1944 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

American college football season August 2023 February 2026 1944 Pittsburgh Panthers football 285px|1944 Pittsburgh Panthers football team Independent 4–5 Clark Shaughnessy 2nd Pitt Stadium The 1944 Pittsburgh Panthers football team represented the University of Pittsburgh as an independent during the 1944 college football season. The team compiled a 4–5 record under head coach Clark Shaughnessy.1944 Pittsburgh Panthers Stats Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football May 21, 2016 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/pittsburgh/1944.html Schedule 1944 AP Eastern September 23 w West Virginia Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 26–13 10,000 Keck Harry Panthers Sparkle in Debut Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 24, 1944 Section 2-2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-sparkl/127026876/ June 24, 2023 Newspapers.com September 30 l Notre Dame Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 0–58 46,069 Notre Dame Athletic Department All-Time results 2022 Notre Dame Football Media Guide 90 https://und.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/2022-ND-Football-Media-Guide.pdf July 18, 2023 October 7 w 1944 Bethany Bison Bethany (WV) Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 50–13 1,500 October 14 l y Army 3 Michie Stadium West Point, NY 7–69 10,000 Mighty Army Pummels Pitt, 69-7 Rochester Democrat and Chronicle Whitney Martin October 15, 1944 3C https://www.newspapers.com/clip/98963794/mighty-army-pummels-pitt-69-7/ Newspapers.comArmy Slugs Pitt, 69-7; Panthers' Worst Rout New York Daily News October 15, 1944 78 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/98963904/army-slugs-pitt-69-7-panthers-worst/ Newspapers.com October 21 l Illinois Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 5–39 10,000–15,000 Keck Harry Long Runs Provide Thrills Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 22, 1944 Section 2-2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-long-runs-provi/129376775/ August 3, 2023 Newspapers.comBartlett Charles Illinois Wins, 39–5, in Romp at Pittsburgh Chicago Sunday Tribune October 22, 1944 Part 2-1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/chicago-tribune-illini-wins-395-in-ro/129377075/ August 3, 2023 Newspapers.com October 28 w Chatham Field Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 26–0 8,000 Sell Jack Pitt Big Favorite Over Blockbusters https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette/122803746/ The Pittsburgh Press Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania October 28, 1944 7 April 13, 2023 Newspapers.com Lozar Spurs Panthers To Last-Period, 26-0, Victory Over Soldiers https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press/122803573/ The Pittsburgh Press Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania October 29, 1944 31 April 13, 2023 Newspapers.com November 11 l y Ohio State 2 Ohio Stadium Columbus, OH 19–54 26,566 Keck Harry Panthers Rally in Last Half Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 12, 1944 Section 2-2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-rally/129540974/ August 6, 2023 Newspapers.com November 18 l y Indiana Memorial Stadium Bloomington, IN 0–47 5,000 Patton W. Blaine Hoosiers Rap Pittsburgh, 47–0 The Indianapolis Star November 19, 1944 41 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-indianapolis-star-hoosiers-rap-pitts/129671331/ August 8, 2023 Newspapers.com November 25 w Penn State Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 14–0 8,840 History & Honors Penn State Athletic Department 2022 Penn State Football Media Guide 294 https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sidearm.nextgen.sites/gopsusports.com/documents/2023/3/27/Final_PDF.pdf August 9, 2023 Preseason thumb|left|Coaches Clark Shaughnessy, Danny Fortmann and Doc Hartwig The war effort continued to play havoc with college football rosters. Coach Shaughnessy held spring practice after summer registration so there would be more men to work with than the fifteen holdovers from the previous season.Tannenbaum Len The Sideline Coach The Pitt News 37 22 June 17, 1944 7 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062138684/viewer#page/7/mode/1up June 19, 2023 Fifty-four prospects reported for the team on June 15. On July 5, the practice site was moved to the old Shady Side Academy gridiron. Coach Shaughnessy was pleased: "We have had between 50 and 60 boys out at every drill. What's more they seem to enjoy it more as the practice gets tougher and we get beyond the preliminary work into the more exacting drills."Sell Jack Panthers to Change Grid Practice Site Pittsburgh Post-Gazette July 1, 1944 7 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-panthers-to-chan/126915502/ June 22, 2023 Newspapers.com On July 30, the Whites defeated the Blues 34–0 in the final summer intrasquad game. Shaughnessy was upbeat: "I am very much satisfied with the squad right now. We are potentially much stronger than at this time last year."Birks Tom Panther 'Varsity' Wins, 34–0 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph July 30, 1944 Section 2–3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panther-varsity/126916658/ June 22, 2023 Newspapers.com On September 1, 78 candidates reported for the first fall practice. Two-a-day sessions were held until the Wednesday prior to the opening game of the season. Seventeen holdovers from the previous season and plenty of freshmen filled out the roster. Two veterans of the 1942 squad, Angelo Carlaccini and Loren Braner were discharged from the ASTP Dental School and were able to play.Panthers Open Against West Virginia The Pitt News 38 1 September 20, 1944 3 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062144096/viewer#page/3/mode/1up June 23, 202378 Gridders Report for Pitt Practice Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 2, 1944 18 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-78-gridders-rep/127135238/ June 26, 2023 Newspapers.com Former Pitt tackle and assistant coach, Bob Hoel, was rehired as an assistant line coach.Nine Vets on Pitt Squad Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 12, 1944 10 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-nine-vets-on-pi/126920642/ June 22, 2023 Newspapers.com To generate ticket sales for the Notre Dame game, the Sports War Finance Committee offered 50-yard line seats to purchasers of war bonds ($18.75 and up). If one purchased a $10,000 bond (or higher), the fan could choose a seat on the Pitt bench, or a visit to the Notre Dame dressing room after the game.Bond Entitles Buyer to Sit on Pitt Bench Pittsburgh Post-Gazette September 21, 1944 13 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-bond-entitles-bu/127137666/ June 26, 2023 Newspapers.com Coaching staff 1944 Pittsburgh Panthers football staff Coaching staff Clark Shaughnessy – head coach Dr. Danny Fortmann – assistant coach Charles Hartwig – assistant coach Robert Hoel – assistant coach Stan Olenn – assistant coach   Support staff James Hagan - director of