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Team Information
| Ground | Peden Stadium |
| City | Athens, Ohio |
| Conference | Mid-American, |
| Nickname | Bobcats |
About Ohio Bobcats Football
The Ohio Bobcats football team, a distinguished NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision program representing Ohio University, holds a storied history within the Mid-American Conference (MAC). As the senior member of the MAC, the Bobcats have clinched five MAC championships and five MAC East Division titles, showcasing their prominence within the conference. Prior to joining the MAC, Ohio achieved six Buckeye Athletic Association championships. Throughout their existence, they have participated in twelve bowl games, marking notable achievements and breakthroughs in collegiate football.
| Name of the team | Ohio Bobcats |
| First Season | 1894 |
| Athletic Director | Julie Cromer |
| Head Coach | Tim Albin |
| Stadium | Peden Stadium (capacity: 27,000) |
| Location | Athens, Ohio |
| Field Surface | Field Turf |
| Division | East |
| Conference | Mid-American Conference |
| Claimed National Titles | 1 (1960, College Division) |
| Conference Titles | 11 |
| Fight Song | Stand Up and Cheer |
| Mascot | Rufus the Bobcat |
| Rivals | Miami (rivalry), Marshall (rivalry) |
Ohio Bobcats Football Introduction
The Ohio Bobcats football program, a prominent member of Ohio University's athletic landscape, competes at the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision level within the Mid-American Conference (MAC). Since their inaugural game in 1894, the Bobcats have amassed over 500 victories in their 125-year history, with more than 200 wins in MAC matchups. Their legacy boasts five MAC championships and five MAC East Division titles, complemented by previous successes in the Buckeye Athletic Association. Notable achievements include being crowned National Small College Champions in 1960 and claiming victories in multiple bowl games, culminating in a record-setting 99-yard touchdown run by a quarterback against MAC rival Buffalo in 2021.
Ohio Bobcats Football History
Ohio University's football legacy spans from its early beginnings in the late 19th century to the evolution of the Bobcats' prominence and triumphs. The team's establishment in the Athletic League of Ohio Colleges in 1892 was followed by a baseball championship, as a football schedule has yet to materialize. However, by 1894, the Bobcats played their first intercollegiate football game against Marietta College, marking the initiation of their football journey.
The team navigated a phase of instability from 1896 to 1905, with changing coaches each year. Despite challenges and early tragedies, such as the on-field death of a quarterback in 1898, certain seasons under coaches like Warwick Ford in 1897 and Art Jones in 1901 showcased promising records. The 1915 team, led by Mark Bank, stood out with an impressive 8–1 record, dominating notable opponents but suffering a lone defeat to archrival Miami University.
The tenure of Don Peden from 1924 to 1946 became an illustrious chapter in Bobcats history. Peden's era saw exceptional success, marked by Buckeye Athletic Association championships, undefeated seasons, and standout players like All-American Art Lewis. His coaching spanned through World War II and the formation of the Mid-American Conference, leaving an indelible mark on Bobcat football.
The era under Bill Hess from 1958 to 1977 further elevated the team's stature. Hess's leadership led the Bobcats to MAC titles, bowl game appearances, and notable victories, including the remarkable 1968 season when the team reached the Tangerine Bowl.
Post-Hess, Ohio's football program faced challenges with coaching transitions, marked by fluctuating records and a striving for success reminiscent of their earlier periods. Bob Kappes, following Hess, endured a brief tenure in 1978 before the program sought a new direction.
The rich history of Ohio Bobcats football, from its formative years to periods of dominance and transitions, serves as a testament to the team's resilience, accomplishments, and continued pursuit of excellence on the field.
