11-play, 72-yard drive. Then, the Oregon defense forced a punt and drove 87 yards for their final touchdown. Cress ran around left end for 6-yards. Scholl converted both extra points. In the final quarter, the Panthers offense drove deep inside Oregon territory to the 25-yard line but lost the ball on a fumble. They got the ball back, drove to the 5-yard line and fumbled again. The next Pitt drive ended with a Bob Dyer 8-yard touchdown pass to Mitch Zalnasky. Fullback Barry McKnight's run cut the lead to 2 points. The Panthers managed to regain possession and move the ball to the Ducks 8-yard line, but Kenny Lucas threw an interception and Oregon was able to run out the clock.Jerry Uhrhammer Oregon Unofficial Pennsylvania Champs; Beats Heat, Humidity and Pitt Panthers Eugene Register-Guard Eugene, Oregon September 19, 1965 1, Section B https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-register-guard-oregon-unofficial-pen/205640163/ September 9, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Oregon was Mitch Zalnasky (left end), Tom Raymond (left tackle), Gabe Tamburino (left guard), Fred Hoaglin (center), Tom Qualey (right guard), Jim Jones (right tackle), Mike Rosborough (right end), Ken Lucas (quarterback), Eric Crabtree (left halfback), Bob Dyer (right halfback) and Barry McKnight (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Ed Assid, Bob Longo, Greg Keller, John Verkleeren, Phil Dahar, Howard Heit, John Schmidt, Al Keiser, Robert Trethaway, Robert Guzinsky, George Macko, Ray Radakovich, Joe Novogratz,Tom Crosby, David Merrill, Tom Mitrakos, Jock Beachler, John Boucek, Bob Bazylak, Joe Pohl, James Dodaro, Dale Stewart, Joe Curtin, Gerald Rife, Jim Flanigan, Mike Raklewicz, Andy McGraw and Frank Clark.Panthers Oppose Oregon at Stadium The Pitt News 60 4 September 17, 1965 8 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735066366133 August 29, 2026 left Oregon Ducks ORE Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y 16 65–364 41–131 233 14–24-1 3 na 16 72–335 41–97 238 13–31-2 4 na right Oregon Ducks ORE Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y Tom Trovato 7/12, 111 yards, 1 int Dick Winn 9 carries, 39 yards Dennis Keller 2 receptions, 77 yards Kenny Lucas 12/29, 229 yards, 1 int Eric Crabtree 11 carries, 64 yards Eric Crabtree 2 receptions, 91 yards Oklahoma Week 2:OKLA at Pitt Oklahoma Pitt 0 3 0 6 0 13 0 0 September 25, 1965 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 24,452 partly cloudy and cool David H. Buchanan yes 2 OKLA Ron Shotts 24-yard field goal OKLA 3–0 2 PITT Kenny Lucas 22-yard pass to Eric Crabtree (James Jones kick) PITT 7–3 2 PITT Lucas 8-yard pass to Mitch Zalnasky (kick failed) PITT 13–3 4 OKLA John Hammond 8-yard pass to Gordon Brown (pass failed) PITT 13–9 yes On September 5, the Panthers hosted Coach Gomer Jones' Oklahoma Sooners for the third time in their series. Oklahoma had not lost to the Panthers and led the all-time series 4–0–1. Coach Jones had 20 returning lettermen on his roster, including All-American linebacker Carl McAdams.1965 Pitt Football For Press, Radio & TV University of Pittsburgh Oklahoma – September 25 17 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A1965d004652 September 10, 2026 Pitt managed to thrill the crowd of 24,452 fans by beating the Sooners 13–9. After a scoreless first quarter, in which the Panthers botched a field goal attempt, the Oklahoma offense moved to the Pitt 7-yard line and converted a Ron Shotts field goal. The Pitt offense answered with a 66-yard, 6-play drive, capped with a 22-yard touchdown pass from Kenny Lucas to Eric Crabtree. James Jones added the extra point. Then, with less than 2 minutes left in the half, a 14-yard punt gave Pitt possession on the Sooners 28-yard line. Lucas connected with end Mitch Zalnasky on three straight passes. The final 8-yard reception produced the touchdown. Jones' kick went wide left and Pitt lead 13–3. The Panthers squandered two scoring chances in the second half. Sooner guard Glanville Liggins blocked a 33-yard field goal attempt by Jones. Later Pitt drove to the 4-yard line and ended up turning the ball over on downs on the 9-yard line. Oklahoma started their 8-play, 91-yard touchdown drive with less than 6 minutes