DICK CHRISTY
Halfback
No. 45
North Carolina State
"The former North Carolina State record holder was the AFL's punt return leader last year, averaging 21.3 yards per return for 18 tries. Christy also ranked sixth in kickoff returns, averaging 24 yards on 16 returns. His longest was a 60-yarder.
The fleet back still holds eight North Carolina State and conference records, including rushing, scoring, most points in one game and longest field goal. The Titans acquired him in a trade with Oakland last year."
-1962 Fleer No. 58
MEL WEST
Halfback
No. 25
Missouri
"Time and patience are the qualities which will pay off in the case of Mel West, the Missouri mauler who was plucked from the Patriots before the 1961 campaign began.
Marvelous Mel managed 322 yards as a runner from left halfback, averaging 4.5 per carry, and gained an additional 146 serving as a receiver, respectable marks for a rookie.
One of the smallest in the loop at 5-9, his determination to succeed is fierce and he now has the confidence he thought he lost when Boston gave up on him."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
Sunday, May 25, 2014
1962 Profiles: Don Maynard and Alan Goldstein
DON MAYNARD
Flanker
No. 13
Texas Western
"Hampered by injuries in 1961, Maynard had trouble reaching the expectations the Titans had for him that season. When he sustained his first injury, on October 22, he was one of the league's top receivers.
As a member of the New York Giants in 1958, Don was used primarily as a kick return man. It was not until he joined the Titans in 1960 that he got a chance to display his receiving ability. That year, Don caught 72 passes to rank second in the loop."
-1962 Fleer No. 59
ALAN GOLDSTEIN
Flanker
No. 81
North Carolina
"Although raised in Brooklyn, Alan traveled south to the University of North Carolina for his college education and to play football for the Tarheels. Thereafter, Alan served with the armed forces and played football in Europe. He was named to the All-European Service Team, and upon his return gained professional experience with the Los Angeles Rams.
Because of his background, Alan should prove a real help at end for the Oakland Raiders."
-1960 Fleer No. 108
"The long path to Oakland began for Alan when he was a high school star in Brooklyn. He played his varsity football at North Carolina, then went into military service, where he made the European All-Star team.
Alan proved a top receiver for the Raiders in 1960, snaring 27 tosses for 354 yards. Oakland fans expect an even brighter year from him in 1961."
-1961 Fleer No. 195
Flanker
No. 13
Texas Western
"Hampered by injuries in 1961, Maynard had trouble reaching the expectations the Titans had for him that season. When he sustained his first injury, on October 22, he was one of the league's top receivers.
As a member of the New York Giants in 1958, Don was used primarily as a kick return man. It was not until he joined the Titans in 1960 that he got a chance to display his receiving ability. That year, Don caught 72 passes to rank second in the loop."
-1962 Fleer No. 59
ALAN GOLDSTEIN
Flanker
No. 81
North Carolina
"Although raised in Brooklyn, Alan traveled south to the University of North Carolina for his college education and to play football for the Tarheels. Thereafter, Alan served with the armed forces and played football in Europe. He was named to the All-European Service Team, and upon his return gained professional experience with the Los Angeles Rams.
Because of his background, Alan should prove a real help at end for the Oakland Raiders."
-1960 Fleer No. 108
"The long path to Oakland began for Alan when he was a high school star in Brooklyn. He played his varsity football at North Carolina, then went into military service, where he made the European All-Star team.
Alan proved a top receiver for the Raiders in 1960, snaring 27 tosses for 354 yards. Oakland fans expect an even brighter year from him in 1961."
-1961 Fleer No. 195
1962 Titan Linebacker Profiles
HUBERT BOBO
Middle Linebacker
No. 57
Ohio State
Hubert is a steady linebacker with a willingness to hit. Stabilizing the Titan defense again in his second year while playing all 14 games, he made four interceptions for 57 yards returned, including a return of 26 yards.
As a collegian, Hubert starred as a sophomore fullback on an Ohio State team that played in the Rose Bowl.
LARRY GRANTHAM
Linebacker
No. 60
Mississippi
"If a linebacker who's less than 200 pounds is a rarity than Larry Grantham must be a phenom. No ordinary toiler is this 25-year-old Crystal Springs, Mississippi head-cracker, who comes in at 195 and hits with the authenticity of a 220-pounder. An All-League choice for three years, he's considered the best tackler at his post and is seldom guilty of allowing a runner or pass-receiver to escape his grasp.
Slated for end duties as a '60 rookie, he was never permitted to display his offensive wares once the coaches noticed his sharpness on defense."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"Larry's listed as a linebacker but weighs 30 pounds less than the norm for the job. Since he's too valuable to keep out of the lineup, New York compensates for his lack of size by flopping him over to play always on the side of the split end. Larry has the reflexes to become an extra peg in the pass defense, and the fiery will to stop huge fullbacks in their tracks on runs.
Last season he was All-AFL."
-1963 Fleer No. 20
ED COOKE
Linebacker
No. 82
Maryland
"Ed Cooke feared it was all over as a pro when the Colts released him at the start of the 1960 season. But the 26-year-old Harrisburg (Pennsylvania) hounder of passers was certain he could find a job at defensive end or tackle, and his confidence has gained him permanence as a Titan. Ed's quite valuable in a number of positions and it's possible that he'll hold forth at the left linebacking slot."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
Middle Linebacker
No. 57
Ohio State
Hubert is a steady linebacker with a willingness to hit. Stabilizing the Titan defense again in his second year while playing all 14 games, he made four interceptions for 57 yards returned, including a return of 26 yards.
