The Season That United a Town

 

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Introduction:

The Madison High School football team of 1964—anchored by the Class of 1965, supported by underclassmen, and guided by an extraordinary coaching staff—achieved something no Dodger team had ever done: they finished a season undefeated and untied.

It wasn’t an easy road. The path was marked by critical injuries, dramatic turning points, and pressure-packed moments that could fill a TV miniseries. Yet this team endured, pushed forward, and triumphed—bound by a commitment to each other, their coaches, their families, and their town.

This is their story—told through contemporaneous newspaper accounts, surviving game films, and the firsthand recollections of the players who lived it. It is dedicated to their teammates, including those who are no longer with us. It is a story of teamwork, perseverance, and shared will.

A Team Years in the Making

This story doesn’t begin on a football field in 1964. Its roots stretch back into the post–World War II years, to a town built by returning veterans and factory workers, and to the children born in 1946 and 1947 who filled the schools of a growing Madison, New Jersey. Many were raised in neighborhoods of new housing built for the Greatest Generation. Their mothers were often educators, nurses, or wartime factory workers; their fathers were police officers, mail carriers, teachers, and tradesmen.

They were shaped by a school system that emphasized both excellence and equity. New schools were built. Dedicated teachers—many of them parents of classmates—guided the boys who would one day form the core of the 1964 Dodgers. The original high school became Madison Junior School (the Junior High school). The new high school rose on the former Dodge estate. And with it came a nickname—the Dodgers—that would soon carry statewide meaning.

Cohesion Forged in Childhood

These boys didn’t meet on the first day of high school—they had grown up together. At Lucy D. Anthony Elementary School, Coach Jack Davies, a 5th-grade teacher and former professional baseball player, taught physical education. Coach Herb Pennoyer, a 6th-grade teacher and Freshman football coach, coached many of the boys in junior high football.

Davies introduced gymnastics, wrestling, and baseball. Pennoyer instilled football fundamentals and discipline. Athletic competitions between schools—Anthony, Kings Road, Green Village—fostered a spirited but respectful rivalry. Little League baseball—coached by men named Jilleba, Natale, and Mauro—gave the boys early experience with competition, teamwork, and success.

When the boys merged at Madison Junior School, they already knew each other—and, more importantly, respected each other.

A Brotherhood Without Barriers

They became more than just teammates. They became friends across lines that divided much of America in the 1960s—race, religion, income, and background. While the nation wrestled with civil rights and social unrest, the young people of Madison quietly showed a better way.

Classrooms were integrated from kindergarten. Homer Meade, the team’s starting end and an African American leader, was elected president of the Class of 1965. His leadership and friendship were valued without reservation. The commitment among these boys was never about where you lived or what your father did—it was about your dedication to the team and to each other.

They laced up cleats together on an undefeated freshman squad under Coach Pennoyer. They learned structure from Coach Davies in gym class. And when the 1964 season arrived, they stepped onto the field not just as a team, but as a brotherhood—hardened by shared experience, lifted by community support, and destined for something great.

What It Takes to Be Champions

The Offseason That Forged a Team

The 1964 Madison football team was deep in talent—sometimes two or three strong athletes at each position. Most were seniors, but several underclassmen emerged as crucial contributors, including junior Bud DeBiasse in the defensive backfield, junior Jim Johnson, and sophomore Spencer Hoppin in the offensive backfield. But it was the returning seniors who formed the backbone of the team—battle-tested leaders who had tasted both victory and frustration the year before.

The Class of 1965 had filled most of the starting slots on the 1963 team that went 7–2, falling in close contests to Suburban Conference rivals Summit (13–0) and Chatham (12–6). The Summit loss stung deeply. Madison had outgained Summit in total yards and threatened twice inside the 10-yard line—but came away empty. That disappointment lingered. Coach Ted Monica, never one to overlook a lesson, told the team bluntly: “We’re not going to lose close games because we’re not in shape.”

So when the 1963 season ended, the countdown began. Though a few key seniors graduated—including captain Bobby Mauro, a two-way standout who would go on to star at South Carolina, and Stephen Smith and Jimmy Vivona—the core remained. Pete “Super Jet” Jilleba returned at running back. Quarterback Dick Herbst, backs Bob Gero and Homer Meade, ends Carl Caskey, Doug Hale, and Rusty Engle, and linemen Wayne Willis, Ralph Artigliere, Bob Stehlgens, John Mantone, and Bill Notte anchored a fearsome offense. The defense featured many of the same names, along with senior contributors Bob DeSombre, Rhys Foulkes, Rick Hadley, and junior Bud DeBiasse. Kicker Carl Pierce rounded out a complete, balanced squad.

But the starters were not the full story. While Dick Herbst held the starting spot at quarterback, his backup Paul Natale was as good a quarterback as any other local team had. So good was Natale that he earned a college scholarship after the season. He was also one of the most admired and respected of teammates, as he was a leader among his peers in Little League baseball and other youth teams. Kicker Pierce was a terrific backup center. Lou Corea, Jack MacDonald, and Carl Peterson were excellent ends.

Football is a tough sport, and injuries are commonplace. No team goes through a season unscathed. But the then-unknown challenges faced by the Madison squad would test their will, their confidence, and their ability to accomplish their goal of perfection.