Ohio Bobcats Football Coach
Tim Albin, born on September 13, 1965, has been the head coach of Ohio Bobcats Football since the 2021 season. He previously coached at Northwestern Oklahoma State, notably guiding the team to an undefeated season and an NAIA National Championship in 1999. Albin's tenure at Ohio showcased prolific offenses and developed notable NFL and CFL players.
| Tenure | Coach Name |
| 1895 | Harvey Derne |
| 1896 | Frank Remsburg |
| 1897 | Warwick Ford |
| 1898 | Peter McLaren |
| 1899, 1903 | Fred Sullivan |
| 1900 | Karl Core |
| 1901 | Arlie C. Jones |
| 1902 | Harold Monosmith |
| 1904 | Henry Hart |
| 1905 | Joseph Railsbeck |
| 1906-1908 | Arthur McFarland |
| 1909-1910 | Robert Wood |
| 1911-1912 | Arthur Hinaman |
| 1913-1917 | M. B. Banks |
| 1918-1919 | Frank Gullum |
| 1920-1922 | Russ Finsterwald |
| 1923 | John C. Heldt |
| 1924-1946 | Don Peden |
| 1947-1948 | Harold Wise |
| 1949-1957 | Carroll Widdoes |
| 1958-1977 | Bill Hess |
| 1978 | Bob Kappes |
| 1979-1984 | Brian Burke |
| 1985-1989 | Cleve Bryant |
| 1990-1994 | Tom Lichtenberg |
| 1995-2000 | Jim Grobe |
| 2001-2004 | Brian Knorr |
| 2005-2020 | Frank Solich |
| 2021-present | Tim Albin |
Ohio Bobcats Football Stadium: Peden Stadium
Peden Stadium, also known as Frank Solich Field at Peden Stadium since August 2022, stands as the hallowed ground for Ohio Bobcats Football on Ohio University's campus in Athens. Constructed in 1929 at a cost of $185,000, it accommodates 24,000 fans and proudly holds the title of the oldest college football venue in the Mid-American Conference and the 29th oldest in the nation. Named in honor of Don C. Peden, a revered figure in Ohio University's athletic history, the stadium witnessed its inaugural game, a triumphant 14-0 victory against Miami University. Over the years, it underwent renovations, including increased seating and the addition of the Peden Tower, housing modern facilities. Noteworthy for hosting historical events, it received the Ohio Historic Site designation in 2009. Recently, the University honored former head coach Frank Solich by naming the football field after him, commemorating his coaching legacy and the team's unbeaten run in 2022.
Ohio Bobcats Football Rivals
The Ohio Bobcats Football team has longstanding rivalries that add fervor to their seasons. Chief among them is the intense rivalry with Miami, known as the "Battle of the Bricks," an annual competition encompassing all sports between the Ohio Bobcats and the Miami RedHawks. This rivalry draws its name from the red brick roads on both campuses. Each varsity athletic encounter contributes to the yearly series record, and the school with the most wins claims the trophy for the following year, adding significance to every match. Additionally, Ohio's regional rival, Marshall, adds another layer of competition. Their annual football game, dubbed the "Battle for the Bell," features a traveling bell trophy as the coveted prize. Despite Marshall's previous dominance, Ohio leads the all-time series, showcasing the intensity and history embedded in these significant matchups. The team's encounters with these rivals amplify the competitive spirit and tradition within Ohio Bobcats Football.
Ohio Bobcats Football Record and stats
The Ohio Bobcats Football team records reflect stellar performances by quarterbacks such as Tyler Tettleton, Kurtis Rourke, and Nathan Rourke. Tyler Tettleton leads in career yards (9,125), while Kurtis Rourke set a single-game high of 537 yards in 2022 against Fordham, showcasing the team's historical passing prowess and touchdown achievements.