As a collegian, Hubert starred as a sophomore fullback on an Ohio State team that played in the Rose Bowl.
LARRY GRANTHAM
Linebacker
No. 60
Mississippi
"If a linebacker who's less than 200 pounds is a rarity than Larry Grantham must be a phenom. No ordinary toiler is this 25-year-old Crystal Springs, Mississippi head-cracker, who comes in at 195 and hits with the authenticity of a 220-pounder. An All-League choice for three years, he's considered the best tackler at his post and is seldom guilty of allowing a runner or pass-receiver to escape his grasp.
Slated for end duties as a '60 rookie, he was never permitted to display his offensive wares once the coaches noticed his sharpness on defense."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"Larry's listed as a linebacker but weighs 30 pounds less than the norm for the job. Since he's too valuable to keep out of the lineup, New York compensates for his lack of size by flopping him over to play always on the side of the split end. Larry has the reflexes to become an extra peg in the pass defense, and the fiery will to stop huge fullbacks in their tracks on runs.
Last season he was All-AFL."
-1963 Fleer No. 20
ED COOKE
Linebacker
No. 82
Maryland
"Ed Cooke feared it was all over as a pro when the Colts released him at the start of the 1960 season. But the 26-year-old Harrisburg (Pennsylvania) hounder of passers was certain he could find a job at defensive end or tackle, and his confidence has gained him permanence as a Titan. Ed's quite valuable in a number of positions and it's possible that he'll hold forth at the left linebacking slot."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
1962 Profile: Art Powell
Split End
No. 84
San Jose State
"Nifty swifty [sic] and so difficult to cover in the open is Art Powell, the spectacular pass catcher who was No. 3 among all receivers in 1961. The 25-year-old ex-Eagle latched on to 71 passes for 881 yards and seldom could he remember when he didn't have to out-hustle two defenders for the right to the ball. No team in the circuit plays him one-on-one, a tribute to his speed and good hands."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"Powell is a quarterback's delight. His size makes him easy to spot downfield, and his speed- he's run the 100 in 9.7- and great set of moves have opposing defenders running in circles. What's more, his hands are so big that they look ready-made for catching footballs.
Only Denver's Lionel Taylor and Houston's Charlie Hennigan caught more than his 71 receptions, good for 881 yards. His best day was October 22 when he hauled in 12 Titan passes just one short of the league record."
-1962 Fleer No. 60
No. 84
San Jose State
"Nifty swifty [sic] and so difficult to cover in the open is Art Powell, the spectacular pass catcher who was No. 3 among all receivers in 1961. The 25-year-old ex-Eagle latched on to 71 passes for 881 yards and seldom could he remember when he didn't have to out-hustle two defenders for the right to the ball. No team in the circuit plays him one-on-one, a tribute to his speed and good hands."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"Powell is a quarterback's delight. His size makes him easy to spot downfield, and his speed- he's run the 100 in 9.7- and great set of moves have opposing defenders running in circles. What's more, his hands are so big that they look ready-made for catching footballs.
Only Denver's Lionel Taylor and Houston's Charlie Hennigan caught more than his 71 receptions, good for 881 yards. His best day was October 22 when he hauled in 12 Titan passes just one short of the league record."
-1962 Fleer No. 60
1962 Titan Defensive Line Profiles
SID YOUNGELMAN
Defensive Tackle
No. 76
Alabama
"Still scrambling with the enthusiasm of a rookie is ponderous Sid Youngelman, 30, who found a new career with the Titans. Considered a relief man after service with the 49ers, Eagles and Browns, his experience went a long way toward making him one of the AFL's most destructive defenders at tackle and end. The Brooklyn-born battler makes the middle of the New York wall a formidable barrier."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
TOM SAIDOCK
Defensive Tackle
No. 75
Michigan State
"Rangy, rugged Tom plays football with exceptional savor and savvy.
This towering tackle had an interesting career with the Spartans. He played on their 1951 and 1952 teams, then put in three years in service before finishing his varsity term. Following his graduation from Michigan State in 1957, Saidock spent two years with the Eagles.
Off-season, he is a salesman. He is married and the father of a seven-year-old son."
-1962 Fleer No. 66
NICK MUMLEY
Defensive End
No. 74
Purdue
"Obtained from the Dallas Texans shortly before the start of the 1960 season, Nick stepped right into the defensive line and has been a defensive stalwart since.
The versatile Wheeling, West Virginia native is capable of playing anywhere up front. Nick has the speed, power and desire to keep any opposition from yardage on his flank.
The rugged Purdue graduate played the 1959 College All-Star Game. Nick has since shown he is a bonafide pro."
-1962 Fleer No. 65
LAVERNE TORCZON
Defensive End
No. 87
Nebraska
1960
Team captain at Nebraska, LaVerne was All-Big Eight two years and an All-American and the Cornhuskers' MVP as a senior. After being drafted by Cleveland, he was drafted by Uncle Sam and released by the Browns after his military service.
A leader by example, LaVerne inspires his teammates with his devastation of opposing blockers.
"Few will argue about calling LaVerne Torczon, the Platte Center (Nebraska) bone-crusher, one of the AFL's superior defensive ends. Now 25, he lost his NFL shot with the Browns when called into service after gaining an All-America berth in '56. A unanimous All-AFL end selection, his crashing style dissolved many blocks.