Preseason Practice: On the Path to Excellence

The Two-a-Days That Made Men

Expectations were high. But no one on that field took the season for granted.

Official practice wasn’t allowed until September 1, just days before school began. But well before that date, dozens of players—most of them seniors—were already running drills and conditioning together on the fields at nearby Drew University. Haunted by the memory of Summit and Chatham, they pushed themselves. They wanted to be ready. And they needed to be. It would be a scorching September.

When the official two-a-days began, the tone was set. The locker room was plastered with Vince Lombardi slogans: “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” Team manager Allen “RP” Meyer helped fit players with high-top cleats. Coach Dave Adams reminded everyone to take salt pills and drink water before heading out. Coach Davies showed players how to wrap their ankles, dust their feet with tough skin powder, and mentally brace for the work ahead.

Each morning, the team ran together to the field, crossing over a painted sign on the pavement that shouted: “LET’S GO 9 AND 0.”

Practice began with stretching, conditioning, blocking and tackling drills, and seemingly endless running. There was no water on the field in those days. Relief came in the form of a single shared sponge—dirty, sweaty, but blessedly wet. Players would sponge their heads. Some even sucked on it for a few drops of moisture.

The drills tested strength, endurance, flexibility, and coordination. But what was really being built was discipline. Grit. Mental toughness. The raw ingredients of a championship team.

Certain drills burned themselves into memory. One in particular: a full-speed tackling drill between two upright dummies placed yards apart. The offensive back ran through the chute; the defensive player had to meet him and bring him down. When Jilleba ran the drill, he was a force of nature. Bigger, stronger, faster than anyone else, he struck fear into even the most confident teammates. The only respite? Watching others take their turn. Unless, of course, you were next in line.

Not everything went to plan. During one early sled drill, Coach Monica climbed aboard the eight-man blocking sled to add weight. But when the linemen slammed into it, they disturbed a nest of wasps. The swarm took out their fury on Coach Monica. In that moment, even the toughest man on the field showed he could be rattled. But only for a moment. True to form, the ex-Marine shook it off, shifted to another drill, and the practice marched on.

After each morning session came taping, refueling, and chalk talks with the coaches. Then came the afternoon grind. Blisters were common. Soreness was constant. But camaraderie deepened. The hard days forged bonds stronger than any chalkboard scheme.

By the time the final two-a-day ended, these boys weren’t just in shape. They were forged—into a single unit. A team of individuals no longer. And heaven help whoever lined up across from them.

The season awaited.

 

Madison’s Mighty Dodgers Launch Perfect Season With Statement Win Over South Side

September 26, 1964 – Madison, NJ
By the time the final whistle blew on a sunlit Saturday afternoon in Rose City, the scoreboard told a tale that would echo all season long: Madison 28, South Side of Newark 0. But the real story lay in what that dominant win foreshadowed—the rise of a team whose grit, speed, and sheer will would define one of the most remarkable runs in Morris County football history.

The Madison Dodgers, often dismissed as a small-school power in a Group II world, opened their 1964 campaign with a daring challenge: a clash against the formidable, athletic South Side team from Newark, a Group III heavyweight. If some in the county questioned the wisdom of scheduling such a matchup, they weren’t in the stands by game’s end.

Led by head coach Ted Monica, the Dodgers unleashed their signature brand of speed, precision, and tenacity, upending South Side with a relentless offensive onslaught and a defense that played like men possessed.

Enter the Super Jet

The day belonged to Peter “Super Jet” Jilleba, Madison’s do-it-all back and returning state scoring champion. Jilleba, donning jersey No. 17, erupted for over 200 total yards and three touchdowns, slicing through South Side’s defense like a blade through silk. His performance—highlighted by an electrifying 18-yard touchdown gallop and a leaping airborne score captured on camera—served early notice that his junior year dominance was no fluke.

South Side had no answers. Not for Jilleba. Not for quarterback Dick Herbst, who efficiently managed the game and completed 12 of 16 passes for 164 yards. Not for Doug Hale, who paired with Herbst to stretch the field and keep the defense guessing. And certainly not for Madison’s line, who blocked with discipline and purpose, allowing their backs to carve up the field.

Defense Sets the Tone

But this wasn’t just an offensive clinic. Madison’s defense was stifling. Anchored by leaders like Ralph Artigliere, Bob DeSombre, Tony DeBiase, and Wayne Willis, the Dodgers shut down South Side’s vaunted backfield duo of Richie Booker and Bruce Bevins, holding them to 112 rushing yards and a mere three through the air.

The turning point came early in the second quarter when South Side, down 7-0, advanced deep into Madison territory only to be halted by a ferocious goal-line stand. A holding penalty killed the drive, and Madison responded with a long, clock-eating march capped by Jilleba’s second score.

From there, it was all Dodgers. Bob Gero added the final blow on a 71-yard scoring dash that sent the home crowd into a frenzy and the visitors packing.

