One of the toughest and fearless offensive lineman in school history was right guard Norm Stafford (1952-55).
A four-year letterwinner, Stafford played for head coach Dwight "Dike" Beede from 1952-55. During that span, the Penguins were a combined 22-11-1, including a 7-1 season in 1953.
While playing on the offensive line, Stafford helped the Penguins to a 7-2 mark in 1954 as the offense managed an average of 24.0 points per game and came out of the gates winning their first three games.
As a freshman and sophomore, Stafford earned All-Ohio accolades for his play on the offensive line.
Stafford led the way for former standout backs like Frank Beck and Dave Kimmel. Beck ended his career as one of Youngstown College's top passers with 1,805 career passing yards, which is 14th all-time. Kimmel ended his playing career as Youngstown College's all-time leading rusher with 2,429 yards and now ranks ninth in that category.
The Youngstown defenses of the early 1950's were one of the most dominating groups in school history. During Stafford's three seasons on the defensive front, the Penguins allowed a mere 14.2 points per game. In 1953, the defense allowed just 11.0 points per game, while the 1954 squad gave up just 12.9 points per game and recorded two shutouts.
A Youngstown, Ohio, native, Stafford was an All-City perÂformer at Rayen High School.
Stafford passed away in 1988.