The Bills' captain, his spirit generates throughout the squad."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"The ends playing alongside these behemoths at defensive tackle are generally more modest in scale. They're like LaVerne Torczon, the captain and field leader of the Bills, a mere snip of a 240-pounder who was all-league last season. He's with the Bills because general manager Dick Gallagher remembered him from a trial with the Cleveland Browns (where Gallagher was a coach) four years ago. Torczon was a 210-pounder then and a linebacker. He had played center, guard and tackle for Nebraska, although he never played organized football until he went to college. The 25-year-old school teacher from Platte Center, Nebraska didn't make the Browns, but they admit they could use him at defensive end right now."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"Opposing backs avoided this defensive bulwark's end as much as possible. Torczon is adept at spilling interference.
He was chosen on the AFL's first All-Star team."
-1961 Topps No. 157
"The Browns are still unhappy about losing LaVerne Torczon to the service. Drafted by Cleveland in 1956, he first got in his military duty and then decided to become a Bill in 1960.
One of the finest crashing ends, his destructive style has gained him two-time All-Pro recognition. Born in Columbus, Nebraska, LaVerne still has a sufficient number of seasons remaining to continue his harassment of passers."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"LaVerne Torczon is captain and defensive end of the Buffalo Bills, a leader who inspires by example, one of the league's most dependable performers the last two years."
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football
"This All-Leaguer from Nebraska is one of the greatest defensemen in football. He is tremendously versatile, playing equally as well at guard or defensive end.
The Bills' captain was a unanimous selection at end in 1960 and as a linebacker in 1961. He made the All-Big Seven two years and was selected as Nebraska's most valuable player in his senior year. He lost his NFL shot with the Browns when he was called into service in 1957 and was signed by Ottawa Rough Riders of the Canadian Big Four in 1959."
-1962 Fleer No. 21
Defensive Tackle
No. 76
Alabama
"Still scrambling with the enthusiasm of a rookie is ponderous Sid Youngelman, 30, who found a new career with the Titans. Considered a relief man after service with the 49ers, Eagles and Browns, his experience went a long way toward making him one of the AFL's most destructive defenders at tackle and end. The Brooklyn-born battler makes the middle of the New York wall a formidable barrier."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
TOM SAIDOCK
Defensive Tackle
No. 75
Michigan State
"Rangy, rugged Tom plays football with exceptional savor and savvy.
This towering tackle had an interesting career with the Spartans. He played on their 1951 and 1952 teams, then put in three years in service before finishing his varsity term. Following his graduation from Michigan State in 1957, Saidock spent two years with the Eagles.
Off-season, he is a salesman. He is married and the father of a seven-year-old son."
-1962 Fleer No. 66
NICK MUMLEY
Defensive End
No. 74
Purdue
"Obtained from the Dallas Texans shortly before the start of the 1960 season, Nick stepped right into the defensive line and has been a defensive stalwart since.
The versatile Wheeling, West Virginia native is capable of playing anywhere up front. Nick has the speed, power and desire to keep any opposition from yardage on his flank.
The rugged Purdue graduate played the 1959 College All-Star Game. Nick has since shown he is a bonafide pro."
-1962 Fleer No. 65
LAVERNE TORCZON
Defensive End
No. 87
Nebraska
1960
Team captain at Nebraska, LaVerne was All-Big Eight two years and an All-American and the Cornhuskers' MVP as a senior. After being drafted by Cleveland, he was drafted by Uncle Sam and released by the Browns after his military service.
A leader by example, LaVerne inspires his teammates with his devastation of opposing blockers.
"Few will argue about calling LaVerne Torczon, the Platte Center (Nebraska) bone-crusher, one of the AFL's superior defensive ends. Now 25, he lost his NFL shot with the Browns when called into service after gaining an All-America berth in '56. A unanimous All-AFL end selection, his crashing style dissolved many blocks.
The Bills' captain, his spirit generates throughout the squad."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"The ends playing alongside these behemoths at defensive tackle are generally more modest in scale. They're like LaVerne Torczon, the captain and field leader of the Bills, a mere snip of a 240-pounder who was all-league last season. He's with the Bills because general manager Dick Gallagher remembered him from a trial with the Cleveland Browns (where Gallagher was a coach) four years ago. Torczon was a 210-pounder then and a linebacker. He had played center, guard and tackle for Nebraska, although he never played organized football until he went to college. The 25-year-old school teacher from Platte Center, Nebraska didn't make the Browns, but they admit they could use him at defensive end right now."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"Opposing backs avoided this defensive bulwark's end as much as possible. Torczon is adept at spilling interference.
He was chosen on the AFL's first All-Star team."
-1961 Topps No. 157
"The Browns are still unhappy about losing LaVerne Torczon to the service. Drafted by Cleveland in 1956, he first got in his military duty and then decided to become a Bill in 1960.
One of the finest crashing ends, his destructive style has gained him two-time All-Pro recognition. Born in Columbus, Nebraska, LaVerne still has a sufficient number of seasons remaining to continue his harassment of passers."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"LaVerne Torczon is captain and defensive end of the Buffalo Bills, a leader who inspires by example, one of the league's most dependable performers the last two years."
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football
"This All-Leaguer from Nebraska is one of the greatest defensemen in football. He is tremendously versatile, playing equally as well at guard or defensive end.
The Bills' captain was a unanimous selection at end in 1960 and as a linebacker in 1961. He made the All-Big Seven two years and was selected as Nebraska's most valuable player in his senior year. He lost his NFL shot with the Browns when he was called into service in 1957 and was signed by Ottawa Rough Riders of the Canadian Big Four in 1959."