A Price Paid in Blood and Grit

The game, however, was not without cost. Senior Homer Meade, a three-sport letterman and team leader, suffered a severe knee injury in the second quarter, ending his season. His absence would be felt deeply in the locker room and on the field. Coach Monica, visibly shaken, remarked, “I would rather have lost the game Saturday than to have Homer injured.”

Still, Meade’s presence lingered in spirit as his teammates vowed to carry on with the fire and focus he embodied. The injury, coming so early, forged a bond and purpose that would define Madison’s journey: play for the brother who could no longer strap on the pads.

Setting the Stage for Greatness

With the victory, Madison staked its claim as the team to beat in Morris County. Their shutout win over a larger, faster opponent confirmed what insiders already suspected—this was no ordinary team. This was a championship-caliber squad, forged in discipline and united by purpose.

One game down. Eight to go. The road to perfection had begun with a statement.

Here is the second installment in our historic recap of the Madison High School Dodgers’ legendary 1964 undefeated season—focusing on their Week 2 matchup against Hanover Park:

No One-Man Show: Madison Humbles Hanover Park in 34–6 Statement Win

October 3, 1964 – East Hanover, NJ
If Week 1’s dismantling of South Side of Newark was Madison’s thunderclap, then Week 2 against neighboring Hanover Park was the echo that shook the county. On a brisk fall afternoon in front of a partisan home crowd, Coach Ted Monica’s Dodgers silenced skeptics and sent a clear message to the Suburban Conference: This team is no one-man show.

Despite facing a larger school with home-field advantage and a mission to slow down the much-hyped Peter “Super Jet” Jilleba, the Dodgers rolled to a commanding 34–6 victory—and it was a full-team demolition.

Gero, Herbst, and Hale Take the Reins

Hanover Park’s defense came in with a single strategy: stop Jilleba. And to their credit, they held the reigning state scoring champion to just one touchdown. But in focusing on No. 17, they lost sight of the arsenal around him.

Halfback Bob Gero was unstoppable from the opening snap, racking up 144 yards on the ground and scoring two touchdowns. His first came on a bruising 58-yard drive in just five plays to open the game. Then he added a crowd-roaring 20-yard dash after a key 45-yard punt return by Jilleba set the table.

Quarterback Dick Herbst was as cool as October air, threading passes with precision and poise. He connected with Doug Hale twice for touchdowns, one a beautiful 20-yard strike and another a slick 6-yard rollout, putting Madison up 27–0 before the third quarter ended.

As one reporter wrote, “Herbst and Hale dazzled the Hanover Park crowd with some mighty pretty heroics.”

The Super Jet Still Soars

Even with only 10 points to his name, Jilleba was electric. He racked up 167 yards on 21 carries, averaging nearly eight yards per touch. His 24-yard touchdown run in the third quarter was vintage Pete—cutting, juking, and powering through would-be tacklers with the smooth acceleration that earned him his nickname.

It wasn’t his flashiest outing, but Jilleba’s contributions—field position, blocking, and relentless pressure—opened the field for others to shine.

Dominance on Both Sides of the Ball

Madison’s defense again delivered in full. Led by Wayne Willis, Bill Notte, and Bob DeSombre, the line smothered Hanover’s offense. The Hornets managed just 122 total yards, with their lone touchdown—a 64-yard breakaway run by Ed Smith—coming late in the fourth after Madison had emptied its bench.

Coach Monica’s crew bent once but never broke. The starters held Hanover to just 38 rushing yards before reserves rotated in. The game’s most telling stat? Madison had 17 first downs to Hanover Park’s 2.

County Takes Notice

As local columnist Lee Romano wrote, “Saturday’s brilliant efforts by Bobby Gero, Dick Herbst, and Doug Hale simply underlined the fact that Madison is loaded with talent.” What was once a campaign centered on stopping Jilleba had quickly turned into a chess match—one Monica was winning with an abundance of pieces.

After two weeks, Madison stood at 2–0, having outscored opponents 62–6. Next up: Caldwell, and with it, the Dodgers’ march toward the Suburban Conference crown would continue—with the quiet confidence of a team no longer just chasing respect, but history.

Here is the next installment in the season-long chronicle of the 1964 Madison High School Dodgers football team—a vivid recounting of their Week 3 clash with Caldwell:

Caldwell Crushed: Jilleba’s Historic Day Overshadowed by Chaos in 47–0 Rout

October 10, 1964 – Twombly Field, Madison, NJ
On the scoreboard, it was a masterpiece: Madison 47, Caldwell 0. On the field, it was sheer domination. But in the stands and along the sidelines, it turned chaotic—a game marred by brawls, ejections, and a fourth-quarter melee that forced the police to intervene and officials to call the game early. It was a Saturday to remember—for both the brilliance of the football and the bedlam that followed it.

Jilleba Ascends to Legend

Before the first punch was thrown, Peter “Super Jet” Jilleba put on the single greatest scoring performance in Madison High School history. The senior halfback accounted for six touchdowns, rushed for 205 yards on 30 carries, and kicked three extra points, racking up 39 total points—a new school record and the most in Morris County history for a single game. His performance eclipsed even his own 37-point mark set the previous season.

Jilleba scored five touchdowns on the ground and added a sixth on a 16-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Dick Herbst, who completed 6 of 12 passes for 91 yards.

