When we look back exactly a century ago in the newspapers of the era, we can find some interesting history about our favorite game. This is true in a feature by journalist Feg Murray in the November 1, 1926 edition of the Daily Kennebec Journal (Augusta, ME.).
The story is on Washington and Jeffereson’s star full back, Bill Amos, who was really making a name for himself during the 1926 season.
This syndicated feature highlights Washington & Jefferson standout Bill Amos, framing him as one of the elite collegiate fullbacks in the country and the premier player emerging from the competitive Western Pennsylvania gridiron scene. Head coach Andy Kerrโwho previously coached legendary Stanford fullback Ernie Nevers for three yearsโboldly claims that, aside from punting, Amos is a superior all-around fullback. The article traces Amos’s unorthodox path to prominence: he learned to play football at age 17 while serving as a soldier overseas in France during World War I, eventually attending Kiski Prep before enrolling at W&J, the program renowned for holding California’s powerhouse “Wonder Team” to a scoreless tie in the 1922 Rose Bowl (played on New Year’s Day 1921).
On the field, Amos earned the moniker “The Wild Bill of the Campus” (alongside opponent jibes calling him “Amos-quito” for his elusive running style) after dominating through the 1925 campaign and establishing himself as a frontrunner for 1926 All-American honors. The report emphasizes his remarkable blend of composure and athleticism, pointing to the October 16 clash against Carnegie Tech where Captain Amos caught a punt on his own 10-yard line and broke loose for a spectacular 90-yard touchdown. As he darted through the Tartans’ defense, he coolly directed his blockers downfield, cementing his reputation as a ball-carrier who is as calculated and calm under pressure as he is wild and evasive in open space.