-1962 Fleer No. 21
1962 Profile: Thurlow Cooper
Tight End
No. 88
Maine
In the Titans' season opener at Braves Field in Boston, Thurlow caught a 16-yard touchdown pass from Al Dorow for a 14-7 second-quarter lead in an eventual 21-20 New York victory. In the Polo Grounds rematch against the Patriots three weeks later, he caught a five-yard touchdown pass from Dorow to give New York the lead in an eventual 37-30 win, lifting the Titans to a 3-1 record and the lead in the AFL East.
After winning many honors as a collegian at the University of Maine, Thurlow has proven reliable as both a blocker and a receiver for the feared Titan offense.
No. 88
Maine
In the Titans' season opener at Braves Field in Boston, Thurlow caught a 16-yard touchdown pass from Al Dorow for a 14-7 second-quarter lead in an eventual 21-20 New York victory. In the Polo Grounds rematch against the Patriots three weeks later, he caught a five-yard touchdown pass from Dorow to give New York the lead in an eventual 37-30 win, lifting the Titans to a 3-1 record and the lead in the AFL East.
After winning many honors as a collegian at the University of Maine, Thurlow has proven reliable as both a blocker and a receiver for the feared Titan offense.
1962 Titan Offensive Line Profiles
MIKE HUDOCK
Center
No. 52
Miami
"Rugged Mike, who hails from Tunkhannock in the anthracite-laden hills of Pennsylvania, is an experienced pivotman, having played three years at the University of Miami (Fla.), two seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles and two with the Titans.
Big Mike is a reliable passer [sic], blocks with shattering impact and has exceptional mobility. Fast, he's usually out in front of the Titan ball carriers, who value his crisp, decisive blocking."
-1962 Fleer No. 61
BOB MISCHAK
Guard
No. 67
Army
"Again Bob Mischak held on to his laurels as a most outstanding guard. He has twice gained All-AFL honors and his blocking remains as destructive as ever.
Drafted by the Browns, he ended up with the Giants in 1958 only to quit in '59 as a result of salary differences.
The 29-year-old out of Union, New Jersey played for Army and is one of the few West Pointers who turned to the pro ranks."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
JOHN MCMULLAN
Guard
No. 68
Notre Dame
"One of the few original Titans to appear at his position for the third straight season will be John McMullan, the starting right guard who, with Bob Mischak, gives the interior line that necessary blocking spark. This 27-year-old Bergenfield (New Jersey) bull is most difficult to defense due to his ability to come back with that second blocking effort.
He's also done time with the Giants and Eagles."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
JACK KLOTZ
Offensive Tackle
No. 78
Pennsylvania Military College
Jack played every game for the Titans in both 1960 and 1961 and has shown the adaptability to protect his team's passers from the ever-changing tactics of opposing defenses. A veteran of the Canadian Football League, his experience has also been helpful to Titan running backs.
GENE COCKRELL
Offensive Tackle
No. 70
Hardin-Simmons
Coach Bulldog Turner, who certainly knows a good offensive lineman when he sees one, knows how much Gene fortifies the Titan offensive line. He has proven himself in every game played by New York in the AFL's first two seasons.
Along with his collegiate football career, Gene was also a member of the Hardin-Simmons rodeo team.
Center
No. 52
Miami
"Rugged Mike, who hails from Tunkhannock in the anthracite-laden hills of Pennsylvania, is an experienced pivotman, having played three years at the University of Miami (Fla.), two seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles and two with the Titans.
Big Mike is a reliable passer [sic], blocks with shattering impact and has exceptional mobility. Fast, he's usually out in front of the Titan ball carriers, who value his crisp, decisive blocking."
-1962 Fleer No. 61
BOB MISCHAK
Guard
No. 67
Army
"Again Bob Mischak held on to his laurels as a most outstanding guard. He has twice gained All-AFL honors and his blocking remains as destructive as ever.
Drafted by the Browns, he ended up with the Giants in 1958 only to quit in '59 as a result of salary differences.
The 29-year-old out of Union, New Jersey played for Army and is one of the few West Pointers who turned to the pro ranks."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
JOHN MCMULLAN
Guard
No. 68
Notre Dame
"One of the few original Titans to appear at his position for the third straight season will be John McMullan, the starting right guard who, with Bob Mischak, gives the interior line that necessary blocking spark. This 27-year-old Bergenfield (New Jersey) bull is most difficult to defense due to his ability to come back with that second blocking effort.
He's also done time with the Giants and Eagles."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
JACK KLOTZ
Offensive Tackle
No. 78
Pennsylvania Military College
Jack played every game for the Titans in both 1960 and 1961 and has shown the adaptability to protect his team's passers from the ever-changing tactics of opposing defenses. A veteran of the Canadian Football League, his experience has also been helpful to Titan running backs.
GENE COCKRELL
Offensive Tackle
No. 70
Hardin-Simmons
Coach Bulldog Turner, who certainly knows a good offensive lineman when he sees one, knows how much Gene fortifies the Titan offensive line. He has proven himself in every game played by New York in the AFL's first two seasons.
Along with his collegiate football career, Gene was also a member of the Hardin-Simmons rodeo team.
1962 Profiles: Billy Atkins and Lee Riley
BILLY ATKINS
Safety-Kicker
No. 2
Auburn
"Bill was one of the first players signed by the Buffalo Bills and will be responsible for one of the most important assignments in pro football, the defensive halfback position.
