Football History

The State of Ohio is the successful football program of the Ohio University. The team has made the students, faculty, alums, and fans proud to support them at home and away games. The Bobcats have had an excellent tradition of quality pigskin play and is a perennial contender for their respective conference title.

On the following pages, we will cover aspects of the team, which may include the Program's Origin, the Biggest Games in School History, the Program's Top Players, the Most Significant Coaches, the Program's Logo and Mascot History, the team's Helmet Designs Over Time, and so much more.

Move forward into the school's Gridiron history on this page!

Do you want to know more about the football legacy of the Ohio Bobcats?

Here is a summary of the video about Ohio Bobcats' football history in bowl games:
The video reviews the Bobcats' bowl games throughout history,.
The Bobcats have played in eight bowl games.
Their most recent bowl game was in 2012, which they won.
They have a 4-4 record in bowl games.

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The Ohio Bobcats, with their fierce mascot and vibrant green and white, have a logo history as dynamic as their on-field play. Let's rewind and explore the evolution of the Bobcat symbol:


Early Days (1894-1907):


1894-1907: The early Ohio football teams, known as the "Green and Whites" or "Wildcats," lacked a formal logo. They often used simple lettering or mascots drawn by students, reflecting the university's nascent athletic program.

Birth of the Bobcat (1907-1940):


1907: The official Bobcat mascot was adopted, inspired by the abundance of bobcats in the Ohio wilderness. The first logo featured a stylized bobcat head with a fierce expression, often accompanied by the letter "O" or the team name.
1920s-30s: The logo evolved, becoming more detailed and dynamic. Variations included a bobcat leaping in mid-action, holding a football, or perched atop a rock, emphasizing the mascot's athleticism and territorial nature.

Mid-Century Modernization (1940-1978):


1940s-50s: The Bobcat underwent a sleek makeover, adopting a more angular and stylized design. The mascot's outline became sharper, with a focus on its piercing eyes and predatory stance.
1960s-70s: Experimentation continued, with different artists interpreting the bobcat in various styles. Some versions featured a more cartoonish design, while others remained fierce and intimidating.

The Iconic "Charging Bobcat" (1978-Present):


1978: The iconic "Charging Bobcat" logo was introduced, capturing the team's spirit of aggression and determination. This powerful design features a muscular bobcat in full stride, claws extended, ready to charge towards victory.
1996-Present: Minor adjustments have been made to the "Charging Bobcat" over the years, refining its details and color scheme. However, the core design remains a beloved symbol of Ohio football, recognized by fans and opponents alike.

More Than Just a Logo:


The Ohio Bobcats logo is more than just an image. It represents the program's history, tradition, and fighting spirit. It embodies the fierce athleticism and territorial pride of the Bobcat mascot, rallying fans and intimidating opponents. As the Bobcats continue to charge through the gridiron landscape, their logo will undoubtedly evolve, but the essence of the Bobcat spirit will always remain a powerful symbol of Ohio football.

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The 1960 Ohio Bobcats football team etched their names in program history with a dominant and undefeated season. Led by the visionary Coach Bill Hess, these Bobcats soared to a perfect 10-0 record, captured the Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship, and shut out five of their ten opponents in a display of defensive prowess.


Key Characteristics of the Team:


Balanced Offense: The Bobcats boasted a diverse offensive attack, featuring a strong running game led by Jim Albert and a reliable passing attack spearheaded by Bob Babbitt.
Defensive Dominance: The Bobcats' defense was a brick wall, shutting out five opponents and allowing only an average of 3.4 points per game. Ron Curtis and Cliff Heffelfinger anchored a formidable defensive line, while Frank Richey's schemes kept opponents off balance.
Poise and Confidence: Under Coach Hess's leadership, the Bobcats displayed remarkable maturity and composure throughout the season. They rarely lost their focus and displayed a relentless determination to win every game.

Memorable Moments:


Thrilling Wins: The Bobcats' season was not without nail-biters. Narrow victories over Kent State and Bowling Green showcased their ability to overcome adversity and win close games.


Shutout Spree: Five shutouts, including impressive performances against rivals Miami (OH) and Marshall, solidified the Bobcats' defensive dominance and sent shockwaves through the MAC.


MAC Championship Triumph: The Bobcats capped their perfect season with a convincing victory over Western Michigan in the MAC Championship game, cementing their place as undisputed conference champions.

