The 1970 Marshall Thundering Herd football team represents a pivotal moment in the program's history, a season defined by raw talent and the tragic loss of a rising star. Playing as an independent in the NCAA University Division, Marshall navigated a landscape of major programs with a gritty determination that resonated far beyond the final scoreboard. This year marked a transition for the program, setting the stage for the modern era that would eventually define Huntington, West Virginia.
The Season in Context
To understand the 1970 campaign, one must appreciate the backdrop of the Thundering Herd's recent past. Fresh off a heartbreaking Sun Bowl appearance the previous year, the program was building momentum under head coach Rick Tolley. The 1970 schedule was a gauntlet, featuring road games against established powers like Miami (Ohio) and homecoming battles against regional rivals. The team entered the season with a belief that they could compete with the best, a belief rooted in the talent emerging from the Appalachian foothills.
Key Players and Performance
The on-field product was a blend of veteran leadership and emerging playmakers. Quarterback Ted Sizemore provided a steady hand, orchestrating the offense with a mix of power running and timely throws. The ground game, led by a determined running back corps, was often the focal point, punishing defenses in the trenches. On defense, the unit was built to create havoc, with linebackers and defensive backs delivering bone-crushing hits that became a signature of the team's identity.
Standout Performers
Ted Sizemore – Senior quarterback and leader of the offense, known for his clutch performances.
Bill Cooke – Dominant force on the line, setting the stage for the run game.
Mike Barber – Playmaking defensive back with a knack for turning interceptions into momentum.
The Tragedy That Defined a Season
No discussion of the 1970 season can begin or end without acknowledging the profound tragedy that shaped it. On November 14, 1970, a plane carrying the Marshall University football team, coaches, and supporters crashed following a game against East Carolina. The loss of 75 lives, including 37 players and 5 coaches, was an unimaginable shock that sent ripples through the entire sports world. This event is not just a footnote in the season's record; it is the defining context from which the team's courage and legacy must be measured.
Schedule and Results
The competitive landscape of the 1970 schedule showcased Marshall's ambition to prove itself. While the official record reflects the challenges of the season, the true measure of the team lies in the effort displayed and the spirit maintained in the face of adversity. Games against conference powerhouses and regional foes tested the mettle of the young squad, highlighting both the talent and the inexperience of a program on the rise.