Madison’s offensive machine churned out 298 rushing yards and 390 total yards, while the defense, led by Wayne Willis, Bob Gero, Bill Notte, Doug Hale, John Mantone, Ralph Artigliere, and Bob DeSombre, held Caldwell to a mere 26 rushing yards and 36 total—a shutout that could’ve been worse had the game run its course.

The Game That Got Away

But what should have been a career-defining afternoon devolved into chaos. With five minutes remaining and Madison leading 47–0, a series of on-field altercations escalated. Multiple personal fouls were called. Two Caldwell players and one Madison player were ejected. Tensions boiled over after a Caldwell player was driven to the turf and retaliated. When benches cleared, the crowd poured onto the field in a scene more fitting for a political rally than a high school football game.

Police officers—more than 20 from Madison—rushed in to separate fans and players. Coaches and school officials from both sides joined the effort. After ten tense minutes, order was restored, and the game was ended by mutual agreement between the schools.

Said Madison’s Athletic Director, Harris Bonnel, “There will be nothing accomplished by continuing the game.” He praised the conduct of the Madison players, saying, “I was proud of their behavior.”

The Aftermath: Applause and Alarm

Despite the ugly finish, sportswriters were unanimous in their praise of Madison’s football excellence. One headline read: “One of the best football games ever played by a Madison High School grid team.” Another rightly asked: “With numbers like this, who wouldn’t be mad?” referring to Jilleba’s jaw-dropping stat line.

Yet the spotlight dimmed as the weekend faded. Superintendent David McLean of Madison Schools called a meeting with Caldwell officials to ensure that such an incident would never happen again. As columnist Lee Romano put it, “Everybody is still talking about the donnybrook that spoiled Madison’s resounding 47–0 victory… and not all the stories seem to jibe.”

Romano’s message was clear: don’t let the fight erase the feat. What the Dodgers did between whistles was football of the highest order—relentless, smart, explosive. For three straight weeks now, they had not just won—they had obliterated their opposition by a combined score of 109–6.

Three Games, One Message

With a record-setting running back, a creative and disciplined quarterback, a hard-hitting defense, and a deep supporting cast, Coach Ted Monica’s team had revealed itself as a force with championship intentions—and the balance to get there.

The crowd may have spilled onto Twombly Field in a frenzy, but as the dust settled, the takeaway was unmistakable: the 1964 Madison Dodgers weren’t just good—they were historic.

Here is the next chapter in the historic 1964 campaign of the Madison High School Dodgers, chronicling their hard-fought Week 4 victory over long-time rival Boonton:

Dodgers Overcome Boonton in Mud and Grit, 19–0

October 17, 1964 – Boonton, NJ
The sky was gray, the field was muddy, and the stakes were high as undefeated Madison rolled into Boonton for what would be the final chapter in a gridiron rivalry dating back to 1923. Boonton was led by an outstanding defensive player, Jim Kiick, who was later to become a college standout running back and later an NFL star for the champion Miami Dolphins. In a contest that felt more like trench warfare than high school football, Coach Ted Monica’s Dodgers gutted out a 19–0 victory—preserving their perfect season and proving that championship teams win not only with fireworks but with fundamentals and fortitude.

A Rivalry’s Final Chapter

Though Boonton came in with two losses, they had not allowed a single point at home all season—and they made Madison earn every yard. Madison’s usual offensive fireworks were slowed, but not extinguished. Quarterback Dick Herbst was sidelined by illness and halfback Bob Gero exited early with a leg injury, leaving the burden to backups and, as always, to Peter “Super Jet” Jilleba.

It was Jilleba, bruised and muddy, who carried the Dodgers across the finish line. He ran the ball 37 times for 172 yards, scoring twice and converting an extra point. Though Boonton’s defense made him work for every blade of grass, he was the undeniable difference-maker.

Backup Stars Shine in the Muck

With Herbst out, junior Paul “Goog” Natale stepped into the spotlight—and delivered. The southpaw quarterback directed all three scoring drives with cool command, completing 6 of 9 passes for 85 yards, including a 16-yard touchdown pass to Jimmy Johnson on the opening march.

Columnist Lee Romano wrote of Natale: “He came back in the second half and threw a scoring pass… then three more passes out of the fire.” Natale’s steady hand in the pocket and smart decision-making proved that Madison’s strength went beyond its starters.

Defense Leads the Way

Madison’s defensive unit continued its remarkable dominance. The Dodgers intercepted two passes, one each by Bill Notte and Bud DeBiasse, and held Boonton to just 60 yards of total offense. Not once did the Bombers cross midfield in the second half.

Wayne Willis, Doug Hale, Rhys Foulkes, and Rick Hadley led a front seven that simply overwhelmed the Boonton line. As a unit, the defense has now allowed only six points in four games.

The End of a Rivalry

The 19–0 win marked Madison’s fourth straight shutout of Boonton and extended their win streak in the series to three. It also closed the curtain on the long-running rivalry, as Boonton prepared to move to the Jersey Hills Conference. The game had all the trappings of an old-school slugfest—great defense, tough runs, and a muddy field that mirrored the grind of the game.

But in the end, Madison again stood tall—bloodied, perhaps, but unbeaten.