athletics Frank Carver – publicity director Jim Hellman – varsity student manager Harold Whitson – property manager Roster 1944 Pittsburgh Panthers football rosterPittsburgh Panthers Player Position Games Weight Height Class Prep School Hometown John Anthonyhalfback 0 1626 ft freshmanJamestown H. S.Jamestown, NY James Barniclecenter 0 1805 ft 9 infreshmanFranklin H. S. Franklin, PA Michael Banasick*halfback 6 178 5 ft 11infreshman Scottdale H. S.Scottdale, PA Frederic Bottifullback 0 1856 ft 2 infreshmanNorth Union H. S.Uniontown, PA Walter Brajdichtackle 0 1646 ftfreshmanSouth Huntingdon Twp. H. S.Yukon, PA Loran Braner*center 7 2006 ft 2 inDental Sch. Lancaster H. S.Lancaster, PA Jay Brown*end 5 1906 ftjuniorSchenley H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Richard Brucequarterback 1 170 5 ft 10 infreshmanMassanutten M. A.Harrisonburg, VA Angelo Carlaccini*halfback 6 1655 ft 10 inDental Sch. Tarentum H. S. Tarentum, PA Ralph Coleman*center 9 206 6 ftfreshman Ambridge H. S.Baden, PA Samuel Cosentinofreshman 0 180 5 ft 10 infreshmanAvalon H. S.Avalon, PA Joseph DeFrank*tackle 9 2095 ft 11 insophomore German Twp. H. S.Footedale, PA Edward Deichmanend 0 1806 ft 1 infreshman Westinghouse H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Robert Dickeyend 0 1686 ft freshmanRayen H. S.Youngstown, OH Matthew Dischnerguard 0 198 6 ftfreshmanShaler Twp. H. S. Etna, PA John Douthitthalfback 0 1505 ft 7 infreshman South Hills H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Louis Falconehalfback 0 1605 ft 7 infreshmanBrentwood H. S.Brentwood, PA Robert Flath*tackle 5 190 5 ft 11 infreshmanGreensburg H. S.Greensburg, PA George Freese*fullback 7 176 5 ft 11 infreshmanWheeling H. S.Wheeling, WV Frank Galloquarterback 0 165 5 ft 8 injuniorVandergrift H. S.Vandergrift, PA Eugene Gaugler*fullback 6 198 6 ft 2 infreshmanBeaver Falls H. S.Beaver Falls, PA Ralph Hammond*center 8 201 6 ftseniorAllderdice H. S. Fulton, MO Robert Hawkins*tackle 7 1986 ft 3 in freshmanBeaver H. S.Beaver, PA Robert Hayhurst*guard 8 1955 ft 11 infreshman Fairmont H. S.Fairmont, WV James Hornicktackle 0 2056 ftsophomore Peabody H. S.Pittsburgh, PA John Itzel*fullback 5 190 6 ftseniorCentral Catholic H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Richard Johnshalfback 0 1605 ft 9 in freshmanPButler H. S.Butler, PA Charles Juddfullback 1 1905 ft 9 insenior Everett H. S.Everett, MA Thomas Kalmanirhalfback 3 1655 ft 9 insophomore Conemaugh Twp. H. S.Jerome, PA Joe Kielb*quarterback 5 1905 ft 9 inseniorSchenley H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Edgar Kimmelquarterback 0 1606 ftfreshman Penn H. S.North Bessemer, PA Leo Kinghalfback 0 1695 ft 10 in freshmanPeabody H. S.Pittsburgh, PA John J. Kleintackle 0 1805 ft 11 1/2 infreshmanHomestead H. S.West Homestead, PA George Kohut*guard 6 2006 ftfreshmanBethel Twp. H. S.Coverdale, PA John Kosh*fullback 7 1806 ftfreshmanDonora H. S.Donora, PA Frank Lengjakcenter 0 1675 ft 11 infreshmanNorth Union H. S.Uniontown, PA John L. Lewis, Jr.end 0 1906 ftsophomore R. J. Reynolds H. S.Winston-Salem, NC George Linelli*halfback 5 167 5 ft 9 insophomorePeabody H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Paul Longcenter0 2306 ft 1 infreshman Youngwood H. S.Youngwood, PA John Lozar*fullback 7 1805 ft 10 infreshmanGerman Twp. H. S.Adah, PA Andrew Lovichguard 0 1505 ft 10 infreshmanMonesson H. S.Donora, PA Owen McManuscenter 4 1956 ft 1 insophomoreSt. Vincent H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Ernest Mandrosend 0 1585 ft 10 1/2 infreshmanSouth Hills H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Edward Maruzewskiend 2 1856 ft 2 in freshmanBridgeville H. S.Bridgeville, PA Don Matthews*halfback 9 1655 ft 9 injuniorCoatesville H. S.Coatesville, PA Francis Mattioliguard 3 2055 ft 10 inDental SchoolHar-Brack H. S.Brackenridge, PA Remo Moffa*guard 5 1885 ft 9 in freshmanAltoona H. S.Altoona, PA Frank Morristackle 0 1776 ftfreshmanAvalon H. S.Avalon, PA George Morrisonfullback 0 2276 ftfreshmanPeabody H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Harry Munsonguard 1 1755 ft 10 infreshmanMillvale H. S.Millvale, PA Denver Newman*end 9 1745 ft 11 infreshman New Castle H. S.New Castle, PA Paul Oberkircherguard 2 1826 ftsophomoreStrong Vincent H. S.Erie, PA John Pagerquarterback 0 1765 ft 9 in sophomoreSt Veronica H. S.Aliquippa, PA Jack Paton*end 8 1766 ftfreshmanSewickley H. S. Sewickley, PA Victor Pepperhalfback 1 1755 ft 11 in freshmanCentral Catholic H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Harry Petersonquarterback01705 ft 10 1/2 infreshmanEllsworth H. S.Cokeburg, PA Albert Phillips*tackle 9 2196 ftfreshmanVandergrift H. S.Vandegrift, PA Steve Polach*guard 6 1655 ft 7 insophomoreNorth Union H. S.Uniontown, PA Richardo Puglieseguard 1 1735 ft 10 in freshman Vandergrift H. S.Vandergrift, PA George Ranii*guard 9 2105 ft 10 insophomoreAspinwall H.S.Blawnox, PA Edward Reesehalfback 0 159 5 ft 8 injuniorPeabody H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Paul Rickards*quarterback 91856 ftfreshmanWheeling H. S.Wheeling, WV Michael Roussos*tackle 9 2136 ft 2 infreshmanNew Castle H. S.New Castle, PA John Rozanski*tackle 7 2155 ft 9 in freshmanPlymouth H. S. Plymouth, PA Harvey Sarles*end 9 1786 ft 2 in freshmanButler H. S.Butler, PA Max Scherbtackle 1 2055 ft 11 insophomoreAllderdice H. S. Pittsburgh, PA Clem Schneiderend 4 1956 ft 3 infreshmanCentral Catholic H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Charles Schultzetackle 0 2045 ft 10 1/2 infreshmanWarwood H. S.Wheeling, WV Alfred Siscaguard 0 1555 ft 6 infreshmanShaler Twp. H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Edmund Slaterend 1 1655 ft 11 infreshmanNorth Union H. S.Uniontown, PA William Sloskyend 0 1856 ftfreshmanE. Pike Run H. S.California, PA Bernard Sniscak*halfback 7 1605 ft 8 in freshmanLansford H. S.Lansford PA Michael Sprock*halfback 8 1605 ft 10 infreshman Ambridge H. S.Ambridge, PA James Suehrquarterback 0 1505 ft 7 in freshmanCrafton H. S.Crafton, PA William Suttonend 4 185 5 ft 10 infreshmanBrownsville H. S.Brownsville, PA Charles Tomedolskyend 0 1656 ftfreshmanGlassport H. S.Glassport, PA Edward Velencichalfback 0 1655 ft 10 infreshmanGlassport H. S.Glassport, PA Edward Wagnerend 0 1746 ft 1 infreshman Penn H. S. North Bessemer, PA Robert Watkinsguard 1 1605 ft 9 infreshmanCalifornia H. S.California, PA Fred Wilsoncenter 0 1906 ft freshmanE. Pike Run H. S.California, PA E. Wojciechowskitackle 0 200 6 ft 1 infreshmanVandergrift H. S.Vandergrift, PA Louis Yakopec*halfback 6 1555 ft 7 infreshmanAspinwall H. S.Harmonville, PA Albert Zellman*end 6 175 6 ft freshmanSouth Hills H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Edward Zimmovan*end 9 184 6 ft 1 infreshmanNorth Union H. S.Uniontown, PA * Letterman September 23, 1944 University of Pittsburgh Athletic Department 1944 Pitt Varsity Squad Pitt Vs.West Virginia Souvenir Program 1Football Lettermen University of Pittsburgh 2008 Pitt Football Media Guide 178–182 April 13, 2023 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/175/mode/1up Game summaries West Virginia Week 1: West Virginia at Pitt West Virginia Pitt 0 0 7 6 6 0 13 7 September 23, 1944 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 10,000 sunny Hol Slatz (DePauw) 1944 West Virginia Mountaineers football team thumb|left|Roster sheet for September 23 game versus West Virginia thumb|Ticket stub for September 23 game against West Virginia On September 23, the Pitt Panthers opened the 1944 football season against Ira Rogers' West Virginia Mountaineers. The teams had met 37 times previously, with Pitt leading the series 27–8–1. West Virginia had not beaten the Panthers since 1928.