1945 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

American college football season August 2023 February 2026 1945 Pittsburgh Panthers football 285px|1945 Pitt Panthers Independent 3–7 Clark Shaughnessy 3rd Pitt Stadium The 1945 Pittsburgh Panthers football team represented the University of Pittsburgh as an independent during the 1945 college football season. The team compiled a 3–7 record under head coach Clark Shaughnessy.1945 Pittsburgh Panthers Stats Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football May 21, 2016 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/pittsburgh/1945.html Schedule 1945 AP September 22 l y Illinois Memorial Stadium Champaign, IL 6–23 9,962 Ward Arch Veteran Illini Eleven Defeats Pittsburgh, 23–6 Chicago Sunday Tribune September 23, 1945 Part 2-2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/chicago-tribune/130131807/ August 16, 2023 Newspapers.com September 29 w West Virginia Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 20–0 7,500–10,000 Keck Harry Roussos Stars in Fullback Role Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 30, 1945 Section 2–3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-roussos-stars-i/130816657/ August 28, 2023Muldoon Cecil G. Pitt Trims Mountaineers, 20–0, Before Crowd of 7500 The Pittsburgh Press September 30, 1945 32 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-trims-mountain/130817259/ August 28, 2023 Newspapers.com October 6 w Bucknell Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 38–0 10,000 Panthers Hand 38-0 Beating to Bucknell Carl Hughes October 7, 1945 35 The Pittsburgh Press Pittsburgh, Pa. Newspapers.com https://www.newspapers.com/clip/66870056/1945-bucknell-pitt/ October 13 l Michigan State Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 7–12 12,000–15,000 Keck Harry Panthers Routed By Air Attack Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 14, 1945 Section 2–5 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-routed/130935493/ August 30, 2023 Newspapers.comSlingerlend Lad Spartans Score Early, Then Gamely Stand Off Panthers The Lansing State Journal Lansing, MI October 14, 1945 24 https://www.newspapers.com/article/lansing-state-journal-spartans-score-ear/130936254/ August 30, 2023 Newspapers.com October 20 l Notre Dame 3 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 9–39 57,542 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 27 l Temple Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 0–6 12,000 Pitt Loses, 6-0; Fumble by Panther in First Quarter Leads to Touchdown Chester L. Smith October 28, 1945 34 The Pittsburgh Press Pittsburgh, Pa. Newspapers.com https://www.newspapers.com/clip/66874244/1945-temple-pitt/ November 3 l y Purdue 13 Ross–Ade Stadium West Lafayette, IN 0–28 15,000 Graham Gordon Boilermakers Grab Sixth of Year in Rather Drab Affair November 5, 1945 9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/journal-and-courier-boilermakers-grab-si/131221698/ September 4, 2023 Newspapers.com November 10 l Ohio State 8 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 0–14 18,000–20,000 Smith Chester L. Panthers Hold Staters Scoreless for Three Periods The Pittsburgh Press November 11, 1945 32 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-panthers-hold-ohio/131343543/ September 6, 2023 Newspapers.com November 17 l Indiana 4 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 0–19 5,000 Keck Harry Pihos Scores Twice For Hoosiers Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 18, 1945 Section 2–5 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pihos-scores-tw/131396693/ September 7, 2023 Newspapers.com November 24 w Penn State Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA rivalry 7–0 11,354 Year-By-Year Results Penn State University Athletic Department 2022 Football Media Guide 294 https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sidearm.nextgen.sites/gopsusports.com/documents/2023/3/27/Final_PDF.pdf September 8, 2023 Preseason 185px|left|Coach Shaughnessy After two years as Pitt head coach, Clark Shaughnessy's record was 7–10. In January, the Sun-Telegraph reported that Shaughnessy was not going to replace Elmer Layden as Commissioner of the NFL.Shaughnessy Denies Pro Rumor Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph January 4, 1945 8 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-shaughnessy-den/129991557/ August 14, 2023 Newspapers.com In March, when Shaughnessy went to Palo Alto for his daughter's wedding, the rumor mill had him becoming the next head coach at UCLA.Deny Shaughnessy Sought Coast Job Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph March 29, 1945 18 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-deny-shaughness/129991783/ August 14, 2023 Newspapers.com On June 12, he was on the Pitt practice field instructing his 34 incoming freshmen how to operate the T-formation. The freshmen drilled twice a day for two weeks, and then they were given a break before the entire team reported on July 30.Pitt Grid Frosh Begin Practice The Pittsburgh Press June 12, 1945 20 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-grid-frosh-beg/129996497/ August 14, 2023 Newspapers.com Seventeen holdovers from the 1944 squad were among the 53 players who reported the first day. Shaughnessy held morning and afternoon sessions for a few weeks. The squad was given a short break and fall practice opened on August 27.53 Open Pitt Grid Practice The Pittsburgh Press July 31, 1945 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-53-open-pitt-grid-p/129996845/ August 14, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Shaughnessy told Harry Keck of the Sun-Telegraph: "We still have the same fundamental weaknesses we had during the two wartime seasons through which we struggled, which are that: (1) we can't run fast enough, (2) we're not big enough, and (3) we lack experience, which means that, in the beginning, we may not be too smart.....We're still losing players in the draft and will continue to lose them, but for many of the players the war worry is over."Keck Harry Sports Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 9, 1945 Section 2–4 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-53-open-pitt-grid-p/129996845/ August 14, 2023 Larry Bondy, sports editor of The Pitt News, was critical of the student spirit: "The Panthers are a fighting club this year and aim to bring back Pittsburgh's glory; the only thing they need now is the backing of the student body. The student spirit has been lacking for years, possibly because of the war. Now that it's over it's about time we began cheering and coming out."Bondy Larry Panthers Open '45 Grid Season The Pitt News 39 1 September 19, 1945 3 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062143247/viewer#page/3/mode/1up August 14, 2023 Coaching staff 1945 Pittsburgh Panthers football staff Coaching staff Clark Shaughnessy – head coach Charles