remaining. Quarterback John Hammond threw a 8-yard touchdown pass to Gordon Brown to cut the lead to 4 points. A fake placement attempt was intercepted by Pitt linebacker Tom Mitrakos. Oklahoma halfback Tom Pannell led all rushers with 82 yards. Barry McKnight's 43 yards led the Panthers. The crucial stat was Pitt punter Andy McGraw averaged 44 yards on 5 punts, while Sooner Tom Stidam averaged 29.9 on 7 kicks.Volney Meece Pitt Squeezes Sooners, 13–9 The Sunday Oklahoman Oklahoma City, Oklahoma September 26, 1965 4B https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-daily-oklahoman-pitt-squeezes-sooner/205770188/ September 11, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Oklahoma was Mitch Zalnasky (left end), Tom Raymond (left tackle), Gabe Tamburino (left guard), Fred Hoaglin (center), Tom Qualey (right guard), Jim Jones (right tackle), Mike Rosborough (right end), Ken Lucas (quarterback), Eric Crabtree (left halfback), Bob Dyer (right halfback) and Barry McKnight (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Ed Assid, Bob Longo, Greg Keller, Phil Dahar, George Hawryluk, Howard Heit, John Schmidt, Al Keiser, Robert Trethaway, Robert Guzinsky, Dave Drake, David Randour, Richard Genter, Joe Novogratz,Tom Crosby, Tom Mitrakos, Jock Beachler, John Boucek, Ed James, Bob Bazylak, Joe Pohl, James Dodaro, Dale Stewart, Joe Curtin, Gerald Rife, Jim Flanigan, Mike Raklewicz, Dewey Chester and Andy McGraw.Chester L. Smith Panthers Smack Down Rallying Sooners, 13–9 The Pittsburgh Press September 26, 1965 4, Section 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-panthers-smack-down/205772735/ September 11, 2026 Newspapers.com left Oklahoma Sooners OKLA Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y 18 67–322 49–177 145 10–18 1 na 16 62–241 39–93 148 12–23 1 na right Oklahoma Sooners OKLA Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y John Hammond 10/18, 145 yards Tommy Pannell 15 carries, 82 yards Tommy Pannell 3 receptions, 65 yards Kenny Lucas 12/22, 148 yards Barry McKnight 14 carries, 43 yards Eric Crabtree 5 receptions, 72 yards at West Virginia Week 3: Pitt at West Virginia Pitt West Virginia 0 20 14 14 14 14 7 28 October 2, 1965 Mountaineer Field Morgantown, WV 1:30p.m. 35,000 cool H. G. Munder yes 1 WVU Dick Leftridge 16-yard run (Chuck Kinder kick) WVU 7–0 1 WVU Dick Rader 72-yard pass from Allen McCune (Kinder kick) WVU 14–0 2 WVU Rader 14-yard pass from McCune (Kinder kick) WVU 21–0 2 PITT Mike Rosborough 13-yard pass from Kenny Lucas (James Jones kick) WVU 21–7 2 PITT Kenny Lucas 2-yard run (run failed) WVU 21–13 2 WVU Garrett Ford 58-yard run (Kinder kick) WVU 28–13 2 PITT Barry McKnight 2-yard run (Jones kick) WVU 28–20 3 PITT Eric Crabtree 43-yard pass from Lucas (Lucas run) TIED 28–28 3 WVU McCune 1-yard run (Kinder kick) WVU 35–28 3 PITT Crabtree 71-yard run (pass failed) WVU 35–34 4 WVU Jim Harris 17-yard pass from McCune (Kinder kick) WVU 42–34 4 PITT Crabtree 92-yard kick-off (Lucas pass to Mitch Zalnasky) TIED 42–42 4 WVU Rader 15-yard pass from McCune (Kinder kick) WVU 49–42 4 PITT Bob Dyer 1-yard run (run failed) WVU 49–48 4 WVU Ford 59-yard pass from McCune (Kinder kick) WVU 56–48 4 WVU Ford 5-yard run (Kinder kick) WVU 63–48 yes On October 2, the Panthers went to Morgantown, WV for the 58th Backyard Brawl. Pitt lead the all-time series 41–15–1, but the teams had split the past eight games. Sixth-year head coach Gene Corum returned 25 lettermen from the team that lost 14–0 at Pitt Stadium the previous season.1965 Pitt Football For Press, Radio & TV University of Pittsburgh West Virginia-October 2 18, 19 September 14, 2026 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A1965d004652 In front of a record sell-out crowd of 35,000 fans, West Virginia beat Pitt 63–48. In the highest scoring game of the series, the Pitt Panthers offense scored 7 touchdowns, kicked 2 extra points and converted 2-2 point conversions for 48 points, but the Pitt defense gave up 9 touchdowns and 9 extra points. Other records set were: highest losing score (48); total offense (624 yards WVU); passing yardage (320 yards WVU); touchdown passes (5 by Allen McCune WVU); rushing yardage in a quarter (133 yards by Garrett Ford). Eric Crabtree led Pitt with 3 touchdowns. He