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 160 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/161/mode/1up May 26, 2023 The Mountaineers, like the Panthers, were made up mostly of freshmen and 4-Fs. The only holdovers in the West Virginia lineup were end, Bill Anderson; tackle, Charles Smith; quarterback, John Lucente and center, Russ Lopez.Keck Harry Panthers Open Season at Stadium Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 23, 1944 18 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-open-s/127025237/ June 24, 2023 Newspapers.com Shaughnessy's Panther line-up had six freshmen and five holdovers. The returnees were Francis Mattioli and George Ranii at guard; Joseph DeFrank at tackle; Tom Kalmanir at halfback, and John Itzel at fullback. Tom Kalmanir was designated captain for the game. The Panthers gained their first opening day victory since 1939 by defeating the Mountaineers 26–13. Tom Kalmanir scored his first touchdown in the opening quarter but Mike Sprock missed the extra point. The second quarter was scoreless, and Pitt led 6–0 at halftime. Early in the third period, the Panther offense drove 58 yards in 7 plays. Mike Sprock scored on a 2-yard run. Sprock missed the point after and Pitt led 12–0. After being shutout the five previous years, the Mountaineers managed to score twice. In the third quarter, Gus Rader scored from the 2-yard line to end a 7-play, 50-yard drive. Jim Walthall drop-kicked the extra point to cut the lead to 12–7. The Pitt offense answered with two long drives, both ending with 1-yard touchdown runs. After an 11-play, 62-yard drive, Tom Kalmanir scored his second touchdown, and John Kosh added the extra point. George Freese scored the last touchdown for the Panthers to end a 16-play, 78-yard drive, and he converted the placement. The Mountaineers added a late score on a 62-yard touchdown pass from Bob Haman to Leo Kesling. Tony Leone missed the placement. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against West Virginia was Edward Zimmovan (left end), Joe DeFrank (left tackle), Francis Mattioli (left guard), Ralph Hammond (center), George Ranii (right guard), Michael Roussos (right tackle), Jack Paton (right end), George Freese (quarterback), Ted Kalmanir (left halfback), Michael Sprock (right halfback) and John Itzel (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Harvey Sarles, Edward Maruzewski, Denver Newman, Albert Zellman, Jay Brown, William Sutton, Edmund Slater, Albert Phillips, John Rozanski, Robert Flath, George Kohut, Richardo Pugliese, Robert Hayhurst, Steve Polach, Remo Moffa, Paul Oberkircher, Ralph Coleman, Owen McManus, Michael Banasick, Eugene Gaugler, Paul Rickards, Bernard Sniscak, George Linelli and Donald Matthews.Keck Harry Panthers Sparkle in Debut Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 24, 1944 Section 2-2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-sparkl/126391313/ June 14, 2023 Newspapers.com West Virginia Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Pittsburgh 4 26 RushTD Tom Kalmanir 1 no good Michael Sprock run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 6 3 Pittsburgh 7 50 RushTD Michael Sprock 2 no good Michael Sprock run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 12 3 West Virginia 7 58 RushTD Gus Rader 2 good (drop-kick) JIm Walthall run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 12 3 Pittsburgh 11 62 RushTD Tom Kalmanir 1 good John Kosh run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 19 4 Pittsburgh 16 78 RushTD George Freese 1 good George Freese run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 26 4 West Virginia 2 62 RecTD Leo Kesling Bob Haman 62 no good Tony Leone run/pass good/failed/incomplete 13 26 13 26 Notre Dame Week 2: Notre Dame at Pitt Notre Dame Pitt 6 13 26 13 0 0 0 0 September 30, 1944 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 46,069 cloudy Rollie Barnum (Wisconsin) 1944 Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team thumb|left|September 30 roster sheet for Notre Dame game thumb|Ticket stub for September 30 game versus Notre Dame After leading Notre Dame to the national title in 1943, head coach Frank Leahy entered the Navy and Edward McKeever replaced him for the 1944 football season. The Notre Dame lineup had three All-Americans: tackle George Sullivan; guard Pat Filley; and halfback Bob Kelly. Pitt coach Shaughnessy was optimistic. "In fact," he said after last night's practice, "we'll be in there giving Notre Dame a tough battle all the way. We're definitely a much better team than we were at this time last year."Panthers Physically Fit for Tilt With Irish Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 27, 1944 18 https://newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-physic/128454197/ July 18, 2023 Newspapers.com Three changes were made in the Pitt lineup - Angelo Carlaccinini replaced Mike Sprock at right halfback; Ralph Coleman replaced George Ranni at right guard; and George Kohut replaced Joe DeFrank at left tackle. The defending National Champion Irish squad humiliated the Panthers 58 to 0. All-America halfback Bob Kelly scored the first 4 touchdowns. His first two were touchdown receptions from quarterback Frank Dancewicz. The third was a 4-yard scamper that came late in the second quarter. Kelly missed the first two extra points, but he converted the third and Notre Dame led 19–0 at halftime. Kelly ended his banner day with an 84-yard run to start the second half. His conversion was good to make the score Kelly 26 to Pitt 0. Kelly gained 232 yards – 138 on 11 carries, 52 on two pass receptions and a 42-yard punt return. The Irish substitutes scored 3 more touchdowns in the third stanza and 2 in the final period.Smith Chester L. Notre Dame Whips Pitt The Pittsburgh Press October 1, 1944 34 https://newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-notre-dame-whips-pi/126390934/ July 14, 2023 Newspapers.com Statistics-wise the Panthers were inept. The Pitt offense fumbled 9 times and Notre Dame recovered 6 of them. The Irish defense intercepted 6 Panther passes. Notre Dame gained 499 yards on offense and held the Panthers to 146 yards.Smith Chester L. Statistics of Game The Pittsburgh Press October 1, 1944 37 https://newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-statistics-of-game/128464854/ July 18, 2023 Newspapers.com Jane Flaccus, a Sewickley socialite, purchased a $10,000 war bond and designated Yeoman Rita Hanson of the Coast Guard Women's Reserve (SPARS) to sit on the Panther bench for the game. Possibly the first woman to have that honor. Thanks to another donor, Louis