Bobby Grier death: What happened to Pittsburgh college football legend?

Pittsburgh football legend Bobby Grier has died at the age of 91. The former fullback and linebacker, who hails from Massillon, Ohio, passed away on June 30. The exact cause of death is currently unknown.

Grier was a pivotal figure in the history of Pitts and college football, not only for his playing ability but his trailblazing impact at a time when segregation was the order of the day. He was the first black player to play in the Sugar Bowl, breaking the color barrier in the iconic postseason bowl game.

"Bobby Grier lived a truly remarkable and impactful life that inspires in so many ways," University of Pittsburgh’s Director of Athletics Heather Lyke said in a statement.

"The courage and dignity he showed in desegregating the Sugar Bowl stands as one of the most important moments not only in the history of the University of Pittsburgh but also the game of college football.”

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Bobby Grier’s career at Pittsburgh

Bobby Grier had his college football career at Pittsburgh from 1952 to 1955 following his time at Massillon Washington High School. He was a versatile athlete who played in multiple positions for the Panthers, including fullback, linebacker and defensive back.

His most notable period with the program was his senior season, where he helped the Panthers to a 7-3 record in the regular season and led the team in interceptions. This performance earned Pittsburgh an invitation to the Sugar Bowl, one he participated in despite opposition.

Grier left the Pittsburgh football program with a lasting legacy that will be remembered for generations to come. He was inducted into the Pitts Athletic Hall of Fame in 2022.

“One of my most gratifying moments was having the opportunity to take part in his enshrinement in the Pitt Athletics Hall of Fame in 2022,” Heather Lyke said. “His legacy, on and off the field, will always burn brightly at Pitt. We extend our deepest condolences to the Grier family and Bobby's many loved ones.”

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Appearance at the Sugar Bowl in 1955

After Pittsburgh was invited to the 1955 Sugar Bowl to play against Georgia Tech in New Orleans, a game that they eventually lost 7-0. There was political opposition to Bobby Grier appearing in the game, notably led by the Governor of Georgia Marvin Griffin, a staunch segregationist.

"The South stands at Armageddon. The battle is joined. We cannot make the slightest concession to the enemy," Griffin said.

However, a coalition of advocates, including Georgia Tech administration, coaches, players, civil rights leaders as well as members of the Pitt program and community, stood up against the move. This ensured Bobby Grier’s participation in the game.

In 2019, more than six decades after breaking the color barrier in the bowl games, Grier returned to the Sugar Bowl and was inducted into the Sugar Bowl Hall of Fame.