Legacy of the 1960 Bobcats:


Unmatched Record: The 1960 Bobcats remain the only team in Ohio University history to achieve a perfect season and hold the record for most wins in a single season.


National Recognition: The Bobcats were recognized as the national "small college" champions by the Associated Press, further solidifying their place among the elite.
Inspiration for Future Generations: The 1960 team's dedication, resilience, and success continue to inspire future Bobcats and serve as a benchmark for excellence in Ohio football history.

The 1960 Ohio Bobcats were more than just a winning team. They were a symbol of unwavering determination, defensive mastery, and offensive balance. Their perfect season and championship victory remain an indelible mark on Bobcat football history, a testament to the program's potential for greatness and a source of inspiration for all who wear the green and white.

The Ohio Bobcats football program, known for their fierce spirit and iconic mascot, boasts a helmet history as dynamic as their on-field play. Let's rewind and explore the evolution of this protective headwear:


Early Days (1894-1940s):


Leather Lids: In the early days, players donned simple leather helmets, often with a single stripe or the letter "O" painted on. These rudimentary designs reflected the nascent nature of organized football and lacked the flair of modern iterations.

Birth of the Bobcat (1940s-1960s):


Bobcat Debut: The official Bobcat mascot, a symbol of the university's athletic prowess, began appearing on helmets in the 1940s. Initially, stylized bobcat heads were painted or decaled onto the leather lids, adding a touch of personality to the uniform.

Evolving Stripes and Experimentation (1960s-1980s):


Green and White Domination: The classic green and white color scheme became prominent during this period. Stripes of varying widths and patterns adorned the helmets, with designs often mirroring the team's jerseys.
Experimentation and Innovation: Different helmet manufacturers and styles were explored, including the introduction of plastic shells and facemask designs that improved player safety and comfort.

The Charging Bobcat Emerges (1980s-Present):


Iconic Charge: The iconic "Charging Bobcat" logo, depicting a fierce bobcat in full stride, became the dominant helmet design in the 1980s. This powerful image resonated with fans and players alike, symbolizing the team's aggressive spirit and relentless pursuit of victory.
Modern Tweaks and Refinement: While the "Charging Bobcat" remains the core design, minor adjustments have been made over the years, such as refining the logo's details and color scheme. Additionally, alternate helmet designs have been introduced for special occasions, offering a fresh perspective while maintaining the essence of the classic Bobcat.

More Than Just Headgear:


The Ohio Bobcats' helmets are more than just protective equipment. They are symbols of tradition, pride, and the fighting spirit that defines the program. The evolution of their design reflects the program's own journey, from humble beginnings to modern-day success.


As the Bobcats charge onto the gridiron, their helmets are more than just headwear; they are a visual testament to the legacy of Bobcat football and a promise that the pursuit of excellence continues in every game.
So, the next time you see a green and white helmet adorned with a charging bobcat, remember the rich history and unwavering spirit it represents. It's a story of grit, triumph, and the enduring pride of the Ohio Bobcats.

The Ohio Bobcats football program, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Athens, Ohio, is more than just wins and losses. It's a tapestry woven from tradition, resilience, and a fierce spirit that embodies the essence of Mid-American Conference football.


Early Days and MAC Dominance:


Founded in 1894, the Bobcats boast a rich history, capturing five Mid-American Conference (MAC) championships before the 1970s.
Icons like Dave Green (NFL pioneer) and Al Benton (dominant offensive tackle) cemented the program's reputation for toughness and talent.
The Golden Age: Juenger, Mitchell, and Undisputed Crowns:

The 1970s and 1980s saw the Bobcats soar to new heights under the leadership of Coach Bill Hess and quarterback Dave Juenger, culminating in a perfect 1960 season and the program's lone national championship in the College Division (now FCS).


Defensive stalwarts like Mike Mitchell and Todd Snyder (explosive receiver) further solidified the Bobcats' dominance in the MAC.


Modern Era: Evolution and Transition to the FBS:


After a period of ups and downs, the Bobcats made the bold leap to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) in 2014, facing stiffer competition and adapting to new rules.
Although challenges arose, the Bobcats' resilient spirit shone through, with players like Travis Carrie and Tarell Basham carrying the torch of Bobcat excellence to the NFL.


Beyond Wins: Developing Well-Rounded Champions:


The Bobcats prioritize more than just victories. They focus on academic success, community service, and developing well-rounded individuals who excel both on and off the field.


Their commitment to character development and community engagement makes them true ambassadors of the green and white.