Matsic of St. Paul's Orphanage visited the Notre Dame locker room after the game.On the Pitt Bench The Pittsburgh Press October 1, 1944 34 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-on-the-pitt-bench/128465846/ July 18, 2023 Newspapers.comBond Seat Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 1, 1944 Section 2–3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-bond-seat/128466385/ July 18, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Notre Dame was Jack Paton (left end), Michael Roussos (left tackle), Francis Mattioli (left guard), Ralph Hammond (center), Ralph Coleman (right guard), George Kohut (right ackle), Edward Zimmovan (right end), George Freese (quarterback), Ted Kalmanir (left halfback), Angelo Carlaccini (right halfback) and John Itzel (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Harvey Sarles, Denver Newman, Albert Zellman, Jay Brown, Edward Maruzewski, William Sutton, Maxwell Scherb, Albert Phillips, Joe DeFrank, Harry Munson, Robert Watkins, Steve Polach, Remo Moffa, George Ranii, Paul Oberkircher, Loren Braner, Eugene Gaugler, Donald Matthews, John Kosh, Paul Rickards, Bernard Sniscak, Joe Kielb, George Linelli and Michael Banasick. Notre Dame Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Notre Dame 10 80 RecTD Robert Kelly Frank Dancewicz 38 no good Robert Kelly run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 0 2 Notre Dame 4 13 RecTD Robert Kelly Frank Dancewicz 15 no good Robert Kelly run/pass good/failed/incomplete 12 0 2 Notre Dame 12 81 RushTD Robert Kelly 4 good Robert Kelly run/pass good/failed/incomplete 19 0 3 Notre Dame 3 70 RushTD Robert Kelly 84 good Robert Kelly run/pass good/failed/incomplete 26 0 3 Notre Dame 4 25 RecTD Bill O'Connor Frank Dancewicz 8 good George Terlep run/pass good/failed/incomplete 33 0 3 Notre Dame 2 57 RecTD George Terlep Joseph Gasparella 64 no good Robert Kelly run/pass good/failed/incomplete 39 0 3 Notre Dame 6 17 RushTD Joseph Gasparella 1 no good George Terlep run/pass good/failed/incomplete 45 0 4 Notre Dame 6 56 RushTD Steve Nemeth 1 no good Steve Nemeth run/pass good/failed/incomplete 51 0 4 Notre Dame 2 24 RecTD Mark Limont Joseph Gasparella 22 good Steve Nemeth run/pass good/failed/incomplete 58 0 58 0 Bethany Week 3: Bethany at Pitt Bethany Pitt 0 0 6 7 6 19 7 18 October 7, 1944 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 1500 A. L. Walsh (Springfield) Bethany College (West Virginia) thumb|left|Roster sheet for October 7 game versus Bethany College On October 7, the Bethany Bisons led by Coach John Knight met the Pitt Panthers for the final time on the gridiron. Pitt led the series 7–0 and the Bisons had yet to score on the Panthers.Borghetti E. J. All-Time Series University of Pittsburgh 2008 Pitt Football 138 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/135/mode/1up March 24, 2023 Three Bisons played for Pitt during the 1943 season: quarterback Joe Mocha, quarterback Cy Plazak and halfback Dan Owen. Bethany lost their opening game to Denison 40–12. Starting tackle Jack Jenkins and halfback Bob Doolittle were injured and unable to play against the Panthers.Hughes Carl Pitt Puts Out Welcome Mat For West Virginia Rivals The Pittsburgh Press October 5, 1944 23 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-puts-out-welco/128508332/ July 19, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Shaughnessy appointed quarterback Joe Kielb captain and starter for the game. In front of one of the smallest crowds in Pitt Stadium history (1500), Pitt beat Bethany 50–13. The Panthers took advantage of a weak Bethany defense and scored 8 touchdowns and two extra points. Bethany gained a moral victory by scoring 13 points. Tom Kalmanir led the Pitt scoring spree with 3 touchdowns. In the first half, he caught two touchdown passes from Paul Rickards, and then scampered 10 yards around right end to open the second half scoring. Harvey Sarles George Freese, Eugene Gaugler, Loren Braner and Mike Sprock tallied the remaining touchdowns. George Ranii and George Kohut converted the extra points. In the third quarter, Bethany's first score in the 8-year series came on an 11-yard pass from former Pitt quarterback Joe Mocha to Leo Short, which cut the lead to 32–6. Late in the game, Bison substitute halfback, Bobby White completed a 61-yard touchdown pass to former Panther Don Owen, and Bill Dreesen converted the placement to make the final 50 to 13.Hughes Carl Bethany Scores Twice but Panthers Triumph, 50–13 The Pittsburgh Press October 8, 1944 33 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-bethany-scores-twic/128567671/ July 20, 2023 Newspapers.comHughes Carl Panthers beat Bisons, 50–13 The Pittsburgh Press October 8, 1944 34 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-panthers-beat-bison/128568230/ July 20, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Bethany was Harvey Sarles (left end), Joe DeFrank (left tackle), Francis Mattioli (left guard), Ralph Hammond (center), George Ranii (right guard), Michael Roussos (right tackle), Jack Paton (right end), Joe Kielb (quarterback), Ted Kalmanir (left halfback), Michael Sprock (right halfback) and John Kosh (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Clem Schneider, Robert Hawkins, Edward Zimmovan, Denver Newman, Albert Zellman, Jay Brown, William Sutton, Albert Phillips, John Rozanski, Flath, George Kohut, Robert Hayhurst, Steve Polach, Remo Moffa, Paul Oberkircher, Owen McManus, Loren Braner, Ralph Coleman, George Freese, John Kosh, Michael Banasick, Paul Rickards, Angelo Carlaccini, Bernard Sniscak, George Linelli, Louis Yakopec, Donald Matthews, John Lozar and Eugene Gaugler. Bethany Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Pittsburgh 8 RecTD Harvey Sarles Joe Kielb 11 no good Mike Sprock run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 6 2 Pittsburgh RecTD Tom Kalmanir Paul Rickards 15 no good Mike Sprock run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 12 2 Pittsburgh 8 33 RushTD George Freese 4 good George Kohut run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 19 2 Pittsburgh 51 RecTD Tom Kalmanir Paul Rickards 7 no good Angelo Carlaccini run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 25 3 Pittsburgh 9 69 RushTD Tom Kalmanir 10 good George Ranii run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 32 3 Bethany 57 RecTD Leo Short Joe Mocha 11 no good Bill Dreesen run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 32 3 Pittsburgh RushTD Eugene Gaugler 21 no good George Ranii run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 38 4 Pittsburgh 1 23 IntTD Loren Braner 23 no good George Ranii run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 44 4 Pittsburgh 1 55 IntTD Miken Sprock 55 no good Michael Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 50 4 Bethany 1 62 RecTD Don Owen Bobby White 11 good Bill Dreesen run/pass good/failed/incomplete 13 50 13 50 at Army Week 4: Pitt at Army Pitt Army 0 0 0 7 7 21 27 14 October 14, 1944 Michie Stadium West Point, NY 2:45 p.m. 10,000 fair Harry Dayoff (Bucknell) 1944 Army Cadets football team thumb|left|Roster sheet for October 14 game versus