Former Pittsburgh Panthers star Bobby Grier, a pivotal figure in college football history, passed away recently, the program confirmed this weekend.
Grier, a Massillon, Ohio native, died on June 30 at the age of 91. A fullback and linebacker, he suited up for the Panthers from 1953-55.
Grier became a trailblazer in his senior season, when he broke the color line at the Sugar Bowl against Georgia Tech, becoming the first African-American to play in the prestigious postseason game despite considerable opposition.
Georgia governor Marvin Griffin, a segregationist, led a contingent to prevent Grier from playing. However, they were ultimately overruled by a group of advocates that included Georgia Tech administration, coaches and players, civil rights leaders, and members of the Pitt program and community.
Grier had the strong support of his teammates and University leadership, who vowed “No Grier, no game.” Support for Grier also came from Georgia Tech students and football players, who protested against Gov. Griffin, burning him in effigy outside the governor’s mansion.
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Following the game, the Pitt and Georgia Tech teams were invited to a banquet in New Orleans at the St. Charles Hotel, which served only white patrons. As Grier stepped off the team bus, several Georgia Tech players, all from the South, greeted Grier and told him, “You’re eating with us.”
Pitt wound up losing 7-0, with a controversial pass interference call on Grier setting up the game’s only touchdown. The two-way standout produced a game-high 51 rushing yards in defeat.
Grier is a member of the Sugar Bowl and Pitt Athletics Halls of Fame, and is also immortalized on the “Wall of Champions” at his high school alma mater in Ohio.
Pitt announced on Sunday that this year’ team will wear a decal honoring Grier on its helmets during the 2024 season.