Applegran attended the University of Illinois and played football and basketball.

During the 1919 season, Applegran earned All-American honors as a guard for the Fighting Illini football team.

[1] He later played professional football for the Detroit Heralds for the 1920 season before beginning his coaching career.

[2] Applegran, who served in World Wars I and II and rose to the rank of colonel,[2] finished his career at South Shore High School in Chicago, Illinois.

At the school, Applegran was known for a booming baritone voice that required no amplification during pep rallies held in the large auditorium.