Top Contending Teams
Several teams entered the season with high expectations, but the war's impact meant that many preseason favorites were unable to maintain their form throughout the year. However, some teams were able to overcome these challenges and emerge as top contenders. These included:
✦ Ohio State: Coached by Paul Brown, the Buckeyes finished the season with a 9-1 record. Their only loss came against a strong Wisconsin team. Ohio State was known for its powerful offense, led by halfback Les Horvath.
✦ Georgia: The Bulldogs, coached by Wally Butts, won the Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship and finished with an 11-1 record. They were led by Heisman Trophy winner Frank Sinkwich.
✦ Wisconsin: The Badgers had a strong season, finishing with an 8-1-1 record. Their victory over Ohio State was one of the biggest upsets of the year.
✦ Georgia Tech: Coached by the legendary William Alexander, Georgia Tech finished with a 9-2 record, losing to both Georgia and Texas.
✦ Tulsa: The Golden Hurricane won the Missouri Valley Conference and finished with a 10-1 record.
Big Games of 1942
Several key games throughout the season had a major impact on the national championship race. Some of the most important contests included:
✦ Wisconsin 17, Ohio State 7: This game was a crucial matchup in the Big Ten, with Wisconsin handing Ohio State their only loss of the season.
✦ Georgia Tech 7, Alabama 0: A close, hard fought battle between two SEC rivals
✦ Georgia 34, Georgia Tech 0: A late season blowout that helped propel Georgia in the national conversation.
National Champion
The 1942 season did not have a consensus national champion. The Associated Press (AP) poll, which was the most widely recognized national poll at the time, named Ohio State as the national champion. However, other selectors, including the Helms Athletic Foundation, named Georgia as the national champion.
Player Awards and Statistical Leaders
The 1942 season saw several outstanding individual performances. The most prestigious individual award, the Heisman Trophy, was won by Frank Sinkwich of Georgia. Sinkwich was a dominantpresence on both offense and defense, leading the nation in rushing.
Some of the key statistical leaders from the 1942 season included:
✦ Frank Sinkwich (Georgia): Rushing Leader
✦ Glenn Dobbs (Tulsa): Passing Leader
The 1942 college football season was a season of contrasts. While the war cast a shadow over the sport, it also showcased the resilience and enduring appeal of American football. The season produced many memorable moments,highlighted the talent of some of the game's greatest players, and ultimately crowned a national champion - or champions, depending on who you ask.
