Pug Rentner: Northwestern Wildcats Hall of Famer

Ernie “Pug” Rentner dominated the gridiron for Northwestern University, punishing defenses with his powerful rushing and precise passing as a true dual-threat star.

Football Bio

September 18, 1910 – Ernie “Pug” Rentner was a former halfback and quarterback at Northwestern University. Pug Rentner was a dual threat. His powerful lower body and graceful control allowed him to slash through would-be tacklers.

Pug’s strong arm and large hands allowed him to rifle passes of 60 yards or more through the air with uncanny accuracy. Offensive play was not his only talent, though, as he was known to reel off long return yards on punts, kicks, and interceptions.

The 1931 Wildcats football team was exceptional, defeating every opponent they played. It looked like they might go undefeated, but they had one game remaining, a charity contest with Purdue University.

The Wildcats were heavily favored over the Boilermakers in the game, but an elevator accident involving several members of the Northwestern team the night before the contest. No one was injured.

The team was shaken, and Purdue capitalized on the Cats’ less-than-stellar play, handing Northwestern its only loss of the season. After the 1931 season, selectors chose Rentner for the College Football All-American team.

After college, Rentner played professional football for both the Boston Redskins and the Chicago Bears. The National Football Foundation selected him for the College Football Hall of Fame’s 1979 induction class.

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