The Infamous 0-0 College Football Game: A Rare Occurrence in Sports History
In the world of college football, scoring is a crucial aspect of the game. However, on November 3, 1945, a rare and unusual event took place at Duchesne Field in Houston, Texas. The University of Houston Cougars hosted the Southwestern University Pirates in a NCAA college football game that would go down in history as the only 0-0 tie in NCAA Division I history.
The Game
The game was played in front of a crowd of approximately 12,000 spectators, who witnessed a defensive battle for the ages. Both teams struggled to move the ball, with neither able to muster a single point. The Cougars and Pirates combined for a total of 12 first downs, with the Cougars managing just 115 yards of total offense and the Pirates accumulating a mere 83 yards.
The Weather Conditions
The game was played in torrential rain, which made it difficult for both teams to execute their plays. The wet conditions led to a plethora of fumbles, dropped passes, and missed tackles, making it a challenging day for the players.
The Aftermath
Although the game ended in a 0-0 tie, it was not without controversy. The Cougars' coach, Jewell Wallace, was criticized for his conservative play-calling, which some believed contributed to the team's inability to score. On the other hand, the Pirates' coach, Randolph Morrison, was praised for his team's defensive efforts.
Legacy of the Game
The 0-0 tie between the University of Houston and Southwestern University remains the only scoreless game in NCAA Division I history. It serves as a testament to the defensive prowess of both teams and a reminder that, on any given day, even the best offenses can struggle to score.
Trivia
- The game was played during World War II, when many college football teams struggled to field complete squads due to the war effort.
- The University of Houston would go on to win the 1945 Lone Star Conference championship, despite the tie.
- The game was not televised, as television was still in its infancy during the 1940s.
The 0-0 college football game between the University of Houston and Southwestern University will always be remembered as a rare and unusual occurrence in sports history.
