By Darin Before the modern era of the Heisman, there was Bob Chappuis—the “nifty halfback” who turned the Big Ten into his personal playground. A war hero turned gridiron icon, Chappuis wasn’t just a star; he was the engine behind one of the greatest teams in college football history. From the snowy fields of Ohio to a historic blowout under the California sun, his journey from a B-25 tail gunner to a Hall of Fame legend is the stuff of sports lore.
Sourced by Los Angeles Daily News
and Author Harry Watson
Football Bio
February 24, 1923 – Toledo, Ohio – The nifty halfback from the Michigan Wolverines gridiron program, Bob Chappuis, celebrated his day of birth. The NFF says that, “As a football star, he led the Big Ten in total offense twice and in 1947 was unanimous All-America halfback. He helped Michigan to a perfect season and was voted Most Valuable Player in the Rose Bowl after leading the way to a 49-0 victory over Southern California.” The National Football Foundation honored Bob Chappuis with induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988.
Conclusion
Bob Chappuis remains a towering figure in the “Victors” valiant history. His ability to dominate the total offense categories in the Big Ten twice speaks to a versatile athleticism that defined the 1940s era of Michigan football. By leading the 1947 “Mad Magicians” to an undefeated season and a legendary Rose Bowl victory, Chappuis didn’t just win games—he secured a permanent place in the pantheon of college football greats.
Accolades and Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1988.
- Unanimous All-American: Earned first-team honors in 1947.
- Rose Bowl MVP (1948): Led Michigan to a 49-0 victory over USC, setting a then-Rose Bowl record for total offense.
- Big Ten Total Offense Leader: Led the conference in total yards in both 1946 and 1947.
- Big Ten Player of the Year: Recipient of the Chicago Tribune Silver Football trophy in 1947.
- Heisman Trophy Runner-Up: Finished second in the 1947 Heisman voting (behind Lujack of Notre Dame).
- Michigan Retired Number: His #49 is among the select few honored by the University of Michigan.