Final Score: Madison 19, Boonton 0
Key Stats:

• Jilleba: 172 rushing yards, 2 TDs, 1 XP
• Natale: 6/9, 85 yards, 1 TD
• Madison Defense: 2 INTs, 60 yards allowed, 1 fumble recovery

With this gritty win, Madison moved to 4–0, and sharpening their focus for their Suburban Conference title run and challenging upcoming conference games. Next up: Verona.

Here is the Week 5 installment in the continuing saga of the 1964 Madison High School Dodgers’ perfect season, this time capturing their commanding win over Verona:

Jilleba Scores 22 as Madison Steamrolls Verona, 40–6

October 24, 1964 – Twombly Field, Madison, NJ
The stat sheet said 40–6. But the real story of Madison’s fifth straight victory of the season was written in explosive touchdowns, bruising runs, pinpoint passes, and the thud of two perfectly struck field goals off the right foot of Peter “Super Jet” Jilleba.

The visiting Verona Hillbillies arrived with grit and size—but they left outmatched and outclassed by a Madison team that has evolved from great to downright dominant.

Jilleba Does It All—Again

Jilleba’s legend grew once more. The senior star, already the county’s top scorer, racked up 234 rushing yards on 27 carries, scored two touchdowns, and added two field goals—from 16 and 40 yards—for 22 total points. That brought his season total to 102 points across just five games.

Whether slashing off-tackle, exploding down the sideline, or booting field goals through the uprights with metronomic precision, Jilleba left no doubt: this is his team, his moment, and his title to chase.

His first touch of the game was an electrifying 58-yard touchdown. Later, after three passes from Paul “Goog” Natale set up a first-and-goal, Jilleba bulled over from the four. He also nailed three PATs and his pair of field goals, becoming the first Madison player in memory to handle both rushing and placekicking duties with such dominance.

Natale Continues to Impress

Filling in again for the sidelined Dick Herbst, Natale once more showed poise, accuracy, and leadership. He completed six of 12 passes for 150 yards and two touchdowns, including a 45-yard strike to Doug Hale and a 16-yard scoring pass to Jimmy Johnson.

Columnist Lee Romano offered high praise: “Paul Natale guided the Madison offense the rest of the way like a seasoned pro.” And Coach Monica echoed the sentiment: “If there’s one position we’re strong at, it’s quarterback.”

Natale’s ability to lead three separate touchdown drives in the second half showed how deep and dangerous the Dodgers had become.

Offense, Meet Defense

The offense put on a show—but the defense was no mere supporting act. Madison’s front wall, powered by Ralph Artigliere, Wayne Willis, Bill Notte, Rhys Foulkes, and Bob Stehlgens, crushed Verona’s running game and allowed just 48 yards rushing and 5 first downs. Verona’s lone score came against Madison’s second unit with the game well out of reach.

Bob DeSombre, Rick Hadley, and John Manione continued to clamp down on opposing backfields, and the line gave Verona’s quarterback no time to breathe.

Dominance in Every Phase

Madison gained 288 rushing yards and 148 passing yards for 436 total yards, nearly tripling Verona’s offensive output. They scored on lightning-fast drives, long grinds, and sudden bursts, each time finding a new way to get into the end zone.

By the final whistle, Madison had made it five straight by a combined margin of 168–12. The Dodgers were now 5–0, first in the Suburban Conference, and one step closer to a dream season.

Final Score: Madison 40, Verona 6

Key Performers:

• Jilleba: 234 yards rushing, 2 TDs, 2 FGs (16, 40 yds), 3 PATs
• Natale: 6/12 passing, 150 yards, 2 TDs
• Hale: 45-yard TD reception
• Johnson: 16-yard TD reception
• Defense: 5 first downs allowed, 1 score in garbage time

Coach Monica’s squad had answered every challenge with dominance. The title chase was officially on.

Here is the Week 6 installment of the Madison Dodgers’ perfect 1964 season—a gritty yet decisive win over a tough rival that had ended Madison’s season the year before:

Dodgers Exorcise 1963 Demons, Roll Past Summit 40–6 for Sixth Straight Win

October 31, 1964 – Twombly Field, Madison, NJ
Revenge was a dish best served fast, physical, and relentless.

Facing the only team to beat them in 1963, the Madison Dodgers answered any lingering doubts with a 40–6 rout of Suburban Conference rival Summit before a crowd of over 3,000 fans. Though it wasn’t their sharpest effort, it may have been their most meaningful: a full-circle triumph that not only avenged last season’s disappointment but reaffirmed Madison’s place as New Jersey’s top small-school power.

Sluggish Start, Explosive Finish

Coach Ted Monica’s team came out flat in the first half, missing key starters Doug Hale, Bob Stehlgens, and Bobby Gero to injury. Still, they led 14–0 at the break, thanks to two big defensive plays.

• Carl Caskey recovered a Summit fumble and returned it 72 yards, setting up an early TD plunge by Pete Jilleba.
• Later, Bud DeBiase picked off a pass at the 35-yard line and raced it in for a second score.

But it wasn’t until the third quarter that the Dodgers fully shook off the rust. A fierce goal-line stand from Summit late in the half seemed to light a fire under Madison.