Army thumb|Ticket stub for October 14 game versus Army On October 14, the Panthers played the Army Black Knights at West Point. The Panthers led the series 3–0, but the teams had not played since 1935. Fourth-year coach Earl "Red" Blaik had a lineup of All-Americans. Halfback Glenn Davis and fullback Doc Blanchard were consensus picks. End Barney Poole, guard Joe Stanowicz, guard John Green (guard) and quarterback Doug Kenna were named first team by at least one of the various selecting agencies.ESPN College Football Encyclopedia 1196 ESPN Books 2005 1401337031 The Black Knights were 2–0, having beaten North Carolina 46–0 and Brown 59–7.1944 Army Black Knights Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football July 31, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/army/1944-schedule.html The Panthers lost starting guard Francis Mattioli for the season with a back injury and starting halfback Tom Kalmanir who joined the Army Air Corps. Coach Shaughnessy named guard George Ranii captain and started 3 freshmen linemen (end Robert Hawkins, tackle Albert Phillips and guard Ralph Coleman). Angelo Carlaccini replaced Kalmanir at halfback.Keck Harry Panthers Hit For Army Game Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 12, 1944 18 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-hit-fo/129215413/ July 31, 2023 Newspapers.com The 1944 National Champion Army Cadets ran roughshod over the Pitt Panthers 69–7. In the opening quarter, the Pitt defense held Army to one 13-play, 64-yard touchdown drive. The next nine Army scoring drives took 6 plays or less. Felix "Doc" Blanchard and Robert Dobbs each scored two touchdowns. Dean Sensanbaugher, John Minor, Glenn Davis, Barney Poole, Thomas Hayes and William West scored the others. Richard Waterhouse converted 9 of 10 extra points. Pitt managed a 15-play, 82-yard scoring drive in the last two minutes of the game. Eugene Gaugler went through center from the 1-yard line for the score and he added the placement to complete the scoring.Smith Jack Army Runs Wild to Crush Pittsburgh, 69–7, at Point Daily News New York, NY October 15, 1944 78 https://www.newspapers.com/article/daily-news-army-runs-wild-to-crush-pitts/129264191/ August 1, 2023 Newspapers.com Army finished the season #1 in the AP poll with a 9–0 record. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Army was Robert Hawkins (left end), Albert Phillips (left tackle), Ralph Coleman (left guard), Loren Braner (center), George Ranii (right guard), Michael Roussos (right tackle), Edward Zimmovan (right end), Rickards (quarterback), George Freese (left halfback), Angelo Carlaccini (right halfback) and John Kosh (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Denver Newman, William Sutton, Jack Paton, Harvey Sarles, Albert Zellman, Jay Brown, Robert Flath, Joe DeFrank, George Kohut, John Rozanski, Robert Hayhurst, Steve Polach, Remo Moffa, Ralph Hammond, Owen McManus, Michael Sprock, Michael Banasick, John Itzel, Eugene Gaugler, Donald Matthews, Joe Kielb, John Lozar and Louis Yakopec.Wotta Lacing Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 15, 1944 Section 2-2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-wotta-lacing/129264927/ August 1, 2023 Newspapers.com Pittsburgh Army collapsed 1 Army 13 64 RushTD Robert Dodds 4 good Richard Waterhouse run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 2 Army 2 57 RushTD Dean Sensanbaugher 46 good Richard Waterhouse run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 14 2 Army 1 20 IntTD Felix “Doc” Blanchard 20 good Richard Waterhouse run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 21 2 Army 4 82 RushTD John Minor 1 good Richard Waterhouse run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 28 2 Army 3 77 RecTD Felix “Doc” Blanchard Thomas Lombardo 17 good Richard Waterhouse run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 35 3 Army 3 43 RushTD Robert Dobbs 5 good Richard Waterhouse run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 42 3 Army 3 69 RushTD Glenn Davis 64 good Richard Waterhouse run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 49 3 Army 1 49 RecTD Barney Poole Glenn Davis 49 no good (wide) Richard Waterhouse run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 55 4 Army 6 77 RecTD Thomas Hayes Arnold Tucker 22 good Richard Waterhouse run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 62 4 Army 3 74 RushTD William West 29 good Richard Waterhouse run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 69 4 Pittsburgh 15 82 RushTD Eugene Gaugler 1 good Eugene Gaugler run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 69 7 69 Illinois Week 5: Illinois at Pitt Illinois Pitt 12 7 13 7 3 0 2 0 October 21, 1944 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 10,000–15,000 perfect William A. Blake (Loras) 1944 Illinois Fighting Illini football team thumb|left|Roster sheet for the October 21 game versus Illinois thumb|Ticket stub for October 21 game versus Illinois On October 21, third-year coach Ray Eliot brought his Fighting Illini to Pitt Stadium. Illinois was 3–1–1 on the season. A loss to Purdue and tie with Great Lakes Naval Station were the only blemishes on their record.1944 Illinois Fighting Illini Schedule and Results Sports reference LLC SR/College Football August 1, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/illinois/1944-schedule.html Offensively the Illini were led by future College Football Hall-of-Famer, halfback Claude "Buddy" Young and fullback Paul Patterson. Their line was anchored by one of the biggest men in college football, Lester Bingaman, who was 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighed 280 lbs.Keck Harry Keck Says Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 20, 1944 27 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph/129268299/ August 1, 2023 Newspapers.com The Illini game was the first of three Western Conference foes that the Panthers had on their schedule. Pitt was 0–10 against the Western Conference since the football program was de-emphasized. Last season the Illini hosted the Panthers and won 33–25.Illinois 'Track Team' Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 18, 1944 10 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-illinois-track/129372358/ August 3, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Shaughnessey started Don Matthews at right halfback and Louis Yakopec at fullback. Loren Braner was designated game captain.Keck Harry 20,000 to See Grid Contest Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 20, 1944 27 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-20000-to-see-g/129372652/ August 3, 2023 Newspapers.com In front of 10,000–15,000 fans, the Panthers' futility against the Western Conference continued as the Illini scored 6 touchdowns to beat the Panthers 39–5. Pitt took the opening kick-off and advanced 54-yards, but had to settle for a 22-yard field goal by Mike Roussos. Illinois quarterback, Don Greenwood, returned the ensuing kick-off 80 yards for their first touchdown. The Panthers punted on their next possession and Illinois went 79-yards on 10 plays for their second touchdown. Don Greenwood missed both extra points and Illinois led 12–3 at the end of the first quarter. After an exchange of punts, the Illini had possession on their 6-yard line. On second down, Claude "Buddy" Young ran around right end 92-yards and Greenwood was good on the placement to increase the lead to 19–3 at halftime. The Illini added three touchdowns and two extra points in the second half. The highlight was a 62-yard scamper by Paul Patterson. The Panthers added a safety when tackle Al Phillips sacked Don Greenwood in the end zone.Bartlett Charles Running Illini Attack Beats Pittsburgh U. Chicago Sunday Tribune October 22, 1944 Part 2–3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/chicago-tribune-running-illini-attack-be/129375545/ August 3, 2023 Newspapers.com The Illini finished the season with a 5–4–1 record. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Illinois was Denver Newman (left end), Albert Phillips (left tackle), Ralph Coleman (left guard), Loren Braner (center), George Ranii (right guard), Michael Roussos (right tackle), Robert Hawkins (right end), Paul Rickards (quarterback), George Freese (left halfback), Donald Matthews (right halfback) and Louis Yakopec (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Edward Zimmovan, Jack Paton, Harvey Sarles, Albert Zellman, Jay Brown, Joseph DeFrank, Robert Hayhurst, Steve Polach, Ralph Hammond, John Lozar, Bernard Sniscak, Angelo Carlaccini, George Linelli, Michael Banasick, Michael Sprock, Joe Kielb, John Itzel and Eugene Gaugler. Illinois Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Pittsburgh 7 54 FG 22 Mike Roussos 0 3 1 Illinois 1 80 KickTD Don Greenwood 80 no good Don Greenwood run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 3 1 Illinois 10 79 RushTD Don Greenwood 5 no good (wide left) Don Greenwood run/pass good/failed/incomplete 12 3 2 Illinois 2 94 RushTD Claude “Buddy” Young 92 good Don Greenwood run/pass good/failed/incomplete 19 3 3 Illinois 2 67 RushTD Paul Patterson 62 no good (blocked) Don Greenwood run/pass good/failed/incomplete 25 3 3 Pittsburgh SafetyTackle Don Greenwood Al Phillips 25 5 3 Illinois 4 37 RushTD Claude “Buddy” Young 4 good Don Greenwood run/pass good/failed/incomplete 32 5 4 Illinois 1 5 RushTD Don Johnson 5 good William Butkovich run/pass good/failed/incomplete 39 5 39 5 Chatham Field Week 6: Chatham Field at Pitt Chatham Field Pitt 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 26 October 28, 1944 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 8,000 sunny Thomas Timlin (Niagara) 1944 Chatham Field Blockbusters football team thumb|left|Roster sheet for October 28 game versus Chatham Field thumb|Ticket stub for October 28 game versus Chatham Field After Carnegie Tech cancelled their football season, Pitt Athletic Director, James Hagan convinced the Chatham Field Army Air Base team to fill the spot in the Panther schedule. The Blockbusters were led by player/coach Art White and had a 1–4–1 record against mostly other service teams.Chatham Fliers Next Opponent For Pulverized Grid Panthers The Pitt News 38 6 October 25, 1944 7 August 4, 2023 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062144500/viewer#page/7/mode/1up Carl Hughes of The Pittsburgh Press described the make-up of the Chatham squad: "Unlike many service teams, Chatham Field relies only on men stationed at the base and does not 'import' name stars to augment the available manpower. Nine members of the squad have seen action overseas and are now instructors at the field. The remainder of the invaders who arrived at the airport last night by B-24 Liberators are pilots, bombardiers, navigators, aerial engineers, and other crew members who are not specializing in football, but find it a pleasant interlude between training classes."Hughes Carl Soldiers' Poor Record May Prove Booby Trap For Battered Panthers The Pittsburgh Press October 27, 1944 34 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-soldiers-poor-reco/129427982/ August 4, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Shaughnessey bemoaned the injury situation: "I do not have a single back who is not crippled in one way or another."Keck Harry Lt. Tarzan White Leads Servicemen Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 28, 1944 18 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-lt-tarzan-whit/129432050/ August 4, 2023 Newspapers.com Louis Yakopec, George Freese, Eugene Gaugler and Loren Braner were injured in the Illinois game. Ralph Hammond was designated captain and replaced Braner a center. George Linelli replaced Freese at halfback and freshman Clem Schneider started at left end.Keck Harry Legion to Root For Blockbusters Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 27, 1944 27 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-legion-to-root/129431597/ August 4, 2023 Newspapers.com For three quarters the Panthers and the Blockbusters played scoreless football. Late in the third period, Pitt halfback Don Matthews intercepted a Chatham pass on the Blockbuster 38-yard line. On the fifth play, John Lozar went through center from 1-yard out and Pitt led 6–0. The extra point was blocked. On the first play after the kick-off, Eugene Gaugler recovered a Chatham fumble on the Blockbuster 32-yard line. Don Matthews ran the final 3 yards for the touchdown, but he was wide on the placement. Angelo Carlaccini capped a 10-play, 70-yard drive with a 2 yard plunge through center. George Ranii converted the point after and Pitt led 19–0. Pitt tackle, Al Phillips blocked a Chatham punt that rolled into the end zone and Pitt end Robert Hawkins recovered for the score. Ranii converted and Pitt won 26–0. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Chatham Field was Clem Schneider (left end), Albert Phillips (left tackle), Ralph Coleman (left guard), Ralph Hammond (center), George Ranii (right guard), Michael Roussos (right tackle), Robert Hawkins (right end), Paul Rickards (quarterback), George Linelli (left halfback), Donald Matthews (right halfback) and Louis Yakopec (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Harvey Sarles, Denver Newman, Edward Zimmovan, John Rozanski, Robert Flath, Joseph DeFrank, Robert Hayhurst, Steve Polach, Owen McManus, Jack Paton, Charles Judd, John Kosh, Michael Sprock, Michael Banasick, Richard Bruce, Angelo Carlaccini and John Lozar. Chatham Field Pittsburgh collapsed 4 Pittsburgh 5 38 RushTD John Lozar 1 no good Mike Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 6 4 Pittsburgh 7 32 RushTD Don Matthews 3 no good (wide) Don Matthews run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 12 4 Pittsburgh 10 70 RushTD Angelo Carlaccini 2 good George Ranii run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 19 4 Pittsburgh Other Blocked punt by Al Phillips rolled into the end zone and recovered by Robert Hawkins 0 26 0 26 at Ohio State Week 7: Pitt at Ohio State Pitt Ohio State 0 0 13 6 20 21 13 0 November 11, 1944 Ohio Stadium Columbus, OH 2:00 p.m. 26,566 cloudy Lloyd Larson (Wisconsin) 1944 Ohio State Buckeyes football team thumb|left|Program for November 11 game versus Ohio State On November 11, the Panthers