Hartwig – chief assistant coach Robert Hoel – assistant end coach Stan Olenn – assistant line coach   Support staff James Hagan - director of athletics Frank Carver – publicity director Howard Waite - trainer Jim Dimitroff – varsity student manager Harold Whitson – property manager Roster 1945 Pittsburgh Panthers football rosterPittsburgh Panthers Player Position Games Weight Height Class Prep School Hometown Joe Adlesicquarterback 2 1605 ft 9 infreshmanNorth Catholic H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Michael Banasick*halfback 7 180 6 ft sophomore Scottdale H. S.Scottdale, PA Stewart Brownguard 0 180 5 ft 7 infreshmanSchenley H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Herman Butisteguard 1 1875 ft 10 insophomoreGrove City H. S. Oil City, PA Allen Carterhalfback 3 1455 ft 8 infreshmanWestinghouse H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Daniel Cerrone*tackle 9 2406 ft 3 infreshmanBraddock H. S. Braddock, PA Anthony Chuffi*tackle 10 202 5 ft 9 infreshmanPeabody H. S.Pittsburgh, PA James Cintaniguard 1 1705 ft 9 infreshmanElwood City H. S.Elwood City, PA Henry Clougherty*center31855 ft 8 injuniorSwissvale H. S.Swissvale, PA Ralph Consolmagnofullback 0 1805 ft 11 infreshmanSouth Hills H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Gerald Cornwellguard 0 1785 ft 11 infreshmanWilliamsport H.S.Williamsport, PA Samuel Cosentinofullback 0 1805 ft 10 insophomoreAvalon H. S.Avalon, PA Peter Daleyhalfback 0 1685 ft 6 in freshmanBrownsville H. S.Brownsville, PA Joseph DeFrank* tackle 7 2135 ft 11 injuniorGerman Twp. H.S.New Salem, PA John Dombroskycenter 0 195 5 ft 6 infreshmanCarnegie H. S.Carnegie, PA Herbert Douglas*halfback 7 1555 ft 8 infreshman Taylor Allderdice H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Frank Drudatackle 0 195 5 ft 11 infreshmanLincoln H. S.Ellwood City, PA Norman Dundashalfback 2 1605 ft 9 infreshmanAcademy H. S.Erie, PA Dominick Faraoni*end5 1806 ft 1 infreshmanElwood City H. S.Elwood City, PA James Foley*fullback 9 182 6 ftfreshmanLaSalle H. S.Niagara Falls, NY Matthew Gibson, Jr.fullback 0 1906 ft 1 infreshmanSt. Vincent PrepPittsburgh, PA Eugene Gleasonhalfback 0 160 5 ft 11 infreshmanCentral H. S. Scranton, PA James Hayhurstguard 2 1975 ft 11 insophomore East Fairmont H. S.Fairmont, WV Richard Johnshalfback 0 1605 ft 9 insophomoreButler H. S.Butler, PA George Johnson*tackle 10 2056 ft 4 infreshmanGerman Twp. H. S.Edenborn, PA James Klinehalfback 0 1705 ft 11 infreshmanNorwin H. S.Ardara, PA George Kohuttackle 2 1956 ftsophomoreBethel H. S.Coverdale, PA John Kosh*center 8 1956 ftsophomoreDonora H. S.Donora, PA Donald Kuntzend 0 1906 ft 2 infreshmanJohn Harris H. S.Harrisburg, PA Frank Lengjakcenter 0 1675 ft 11 insophomoreNorth Union H. S.Uniontown, PA John L. Lewis, Jr.end 0 1906 ft juniorR. J. Reynolds H. S.Winston-Salem, NC George Linellihalfback 4 1685 ft 7 injuniorPeabody H. S.Pittsburgh, PA John Lozarfullback 3 1855 ft 10 injuniorGerman Twp. H. S.Adah, PA William McPeak*end 10 1876 ft 1 infreshmanNew Castle H. S.New Castle, PA Hugh McRandalcenter 0 1745 ft 11 infreshmanAspinwall H. S.Blawnox, PA Vincent Manauzzihalfback 3 160 5 ft 9 infreshman Butler H. S.Butler, PA Charles Marburgertackle 0 2265 ft 11 infreshmanMars H. S.Mars, PA Donald Matthews*halfback 6 1685 ft 10 inseniorCoatesville H. S.Coatesville, PA Francis Mattioli*guard 7 2055 ft 10 inDental SchoolHar-Brack H. S.Brackenridge, PA William Mihm*end 7 1806 ft 1 infreshmanWestinghouse H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Denver Newman*end 5 1655 ft 11insophomore New Castle H. S.New Castle, PA Paul Oberkircherguard 0 1806 ftseniorErie Strong Vincent H. S.Erie, PA John Pagerquarterback 0 1765 ft 9 injuniorSt. Veronica H. S. Aliquippa, PA Harry Petersonquarterback 2 1755 ft 11 insophomoreEllsworth H. S/.Cokeburg, PA E. Alexander Phillipshalfback 0 1755 ft 11 insophomoreBlacksville H. S.Blacksville, WV Steve Polach*guard 9 1705 ft 8 injuniorNorth Union Twp. H. S.Uniontown, PA Edmund Ralko*halfback 8 1755 ft 8 infreshmanCumberland Twp. H. S.Nemacolin, PA George Ranii*guard 10 2055 ft 10 injuniorAspinwall H. S.Blawnox, PA Frank Reckend 0 1956 ft 2 infreshmanEast Deer H. S.Glassmere, PA Frank Robertsonend 0 1455 ft 10 infreshmanJohnstown H. S.Johnstown, PA James Robinson*halfback 10 1806 ftfreshmanConnellsville H. S.Connellville, PA Michael Roussos*tackle 9 2206 ft 2 insophomore New Castle H. S.New Castle, PA John Rozanski*tackle 10 2035 ft 10 in sophomorePlymouth H. S. Plymouth, PA Leslie Sarlesend 0 1836 ft 2insophomoreButler H. S.Butlar, PA Leo Skladany*end 10 1866 ft 1 infreshmanPlymouth H. S.Plymouth, PA Robert Slackend 0 1726 ftfreshmanAspiwall H. S.Harwick, PA Edmund Slater end 0 1655 ft 11 insophomoreNorth Union H. S.Uniontown, PA Edward Smith*center 7 2106 ft 3 infreshmanMcKeesport H. S.McKeesport, PA Ernest Smithcenter 0 1805 ft 10 infreshmanEast Deer H. S.Creighton, PA Jack Smodic*quarterback 10 1745 ft 10 infreshmanGerman Twp. H. S.Gates, PA James Stopford*center 6 188 6 ftfreshmanJohn Harris H. S.Harrisburg, PA Edward Sudzinahalfback 1 1605 ft 8 infreshmanDuquesne H. S.Duquesne, PA John Tarantinohalfback 0 1755 ft 11 infreshmanScranton Central H. S.Scranton, PA Michael Temenoff*halfback 5 2056 ft 1 infreshmanWest Bethlehem H. S.Marianna, PA Kenneth Weinbelguard 0 1805 ft 9 infreshmanLodi H. S.East Patterson, NJ Harold Wertman*fullback 10 1806 ftfreshmanCoal Twp. H. S.Shamokin, PA Eugene Wojciechowskitackle 1 1956 ftsophomoreVandergrift H. S.Vandergrift, PA William Wolff*quarterback 7 1735 ft 10 infreshmanSt. Clair H. S.St. Clair, PA Albert Zellman*end 3 1856 ftsophomoreSouth Hills H. S.Pittsburgh, PA Edward Zimmovan*halfback 9 1806 ftsophomoreNorth Union H. S.Uniontown, PA * Letterman September 29, 1945 University of Pittsburgh Athletic Department 1945 Pitt Varsity Squad Pitt Vs.West Virginia Souvenir Program 1Football Lettermen University of Pittsburgh 2008 Pitt Football Media Guide 178–182 August 11, 2023 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062136134/viewer#page/175/mode/1up Game summaries at Illinois Week 1: Pitt at Illinois Pitt Illinois 0 0 0 6 9 0 0 14 September 22, 1945 Memorial Stadium Champaign, IL 2:00 p.m. 9,962 sunny Rollie Barnum (Wisconsin) 1945 Illinois Fighting Illini football team thumb|left|Program for September 22 game versus Illinois On September 22, the Panthers opened their season against the Fighting Illini in Champaign, IL. Illinois led the series 2–0.