He was the star defensive halfback for two years with the San Francisco 49ers. Bill played previously for Auburn and was named to the All-Southeastern Conference team. He was also selected for All-America."
-1960 Fleer No. 24
"The most active of all pro punters in '60 was Birmingham's Billy Atkins whose 89 boots totaled 3,468 yards. Booting Billy, 26, was first exposed to pro fire as a 49er and turned in a creditable job as a defensive back. As a Bill he intercepted five passes and also tallied 45 points on 27 extra points and six field goals."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Speed and alertness are the factors most sought after in the secondary, and this All-Southeastern Conference star possesses both.
A conference selection in 1956 and 1957, with an All-America nomination in 1957, Atkins participated in the East-West Shrine Game and the College All-Star contest, then joined the San Francisco 49ers as a valuable defense man. Last year he switched to the Bills where he proved a valuable kicker as well."
-1961 Fleer No. 141
"The man who gets the biggest 'boot' out of the game is Billy Atkins, the Millport (Alabama) mechanic who established AFL records in 1961 with 84 punts and a 45 per punt average. He led pass interceptors (10) last year and dashed for 87 yards on two running attempts from a fake kick formation.
Billy was an All-Pro selection as a safetyman."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"Billy Atkins of the Buffalo Bills led the AFL in two departments in 1961- interceptions, with 11, and punting, with a 45-yard average. The former Forty-Niner and Auburn star had his greatest season in pro ball."
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football
"An All-Southeastern Conference halfback in college, this Birmingham, Alabama speedster switched to defense in the pros and he was rewarded last year by making the second All-Pro team in the AFL. A brilliant kicker, Bill led all the Bills' punters in 1961 with a 45.0 yard average for 84 kicks.
A star in the East-West and College All-Star contests after graduating in 1957, Atkins joined the San Francisco 49ers in 1958. Two years later he joined the Bills."
-1962 Fleer No. 18
LEE RILEY
Safety
No. 22
Detroit
Lee certainly did his part last year in the continued development of the Titan defensive secondary. He caused trouble for opposing passers with four interceptions, including one returned 41 yards.
After attending St. Aloysius Academy just up the Thruway in Schenectady, Lee was a unanimous All-Missouri Valley halfback two straight years. He began his pro career in Detroit after being personally scouted by Lion coach Buddy Parker.
Safety-Kicker
No. 2
Auburn
"Bill was one of the first players signed by the Buffalo Bills and will be responsible for one of the most important assignments in pro football, the defensive halfback position.
He was the star defensive halfback for two years with the San Francisco 49ers. Bill played previously for Auburn and was named to the All-Southeastern Conference team. He was also selected for All-America."
-1960 Fleer No. 24
"The most active of all pro punters in '60 was Birmingham's Billy Atkins whose 89 boots totaled 3,468 yards. Booting Billy, 26, was first exposed to pro fire as a 49er and turned in a creditable job as a defensive back. As a Bill he intercepted five passes and also tallied 45 points on 27 extra points and six field goals."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Speed and alertness are the factors most sought after in the secondary, and this All-Southeastern Conference star possesses both.
A conference selection in 1956 and 1957, with an All-America nomination in 1957, Atkins participated in the East-West Shrine Game and the College All-Star contest, then joined the San Francisco 49ers as a valuable defense man. Last year he switched to the Bills where he proved a valuable kicker as well."
-1961 Fleer No. 141
"The man who gets the biggest 'boot' out of the game is Billy Atkins, the Millport (Alabama) mechanic who established AFL records in 1961 with 84 punts and a 45 per punt average. He led pass interceptors (10) last year and dashed for 87 yards on two running attempts from a fake kick formation.
Billy was an All-Pro selection as a safetyman."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"Billy Atkins of the Buffalo Bills led the AFL in two departments in 1961- interceptions, with 11, and punting, with a 45-yard average. The former Forty-Niner and Auburn star had his greatest season in pro ball."
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football
"An All-Southeastern Conference halfback in college, this Birmingham, Alabama speedster switched to defense in the pros and he was rewarded last year by making the second All-Pro team in the AFL. A brilliant kicker, Bill led all the Bills' punters in 1961 with a 45.0 yard average for 84 kicks.
A star in the East-West and College All-Star contests after graduating in 1957, Atkins joined the San Francisco 49ers in 1958. Two years later he joined the Bills."
-1962 Fleer No. 18
LEE RILEY
Safety
No. 22
Detroit
Lee certainly did his part last year in the continued development of the Titan defensive secondary. He caused trouble for opposing passers with four interceptions, including one returned 41 yards.
After attending St. Aloysius Academy just up the Thruway in Schenectady, Lee was a unanimous All-Missouri Valley halfback two straight years. He began his pro career in Detroit after being personally scouted by Lion coach Buddy Parker.
1962 Profiles: Dainard Paulson and Jack Johnson
DAINARD PAULSON
Cornerback
No. 40
Oregon State
Dainard stepped in and bolstered New York's defensive secondary in 1961. He played all 14 games and made his first career interception.
In his college days at Oregon State, Dainard starred as a tailback in the single wing. As a punter, he set the Pacific Coast record with a 45.4 average per kick.
JACK JOHNSON
Cornerback
No. 42
Miami
"One of the first deals made by the Titans to add muscle and experience to their defensive halfbacks was the acquisition of Jack Johnson, the Pittsburgh-born, steel-like tackler who spent 1961 with the Bills and the Texans. He picked up his previous knowledge with the Bears and has the flexibility to move into the offensive platoon."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
Cornerback
No. 40
Oregon State
Dainard stepped in and bolstered New York's defensive secondary in 1961. He played all 14 games and made his first career interception.
