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1970 Marshall Thundering Herd Football: A Season of Grit, Glory, and Grief
The 1970 Marshall University Thundering Herd football team was not just a collection of athletes; it was a symbol of resilience, a testament to the power of unity, and a story forever etched in the annals of college football history. Think about it: while their season culminated in tragedy that would define the university for decades, the journey itself was a remarkable display of determination that overcame immense odds to achieve greatness. This article looks at the extraordinary story of the 1970 team, exploring its key players, key games, and the enduring legacy that continues to resonate Small thing, real impact. Turns out it matters..
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A Program on the Rise: The Pre-1970 Context
To fully appreciate the 1970 season, one must understand the program's trajectory. After a disappointing 1968 season, Tolley, a former player and dedicated recruiter, had meticulously rebuilt the roster. Still, his philosophy centered on discipline, fundamental football, and a fierce competitive spirit. That said, under the leadership of head coach Rick Tolley, Marshall football was experiencing a renaissance. The team played its home games at the iconic Fairfield Stadium in Huntington, West Virginia, a venue known for its passionate fan base and challenging conditions.
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The late 1960s saw Marshall steadily improving, setting the stage for what was to come. The team was developing a reputation for being a tough, physical, and well-coached opponent. The goal for the 1970 season was clear: to win the Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship and secure a coveted bowl bid, a first in the program's history.
The Core of the Team: Key Players and Leadership
The success of the 1970 Thundering Herd was built on a foundation of exceptional talent and unwavering leadership.
- Coach Rick Tolley: Tolley was the architect of the team's success. His meticulous preparation and ability to motivate his players were unparalleled. He fostered a "team-first" mentality that transcended individual accolades.
- Quarterback Ted Kull: A talented and poised signal-caller, Kull was the engine of the offense. He possessed a strong arm and the ability to read defenses, making him a dangerous dual-threat.
- Running Backs: The backfield was a strength, led by the powerful and elusive Bob White. White was a workhorse who could wear down defenses, while other backs like Tommy Hunter provided speed and versatility.
- Wide Receivers: The receiving corps was deep and dangerous. Larry Wilson was a primary target, known for his spectacular catches and reliable hands. Don Reaser was another key contributor, creating matchup problems for opposing secondaries.
- The "Thundering Herd" Offensive Line: Often overlooked, the offensive line was the unsung hero. This group, anchored by players like Bill Kellar, provided the crucial push that enabled the running game to thrive and gave Kull time to pass. Their physicality was a hallmark of the team's style.
A Season of Triumph: The key Games
The 1970 season was a rollercoaster ride filled with thrilling victories that showcased the team's character.
- The Season Opener vs. Kent State: Marshall started strong with a convincing win over Kent State, immediately signaling their intent to compete at the highest level.
- The Rivalry Game vs. Ohio University: This annual clash is one of the oldest and most intense rivalries in college football. The 1970 meeting was a hard-fought battle that Marshall won, a victory that electrified the campus and the Huntington community.
- The Upset of the Year: vs. Xavier: One of the most memorable games of the season was the home victory over the then-#20 ranked Xavier Musketeers. This win against a top-tier opponent was a statement that Marshall could compete with the best, significantly boosting their national profile.
- The MAC Championship Clincher: The defining moment of the regular season came in a late-November showdown against Bowling Green. In a tense, low-scoring affair, Marshall's defense held firm, and a late touchdown secured the victory, clinching the Mid-American Conference championship. The joy and relief on the faces of the players and fans at Fairfield Stadium were palpable. This was a historic achievement, the first MAC title for Marshall.
With the conference title secured, the team's focus shifted to the postseason. In practice, they had earned a trip to the 1970 Grantland Rice Bowl in Huntington, West Virginia, to face the Northern Michigan Wildcats. That's why the atmosphere was electric. So the entire city was buzzing with pride. The team, riding a wave of emotion and success, was poised to cap off a perfect ending to a dream season.