Second-Half Onslaught

The third quarter saw the Dodgers break loose. Jilleba carried seven times in a row, culminating in a 2-yard touchdown to make it 21–0. On the next possession, Dick Herbst—back after missing two games with illness—fired a 33-yard pass to Caskey, and then hit Doug Hale from 11 yards out for the fourth score.

Summit answered with its only TD of the day, a 5-play drive capped by Carl Wilkerson’s short run. But Madison wasted no time retaliating.

In perhaps the most dazzling play of the game, Jilleba took a punt at his own 30-yard line, shook off three defenders, and sprinted 70 yards for his third touchdown—his 16th of the season. Later, Spencer Hoppin capped off the day with a 5-yard plunge.

By the Numbers

• Pete Jilleba: 145 rushing yards, 2 rushing TDs, 1 punt return TD, 1 PAT
• Carl Caskey: 72-yard fumble return, 33-yard reception
• Dick Herbst: 8 of 13 passing, 112 yards, 1 TD
• Doug Hale: 4 receptions for 44 yards and 1 TD
• Defense: 5 different players scored, allowed just 1 Summit TD in garbage time

Despite playing “sluggish” football by their standards, Madison totaled 288 yards rushing, forced four turnovers, and held Summit to 5 first downs. It was a game that showcased their championship mettle—not just in skill, but in focus and resolve.

Season Snapshot

With the win, Madison improved to 6–0, outscoring opponents 248–30. Jilleba crossed the 1,200-yard mark for the season and now had 118 points, extending his lead as Morris County’s top scorer. More importantly, the Dodgers stayed unbeaten in Suburban Conference play and now faced just two final hurdles: Chatham and then Millburn—the two teams closest behind them in the standings.

Final Score: Madison 40, Summit 6
Madison Scoring:

• Jilleba 5 run (kick failed)
• DeBlasse 35 interception return (Jilleba kick)
• Jilleba 2 run (Jilleba kick)
• Hale 11 pass from Herbst (kick failed)
• Jilleba 70 punt return (kick failed)
• Hoppin 5 run (Jilleba kick)

With some of their their toughest rivals in the rearview mirror and confidence growing by the week, the Dodgers were now not just chasing wins—they were chasing history.

Certainly. Here’s a full game recap of Madison vs. Cedar Grove in the same comprehensive and narrative style as the Summit game recaps, integrating game action, individual highlights, and the season narrative arc:

Game 7 – Madison 26, Cedar Grove 6

Dodgers Prevail, But Lose Their Star: Jilleba Injured in Emotional Victory

MADISON, N.J., November 7, 1964 —
In a game that was expected to be a straightforward win for the undefeated Madison Dodgers, fans and players alike left Cedar Grove’s Memorial Field with mixed emotions. Madison walked away with a 26–6 victory and a seventh straight win, but lost their brilliant halfback Pete “Super Jet” Jilleba to a season-ending leg injury just before halftime.

The game began with familiar dominance from the Dodgers. Jilleba opened scoring on Madison’s first possession, slicing through the Cedar Grove defense from two yards out to cap a steady ground march. But the PAT missed, and a fired-up Cedar Grove responded with grit. A 24-yard pass from Jim McAndrew to Bill Brannan and a dramatic 40-yard touchdown strike on fourth down tied the game at 6–6.

Then came the pivotal moment. With 2:53 left in the second quarter, Jilleba fielded the ensuing kickoff near the Madison 10 and darted through the Panthers’ coverage unit. Near midfield, after eluding four would-be tacklers, he was hit hard by Marty Cooney and went down awkwardly. The stadium fell quiet as he was helped to the sideline. He had fractured his right fibula. In a single play, the arc of Madison’s championship story had changed.

Second-Half Surge Without the Super Jet

Though shaken, Madison emerged from the locker room in the second half with renewed focus. The defense, anchored by Bob DeSombre, Bill Notte, Bob Stehlgens, and Buddy DeBiasse, dominated the line of scrimmage. Forced errors and special teams miscues by Cedar Grove gave Madison ideal field position throughout the half.

Midway through the third quarter, DeBiasse pounced on a fumbled punt at the Cedar Grove 11. Jim Johnson followed with runs of three and eight yards to give Madison a 13–6 lead. With Jilleba sidelined, Rhys Foulkes assumed kicking duties and split the uprights.

The fourth quarter brought more of the same. With Brannan under pressure, Cedar Grove’s offense stalled. On one possession, McAndrew fumbled after being hit by three Madison linemen, and Bill Notte scooped up the ball and ran it in from the 16. Less than a minute later, another Panther turnover turned into six more points as Jimmy Johnson hauled in a deflected pitchout at midfield and raced 40 yards for the final score. Madison’s defense had scored as many touchdowns in the second half as the offense.