In his college days at Oregon State, Dainard starred as a tailback in the single wing. As a punter, he set the Pacific Coast record with a 45.4 average per kick.
JACK JOHNSON
Cornerback
No. 42
Miami
"One of the first deals made by the Titans to add muscle and experience to their defensive halfbacks was the acquisition of Jack Johnson, the Pittsburgh-born, steel-like tackler who spent 1961 with the Bills and the Texans. He picked up his previous knowledge with the Bears and has the flexibility to move into the offensive platoon."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
1962 Titan Fullback Profiles
BILL MATHIS
Fullback
No. 31
Clemson
"The hardest worker of all ball-carriers in '61 was Bill Mathis, the 25-year-old Oiler reject who joined the Titans in 1960. The strong fullback out of Manchester, Connecticut carried for an AFL high of 202 times last year, gaining 846 yards and scoring seven times. An All-AFL choice, he also gained 42 yards on 12 pass receptions and has the deceptive moves to be even more of a receiving threat in '62.
Bill has amazing recuperative powers and is among the most durable of all offensive players."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"For the 'hard' yardage, says Sammy Baugh, there is no better runner in the AFL than Bill Mathis, the fast improving fullback of the New York Titans, a crunching 220-pounder who is fleet of foot."
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football
"Last season Bill was the class of the AFL's fullbacks. A unanimous choice for the AFL all-star team, he was runner-up to Houston's Billy Cannon for the loop rushing title. The burly North Carolinian blasted for 846 yards on 202 carries ... an average of 4.2 yards per rush.
A former coach said of Mathis: 'When you need that must yardage, I'll take Mathis.' The Titans bought his contract from Houston early in the 1960 season."
-1962 Fleer No. 62
CHARLIE FLOWERS
Fullback
No. 41
Mississippi
"The leading rusher with 734 yards and leading scorer with 66 points on last year's great Mississippi team, Charlie was selected for the All-Southeastern Conference and All-American teams. In addition, he was selected for the All-Decade All-Southeastern Conference team.
Charlie's weight, power and speed will be a deciding factor this year in the Los Angeles offense."
-1960 Fleer No. 102
"Charlie was the center of an interesting court battle between the two leagues before joining Los Angeles. In his rookie year with the Chargers, he displayed all the potential to make him one of the league's brightest stars.
A two-year All-American at Ole Miss, Flowers starred in the 1960 Sugar Bowl victory, proving the validity of a three-year career record of 308 carries for a 5.6 average."
-1961 Fleer No. 156
BOB BROOKS
Fullback
No. 37
Ohio
"The former two-time Mid-American Conference leader in rushing and scoring is considered to have great potential for AFL stardom.
Bob didn't see much action last year, his rookie season of pro ball, but is expected to see a lot of it as a sophomore. In 15 rushes in 1961, he gained 55 yards for a 3.7 average to rank fifth among Titan ground gainers. The fleet-footed youngster grabbed eight kickoffs and returned them 138 yards."
-1962 Fleer No. 56
Fullback
No. 31
Clemson
"The hardest worker of all ball-carriers in '61 was Bill Mathis, the 25-year-old Oiler reject who joined the Titans in 1960. The strong fullback out of Manchester, Connecticut carried for an AFL high of 202 times last year, gaining 846 yards and scoring seven times. An All-AFL choice, he also gained 42 yards on 12 pass receptions and has the deceptive moves to be even more of a receiving threat in '62.
Bill has amazing recuperative powers and is among the most durable of all offensive players."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"For the 'hard' yardage, says Sammy Baugh, there is no better runner in the AFL than Bill Mathis, the fast improving fullback of the New York Titans, a crunching 220-pounder who is fleet of foot."
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football
"Last season Bill was the class of the AFL's fullbacks. A unanimous choice for the AFL all-star team, he was runner-up to Houston's Billy Cannon for the loop rushing title. The burly North Carolinian blasted for 846 yards on 202 carries ... an average of 4.2 yards per rush.
A former coach said of Mathis: 'When you need that must yardage, I'll take Mathis.' The Titans bought his contract from Houston early in the 1960 season."
-1962 Fleer No. 62
CHARLIE FLOWERS
Fullback
No. 41
Mississippi
"The leading rusher with 734 yards and leading scorer with 66 points on last year's great Mississippi team, Charlie was selected for the All-Southeastern Conference and All-American teams. In addition, he was selected for the All-Decade All-Southeastern Conference team.
Charlie's weight, power and speed will be a deciding factor this year in the Los Angeles offense."
-1960 Fleer No. 102
"Charlie was the center of an interesting court battle between the two leagues before joining Los Angeles. In his rookie year with the Chargers, he displayed all the potential to make him one of the league's brightest stars.
A two-year All-American at Ole Miss, Flowers starred in the 1960 Sugar Bowl victory, proving the validity of a three-year career record of 308 carries for a 5.6 average."
-1961 Fleer No. 156
BOB BROOKS
Fullback
No. 37
Ohio
"The former two-time Mid-American Conference leader in rushing and scoring is considered to have great potential for AFL stardom.
Bob didn't see much action last year, his rookie season of pro ball, but is expected to see a lot of it as a sophomore. In 15 rushes in 1961, he gained 55 yards for a 3.7 average to rank fifth among Titan ground gainers. The fleet-footed youngster grabbed eight kickoffs and returned them 138 yards."