The Unthinkable Tragedy: The November 14, 1970 Plane Crash
On the evening of November 14, 1970, a chartered Southern Airways Douglas DC-9 jet carrying the Marshall football team, along with fans, coaches, and support staff, crashed into a hillside near Ceredo, West Virginia, while attempting to land at Tri-Cities Airport in nearby Huntington. The crash occurred in severe weather conditions. There were no survivors among the 75 people on board.
The victims included 37 Marshall football players, eight coaches, 25 fans and community boosters, and five crew members. The nation was stunned. The loss was catastrophic, wiping out virtually the entire team, its coaching staff, and many of its most dedicated supporters. The story made international headlines, a tragic event that overshadowed the athletic triumphs of the season.
Aftermath and Legacy: A Community United in Grief
The immediate aftermath was a scene of profound sorrow and disbelief. The university, the city of Huntington, and the entire state of West Virginia were plunged into mourning. Here's the thing — the football program was suspended for the remainder of the 1970 season. The Grantland Rice Bowl was canceled The details matter here. Which is the point..
That said, the story of the 1970 Marshall team did not end in tragedy. It evolved into a powerful testament to resilience and remembrance.
- The 1971 Season: The following year, the team was rebuilt from scratch. With no upperclassmen who had played in 1970, the program relied on freshmen and transfers. The team played its home games at a different stadium, but the spirit of the 1970 team was never far away. The 1971 season was played with an incredible sense of purpose, a tribute to those who were lost.
- The Memorial: The university established a permanent memorial on its campus, a simple yet powerful sculpture featuring a football, a helmet, and the names of those who perished. It serves as a constant reminder of the lives cut short and the enduring spirit of the team.
- Cultural Impact: The tragedy was so profound that it inspired the 2006 film We Are Marshall, which, while taking creative liberties, brought the story to a global audience and highlighted the community's determination to rebuild.
- Enduring Symbol: Today, the 1970 Marshall Thundering Herd is remembered not for the plane crash, but for the team spirit, camaraderie, and athletic excellence they displayed throughout the season. They are a symbol of a community that refused to be defined by its darkest moment. Their legacy
The legacy of the 1970 Marshall Thundering Herd extends far beyond the tragedy of their untimely deaths. It lives on through the countless individuals whose lives were touched by their story and the indomitable spirit they embodied. The university's decision to continue the football program was not just about preserving a sport; it was about honoring the memory of those lost by ensuring that their passion for the game and commitment to excellence would never be forgotten.
Each year, Marshall University holds a solemn memorial service to commemorate the anniversary of the crash. In practice, the ceremony brings together survivors, family members, alumni, and students, creating a powerful moment of unity and reflection. Because of that, during these gatherings, the names of the 75 victims are read aloud, and the silence that follows serves as a poignant reminder of the magnitude of the loss. Yet, intertwined with grief is gratitude—for the lives lived, the community strengthened, and the lessons learned about perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity.
The impact of the 1970 team also resonates within the broader context of college athletics. Here's the thing — their story has become a defining narrative about the importance of integrity, teamwork, and the responsibility that comes with representing something greater than oneself. Coaches across the nation reference the 1970 Marshall team when speaking about character and sportsmanship, using their legacy as a source of inspiration for young athletes And it works..
Beyond that, the tragedy led to significant changes in aviation safety regulations, particularly concerning the transportation of sports teams. The investigation into the crash highlighted the need for stricter oversight and improved safety measures, ensuring that future generations of athletes could travel with greater security Simple, but easy to overlook..
The 1970 Marshall Thundering Herd remains a poignant chapter in American sports history—not merely because of the heartbreaking loss, but because of the extraordinary way their community chose to respond. Still, in the face of overwhelming sorrow, they found strength in solidarity, purpose in remembrance, and hope in the promise of tomorrow. Their legacy is a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit, proving that even in the darkest moments, the light of unity and resilience can illuminate the path forward.