gained 75 yards rushing on 4 carries, had 3 pass receptions for 76 yards and returned a kick-off 92-yards to tie the game at 42. Halfbacks Dick Rader and Garrett Ford each scored three touchdowns for the Mountaineers.Jimmy Jordan Puzzled Pitt Faces Duke Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 4, 1965 32 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-puzzled-pitt-fac/205970647/ September 14, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against West Virginia was Mitch Zalnasky (left end), Tom Raymond (left tackle), Gabe Tamburino (left guard), Fred Hoaglin (center), Tom Qualey (right guard), Jim Jones (right tackle), Mike Rosborough (right end), Kenny Lucas (quarterback), Bob Dyer (left halfback), Eric Crabtree (right halfback) and Barry McKnight (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Phil Dahar, Ed Assid, Bob Longo, John Verkleeren, Greg Keller, Al Keiser, Robert Guzinsky, Howard Heit, John Schmidt, Robert Trethaway, Dave Drake, David Randour, Brian Bubnis, Tom Crosby, James Dodaro, Mickey Depp, Jim Flanigan, Tom Mitrakos, Joe Novogratz, William Boucek, Ken Perry, Dale Stewart, Gerald Rife, Joseph Pohl, Joe Curtin, Bob Bazylak and Andy McGraw. left Pittsburgh Panthers PITT West Virginia Mountaineers WVU y 18 na–447 na–195 252 16–27-1 1 na 27 na–624 na–304 320 18–25-1 1 na right Pittsburgh Panthers PITT West Virginia Mountaineers WVU y Kenny Lucas 16/27, 252 yards, 1 int Barry McKnight 17 carries, 61 yards Eric Crabtree 3 receptions, 76 yards Allen McCune 18/25, 320 yards, 1 int Garrett Ford 18 carries, 198 yards Dick Rader 3 receptions, 101 yards at Duke Week 4: Pitt at Duke Pitt Duke 7 0 0 6 0 21 0 0 October 9, 1965 Duke Stadium Durham, NC noon 25,000 fair and mild yes 1 PITT Eric Crabtree 8-yard run (Jim Jones kick) PITT 7–0 2 DUKE Page Wilson 1-yard run (Mark Caldwell kick) TIED 7–7 2 DUKE Chuck Drulis 17-yard pass from Scotty Glacken (Caldwell kick) DUKE 14–7 2 DUKE Glacken 2-yard run (fCaldwell kick) DUKE 21–7 4 PITT Mitch Zalnasky 1-yard pass from Kenny Lucas (pass failed) DUKE 21–13 yes On October 9, the Panthers travelled to Durham, NC to play the unbeaten (3–0) Duke Blue Devils. The all-time series was tied at 6–6, but Pitt had won the previous three games. This was the National TV Game of the Week.Hugh Germino Duke-Pitt Contest Draws 30,000 Fans The Durham Sun Durham, North Carolina October 9, 1965 8 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-durham-sun-duke-pitt-contest-draws-3/206027922/ September 15, 2026 Newspapers.com In front of 25,000 fans the Pitt Panthers lost to the Blue Devils 21–13. The Pitt offense scored a touchdown on an opening drive of 95-yards in 10 plays. Eric Crabtree ran the final 8 yards for the score. James Jones added the extra point and Pitt led 7–0 in less than 5 minutes. The second quarter was all Duke as they tallied 3 touchdowns. Duke fullback Page Wilson ran 1-yard over left guard to cap a 9-play, 77-yard drive. Mike Caldwell tied the score with his first of three placements. An exchange of punts gave the Devils possession on the Pitt 31-yard line. Duke scored in three plays on a 17-yard touchdown pass from Scotty Glacken to Chuck Drulis. On second down after the kick-off Pitt quarterback Kenny Lucas fumbled and Duke recovered on the Panthers 39-yard line. Glacken scored on a 2-yard run around left end and Duke led 21–7 at halftime. Pitt engineered an 85-yard march early in the fourth quarter to cut the lead to 21–13. End Mitch Zalnasky caught a 1-yard pass from Lucas, but the 2-point conversion failed. Later in the period, Pitt gained possession and drove to a first down on the Duke 22-yard line. Barry McKnight fumbled the hand off and Duke recovered. The Blue Devils were then able to run out the clock.Alex Crockett Glacken Spearheads Duke Comeback Win Durham Morning Herald Durham, North Carolina October 10, 1965 1C https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-herald-sun-glacken-spearheads-duke-c/206031821/ September 15, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Duke was Mitch Zalnasky (left end), Tom Raymond (left tackle), Gabe Tamburino (left guard), Fred Hoaglin (center), Dave Randour (right guard), John Schmidt (right tackle), Mike Rosborough (right end), Kenny Lucas (quarterback), Bob Dyer (left halfback), Eric Crabtree (right halfback) and Barry McKnight (fullback). The defensive lineup was Phil Dahar (left end), Al Keiser (left tackle), Dave Drake (middle guard), Bob Guzinsky (right tackle), Ed Assid (right end), Jim Flanigan (left linebacker), Tom Mitrakos (middle linebacker), Joe Novogratz (right linebacker), Dale Stewart (left cornerback), Gerald Rife (right cornerback) and Joe Pohl (safety). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Ed James, Andy McGraw, and James Jones.Pittsburgh Starting Lineup Duke...Pittsburgh Official Program Duke University Athletic Association October 9, 1965 38, 39 left Pittsburgh Panthers PITT Duke Blue Devils DUKE y 18 67–359 33–85 274 21–34 2 na 18 70–354 46–189 165 18–24-2 2 na right Pittsburgh Panthers PITT Duke Blue Devils DUKE y Kenny Lucas 18/26, 233 yards Barry McKnight 10 carries, 47 yards Eric Crabtree 8 receptions, 132 yards Scotty Glacken 16/24, 165 yards, 2 ints Jay Calabrese 15 carries, 67 yards Chuck Drulis 6 receptions, 61 yards at Navy Week 5: Pitt at Navy Pitt Navy 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 6 October 16, 1965 District of Columbia Stadium Washington, DC 1:30 24,183 cloudy Edward G. Myer (Temple) yes 2 NAVY Al Roodhouse 1-yard run (kick failed) NAVY 6–0 4 NAVY Steve Shrawder 21-yard pass from Bruce Bickel (pass failed) NAVY 12–0 yes On October 16, the Panthers played their third road game in a row against the Midshipmen of the Naval Academy at RFK Stadium in Washington D. C. Pitt led the all-time series 7–4–2, but the Panthers had not beaten the Middies in the past three contests. First-year Navy Coach Bill Elias had 17 returning lettermen and his troops had a 2–1–1 record.Jimmy Jordan Annual Battle At Washington Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 16, 1965 7 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-annual-battle-at/206159316/ September 17, 2026 Newspapers.com In front of 24,184 fans, including 4,100 Midshipmen classmates, Navy shut out the Panthers 12–0. Early in the second period the Panthers drove to the Navy 27-yard line and Jim Jones missed a 37-yard field goal. Later in the period the Navy defense forced the Panthers to punt from their own 26-yard line. Defensive end Ray Hill blocked the punt and Pitt fullback Barry McKnight downed it on the Pitt 2-yard line. Navy halfback Al Roodhouse scored on first down. A poor pass from center botched the extra point, but Navy led 6–0. In the third quarter, Pitt recovered a Navy fumble on the Midshipmen 21-yard line. On a pass to Eric Crabtree in the end zone Navy was called for pass interference. The ball was placed on the 1-yard line. Fullback McKnight was stopped twice, halfback Bob Dyer lost a yard and on fourth down quarterback Kenny Lucas fumbled. In the final period Pitt punter Andy McGraw pinned the Middies back on their own 4-yard line. Then backup quarterback Bruce Bickel directed a 96-yard touchdown drive that ended with his 21-yard touchdown pass to Steve Shrawder. The conversion try failed.W. Lawrence Null Navy Defense Stands Out In 12–0 Shutout Of Pitt The Baltimore Sun October 17, 1965 2, Section A https://www.newspapers.com/image/376742709/?clipping_id=206162885 September 17, 2026 Newspapers.com Pitt quarterback Kenny Lucas was sacked for losses totaling 87 yards, and he threw 2 interceptions. The Panthers lost 1 fumble. The Pitt defense intercepted 2 passes and recovered 3 Navy fumbles. They generated 191 yards of total offense but no points.Statistics The Pittsburgh Press October 17, 1965 1, Section 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-statistics/206164502/ September 17, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Navy was Mitch Zalnasky (left end), Tom Raymond (left tackle), Gabe Tamburino (left guard), Fred Hoaglin (center), Dave Randour (right guard), John Schmidt (right tackle), Mike Rosborough (right end), Kenny Lucas (quarterback), Bob Dyer (left halfback), Eric Crabtree (right halfback) and Barry McKnight (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Phil Dahar, Ed Assid, Bob Longo, John Verkleeren, Greg Keller, Al Keiser, Robert Guzinsky, James Jones, Tom Qualey, Robert Trethaway, Dave Drake, Brian Bubnis, Mickey Depp, Jim Flanigan, Tom Mitrakos, Joe