-1962 Fleer No. 56
1962 Titan Quarterback Profiles
AL DOROW
Quarterback
No. 12
Michigan State
"Master of the rollout and the AFL's finest rushing quarterback is Al Dorow, the 31-year-old sharpshooter who knows his way around the course. He was the most active of running T-men in 1961, galloping 54 times for 317 yards, a per carry average of 5.9, more than a yard better than any of the top ten rushers. He was also the most overworked passer in the AFL, tossing 438 forwards and getting the most completions (197), totaling 2,651 yards.
Out of Alameda, California, he was exposed to six NFL (Redskins, Eagles) seasons."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"Dorow's ability to run, coupled with his great passing arm, has made him one of the most dangerous threats in pro football. His masterly executed roll-outs have caused no end of aggravation for opposing defense men. His field generalship ranks him as the league's top signal caller.
He finished fourth among AFL passers last year, completing 197 of 438 passes for 2,651 yards."
-1962 Fleer No. 57
JOHNNY GREEN
Quarterback
No. 18
Tennessee-Chattanooga
"None of the '61 rookie hopefuls at the Bills' training camp carried quarterback credentials, enough evidence to tab veteran Johnny Green as No. 1 at the T job. The 24-year-old Riviera Beach (California) rifle came from the Steelers early in '60 and went on to top all Bill aerialists, tossing 10 TD bombs and gaining 228 yards."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"He can throw and he can run. That's what coaches dream of in a quarterback, and that's what Green has to offer. With the height and weight to take a chance at running the ball, he worries would-be rushers because of his accuracy on the long throw.
A three-year regular at Chattanooga, Green broke into pro ball with the Toronto Argonauts, then switched to the Pittsburgh Steelers."
-1961 Fleer No. 133
"Green shared the quarterbacking assignment last year, completing 56 of 126 passes, good for 903 yards. Although his touchdown aerials dipped from 10 in 1960 to only six last year, he was the toughest quarterback in the league to intercept. Only four of his passes were stolen, an excellent .039 percentage.
The veteran from Riviera Beach, California came from the Steelers in 1960. He broke into pro ball with the Toronto Argonauts."
-1962 Fleer No. 13
BUTCH SONGIN
Quarterback
No. 11
Boston College
"One of the oldest and ablest in AFL battle dress was 34-year-old Ed (Butch) Songin, the passing master out of Norwood, Mass. Butch was No. 4 in the aerial column, hitting his targets for 2,467 yards and 15 touchdown passes; however, he was the most accurate for the fewest number of interceptions, less than .04 of his tosses ending up in enemy hands."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"One of the real 'old pros,' Songin starred for Boston College in 1948, '49 and '50. He was also an All-American hockey player at BC. After the 1950 North-South contest, Ed took his passing arm to Canada, where he won all-league honors while with the Hamilton Tiger Cats in 1953. His glittering statistic with Hamilton was his 48 touchdown passes.
Songin, the father of four, doubles as coach for Marion High in Framingham."
-1961 Fleer No. 177
"Ed ('Butch') Songin, handicapped throughout his pro life with a bad knee, is aware that he'll get only the spot duty at quarterback worthy of a 35-year-old veteran. The ex-Patriot passer from Norwood, Massachusetts suffered a slump in 1961, dropping to a 46 percent aerial average while gaining 1,429 yards with 98 successes. He still managed to keep his interception figure low, leading the circuit in fewest aerials stolen."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"One of the oldest and ablest in AFL competition, this 38-year-old passing wizard joined the Titans last winter after two seasons with the Boston Patriots.
Butch was No. 7 in the aerial column, hitting his target for 1,429 yards and 14 touchdowns. For the second straight season, he was charged with the fewest number of interceptions, .043 of his tosses ending up in enemy hands.
He starred for Boston College in 1948, 1949 and 1950, then played in Canada where he won all-league honors with the Hamilton Tiger Cats in 1953."
-1962 Fleer No. 63
LEE GROSSCUP
Quarterback
No. 17
Utah
"Maybe this is the year that quarterback Lee Grosscup 'comes of age.' Selected as the top draft choice in '59, he was carried on the practice squad, not seeing action until last year when he completed 11 passes for 144 yards. He is cool and confident, and throws a sharp pass for great distance"
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
Quarterback
No. 12
Michigan State
"Master of the rollout and the AFL's finest rushing quarterback is Al Dorow, the 31-year-old sharpshooter who knows his way around the course. He was the most active of running T-men in 1961, galloping 54 times for 317 yards, a per carry average of 5.9, more than a yard better than any of the top ten rushers. He was also the most overworked passer in the AFL, tossing 438 forwards and getting the most completions (197), totaling 2,651 yards.
Out of Alameda, California, he was exposed to six NFL (Redskins, Eagles) seasons."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"Dorow's ability to run, coupled with his great passing arm, has made him one of the most dangerous threats in pro football. His masterly executed roll-outs have caused no end of aggravation for opposing defense men. His field generalship ranks him as the league's top signal caller.
He finished fourth among AFL passers last year, completing 197 of 438 passes for 2,651 yards."