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 154 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/155/mode/1up August 17, 2023 Illinois starting halfback Eddie McGovern had an emergency appendectomy Friday morning and was replaced by freshman Tom Zaborac. Coach Ray Eliot's starting line-up had 2 seniors, 5 juniors, 3 sophomores and 1 freshman.Illinois Loses M'Govern For Most of Year Chicago Daily Tribune September 21, 1945 25 https://www.newspapers.com./article/chicago-tribune-illinois-loses-mgovern/130076866/ August 15, 2023 Newspapers.com The starting line averaged 205 pounds and was composed of 6 lettermen and 1 holdover reserve.Ward Arch A Good Illini Eleven Meets Youthful Pitt Chicago Daily Tribune September 22, 1945 15 https://www.newspapers.com/article/chicago-tribune-a-good-illini-eleven-mee/130078655/ August 15, 2023 Newspapers.com Pitt started 1 senior, 1 junior, 2 sophomores and 7 freshmen. Coach Shaughnessy was upbeat: "Why, our first three quarterbacks never played quarterback before, but, over-all, we're much better than last year."Shaughnessy Sees Chance For Upset Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 22, 1945 12 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-shaughnessy-see/130078277/ August 15, 2023 Newspapers.com Jimmy Joe Robinson, Herbert Douglas and Allen Carter, Pitt's first African-American players, made the final roster.Drum Bob Inexperience in Key Spots Big Handicap The Pittsburgh Press September 16, 1945 31 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-inexperience-in-key/130127739/ August 16, 2023 Newspapers.com Illinois kept the Panthers losing streak against the Western Conference alive, as they beat the Panthers 23–6. In the opening period, Illinois tackle, Les Bingaman, blocked Leo Skladaney's punt into the end zone. Pitt guard George Ranii recovered the ball for a safety. On Illinois' next possession, Pitt was guilty of pass interference in the end zone and the ball was placed at the 1-yard line. Bill Butkovich scored on second down. He added the point after and Illinois led 9–0. Then, the Panthers sustained their longest drive of the day and drove to the Illinois 1-yard line, but could not score. The second and third quarters were scoreless. Late in the third period, Illinois gained possession on the Pitt 37-yard line. They advanced the ball to the 11-yard line at the end of the period. On the second play of the final stanza, Butkovich went through center for the score. His placement made the score 16–0. Illini halfback, Eddie Bray, scored their final touchdown on a 38-yard scamper around left tackle. Bingaman kicked the point after. The Panthers answered with a 62-yard drive, highlighted by the passing of quarterback William Wolff. Wolff was 9 of 23 for 163 yards for the game. Ed Zimmovan scored on a 1-yard run to end the drive. Mike Roussos' placement attempt was low and the final read 23–6.Ward Arch Veteran Illini Eleven Defeats Pittsburgh, 23–6 Chicago Sunday Tribune September 23, 1945 Part 2-1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/chicago-tribune-veteran-illini-eleven-de/130132264/ August 16, 2023 Newspapers.com Illinois finished the season with a 2–6–1 record.1945 Illinois Fighting Illini Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football August 17, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/illinois/1945-schedule.html The Pitt starting line-up for the game against Illinois was Leo Skladany (left end), Anthony Chuffi (left tackle), Francis Mattioli (left guard), John Kosh (center), George Ranii (right guard), George Johnson (right tackle), Bill McPeak (right end), William Wolff (quarterback), James Robinson (left halfback), Ed Zimmovan (right halfback) and James Foley (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Mike Banasick, Dominick Faraoni, Michael Roussos, John Rozanski, George Kohut, Steve Polach, Edward Smith, Edmund Ralko, Jack Smodic, Harry Peterson, Allen Carter, Herbert Douglas and Harold Wertman.Too Much Power! Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 23, 1945 Section 2-2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-too-much-power/130166959/ August 17, 2023 Newspapers.com Pittsburgh Illinois collapsed 1 Illinois SafetyOther Les Bingham blocked Leo Skladany”s punt and George Ranii fell on it in the end zone 0 2 1 Illinois RushTD Bill Butkovich 1 good Bill Butkovich run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 9 4 Illinois 4 37 RushTD Bill Butkovich 3 good Bill Butkovich run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 16 4 Illinois RushTD Eddie Bray 38 good Les Bingaman run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 23 4 Pittsburgh RushTD Ed Zimmovan 1 no good (low) Mike Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 23 6 23 West Virginia Week 2: West Virginia at Pitt West Virginia Pitt 0 0 7 0 7 13 0 0 September 29, 1945 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 7,500–10,000 rain Harry O. Dayhoff (Bucknell) 1945 West Virginia Mountaineers football team thumb|left|Program for September 29 game versus West Virginia thumb|Ticket stub for September 29 game versus West Virginia On September 9, the Panthers hosted the West Virginia Mountaineers. Pitt held a commanding 28–8–1 lead in the all-time series.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 Coach Ira Rodgers was in his third year as replacement for head coach Bill Kern, who was in the Navy. The Mountaineers opened their season with a 42–7 win over Otterbein College.1945 West Virginia Mountaineers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football August 28, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/west-virginia/1945-schedule.html Starting quarterback, Hal McKibben, suffered an injury in the Otterbein game and would not play. Coach Rogers told The Pittsburgh Press: "We're too young. There's still no substitute for experience."Pitt Favored to Defeat W. Virginia The Pittsburgh Press September 29, 1945 7 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-pitt-favored-to-def/130810704/ August 28, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Shaughnessy used the same starting lineup as the Illinois game, except at fullback, where Harold Werkman replaced James Foley.Good Home Start ! Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 30, 1945 Section 2–3 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-good-home-start/130812082/ August 28, 2023 Newspapers.com In front of 7500–10,000 rain-soaked fans, the Panthers made it 14 in a row over the Mountaineers with a 20–0 shutout. Pitt scored late in the first period on a 51-yard, 9-play drive. Former tackle, Mike Roussos, lined up at fullback and went through center from the 1-yard line for the score. He booted the extra point and Pitt led 7–0. Late in the first quarter, Pitt guard George Ranii recovered a Mountaineer fumble on the West Virginia 23-yard line. On the third play of the second period, James Robinson skirted right end into the end zone untouched from the 7-yard line. Roussos added the placement and Pitt led 14–0. At the end of the half, the Panther offense drove 64-yards in 12 plays with George Linelli rushing the final 3 yards. The placement center snap was fumbled, and Pitt led 20–0 at halftime. The Panthers dominated the statistics gaining 360 yards to 81, and earning 18 first downs to 4 for the visitors. But dropped passes and fumbles stymied their offense in the scoreless second half. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against West Virginia was Leo Skladany (left end), Anthony Chuffi (left tackle), Francis Mattioli (left guard), John Kosh (center), George Ranii (right guard), George Johnson (right tackle), William McPeak (right end), William Wolff (quarterback), James Robinson (left halfback), Ed Zimmovan (right halfback) and Harold Werkman (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Dominick Faraoni, William Mihm, Michael Banasick, Denver Newman, John Rozanski, Joseph DeFrank, George Kohut, Daniel Cerrone, Herman Butiste, James Hayhurst, Steve Polach, Edward Smith, James Stopford, James Foley, Edmund Ralko, Jack Smodic, Norman Dundas, Michael Roussos, Herbert Douglas, Harry Peterson, George Linelli, Allen Carter, Donald Matthews and Edward Sudzina. George Ranii was named captain for the game.20,000 Expected To See Pitt Play West Virginia Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph September 27, 1945 18 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-20000-expected/130643932/ August 25, 2023 Newspapers.com West Virginia Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Pittsburgh 9 51 RushTD Michael Roussos 1 good Michael Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 2 Pittsburgh 5 23 RushTD James Robinson 7 good Michael Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 14 2 Pittsburgh 12 64 RushTD George Linelli 1 no good (fumbled snap from center) Michael Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 20 0 20 Bucknell Week 3: Bucknell at Pitt Bucknell Pitt 0 0 0 0 6 14 12 6 October 6, 1945 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 10,000 cloudy, muddy field Yans Wallace 1945 Bucknell Bison football team thumb|left|Program for October 6 game versus Bucknell thumb|Ticket stub for October 6 game versus Bucknell After a lapse of 22 years, Pitt renewed football relations with the Bucknell Bison on October 6. Pitt led the series 5–2.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 152 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/153/mode/1up August 29, 2023 Coach J. Ellwood Ludwig led the Bison to a 7–2–1 record in 1944. The 1945 squad was 1–2, having beaten the University of Scranton in their opener, and losing to Villanova and Cornell.1945 Bucknell Bisons Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football August 29, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/bucknell/1945-schedule.html While at Bucknell, Ludwig also coached the basketball and baseball teams.http://www.pa-roots.org/data/read.php?95,255742 J. Ellwood pa-roots.org August 29, 2023 Coach Shaughnessy told the Post-Gazette: "I plan on starting the usual combination of Billy Wolff, Jim Robinson, Ed Zimmovan and Jim Foley. However, if we kick off I will use Mike Roussos at fullback in place of Foley so the New Castle boy can boot the ball. The line will be the same as last week against West Virginia."Sell Jack Pitt Is Heavy Favorite Over Bucknell Bisons Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 6, 1945 8 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-pitt-is-heavy-fa/130873591/ August 29, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panthers romped to a 38–0 victory over the out-manned Bucknell eleven. Tackle turned fullback, Mike Roussos accounted for twenty points as he scored three touchdowns and added two extra points. He opened the scoring with a 2-yard plunge to cap an 11-play, 57-yard drive. His backfield mates, James Foley and James Robinson, scored the next two touchdowns and Roussos added the placements for a 20–0 halftime lead. Early in the third quarter, Roussos broke through the Bucknell line for a 57-yard touchdown run and, after a change of possessions, capped off his day with a 7-yard scoring run. In the final quarter, future Olympian, Herbert Douglas scored the final Pitt touchdown on an 11-yard scamper around right end.Keck Harry Roussos Star of Victory Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 7, 1945 Section 2–7 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-roussos-star-of/130876043/ August 29, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt Marching Band performed at halftime for the first time in several seasons. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Bucknell was Leo Skladany (left end), Anthony Chuffi (left tackle), Francis Mattioli (left guard), John Kosh (center), George Ranii (right guard), George Johnson (right tackle), William McPeak (right end), William Wolff (quarterback), James Robinson (left halfback), Ed Zimmovan (right halfback) and Michael Roussos (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Dominick Faraoni, William Mihm, Michael Banasick, Denver Newman, John Rozanski, Joseph DeFrank, Daniel Cerrone, James Hayhurst, Steve Polach, Edward Smith, James Foley, Edmund Ralko, Jack Smodic, Norman Dundas, Michael Roussos, Herbert Douglas, Harry Peterson, George Linelli, Allen Carter, Donald Matthews, Joseph Adlesic, Harold Wertman and John Lozar. Ed Zimmovan was named captain for the game. Bucknell Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Pittsburgh 11 57 RushTD Michael Roussos 2 no good Michael Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 6 2 Pittsburgh 6 16 RushTD James Foley 3 good Michael Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 13 2 Pittsburgh 5 42 RushTD James Robinson 7 good Michael Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 20 3 Pittsburgh 2 64 RushTD Michael Roussos 57 no good George Johnson run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 26 3 Pittsburgh 2 34 RushTD Michael Roussos 7 no good Michael Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 32 4 Pittsburgh 4 44 RushTD Herbert Douglas 11 no good (blocked) Edmund Ralko run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 38 0 38 Michigan State Week 4: Michigan State at Pitt Michigan State Pitt 6 6 0 0 0 0 0 7 October 13, 1945 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 12,000 fair and cool Rollie A. Barnum (Wisconsin) 1945 Michigan State Spartans football team thumb|left|Program for October 13 game versus Michigan State College On October 13, the Panthers played the Michigan State College Spartans for the first time. The Charlie Bachman-led Spartans were independent and not yet a member of the Western Conference. The Spartans arrived in Pittsburgh with a 1–1 record, having lost their opening game to Michigan (40–0) and then beating Kentucky (7–6).1945 Michigan Spartans Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football August 30, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/michigan-state/1945-schedule.html The Spartans utilized the Z-formation offense, which Bachman introduced in 1943 while coaching the Camp Grant squad.Panthers to Face New Z Formation Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 11, 1945 25 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-to-fac/130933344/ August 30, 2023 Newspapers.com After two wins in