travelled to Columbus, Ohio to play first-year coach Carroll Widdoes' #2 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes. Ohio State was 6–0, and their lineup had four All-Americans (quarterback Les Horvath, center Bill Hackett, tackle Bill Willis and end Jack Dugger).1944 Ohio State Buckeyes Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football August 5, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/ohio-state/1944-schedule.htmlOhio State All-Americans The Ohio State University Libraries https://library.osu.edu/site/osuvsmichigan/ohio-state-all-americans/ August 5, 2023 Oho State led the all-time series 5–2–1. Since Jock Sutherland resigned as Pitt coach, the Buckeyes were 4–0 (outscoring the Panthers 156–46).Borghetti E. J. All-Time Series University of Pittsburgh 2008 Pitt Football 142 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/139/mode/1up August 6, 2023 In front of 26,566 fans, the Buckeyes continued the Western Conference mastery over the Panthers with a 54–19 victory. Eight different Buckeyes scored a touchdown, Mardo Hamilton tackled Pitt quarterback Joe Kielb for a safety, and Jack Duggar and Tom Keane each added two placements. With the Buckeye substitutes playing the second half, the Panthers managed to outscore Ohio State 19–13. The Panthers went 68-yards on 3 plays for their first score. A 55-yard touchdown pass from Paul Rickards to end Edward Zimmovan put Pitt on the scoreboard. Their second score came after a 66-yard, 6-play drive with George Freese going over left guard from the 2-yard line. With less than two minutes remaining in the game, Paul Rickards threw a 28-yard pass to Harvey Sarles for their third score. After Pitt botched the first placement with a fumbled snap, George Ranii was good on the second, but missed wide on the third.Young Clarence Buck Reserves Get a Workout Against Pitt Dayton Daily News November 12, 1944 Section 3-1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/dayton-daily-news-buck-reserves-get-a-wo/129550260/ August 6, 2023 Newspapers.comYoung Clarence State Takes Pitt Dayton Daily News November 12, 1944 Section 3-2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/dayton-daily-news-state-takes-pitt/129550575/ August 6, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Ohio State was Edward Zimmovan (left end), Albert Phillips (left tackle), Ralph Coleman (left guard), Ralph Hammond (center), George Ranii (right guard), Michael Roussos (right tackle), Robert Hawkins (right end), Paul Rickards (quarterback), Bernard Sniscak(left halfback), Donald Matthews (right halfback) and John Lozar (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Harvey Sarles, Clem Schneider, Denver Newman, Joseph DeFrank, John Rozanski, George Kohut, Robert Hayhurst, Loren Braner, George Freese, John Kosh, Joseph Kielb, Angelo Carlaccini, Louis Yakopec, Michael Sprock, Jack Paton and John Itzel. Pittsburgh Ohio State collapsed 1 Ohio State 5 45 RecTD Bob Brugge Les Horvath 32 no good Jack Duggar run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 6 1 Ohio State 1 2 RushTD Dick Flanagan 2 good Jack Duggar run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 13 1 Ohio State 1 15 RushTD Les Horvath 15 good Jack Duggar run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 20 2 Ohio State 1 43 IntTD Mardo Hamilton 43 good Tom Keane run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 27 2 Ohio State SafetyOther Mardo Hamilton tackled Joe Kielb in end zone 0 29 2 Ohio State 5 34 RushTD Tom Keane 2 no good Tom Keane run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 35 2 Ohio State 7 65 RecTD John Motejzik George Gordon 33 no good (blocked) Tony Stranges run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 41 3 Ohio State 4 RecTD Gene Janecko Robert Dove 62 no good Ollie Cline run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 47 3 Pittsburgh 3 68 RecTD Edward Zimmovan Paul Rickards 55 no good (fumbled snap) George Ranii run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 47 3 Ohio State 7 58 RecTD Tony Stranges Tom Keane 23 good Tom Keane run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 54 3 Pittsburgh 6 66 RushTD George Freese 2 good George Ranii run/pass good/failed/incomplete 13 54 4 Pittsburgh 1 28 RecTD Harvey Sarles Paul Rickards 28 good George Ranii run/pass good/failed/incomplete 19 54 19 54 at Indiana Week 8: Pitt at Indiana Pitt Indiana 0 0 0 0 13 13 14 7 November 18, 1944 Memorial Stadium Bloomington, IN 1:30 (CWT) p.m. 5,000 cold Lloyd Larson (Wisconsin) 1944 Indiana Hoosiers football team thumb|left|Program for November 18 game versus Indiana thumb|Ticket stub for November game versus Indiana On November 18, the Panthers and the Indiana Hoosiers met for the first time in Bloomington, IN. Eleventh-year coach Bo McMillin's squad was 5–3 for the season, and had shut out their previous three home game opponents (Fort Knox 72–0, Nebraska 54–0, Iowa 32–0).1944 Indiana Hoosiers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football August 8, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/indiana/1944.html Center and placekicker John Tavener was named consensus All-American. Future major league baseball star, Ted Kluszewski, started at right end. The Hoosiers were the final Western Conference team on the Panthers schedule. In 1942, the Hoosiers defeated the Panthers in their first meeting 19–7. Coach Shaughnessey made no changes to the starting lineup and named John Lozar captain.Lozar to Lead Panthers Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 16, 1944 19 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-lozar-to-lead-p/129668509/ August 8, 2023 Newspapers.com In front of a sparse crowd of 5,000, Indiana kept Pitt winless against the Western Conference since Sutherland's departure, and did not give up a point on their home field, as they beat the Panthers 47–0. In the first two quarters, Bob Hoernschemeyer threw three touchdown passes (two to Abe Addams and one to Richard Deranek) and scored himself on a 5-yard run around end. John Taverner converted 2 of 4 extra points and Indiana led 26–0 at halftime. The Hoosiers added two more rushing touchdowns in the third stanza. Deranek took a double pass and went 46 yards, and Mike Modak scored on a 12-yard run. In the fourth quarter, Ben Raimondi passed 16 yards to John Congdon for the final touchdown. Taverner was good on all 3 placements.Patton W. Blaine Hoosiers Rap Pittsburgh, 47–0 The Indianapolis Star November 19, 1944 45 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-indianapolis-star-indiana-wallops-pi/129671515/ August 8, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Indiana was Edward Zimmovan (left end), Albert Phillips (left tackle), Ralph Coleman (left guard), Loren Braner (center), George Ranii (right guard), Michael Roussos (right tackle), Robert Hawkins (right end), Paul Rickards (quarterback), George Freese (left halfback), Louis Yakopec (right halfback) and John Lozar (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Harvey Sarles, Denver Newman, John Rozanski, Joseph DeFrank, Robert Hayhurst, George Kohut, John Kosh, Donald Matthews, Bernard