Pete Mauthe dominated the early gridiron as a versatile fullback, punter, and placekicker for the Penn State Nittany Lions. He revolutionized the game with his powerful leg and unmatched leadership, guiding his team through multiple undefeated seasons and securing his permanent legacy in college football history.
Football Bio
July 8, 1890 – Turkey City, Pennsylvania – Pete Mauthe, the Penn State fullback of the era of 1909 to 1912, arrived into the world.
He was a four-season letterman on the gridiron for the Nittany Lions, according to FootballFoundation.org. During Pete’s tenure at Penn State, the team posted a spectacular record of 26-2-4.
In 1911, the Nittany Lions went 8-0-1. Mauthe was the team’s punter and placekicker, and he beat Pittsburgh 3-0 with a 35-yard field goal.
The following season of 1912, Mauthe was the team captain, and his Penn State squad won all eight of its contests. Mauthe scored 119 of the team’s 285 points and even connected on a 51-yard field goal against Pittsburgh.
Pete Mauthe was honored with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1957 after the National Football Foundation tabulated its votes.
After college, in 1913, he was head coach at Gettysburg College with a 3-6-1 record.
Pete Mauthe leaves behind a remarkable legacy as one of Penn State’s earliest and most influential football stars. He secures his place in history through his exceptional kicking abilities, bruising running style, and vital role in the Nittany Lions’ undefeated seasons. Mauthe exemplifies the dedication and talent of the early era, standing forever as a celebrated College Football Hall of Famer.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1957.
- Four-Year Letterman: Lettered four consecutive seasons for Penn State (1909–1912).
- Undefeated Seasons: Led the Nittany Lions to undefeated records in 1909, 1911, and 1912.
- National Championships: Recognized as a member of the 1911 and 1912 National Championship teams.
- Team Captain: Captained the 1912 Penn State squad to a perfect 8-0 record.
- Scoring Leader: Scored 119 of the team’s 285 total points during the 1912 season.
- Historic Rivalry Kicks: Kicked a game-winning 35-yard field goal against rival Pittsburgh in 1911 and a 51-yard field goal against them in 1912.
- Head Coach: Served as the head football coach for Gettysburg College in 1913.
- Distinguished Alumnus Award: Honored by Penn State in 1964 for his lifelong achievements.