The 1943 Rose Bowl

The 1943 Rose Bowl took place on January 1, 1943, at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. The game featured the University of Georgia Bulldogs from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the UCLA Bruins from the Pacific Coast Conference (PCC).

Georgia, led by head coach Wally Butts and Heisman Trophy winner Frank Sinkwich, entered the game with a strong national reputation. UCLA, coached by Edwin C. Horrell, was considered a formidable opponent from the West Coast.

The game was a defensive battle, with Georgia ultimately securing a 9-0 victory. A key play involved Georgia's Willard "Red" Boyd blocking a punt by UCLA's Bob Waterfield, resulting in a safety. Frank Sinkwich also scored a one-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter.

Georgia's Charley Trippi was named the Player of the Game when the award was created retroactively in 1953. The 1943 Rose Bowl was notable for occurring during World War II, which impacted travel and attendance.