1942 Cleveland Rams

The 1942 Cleveland Rams had a brief but notable season in the history of the franchise. Here’s an overview of the team’s 1942 season:

Key Points about the 1942 Cleveland Rams:

1. Record:

   • The 1942 Cleveland Rams finished with a 1-9 record that season. It was a difficult year for the team, as they struggled significantly.

2. Coaching:

   • The Rams were coached by Robert “Pete” Cawthon during the 1942 season. Cawthon was with the team for several years, but his tenure saw little success in terms of victories and playoff appearances.

3. World War II Impact:

   • The impact of World War II was significant on the Rams, as with many teams during the war years, many players left to serve in the military, which made team rosters and performances more challenging. The Rams were no exception to this, and this undoubtedly contributed to their poor performance in 1942.

4. Key Players:

   • Some notable players on the 1942 squad included Bob Waterfield (quarterback), who would later have a very successful career, and Ace Parker (halfback), both of whom played significant roles on offense.

5. The End of the Franchise in Cleveland:

   • After the 1942 season, the Rams would face even more difficulty, and in 1943, they suspended operations due to the wartime situation.
   • The team did not play during the 1943 season and then relocated to Los Angeles after World War II ended. The Los Angeles Rams would become one of the NFL’s most prominent and successful franchises.

6. Legacy:

   • Although the 1942 Cleveland Rams had a poor season, this period marked the end of the Rams’ run in Cleveland, as they would not return after the 1942 season. The team’s later move to Los Angeles in 1946 marked a new chapter in their history.

In summary, the 1942 Cleveland Rams were a team that struggled both on the field and with the challenges presented by World War II. Their 1-9 record reflected their difficulties, and after this season, the franchise went into a period of dormancy before relocating to Los Angeles.

1942 Cleveland Rams

Head Coach: *Dutch Clark

• To be listed, a player must have played at least one game for the team during this season.
• + Primary starter