John Wintermute, a key figure in one of the most iconic moments in Gophers football history and a member of the last Gophers team to capture a Big Ten title, passed away on January 10 at the age of 78 in Leland, Michigan.
Wintermute, a three-year letterman for the Gophers, played a pivotal role in their 33-7 win over Indiana on November 18, 1967. He rushed for 135 yards in the victory, which helped the Gophers secure a share of the Big Ten championship with Indiana and Purdue. Each team finished with a 6-1 conference record, with Indiana defeating Purdue, Purdue beating the Gophers, and the Gophers holding a win over Indiana.
During Wintermute’s senior season in 1968, the Gophers hosted Southern Cal and O.J. Simpson in the season opener. With USC leading 16-13 late in the fourth quarter, Gophers’ George Kemp caught the ensuing kickoff and lateraled it across the field to Wintermute. With a strong wall of blockers along the sideline, Wintermute sprinted 83 yards for a touchdown, giving the Gophers a 19-16 lead. However, USC ultimately came back to win 29-20.
Wintermute, originally from LaGrange, Illinois, was remembered for his athleticism and impact on the field.
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