By the Numbers

• Madison outgained Cedar Grove 118 yards to 103 on the ground.
• The Dodgers had only seven first downs, but five of their scoring drives started inside Panther territory.
• Madison completed just 3 of 11 passes but made them count.
• The Dodgers’ defense forced five fumbles and intercepted one pass.
• Final score: Madison 26, Cedar Grove 6

Jilleba’s Season Ends with Legacy Intact

Pete Jilleba closed his 1964 season with 1,227 rushing yards on 160 carries—averaging over 7.6 yards per attempt—and 126 total points. The injury came with scouts in attendance, hopeful to see more from a back who had already scored in every game. His final carry symbolized his season—electrifying, defiant, and ultimately unforgettable.

Madison’s coaching staff and community responded with support and resolve. Teammates delivered a signed game ball to Jilleba at home, and messages of encouragement poured in from around the state, including from Hanover Park’s Booster Club.

Coach Ted Monica, clearly shaken, told reporters, “I’d rather lose the rest of our games than have this happen.” But Madison still had a season to complete, and with their championship dreams still alive, the story shifted. It was now up to the team—not the Super Jet—to carry the Dodgers across the finish line.

Absolutely — here is a full recap of the Madison vs. Chatham game in the same style and structure used in your previous summaries (including headings, context, emphasis, and By the Numbers):

Game 9 – Madison 13, Chatham 7

Date: Saturday, November 14, 1964
Location: Chatham High School
Season Record: 8–0
Suburban Conference Record: 4–0

A Clash of Grit and Defense in Front of 6,000 Fans

There were no illusions going into this one: without the dazzling Pete Jilleba in the backfield, Madison’s high-powered attack would look different. But Coach Ted Monica’s resilient Dodgers proved again that they are far more than a one-man team, outlasting a determined Chatham squad, 13–7, in front of a raucous crowd of over 6,000.

The hard-earned win preserved Madison’s unbeaten record and set up a Thanksgiving Day showdown against Millburn for the Suburban Conference title — the first time since 1933 that both rivals enter the finale undefeated.

The Turning Points

• Gero’s Explosive Run:
  After a scoreless first quarter, Madison broke through in the second. With outstanding blocking by Doug Hale and Bob Stehglens, Bobby Gero found a seam and sprinted 31 yards to the end zone on a brilliant draw play. Carl Pierce converted to make it 7–0.
• Chatham Answers:
  The Eskies showed heart, mounting a 60-yard, penalty-aided drive immediately after halftime. Quarterback Steve Pfeiffer found rhythm, and Tim Keeley — their reliable workhorse — punched it in from five yards out to tie the game at 7. Al Boehm’s PAT was good.
• Bill Notte’s Moment of Glory:
  Madison regained possession late in the third. Dick Herbst drove the team downfield and then lofted a quick pass to linebacker-turned-receiver Bill Notte, who had already made a key interception earlier in the game. Notte caught the ball in stride and blazed 60 yards down the sideline, shaking off defenders for the decisive touchdown. The extra point failed, but Madison led 13–7.

A Team Effort Without Its Star

Still reeling from the loss of All-State halfback Pete Jilleba to a broken leg two weeks earlier, Madison leaned heavily on its depth and heart. Bobby Gero carried 21 times for 98 yards, and Jimmy Johnson added 42 more. Herbst, under pressure throughout, completed 5 of 11 passes for 92 yards — enough to keep the Chatham defense honest.

The line — anchored by Ray Edwards, Ralph Artiliere, Wayne Willis, and Bud DeBiasse — won the battle in the trenches, giving the backs room and pressuring Chatham’s quarterback repeatedly.

Dodger Defense Delivers Again

Chatham had four late possessions to tie or win the game. Each time, Madison’s defense held. Interceptions by Bill Notte and Carl Caskey and a fumble recovery by Ed Kleses thwarted Chatham’s best opportunities. In all, the Eskies were stopped four times inside the Madison 30-yard line.

Coach Monica called the game “a defensive war,” and it was. Time and again, Madison’s defense rose to the occasion, just as it had in narrow wins over Summit and Cedar Grove.

By the Numbers

Category	Madison	Chatham
First Downs	12	9
Rushing Yards	177	106
Passing Yards	92	16
Total Yards	269	122
Passes Attempted	11	8
Passes Completed	5	2
Interceptions Thrown	2	2
Fumbles Recovered	2	1
Penalty Yards	30	40

The Stakes Rise: A Showdown for the Ages Looms

The win pushed Madison to 8–0 overall and 4–0 in conference play. Millburn matched that conference mark with a 20–0 win over Verona, setting up a classic Thanksgiving Day showdown between undefeated teams.

The 1964 Dodgers, stripped of their most celebrated player, are now 48 minutes away from a perfect season — a feat not achieved at Madison since 1933. With everything on the line, the final chapter will be written against Millburn.

The Stakes Rise: A Showdown for the Ages Looms

The win pushed Madison to 8–0 overall and 4–0 in conference play. Millburn matched that conference mark with a 20–0 win over Verona, setting up a classic Thanksgiving Day showdown between undefeated teams.

The 1964 Dodgers, stripped of their most celebrated player, are now 48 minutes away from a perfect season — a feat not achieved at Madison since 1933. With everything on the line, the final chapter will be written against Millburn.