a row, Coach Shaughnessy was worried his team was looking ahead to Notre Dame: "Bachman's teams never are easy to beat, and this one is as big and strong as ours. His defeat of Kentucky last Saturday should be sufficient warning for us to be on the alert against a possible upset." Except for Edmund Ralko starting at quarterback, the Pitt lineup remained the same. Center John Kosh was named captain for the game.Keck Harry T and Z Formations Opposed in Game Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 13, 1945 12 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-t-and-z-formati/130934492/ August 30, 2023 Newspapers.com Michigan State upset the favored Panthers 12–7. Early in the first quarter, State gained possession on their own 41-yard line. Three pass completions moved the ball to the Pitt 9-yard line. Steve Contos ran around the left side for the score. Bob Malaga's placement went wide. State scored again in the second quarter. Jack Breslin intercepted a Panther pass on the Pitt 33-yard line, and in four plays the State offense advanced the ball to the 3-yard line. From there, Breslin ran around right end for the touchdown. The extra point was blocked and State led 12–0 at halftime. The Pitt offense spent the second half in State territory, but only scored on a 93-yard punt return by James Robinson. Mike Roussos added the extra point.Smith Chester L. Underdog Spartans Show Power and Score Twice in Opening Half The Pittsburgh Press October 14, 1945 38 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-underdog-spartans-s/130938724/ August 30, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Bachman told The Press: "We knew they had only Notre Dame in mind, and so we made plans to take advantage of it. Shaughnessy has a green team just as we do, and you just can't figure these freshmen out in advance. One Saturday they're perfect and the very next one they do everything backwards."Panthers Simply Forgot To Prepare For Spartans The Pittsburgh Press October 14, 1945 38 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-panthers-simply-for/130940293/ August 30, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Michigan State was Leo Skladany (left end), Anthony Chuffi (left tackle), Francis Mattioli (left guard), John Kosh (center), George Ranii (right guard), George Johnson (right tackle), William McPeak (right end), Edmund Ralko (quarterback), James Robinson (left halfback), Ed Zimmovan (right halfback) and Michael Roussos (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Mihm, John Rozanski, Daniel Cerrone, Steve Polach, Edward Smith, William Wolff, Jack Smodic, Herbert Douglas, James Foley, Harold Wertman and John Lozar. John Kosh was named captain for the game. Michigan State Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Michigan State 5 59 RushTD Steve Contos 9 no good (wide) Bob Malaga run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 0 2 Michigan State 5 33 RushTD Jack Breslin 3 no good (blocked) Bob Malaga run/pass good/failed/incomplete 12 0 4 Pittsburgh 1 87 PuntTD James Robinson 87 good Michael Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 12 7 12 7 Notre Dame Week 5: Notre Dame at Pitt Notre Dame Pitt 6 6 7 20 0 2 0 7 October 20, 1945 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 57,542 sunny Dr. R. W. Huegel (Marquette) 1945 Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team thumb|left|Program for October 20 game versus Notre Dame thumb|Ticket stub for October 20 game versus Notre Dame On October 20, the #3 ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish led by Hugh Devore were highly favored over the Panthers. Notre Dame was undefeated (4–0), having outscored their opposition 81–7.1945 Notre Dame Fighting Irish Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football August 31, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/notre-dame/1945-schedule.html Notre Dame led the all-time series 7–5–1, and the Irish had outscored the Panthers 99–0 in the past 2 games.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 156 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/157/mode/1up August 31, 2023 At the Friday afternoon Pitt pep rally Coach Shaughnessy stated: "I question whether Notre Dame is good enough to take our measure. We ought to beat Notre Dame."Optimistic! Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 19, 1945 28 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-optimistic/130986390/ August 31, 2023 Newspapers.com A capacity crowd watched the Panthers stay close to the Irish through 3 quarters, but Notre Dame scored 3 times in the final period to pull away for a 39–9 victory. In the second quarter, Pitt end Bill McPeak tackled Irish back Terry Brennan in the end zone for a safety. Late in the game, Pitt quarterback, Jack Smodic connected with Herbert Douglas on a 62-yard touchdown pass, and Francis Mattioli added the extra point to account for the Pitt scoring. Notre Dame scored in each quarter. Fullback Frank Ruggerio scored from the 1-yard line in the opening period. Quarterback Frank Dancewicz completed a 10-yard touchdown pass to William Leonard in the second quarter and followed that with a 28-yard scoring pass to Elmer Angsman in the third. Angsman scored again in the final quarter on a 1-yard run. John Panelli scored on a 19-yard dash and Ernest Virok intercepted a Jack Smodic pass and raced 50 yards for the final Irish touchdown. Stan Krivik was good on 3 of 6 extra points.Keck Harry 65,000 See Irish Remain Unbeaten Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 21, 1945 Section 2–5 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-65000-see-iris/130991809/ August 31, 2023 Newspapers.com Notre Dame finished the season ranked #9 in the Associated Press poll with a 7–2–1 record. Jim Costin of The South Bend Tribune noted that Shaughnessy substituted often and the Panthers were "penalized no less than 13 times for too many times out. If that isn't a record for a coach penalizing his own team, it will do for some time, anyhow."Costin Jim Irish Run Up 27 Points In Second Half The South Bend Tribune South Bend, IN October 21, 1945 Section 3-1 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-south-bend-tribune-irish-run-up-27-p/131043515/ September 1, 2023 Newspapers.com Shaughnessy blamed the situation on not being able to determine the placement of the ball. For the next game, he decided to sit in the press box and advise his assistants by telephone.Keck Harry Three Changes In Pitt Lineup Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 27, 1945 12 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-three-changes-i/131044160/ September 1, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Notre Dame was Leo Skladany (left end), Anthony Chuffi (left tackle), Francis Mattioli (left guard), John Kosh (center), George Ranii (right guard), George Johnson (right tackle), William McPeak (right end), Edmund Ralko (quarterback), James Robinson (left halfback), Ed Zimmovan (right halfback) and Harold Wertman(fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Dominick Faraoni, William Mihm, Michael Banasick, John Rozanski, Joseph DeFrank, Daniel Cerrone, Steve Polach, Edward Smith, James Stopford, Jack Smodic, Michael Temenoff, Michael Roussos, Herbert Douglas, George Linelli and Donald Matthews. Francis Mattioli and George Ranii were named co-captains for the game. Notre Dame Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Notre Dame 4 16 RushTD Frank Ruggerio 1 no good (wide) Stan Krivik run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 0 2 Pittsburgh SafetyTackle Terry Brennan Bill McPeak 6 2 2 Notre Dame 7 57 RecTD William Leonard Frank Dancewicz 10 no good (blocked) Stan Krivik run/pass good/failed/incomplete 12 2 3 Notre Dame 2 29 RecTD Elmer Angsman Frank Dancewicz 28 good Stan Krivik run/pass good/failed/incomplete 19 2 4 Notre Dame 4 8 RushTD Elmer Angsman 1 no good (wide) Stan Krivik run/pass good/failed/incomplete 25 2 4 Notre Dame 4 49 RushTD John Panelli 19 good Stan Krivik run/pass good/failed/incomplete 32 2 4 Notre Dame 1 50 IntTD Ernest Virok good Stan Krivik run/pass good/failed/incomplete 39 2 4 Pittsburgh 2 80 RecTD Herbert Douglas Jack Smodic 62 good Francis Mattioli run/pass good/failed/incomplete 39 9 39 9 Temple Week 6: Temple at Pitt Temple Pitt 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 October 27, 1945 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:10 p.m. 12,000 sunny and cool Joseph H. Williams (Bucknell) 1945 Temple Owls football team thumb|left|Program for October 27 game versus temple On October 27, Pitt and Temple met for the third time. The Panthers won the first two meetings played in Philadelphia.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 158 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/159/mode/1up August 29, 2023 Owls coach Ray Morrison was in his sixth season and his squad was unbeaten (4–0), although unranked. They had outscored their opposition 158–18.1945 Temple Owls Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football August 31, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/temple/1945-schedule.html Coach Morrison started the same lineup that faced West Virginia the previous Saturday. Pitt center John Kosh was injured in the Notre Dame game and replaced in the starting lineup by freshman Jim Stopford. Coach Shaughnessy watched the game from the press box and telephoned instructions to his assistants.Sell Jack Owls Seek 5th Straight Grid Victory Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 27, 1947 8 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-owls-seek-5th-st/131046455/ September 1, 2023 Newspapers.com The Panthers lost for the third week in a row, as the Temple Owls converted a first quarter fumble by halfback Ed Zimmovan into a touchdown, and then shut out the Panther offense the rest of the game to run their record to 5–0. Temple halfback Andy Wolfrum recovered Zimmovan's fumble on the Panther 24-yard line. After a 4-yard gain and 9-yard loss, Temple back, Phillip Slosburg raced 22-yards to the 7-yard line. On second down Slosburg scored through the left side from the 5-yard line. Jimmy Wilson missed the placement. Temple 6–Pitt 0. The Temple defense kept the Panthers out of the end zone the remainder of the game. The Panthers only committed 4 penalties with Shaughnessy in the press box.Keck Harry Owls' Line Throttles Pitt Plays Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 28, 1945 Section 2–5 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-owls-line-thro/131048772/ September 1, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Temple was Leo Skladany (left end), Anthony Chuffi (left tackle), Francis Mattioli (left guard), James Stopford (center), George Ranii (right guard), George Johnson (right tackle), William McPeak (right end), Jack Smodic (quarterback), James Robinson (left halfback), Ed Zimmovan (right halfback) and Michael Roussos (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were John Rozanski, Daniel Cerrone, Steve Polach, Joseph Dfrank, Michael Temenoff, William Wolff, Harold Wertman, James Foley, Herbert Douglas and Donald Matthews.A Close One Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph October 28, 1945 Section 2–5 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-a-close-one/131049088/ September 1, 2023 Newspapers.com Temple Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Temple 5 24 RushTD Philip Slosburg 5 no good (wide) Jimmy Wilson run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 0 6 0 at Purdue Week 7: Pitt at Purdue Pitt Purdue 0 0 0 0 14 7 7 0 November 3, 1945 Ross-Ade Stadium Lafayette, IN 2:00 p.m. 15,000 fair and cool Lyle Clarno (Bradley) 1945 Purdue Boilermakers football team thumb|left|Program for November 3 game versus Purdue On November 3, the Panthers traveled to Lafayette, IN to play Coach Cecil Isbell's #13 ranked Purdue Boilermakers. In 1941, Purdue won the initial meeting (6–0) at Pitt Stadium.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 157 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/158/mode/1up September 4, 2023 The Boilermakers were 5–1, having lost the previous week to Northwestern (26–14).1945 Purdue Boilermakers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football August 31, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/purdue/1945-schedule.html Purdue was the first of three straight Western Conference opponents on the Panthers schedule. Pitt was on a 14-game losing streak to Western Conference schools since it began its de-emphasis. Coach Charley Bowser was 0–8, and Coach Shaughnessy was 0–6.Keck Harry Pitt Battles Purdue on Indiana Gridiron Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 3, 1945 12 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-pitt-battles-pu/131220934/ September 4, 2023 Newspapers.com Coach Shaughnessy needed to adjust the Panther lineup. Three starters (guard Francis Mattioli, quarterback William Wolff and halfback Ed Zimmovan) were injured in the Temple game and were unable to play. They were replaced by Steve Polach, Jack Smodic and Harold Wertman.Squad Crippled For Tough Test Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 1, 1945 20 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-squad-crippled/131219345/ September 4, 2023 Newspapers.com Purdue continued the Western Conference dominance over the Panthers with a 28–0 shutout. In the first period, Purdue halfback Ed Cody first scored on a 10-yard run around Pitt's right end. A short while later he scored on an 11-yard run around Pitt's left end. Tom Hughes added both placements and Purdue led 14–0. Purdue end Paul Gilbert "snatched a fumble 'out of the air' late in the second quarter and dashed 46 yards for a touchdown." The Pitt coaches argued that the ball hit the ground and was an incomplete pass, but the play stood and Hughes added the point after. The final Purdue touchdown came in the third quarter on a 50-yard run by Bill Canfield. Hughes kicked the extra point. Purdue played their substitutes in the final period. The Pitt defense allowed a 15-play drive and an 11-play drive, but kept the Boilermakers out of the end zone. Purdue finished the season ranked #18 with a 7–3 record. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Purdue was Leo Skladany (left end), Daniel Cerrone (left tackle), Anthony Chuffi (left guard), John Kosh (center), George Ranii (right guard), George Johnson (right tackle), William McPeak (right end), Jack Smodic (quarterback), James Robinson (left halfback), Harold Wertman (right halfback) and James Foley (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Albert Zellman, William Mihm, Michael Banasick, Denver Newman, John Rozanski, James Hayhurst, Eugene Wojiechowski, Joseph DeFrank, Steve Polach, James Cintani, Edward Smith, James Stopford, Joseph Adlesic, Edmund Ralko, George Linelli, Herbert Douglas, Donald Matthews and Vincent Manauzzi. Pittsburgh Purdue collapsed 1 Purdue 6 40 RushTD Ed Cody 10 good Tom Hughes run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 1 Purdue 6 68 RushTD Ed Cody 11 good Tom Hughes run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 14 2 Purdue 1 46 FumbleTD Paul Gilbert 46 good Tom Hughes run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 21 3 Purdue 1 50 RushTD Bill Canfield 50 good Tom Hughes run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 28 0 28 Ohio State Week 8: Ohio State at Pitt Ohio State Pitt 0 0 0 14 0 0 0 0 November 10, 1945 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 20,000 rain Dr. R. W. Huegel (Marquette) 1945 Ohio State Buckeyes football team thumb|left|Program for November 10 game versus Ohio State thumb|Ticket stub for the November 10 game versus Ohio State On November 10, the Panthers hosted the #8-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes. Second-year Coach Carroll Widdoes squad was 5–1 on the season, having only lost to Purdue (35–13).1945 Ohio State Buckeyes Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football August 31, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/ohio-state/1945-schedule.html The Buckeyes had 16 returning lettermen. Guard Warren Amling was a consensus All-American and fullback Ollie Cline and tackle Russ Thomas were named 1st team All-Conference.All-Big Ten Grid Team Selected Decatur Herald Decatur, Illinois November 27, 1945 9 https://www.newspapers.com/article/herald-and-review-all-big-ten-grid-team/131286045/ September 5, 2023 Newspapers.com State led the series 6–2–1, and had won the past five meetings. Pitt students circulated a petition to oust Coach Shaughnessy for his supposed coaching errors. The team supported the coach and a demonstration scheduled at a pep rally did not materialize.Smith Chester L. The Village Smithy The Pittsburgh Press November 10, 1945 7 https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-pittsburgh-press-the-village-smithy/131290100/ September 5, 2023 Newspapers.com The players told the press: "We held an informal meeting and decided that the petition was unfair to Coach Shaughnessy. Sponsors of it approached a number of us, but we absolutely refused to sign. In fact, if we get it in our possession you can feel sure that one of us will tear it up. The statements it makes as to our failure to win are silly. We want the public to know that we are behind our coach 100 per cent and will try to beat Ohio State for him on Saturday."Gridders Back Up Pitt Coach Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 9, 1945 26 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-gridders-back-u/131340887/ September 6, 2023 Newspapers.com On a rainy day with ankle-deep mud covering the field, the Panthers lost to the Ohio State Buckeyes 14 to 0. For three quarters the defenses kept the game scoreless. Ohio State threatened 4 times in the second quarter, but the Panther defense prevailed. At the end of the third period the Panther offense advanced to the State 13-yard line, but turned the ball over on downs. The State offense then went 88 yards in 5 plays, with halfback Alex Verdona scoring on an 18-yard end run. On the Buckeyes next possession, fullback Ollie Cline dashed 63-yards through the middle of the Panther line for the second touchdown. Max Schnittker converted both placements. The Panthers suffered their third shutout and fifth loss in a row. Ohio State finished the season ranked #12 with a 7–2 record. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Ohio State was Leo Skladany (left end), Daniel Cerrone (left tackle), Anthony Chuffi (left guard), John Kosh (center), George Ranii (right guard), Michael Roussos (right tackle), William McPeak (right end), Jack Smodic (quarterback), James Robinson (left halfback), Edward Zimmovan (right halfback) and Harold Wertman (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were Dominick Faraoni, William Mihm, Michael Banasick, Denver Newman, Albert Zellman, John Rozanski, Joseph DeFrank, Steve Polach, Henry Clougherty, Michael Temenoff, William Wolff, Vincent Manuzzi, Edmund Ralko, John Lozar and James Foley. Ohio State Pittsburgh collapsed 4 Ohio State 7 87 RushTD Alex Verdona 18 good Max Schnittker run/pass good/failed/incomplete 7 0 4 Ohio State 1 63 RushTD Ollie Cline 63 good Max Schnittker run/pass good/failed/incomplete 14 0 14 0 Indiana Week 9: Indiana at Pitt Indiana Pitt 6 0 13 0 0 0 0 0 November 17, 1945 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 5,000 rain Mike Layden (Notre Dame) 1945 Indiana Hoosiers football team thumb|left|Program for November 17 game vesus Indiana On November 17, the Panthers met their final Western Conference opponent, the unbeaten Indiana Hoosiers. Bo McMillin's squad was 7–0–1 and ranked #4 in the AP poll.1945 Indiana Hoosiers Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football September 7, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/indiana/1945-schedule.html Five of their starters received All-American honors – fullback Pete Pihos, tackle Russ Deal, guard Howard Brown, end Bob Ravensberg, and halfback George Taliaferro.All-Americans Hoosier Huddle September 7, 2023 http://hoosierhuddle.com/all-americans Coach Shaughnessy started a different backfield to generate more offense - William Wolff at quarterback, James Foley and Edmund Ralko at halfback and James Robinson at fullback. In front of 5,000 rain-soaked fans, the Panthers were shutout for the fourth straight game. Indiana scored three touchdowns and beat the Panthers 19–0. The Hoosiers scored in the opening period on a 2-yard touchdown pass from Ben Raimondi to Bob Ravensberg. Charley Armstrong missed the extra point. Neither team threatened to score for the remainder of the first half. In the third quarter, Indiana tackle John Goldsberry blocked Leo Skladaney's punt and Ted Kluszewski recovered on