Sniscak and Michael Sprock.Too Much Power Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 19, 1944 Section 2-2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-too-much-power/129668190/ August 8, 2023 Newspapers.com Pittsburgh Indiana collapsed 1 Indiana 3 8 RecTD Richard Deranek Robert Hoernschemeyer 32 no good John Taverner run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 6 1 Indiana 36 RushTD Robert Hoernschemeyer 5 good John Taverner run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 13 2 Indiana 75 RecTD Abe Addams Robert Hoernschemeyer 10 no good John Taverner run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 19 2 Indiana 7 63 RecTD Abe Addams Robert Hoernschemeyer 23 good John Taverner run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 26 3 Indiana RushTD Richard Deranek 46 good John Taverner run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 33 3 Indiana RushTD Mike Moldak 12 good John Taverner run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 40 4 Indiana RecTD John Congdon Ben Raimondi 16 good John Taverner run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 47 0 47 Penn State Week 9: Penn State at Pitt Penn State Pitt 0 0 0 0 0 0 14 0 November 25, 1944 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 8,840 chilly and wet Capt. F. X. Keating 1944 Penn State Nittany Lions football team thumb|left|Roster sheet for November 25 game versus Penn State On November 25, the Panthers and Nittany Lions met for the forty-fourth time. Pitt led the series 24–17–2, but Penn State had won 4 of the previous 5 games. Bob Higgins' Lions were 6–2 for the season. Their losses were to Navy (55–14) and West Virginia (28–27). Star halfback Johnny Chuckran was injured, and only saw limited action.Keck Harry Panthers Hope to Close With Win Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 25, 1944 18 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-hope-t/131456883/ August 9, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Shaughnessey commented about his 2-year record to the Post-Gazette: "I would say that I'm a bit more puzzled than discouraged. Frankly, I thought a great university like Pitt would attract better material and maybe it will in normal times. I don't know the solution, but I'm certainly not going to walk out now just because we haven't rolled up a string of victories.....On Tuesday, despite that lacing at Indiana, the players had one of their most enthusiastic practices." Shaughnessey named center Loren Braner captain. The entire Panther squad was healthy except for halfback George Freese.Sell Jack Pitt Coach Says He'll Not Give Up Present Post Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 23, 1944 18 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-pitt-coach-says/129718463/ August 9, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt students held a pep rally prior to the game and the Pitt Band performed for the first time all season.Pep Rally Saturday The Pitt News 38 10 November 22, 1944 6 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062146943/viewer#page/6/mode/1up August 9, 2023 The underdog Panthers ended their season on a positive note with a 14–0 upset victory over Penn State. The first half was scoreless. In the opening quarter, the Pitt offense penetrated into Lion territory twice. The first time to the 28-yard line, and then to the 21-yard line, but they turned the ball over both times on penalties. In the second period, the Pitt defense held State out of the end zone on three separate drives – twice on downs and once on an interception. Pitt substitute halfback Bernie Sniscak returned the second half kick-off 93 yards to break the scoring drought. Mike Roussos added the extra point and Pitt led 7–0. Late in the quarter, center Loren Braner intercepted Johnny Petchel's pass and returned it 30-plus yards to the State 15-yard line. On second down from the 9-yard line, Eugene Gaugler went through tackle for the Panthers second touchdown. Roussos added the placement and Pitt stunned the oddsmakers.Keck Harry Panthers Win On 93-Yard Run Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 26, 1944 Section 2-2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-win-on/129723992/ August 9, 2023 Newspapers.com Pitt's Bernie Sniscak and State's John Chuckran were high school teammates on the 1943 State Champion Lansford, PA football team.Keck Harry Rickards, Chuckran Duel in Prospect Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 24, 1944 27 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-rickards-chuck/129724590/ August 9, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Penn State was Edward Zimmovan (left end), Albert Phillips (left tackle), Ralph Coleman (left guard), Loren Braner (center), George Ranii (right guard), John Rozanski (right tackle), Michael Roussos (right end), Jack Paton (quarterback), Louis Yakopec (left halfback), Donald Matthews (right halfback) and John Lozar (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Clem Schneider, Robert Hawkins, Harvey Sarles, Denver Newman, Albert Zellman, Robert Flath, Joseph DeFrank, Remo Moffa, Robert Hayhurst, Ralph Hammond, John Kosh, Eugene Gaugler, Paul Rickards, Bernard Sniscak and Michael Sprock. Penn State Pittsburgh collapsed 3 Pittsburgh 1 93 KickTD Bernie Sniscak 93 good Mike Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 3 Pittsburgh 2 15 RushTD Eugene Gaugler 9 good Mike Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 14 0 14 Individual scoring summary 1944 Pittsburgh Panthers scoring summaryPittsburgh Panthers Player Touchdowns Extra points Field goals Safety Points Tom Kalmanir500030 George Freese310019 Eugene Gaugler310019 Michael Sprock200012 Harvey Sarles200012 Don Matthews10006 Loran Braner10006 John Lozar10006 Robert Hawkins10006 Angelo Carlaccini10006 Ed Zimmovan10006 Bernard Sniscak10006 Michael Roussos02105 George Ranii04004 Albert Phillips00012 George Kohut01001 John Kosh01001 Totals221011147 Postseason The Panthers finished the season with a 4–5 record. Their defense gave up 293 points, which was a record. The previous worst was 261 points given up by the 1903 team.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 161 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/162/mode/1up August 13, 2023 George Ranii was chosen to play for the East squad in the annual New Years Day Shriner's game in San Francisco.Past Rosters East West Shrine Bowl https://shrinebowl.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/20_January_1_1945.pdf August 13, 2023 Team players drafted into the NFL The following players were selected in the 1945 NFL draft. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1945/draft.htm Pro Football Reference Sports Reference LLC SR/Pro Football January 11, 2023 2 Pittsburgh Panthers Player Position Round Pick NFL club Ralph HammondCenter11109Green Bay Packers Frank MattioliGuard14139Chicago Bears Jack ItzelFullback17165Pittsburgh Steelers Angelo CarlacciniBack25254Pittsburgh Steelers Loren BranerCenter32328Philadelphia Eagles References Pittsburgh Category:Pittsburgh Panthers football seasons Pittsburgh Panthers football