Conference championships
| Year | Conference | Coach | Record | Conference Record |
| 1929 | Buckeye Athletic Association | Don Peden | 9–0 | 5–0 |
| 1930 | Buckeye Athletic Association | Don Peden | 8–0–1 | 4–0 |
| 1931 | Buckeye Athletic Association | Don Peden | 7–1 | 4–0 |
| 1935 | Buckeye Athletic Association | Don Peden | 8–0 | 5–0 |
| 1936† | Buckeye Athletic Association | Don Peden | 5–2–1 | 3–1–1 |
| 1938 | Buckeye Athletic Association | Don Peden | 7–2 | 3–1 |
| 1953 | Mid-American Conference | Carroll Widdoes | 6–2–1 | 5–0–1 |
| 1960 | Mid-American Conference | Bill Hess | 10–0 | 6–0 |
| 1963 | Mid-American Conference | Bill Hess | 6–4 | 5–1 |
| 1967 | Mid-American Conference | Bill Hess | 6–4 | 5–1 |
| 1968 | Mid-American Conference | Bill Hess | 10–1 | 6–0 |
Division championships
| Year | Division | Coach | Overall Record | Conference Record | Opponent | CG Result |
| 2006 | MAC East | Frank Solich | 9–5 | 7–1 | Central Michigan | L 10–31 |
| 2009 | MAC East | Frank Solich | 9–5 | 7–1 | Central Michigan | L 10–20 |
| 2011 | MAC East | Frank Solich | 10–4 | 6–2 | Northern Illinois | L 20–23 |
| 2016† | MAC East | Frank Solich | 8–6 | 6–2 | Western Michigan | L 23–29 |
| 2022 | MAC East | Tim Albin | 9–3 | 7–1 | Toledo | L 7–17 |
Ohio Bobcats Football Roster
The Ohio Bobcats Football team boasts a diverse and skilled roster across offense and defense. Spearheading the offense are quarterbacks CJ Harris, Parker Navarro, Jacob Winters, and Callum Wither, bringing a mix of experience and promising talent to the field. The running back positions feature talents like Rickey Hunt, Devon Hunter, Bryce Kitrell, Nolan McCormick, Quintell Quinn, and Aginon Wilson Jr., each showcasing their unique skills and contributions to the team. On the defensive front, standouts include Shane Bonner, Dontay Hunter II, Ryan Logan, Danny Novickas, David Patterson, Kadin Schmitz, Kaci Seegars, and Kwame Sutton, forming a formidable lineup of diverse talents across different positions. This comprehensive roster reflects a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, showcasing the depth and potential of the Ohio Bobcats Football team.
Ohio Bobcats Football Schedule
The Ohio Bobcats Football team had a compelling season in the schedule, securing impressive victories against Long Island University, Florida Atlantic, Iowa State, Bowling Green, Kent State, Western Michigan, Buffalo, Central Michigan, and Akron. Their standout wins included close encounters against Iowa State (W10-7), where Nathan Rourke's quarterbacking skills were pivotal, and a dominant performance against Kent State (W42-17), highlighted by Rourke's 300 passing yards. However, they faced setbacks against San Diego State (L20-13), Northern Illinois (L23-13), and Miami (OH) (L30-16), where despite Rourke's commendable efforts with 313 passing yards against Miami (OH), the team couldn't clinch the win. Nevertheless, their season showcased consistency and determination, securing a commendable 9-3 overall record (6-2 in conference play) as they navigated a challenging schedule against formidable opponents.
FAQs
Peden Stadium, constructed in 1929, stands as the oldest college football venue in the Mid-American Conference. It's a revered site in Ohio Bobcats Football history, witnessing numerous memorable games and renovations over the years.
The team has intense rivalries with Miami (known as the "Battle of the Bricks") and Marshall (the "Battle for the Bell"). These annual matchups contribute to the team's competitive spirit and tradition, with distinctive trophies at stake.
Coaches like Don Peden (1924-1946), Bill Hess (1958-1977), and Frank Solich (2005-2020) left significant imprints, leading the team to championships, bowl games, and successful seasons.
The team has clinched 11 conference titles, achieved a claimed national title in 1960, and produced impressive records and victories in various bowl games, showcasing its historical success.
Players like Tyler Tettleton, Kurtis Rourke, and Nathan Rourke have left their mark, holding records for career passing yards and single-game yardage, symbolizing the team's historical offensive prowess.
