Today's Tidbit... Punt One for the Gipper

Gipp punting versus Army (1918 Notre Dame yearbook)

George Gipp was among the best of the early triple or quadruple threats, leading the Irish in rushing and passing his sophomore, junior, and senior seasons. His career rushing total stood as the Notre Dame record for 58 years, in addition to throwing for almost 1,800 yards during his career.

Gipp also had golden toe, kicking and punting for the Irish. During his freshman season, the Irish traveled to Army for an early November game that began with Army All-American Elmer Oliphant kicking off to the South Benders. Gipp received the kick but fumbled at the 5-yard line and was quickly tackled. Gipp punted on first down in an attempt to escape trouble, but the Army blocked the punt and recorded a safety, marking the second and last time a team scored on Notre Dame that season.

The image above shows Gipp being rushed on a punt later in the game, which his team won 7-2.

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