Novogratz, William Boucek, Dale Stewart, Gerald Rife, Joseph Pohl, Joe Curtin, David Merrill, Richard Miale, Richard Genter, Frank Pecman and Andy McGraw.Lineups The Pittsburgh Press October 17, 1965 2, Sec. 4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-navy-pitt-lineup/206435023/ September 21, 2026 Newspapers.com left Pittsburgh Panthers PITT Navy Midshipmen NAVY y 14 72–191 41–24 167 15–31-2 3 na 11 63–211 43–111 100 8–20-2 5 na right Pittsburgh Panthers PITT Navy Midshipmen NAVY y Kenny Lucas 15/31, 167 yards, 2 ints Barry McKnight 17 carries, 65 yards Eric Crabtree 6 receptions, 89 yards John Cartwright 5/16, 43 yards, 2 ints Terrence Murray 11 carries, 40 yards Phil Norton 4 receptions, 56 yards Miami Week 6:Miami at Pitt Miami Pitt 0 7 7 0 14 0 7 7 October 23, 1965 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 37,431 windy, cold, showers yes 1 PITT Bob Dyer 23-yard pass from Kenny Lucas (kick failed) PITT 6–0 1 PITT Barry McKnight 1-yard run (Mitch Zalnasky pass from Lucas) PITT 14–0 2 MIAMI Russell Smith 1-yard run (Don Curtright kick ) PITT 14–7 3 PITT Eric Crabtree 14-yard pass from Lucas (James Jones kick) PITT 21–7 3 MIAMI Bill Schirmer 59-yard interception return (Curtright kick) PITT 21–14 4 PITT Dyer 3-yard run (Jones kick) PITT 28–14 yes On October 23, after a month on the road, the Panthers hosted the Miami Hurricanes for their Youth Day Game. Second-year coach Charlie Tate's squad had 24 returning lettermen, including All-American candidate defensive end Ed Weisacosky. The Hurricanes had a 2–3 record, and Pitt led the all-time series 5–4–1.Miami of Florida-October 23 1965 Pitt Football For Press, Radio & TV University of Pittsburgh Athletic Department 23-25 September 21, 2026 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A1965d004652 The Panthers treated the Youth Day crowd of 37,431 to a 28–14 victory over the Hurricanes. Pitt scored 2 touchdowns in the first quarter. Quarterback Kenny Lucas threw a 23-yard pass to Bob Dyer for the first score, and after an interception, fullback Barry McKnight capped the second scoring drive of 17 yards with a 1-yard plunge. A conversion pass from Lucas to Mitch Zalnasky put the Panthers ahead 14–0. Then, Pitt lost a fumble on their 23-yard line. The 9-play Miami drive ended with a Russell Smith dive into the end zone from the 1-yard line. Don Curtright booted the extra point to cut the lead to 7 points. Pitt took the second half kick-off and marched 80 yards in 13 plays with Lucas throwing a 23-yard pass to Eric Crabtree for the score. Jim Jones booted the placement. Late in the period Miami linebacker Ken Corbin bumped Lucas's arm as he was throwing and defensive end Bill Schirmer intercepted and ran 59-yards untouched for the score. Curtright was good on the placement to again cut the lead to 7. Pitt answered with a 14-play, 80-yard drive to seal the victory. Bob Dyer scored on a 3-yard run and Jones kicked the extra point. Pitt's 3 game losing streak was over.Luther Evans Pittsburgh Takes Controls To Overpower Miami, 28–14 The Miami Herald October 24, 1965 6D https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-miami-herald-pittsburgh-takes-contro/206501839/ September 22, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting offensive lineup for the Miami game was Mike Rosborough (left end), Tom Raymond (left tackle), Gabe Tamburino (left guard), Fred Hoaglin (center), Tom Qualey (right guard), James Jones (right tackle), Mitch Zalnasky (right end), Kenny Lucas (quarterback), Bob Dyer (left halfback) Eric Crabtree (right halfback) and Barry McKnight (fullback). The defensive lineup was Ed Assid (left end), Bob Guzinsky (left tackle), Joe Novogratz (right linebacker), Tom Mitrakos (middle linebacker), Jim Flanigan (left linebacker), Dave Drake (middle guard), Al Keiser (right tackle), Phil Dahar (right end), Dale Stewart (left cornerback), Gerald Rife (right cornerback) and Joe Pohl (safety). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Mike Raklewicz, Dewey Chester, Ed James, Bob Longo, Andy McGraw, Mickey Depp, William Boucek, Marc Mallinger and Richard Genter.Pitt Squad Pitt – Miami Official Program, Pitt Football Publications October 23, 1965 13Statistics Tell Story The Miami Herald October 24, 1965 6-D https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-miami-herald/206564541/ September 23, 2026 Newspapers.com left Miami Hurricanes MIAMI Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y 9 45–168 21–48 120 9–24-4 4 na 27 89–439 74–231 208 11–15-1 4 na right Miami Hurricanes MIAMI Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y Bill Miller 9/24, 120 yards, 4 ints Russell Smith 8 carries, 14 yards Jerry Daanen 3 receptions, 49 yards Kenny Lucas 11/15, 208 yards, 1 int Eric Crabtree 22 carries, 75 yards Mitch Zalnasky 4 receptions, 58 yards at Syracuse Week 7: Pitt at Syracuse Pitt Syracuse 0 0 0 13 14 23 14 0 October 30, 1965 Shea Stadium New York, NY 1:30p.m. 24,590 sunny and warm yes 1 SYR Mike Koski 70-yard run (Joe Dziekonski kick ) SYR 7–0 1 SYR Ed Mantie 32-yard interception (Dziekonski kick) SYR 14–0 2 SYR Floyd Little 15-yard run ( Dziekonski kick ) SYR 21–0 2 SYR Little 95-yard punt return L (Dziekonski kick) SYR 28–0 2 SYR Dziekonski 21-yard field goal SYR 31–0 2 SYR Terry Roe 33-yard interception return (kick failed) SYR 37–0 3 SYR Little 1-yard run (Dziekonski kick) SYR 44–0 3 SYR Little 23-yard run (Dziekonski kick) SYR 51–0 4 PITT Eric Crabtree 48-yard pass from Kenny Lucas (James Jones kick) SYR 51–7 4 PITT Barry McKnight 1-yard run (kick failed) SYR 51–13 yes On October 30, Pitt and Syracuse played in Flushing, New York at Shea Stadium. This was the twenty-first meeting and Pitt led the series 11–7–2. However, the Orangemen had won 5 of the past eight meetings. Coach Ben Schwartzwalder's team had 20 lettermen and two All-Americans (halfback Floyd Little and center Pat Killorin). Their fullback was sophomore Larry Csonka.Syracuse-October 30 1965 Pitt Football For Press, Radio & TV University of Pittsburgh Athletic Department 26, 27 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A1965d004652 September 23, 2026 In front of a sparse crowd of 24, 950 fans, Pitt absorbed it's worst loss in this series 51–13. Syracuse only needed two and a half quarters to amass 51 points. Pitt scored it's 13 points against the second and third string Syracuse defense. Floyd Little scored four touchdowns and gained 248 yards. Pitt received the opening kick-off, and were forced to punt. Four plays later Mike Koski raced 70 yards for the first touchdown. Joe Dziekonski converted the first of his six placements for a 7–0 lead. Pitt halfback Bob Dyer fumbled on second down into the arms of Ed Mantie, who raced 32 yards untouched for touchdown number two, and Pitt was behind 14–0 in the first seven minutes. Then, Little starred in the second and third quarters. He raced 15 yards around left end for his first touchdown and followed that with a 95-yard punt return. Dziekonski booted a 21-yard field goal and Terrell Roe closed the first half scoring with a 33-yard interception return. Syracuse 37–Pitt 0. In the third quarter, Little scored on a 1-yard and 23-yard run to up the score to 51–0. In the final period, Pitt managed a 48-yard scoring toss from Kenny Lucas to Eric Crabtree and a 1-yard plunge by Barry McKnight. Jim Jones was good on the first conversion.Bill Reddy Pitt Buried Syracuse Herald-Journal October 31, 1965 63 https://www.newspapers.com/article/syracuse-herald-journal-pitt-buried/206576855/ September 23, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting offensive lineup for the Syracuse game was Mike Rosborough (left end), Tom Raymond (left tackle), Gabe Tamburino (left guard), Fred Hoaglin (center), Tom Qualey (right guard), James Jones (right tackle), Mitch Zalnasky (right end), Kenny Lucas (quarterback), Bob Dyer (left halfback) Eric Crabtree (right halfback) and Barry McKnight (fullback). The defensive lineup was Ed Assid (left end), Bob Guzinsky (left tackle), Joe Novogratz (right linebacker), Tom Mitrakos (middle linebacker), Jim Flanigan (left linebacker), Dave Drake (middle guard), Al Keiser (right tackle), Phil Dahar (right end), Dale Stewart (left cornerback), Gerald Rife (right cornerback) and Ken Perry (safety). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Frank Pecman, Robert Trethaway, George Macko, Brian Bubnis, Ray Radakovich, David Merrill, Joe Curtin, Bob Bazylak, Carmen Sporio, Mike Raklewicz, Dewey Chester, Ed James, Bob Longo, Andy McGraw, Richard Miale, Mickey Depp, William Boucek, Marc Mallinger, Howard Heit and Richard Genter.Chester L. Smith Syracuse, Little Rip Pitt, 51–13 The Pittsburgh Press October 31, 1965 4, Sec.4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-syracuse-little-ri/206617288/ September 24, 2026 Newspapers.com left Pittsburgh Panthers PITT Syracuse Orangemen SYR y 17 na–228 na–52 176 15–34-3 6 na 20 na–373 na–308 65 5–13-1 3 na right Pittsburgh Panthers PITT Syracuse Orangemen SYR y Kenny Lucas 15/34, 176 yards, 3 ints Eric Crabtree 14 carries, 35 yards Mike Rosborough 7 receptions, 59 yards Rick Cassata 3/6, 41 yards Floyd Little 13 carries, 97 yards Mike Koski 1 reception, 23 yards Notre Dame Week 8:Notre Dame at Pitt Notre Dame Pitt 21 14 20 14 0 6 0 7 November 6, 1965 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 1:30 p.m. 57,169 cloudy, warm Howard Wirtz yes 1 ND Larry Conjar 42-yard run (Ken Ivan kick ) ND 7–0 1 ND Bill Wolski 7-yard run (Ivan kick) ND 14–0 1 ND Wolski 5-yard run (Ivan kick ) ND 21–0 2 ND Wolski 5-yard run (Ivan kick) ND 28–0 2 ND Wolski 5-yard run (Ivan kick) ND 35–0 2 PITT Bobby Dyer 21-yard pass from Kenny Lucas (pass failed) ND 35–6 3 ND Wolski 1-yard run (Ivan kick) ND 42–6 3 ND Don Gmitter 44-yard pass from Bill Zloch (kick failed) ND 48–6 3 ND Paul May 5-yard run (Ivan kick) ND 55–6 4 ND Rocky Bleier 2-yard run (JIvan kick) ND 62–6 4 ND Dennis Conway 2-yard run (Ivan kick) ND 69–6 4 PITT Mitch Zalnasky 5-yard pass from Ed James (James Jones kick) ND 69–13 yes On November 6, Pitt hosted Notre Dame for Homecoming. Notre Dame led the all-time series 19–11–1 and had won 3 of the past 4 games. Coach Ara Parseghian's squad was 5–1 and ranked #4 by the AP. All-America candidates Dick Arrington (guard), Nick Rassas (defensive back), Tom Regner (guard), Bill Wolski (halfback) and Jim Lynch (linebacker) highlighted the roster.Notre Dame-November 6 1965 Pitt Football For Press, Radio & TV University of Pittsburgh Athletic Department 28, 29 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A1965d004652 October 7, 2026 In front of a capacity crowd of 57,169 fans, the Panthers were beaten by the Irish 69–13. Notre Dame led 35–0 in the first half, on the strength of Bill Wolski's 4 touchdowns, before the Panthers were able to score. Late in the second period Kenny Lucas connected on a 21-yard pass to Bob Dyer, but the extra point was blocked, and Pitt trailed 35–6 at halftime. The second half mimicked the first as the Irish substitutes scored another 5 touchdowns. (Future Steeler running back Rocky Bleier scored on a 2-yard run). Against Notre Dame's third stringers, with 12 seconds left on the clock, Panther end Mitch Zalnasky caught a touchdown pass from Ed James and Jim Jones converted to complete the scoring. On a positive note, Pitt quarterbacks Kenny Lucas and Ed James completed 20 of 37 passes for 242 yards with no interceptions. Bill Wolski set a Notre Dame record with 5 touchdowns. Ken Ivan set a record by converting on 9 of 10 extra points.Joe Doyle Wolski, Ivan and Rassas Set Records At Pittsburgh The South Bend Tribune November 7, 1965 48 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-south-bend-tribune-wolski-ivan-and/207813077/ October 7, 2026 Newspapers.comTom Sacks Wolski Scores Five Touchdowns As Irish Run Wild in Slaughter The Pitt News 60 26 November 8, 1965 6 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735066366380 October 7, 2026 The Pitt starting offensive lineup for the Notre Dame game was Mike Rosborough (left end), Tom Raymond (left tackle), Richard Miale (left guard), Fred Hoaglin (center), Tom Qualey (right guard), James Jones (right tackle), Mitch Zalnasky (right end), Kenny Lucas (quarterback), Bob Dyer (left halfback) Eric Crabtree (right halfback) and Barry McKnight (fullback). The defensive lineup was Ed Assid (left end), Bob Guzinsky (left tackle), Joe Novogratz (right linebacker), William Boucek (middle linebacker), Jim Flanigan (left linebacker), Dave Drake (middle guard), Al Keiser (right tackle), Phil Dahar (right end), Dale Stewart (left cornerback), Mickey Depp (right cornerback) and Joe Pohl (safety). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Bob Longo, Ronald Simantel John Schmidt, Frank Pecman, Tom Crosby, David Merrill, Tom Mitrakos, Richard Genter, Jock Beachler, David Randour, Robert Trethaway, David Raudman, Greg Keller, John Verkleeren, Dewey Chester, James Dodaro, Joe Curtin, Gerald Rife, Ed James, Mike Raklewicz and Ken Perry. left Notre Dame Fighting Irish ND Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y 26 81–547 74–363 184 6–7 0 na 15 62–282 25–40 242 20–37-2 4 na right Notre Dame Fighting Irish ND Pittsburgh Panthers PITT y Bill Zloch 3/4, 129 yards Nick Eddy 11 carries, 88 yards Don Gmitter 2 receptions, 73 yards Kenny Lucas 14/29, 155 yards, 2 ints Eric Crabtree 4 carries, 27 yards Eric Crabtree 6 receptions, 50 yards at Southern Cal Week 9: Pitt at USC Pitt USC 0 0 0 0 7 7 7 7 November 13, 1965 Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Los Angeles, CA 1:30p.m. 40,339 cloudy Lawrence Ellis yes 1 USC Mike Garrett 1-yard run (Tim Rossovich kick ) USC 7–0 2 USC Garrett 7-yard run (Rossovich kick ) USC 14–0 3 USC Garrett 4-yard run (Rossovich kick ) USC 21–0 4 USC Don McCall 3-yard run (Rossovich kick) USC 28–0 yes Pitt's final road game was to Los Angeles to play the USC Trojans. The all-time series was tied at 4–4. Coach John McKay's squad was 5–1–1 and ranked #6 by the AP. All-American halfback Mike Garrett led the nation in rushing with 962 yards. After the two blowout losses, Coach Michelosen tweaked the defensive lineup: end Mitch Zalnasky, tackle Tom Raymond and guard Tom Qualey played both offense and defense; center Jock Beachler was moved to defense; halfback Gerald Rife replaced Dale Stewart at defensive back.Jimmy Jordan Underdogs By 20 Points To Trojans Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 13, 1965 12 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-underdogs-by-20/207921152/ October 9, 2026 Newspapers.com In front of 40,339 fans at the Los Angeles Coliseum, the Trojans beat the Panthers 28–0. Heisman Trophy winner Mike Garrett scored the first three touchdowns and his replacement Mickey McCall scored the last one. Tim Rossovich converted all four extra points. USC opened the game with a 16-play, 78-yard drive capped by Garrett's 1-yard plunge. In the second quarter, Pitt quarterback Kenny Lucas fumbled while being sacked, and Adrian Young recovered for the Trojans on the Pitt 7-yard line. Garrett scored on first down. In the third period, Phil Lee intercepted a Lucas pass on the USC 34-yard line. On the tenth play Garrett scored from 4 yards out. In the final quarter, the Panthers drove to the Trojans' 12-yard line, but Mike Hunter intercepted, and the USC offense travelled 88 yards in 13 plays for their final score. Pitt's final drive ended on the USC 9-yard line.John Hall USC Romps, 28–0 The Los Angeles Times November 14, 1965 10, Sec. D https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-los-angeles-times-usc-romps-280/207925610/ October 9, 2026 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting offensive lineup for the USC game was Mike Rosborough (left end), Tom Raymond (left tackle), Richard Miale (left guard), Fred Hoaglin (center), Tom Qualey (right guard), James Jones (right tackle), Mitch Zalnasky (right end), Kenny Lucas (quarterback), Bob Dyer (left halfback) Eric Crabtree (right halfback) and Barry McKnight (fullback). The defensive lineup was Ed Assid (left end), Bob Guzinsky (left tackle), Joe Novogratz (right linebacker), William Boucek (middle linebacker), Jim Flanigan (left linebacker), Dave Drake (middle guard), Al Keiser (right tackle), Phil Dahar (right end), Gerald Rife (left cornerback), Mickey Depp (right cornerback) and Joe Pohl (safety). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Bob Longo, Mike Raklewicz and Dewey Chester.1965 Pigskin Review Official Football Magazine 45 4 USC Football Publications November 13, 1965 20, 21 left Pittsburgh Panthers PITT USC Trojans USC y 15 45–193 13–74 119 13–32–4 5 na 24 73–326 63–287 121 10–16–1 2 na right Pittsburgh Panthers PITT USC Trojans USC y Kenny Lucas 13/31, 119 yards, 4 ints Robert Dyer 6 carries, 32 yards Bob Longo 4 receptions, 50 yards Troy Winslow 9/14, 88 yards, 1 int Mike Garrett 26 carries, 156 yards Mickey Upton 3 receptions, 53 yards References Pittsburgh Category:Pittsburgh Panthers football seasons Pittsburgh Panthers football