Game Recap: Madison vs. Millburn – November 26, 1964

A Perfect Ending to a Perfect Season

On Thanksgiving morning, before a record-breaking crowd of over 9,000 fans packed into Twombly Field, the Madison Dodgers cemented their place in history with a gritty 14-0 shutout victory over previously unbeaten Millburn. In a game soaked in mud and emotion, Coach Ted Monica’s Dodgers closed out their first-ever 9-0 season, claimed sole possession of the Suburban Conference title, and silenced any remaining doubts about their status as one of the greatest teams in Madison High School history.

Opening in the Shadows, Rising to the Moment

The game could not have started worse for Madison. Jimmy Johnson fumbled the opening kickoff, and Millburn’s Dan Aubel recovered on the Dodger 20. Then Millburn star end Brent Barth caught a pass and was knocked out of bounds inside the ten yard line. But any early signs of vulnerability vanished as Madison’s defense delivered one of its finest stands of the season. In the shadow of their own goalposts, led by the entire front line and linebackers, the Dodger defenders held firm on four running plays, forcing Millburn into a four-and-out inside the 10-yard line. That moment proved pivotal, setting the tone for a defensive battle that would dominate the first half.

The Grind and the Breakthrough

Both teams traded punts and field position throughout a tense, scoreless first half. The mud-covered field slowed backs and receivers alike. Nine punts were exchanged before the Dodgers finally broke through with under a minute left in the half. Quarterback Dick Herbst dropped back and found Doug Hale on the right sideline for a spectacular 58-yard scoring play. Hale’s muddy, determined run to the end zone brought the packed crowd to its feet and gave Madison a 7-0 lead at the break.

Second-Half Domination

The Dodgers never let up. Bobby Gero, who played with bruising intensity throughout the game, helped seal the victory with a seven-yard touchdown run in the third quarter after Herbst connected with Carl Caskey for a 40-yard gain. With a 14-0 lead and their defense in full control, the Dodgers suffocated every Millburn effort. The Millers managed just six first downs and 121 total yards.

Millburn had its chances, twice advancing to Madison’s 30 in the final period. But each time, the Dodger defense answered the bell. Hermiston’s passing was limited to 57 yards; Millburn’s vaunted ground game gained only 64 yards. From Bob DeSombre, Wayne Willis, Bob Stehlgens, and Ralph Artigliere on the line to Bill Notte and Bud DeBiasse in the backfield, Madison played like a unit possessed.

A Complete Team Effort

While Gero and Hale delivered the touchdowns, it was the total team performance—from the poise under pressure of Herbst and Caskey, to the defensive line’s trench dominance, to the defensive backfield’s aerial containment—teamwork defined this championship effort. After the initial fumble on the opening kickoff, the Dodger ball handler secured the pigskin for the balance of the contest in horribly slick and muddy conditions. Herbst completed only two passes, but both were lethal. The defense, bruised but unyielding, stood tall when it mattered most.

By the Numbers:

• • Final Score: Madison 14, Millburn 0
  • Total Yards: Madison 258, Millburn 121

• Rushing Yards: Madison 160, Millburn 64

• Passing Yards: Madison 98, Millburn 57

• First Downs: Madison 10, Millburn 6

• Key Plays: 58-yard TD pass from Herbst to Hale; 7-yard TD run by Gero; 40-yard pass to Caskey

Coach Monica’s Masterpiece

For Coach Ted Monica, the victory marked a crowning achievement in his 10th year at the helm. After close calls in earlier games and key injuries to stars like Pete Jilleba and Homer Meade, Monica’s squad showed championship resolve when it mattered most. The win not only completed a perfect season but avenged past heartbreaks against Millburn and ended years of Thanksgiving Day frustrations.

Legacy Secured

This 1964 team now takes its place alongside Madison’s legends. The record will show 9-0, but the memory will be one of grit, resilience, and unity. With the scoreboard showing zero for the opposition yet again, the Madison Dodgers walked off the field to thunderous applause, champions in every sense of the word.

As the final seconds ticked off, the Madison sideline erupted, fans poured onto the field, and Monica was hoisted in the air, soaked by a celebratory shower. From the first play of the season to the final whistle on Thanksgiving Day, these Dodgers left no doubt—they were the best team in Morris County and undoubtedly the finest squad Madison High had ever fielded.

Postscript: Echoes of Perfection

A Season for the Ages

The 1964 Madison Dodgers were more than just undefeated—they were unyielding. Through torrential rains, physical battles, and the emotional toll of losing their brightest star, the team never flinched. They posted five shutouts, outscored their opponents 230-33, and relied on each other with uncommon trust.

Key Stats:

• Record: 9-0 (5-0 in Suburban Conference)
• Points Scored: 230
• Points Allowed: 33
• Shutouts: 5
• Average Margin of Victory: 22 points

Standout Performers:

• Pete Jilleba: 1,227 rushing yards, 126 points (before injury)
• Dick Herbst: Consistent field generalship and clutch passing
• Bobby Gero: Steady, physical running in key games
• Bill Notte: Two-way impact, INTs and receiving TDs

Honors & Legacy

• Multiple All-County and All-State selections
• Suburban Conference Champions
• First perfect season in school history

The story of the ’64 Dodgers is not just one of victory, but of character. They remain a model of team play, toughness, and heart—a legacy that still echoes through the halls of Madison High School sixty years later.