the Pitt 5-yard line. Pete Pihos scored on second down. Armstrong missed the point after. After a Panther punt, the Indiana offense drove 69-yards in 7 plays. Pete Pihos scored from the one and Armstrong added the point after to close the scoring. Indiana won the Western Conference title with a 9–0–1 record and were ranked #4 in the AP final poll. The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Indiana was Leo Skladany (left end), Daniel Cerrone (left tackle), Anthony Chuffi (left guard), John Kosh (center), George Ranii (right guard), George Johnson (right tackle), William McPeak (right end), William Wolff (quarterback), James Foley (left halfback), Edmund Ralko (right halfback) and James Robinson (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were William Mihm, Michael Banasick, Albert Zellman, Denver Newman, John Rozanski, Michael Roussos, Joseph DeFrank, Steve Polach, Edward Smith, Henry Clougherty, Jack Smodic, Harold Wertman, Edward Zimmovan and Michael Temenoff. Indiana Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Indiana 11 41 RecTD Bob Ravensberg Ben Raimondi 2 no good Charley Armstrong run/pass good/failed/incomplete 6 0 3 Indiana 2 5 RushTD Pete Pihos 2 no good Charley Armstrong run/pass good/failed/incomplete 12 0 3 Indiana 7 69 RushTD Pete Pihos 1 good Charley Armstrong run/pass good/failed/incomplete 19 0 19 0 Penn State Week 10: Penn State at Pitt Penn State Pitt 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 0 November 24, 1945 Pitt Stadium Pittsburgh, PA 2:00 p.m. 11,354 snow flurries William T. Halloran 1945 Penn State Nittany Lions football team thumb|left|Program for November 24 game versus Penn State On November 24, the Panthers ended the season against in-state rival Penn State. Pitt led the series 25–17–2.Record Book Pitt Football 2005 2005 University of Pittsburgh 157 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735051647059/viewer#page/158/mode/1up September 8, 2023 The Nittany Lions were 5–2, having just lost to common opponent Michigan State 33–0.1945 Penn State Nittany Lions Schedule and Results Sports Reference LLC S/R College Football September 8, 2023 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/penn-state/1945-schedule.html Coach Higgins named fullback Ralph Ventresco, an infantry veteran, captain for the game. State starting halfback Joe Tepsic who missed the Michigan State game due to injury was in the lineup.Panthers Primed For Final Test Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 23, 1945 30 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-panthers-primed/131458828/ September 8, 2023 Newspapers.com On the Monday prior to the game, at the weekly press conference luncheon, Coach Shaughnessy announced that the team would wear Blue and Gold uniforms for the Penn State game. "We've blamed our losses on everything else," the Pitt coach explained. "Now we're going to blame it on the uniforms and bring back the school colors...The red and white was just a wartime uniform for a wartime team. Now that the war is over, we're going back to normal and the traditional blue and gold."Panthers Going Back To Old Blue and Gold Uniforms Saturday Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 20, 1945 14 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-post-gazette-panthers-going-b/131459954/ September 8, 2023 Newspapers.com Pitt guard Francis Mattioli returned to the lineup and was named co-captain along with guard George Ranii. Center John Kosh was injured and replaced by Henry Clougherty. Pitt freshman running back Jimmy Joe Robinson fielded a first quarter quick-kick on the Panthers 10-yard line, and ran 90 yards for the only touchdown of the game. Harry Keck of the Sun-Telegraph wrote: "He cut to the left sideline, picked up interference that brushed aside defenders and finally broke into the clear and with his speed could not be caught. Mike Roussos booted the extra point and that was the ball game." The Pitt defense stopped Penn State drives twice in the opening quarter. First, Panthers halfback Ed Zimmovan intercepted a Lion pass on the 1-yard line, and after Pitt kicked out of trouble, the Lions advanced to the Panthers 18-yard line before losing the ball on downs. In the final quarter, the Lions offense penetrated to the Pitt 15-yard line, but the Pitt defense again took over on downs and their offense ran out the clock. State made 12 first downs to Pitt's 7, but Pitt rushed for 131 yards to 103 for State. State gained 67 yards on 4 pass completions. The Panthers did not complete a pass (0–3).Keck Harry Robinson Races 90 Yards to Score Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph November 25, 1945 Section 2–5 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-robinso-races-9/131620480/ September 11, 2023 Newspapers.com The Pitt starting lineup for the game against Penn State was Leo Skladany (left end), Daniel Cerrone (left tackle), Francis Mattioli (left guard), Henry Clougherty (center), George Ranii (right guard), Michael Roussos (right tackle), William McPeak (right end), Jack Smodic (quarterback), James Robinson (left halfback), Edward Zimmovan (right halfback) and James Foley (fullback). Substitutes appearing in the game for Pitt were John Rozanski, George Johnson, Anthony Chuffi, Harold Wertman, Donald Matthews, Michael Temenoff and Vincent Manauzzi. Penn State Pittsburgh collapsed 1 Pittsburgh 1 90 PuntTD James Robinson 90 good Mike Roussos run/pass good/failed/incomplete 0 7 0 7 Individual scoring summary 1945 Pittsburgh Panthers scoring summaryPittsburgh Panthers Player Touchdowns Extra points Field goals Safety Points Michael Roussos460030 James Robinson400024 Herbert Douglas200012 Ed Zimmovan10006 James Foley10006 George Linelli10006 William McPeak00012 Francis Mattioli01001 Totals1370187 Postseason George Ranii, Francis Mattioli and John Kosh were invited to participate in the North-South game in Montgomery, AL on New Year's Day.Mattioli--Ranii in North-South Game The Pitt News 39 12 December 5, 1945 6 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062144054/viewer#page/6/mode/1up August 14, 2023North All-Stars Beat Southern Eleven, 26–0 Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph December 30, 1945 Section 2-2 https://www.newspapers.com/article/pittsburgh-sun-telegraph-north-all-stars/131622027/ September 11, 2023 Newspapers.com Leo Skladany started at end for the east in the New Year's Day Shrine Game in San Francisco.Bondy Larry Larry Bondy Reporting The Pitt News 39 14 January 9, 1946 3 September 11, 2023 https://documenting.pitt.edu/islandora/object/pitt%3A31735062144039/viewer#page/3/mode/1up Team players drafted into the NFL The following players were selected in the 1946 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 George JohnsonTackle22203Pittsburgh Steelers Jack ItzelFullback31292Philadelphia Eagles References Pittsburgh Category:Pittsburgh Panthers football seasons Pittsburgh Panthers football