-1962 Fleer No. 57
JOHNNY GREEN
Quarterback
No. 18
Tennessee-Chattanooga
"None of the '61 rookie hopefuls at the Bills' training camp carried quarterback credentials, enough evidence to tab veteran Johnny Green as No. 1 at the T job. The 24-year-old Riviera Beach (California) rifle came from the Steelers early in '60 and went on to top all Bill aerialists, tossing 10 TD bombs and gaining 228 yards."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"He can throw and he can run. That's what coaches dream of in a quarterback, and that's what Green has to offer. With the height and weight to take a chance at running the ball, he worries would-be rushers because of his accuracy on the long throw.
A three-year regular at Chattanooga, Green broke into pro ball with the Toronto Argonauts, then switched to the Pittsburgh Steelers."
-1961 Fleer No. 133
"Green shared the quarterbacking assignment last year, completing 56 of 126 passes, good for 903 yards. Although his touchdown aerials dipped from 10 in 1960 to only six last year, he was the toughest quarterback in the league to intercept. Only four of his passes were stolen, an excellent .039 percentage.
The veteran from Riviera Beach, California came from the Steelers in 1960. He broke into pro ball with the Toronto Argonauts."
-1962 Fleer No. 13
BUTCH SONGIN
Quarterback
No. 11
Boston College
"One of the oldest and ablest in AFL battle dress was 34-year-old Ed (Butch) Songin, the passing master out of Norwood, Mass. Butch was No. 4 in the aerial column, hitting his targets for 2,467 yards and 15 touchdown passes; however, he was the most accurate for the fewest number of interceptions, less than .04 of his tosses ending up in enemy hands."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"One of the real 'old pros,' Songin starred for Boston College in 1948, '49 and '50. He was also an All-American hockey player at BC. After the 1950 North-South contest, Ed took his passing arm to Canada, where he won all-league honors while with the Hamilton Tiger Cats in 1953. His glittering statistic with Hamilton was his 48 touchdown passes.
Songin, the father of four, doubles as coach for Marion High in Framingham."
-1961 Fleer No. 177
"Ed ('Butch') Songin, handicapped throughout his pro life with a bad knee, is aware that he'll get only the spot duty at quarterback worthy of a 35-year-old veteran. The ex-Patriot passer from Norwood, Massachusetts suffered a slump in 1961, dropping to a 46 percent aerial average while gaining 1,429 yards with 98 successes. He still managed to keep his interception figure low, leading the circuit in fewest aerials stolen."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"One of the oldest and ablest in AFL competition, this 38-year-old passing wizard joined the Titans last winter after two seasons with the Boston Patriots.
Butch was No. 7 in the aerial column, hitting his target for 1,429 yards and 14 touchdowns. For the second straight season, he was charged with the fewest number of interceptions, .043 of his tosses ending up in enemy hands.
He starred for Boston College in 1948, 1949 and 1950, then played in Canada where he won all-league honors with the Hamilton Tiger Cats in 1953."
-1962 Fleer No. 63
LEE GROSSCUP
Quarterback
No. 17
Utah
"Maybe this is the year that quarterback Lee Grosscup 'comes of age.' Selected as the top draft choice in '59, he was carried on the practice squad, not seeing action until last year when he completed 11 passes for 144 yards. He is cool and confident, and throws a sharp pass for great distance"
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
1962 Profiles: Harry Wismer and Bulldog Turner
HARRY WISMER
Owner
A FUNNY FOOTBALL TEAM OWNER
"Harry Wismer, owner of the New York Titans, American Football League, has got to be one of the world's funniest club proprietors. He's what you would have to call a compulsive talker. All the time. And when he talks he says funny things.
Last season Wismer charged that a New York columnist was anti-Titan and pro-Giant, the reason being that the newspaperman's son was the ball boy and mascot for the rival league's team. The funny thing was that the columnist and his wife were childless.
Harry was talking to a man from Los Angeles in New York's Waldorf Astoria bar last October. 'I can't bet,' Wismer said, 'but I know a man who'll bet you the Chargers would beat the Rams. And bad, too. They could play for the championship of lower California.
'Say,' Harry said later, 'why don't you people in Los Angeles run some special trains down to San Diego. We play there in three weeks. Come on down, if you can get tickets.' As he left, Wismer hollered to a man from Washington: 'Say hello to J. Edgar Hoover when you see him.'
Also in October, Harry said: 'Well it's all set. Sammy Baugh will be the new coach of the Redskins.'
By season's end Wismer, who had been critical of Baugh's handling of the Titans right along, said he planned to drop Sammy to assistant backfield coach. Baugh said the demotion 'would be just wonderful. I'd like to be an assistant at these prices.' (Sammy, who was demoted later, still has a year to go on a reported $25,000-a-year contract.)
Earlier, when AFL commissioner Joe Foss had canceled a secret draft by club owners, Wismer had some things to say: 'I want the players I drafted real bad so I can give the people of New York a team to be proud of. Now if Foss wants to do something about it let him try and stop me ... People don't come out to see the commissioner play football; they come out to see football players.'
Wismer didn't get his secret draft choices and there were reports there some other owners hoped to vote him out of the league. Baugh said: 'I wish I had a vote.'
Harry had trouble getting people out to watch his team all season. And sportswriters who covered Titan games qualified every attendance figure by saying 'it was announced as ... ' Some even said Wismer seemed to be counting his gate by twos.
Even at the Polo Grounds, though, Harry usually had something to say over the public address system. In the closing minutes of the final home game the Titans were losing while the Giants had already won their game in Philadelphia to clinch the NFL's Eastern Division championship, the public address announcer said: 'Harry Wismer congratulates Allie Sherman and the Giant coaching staff for the superb job of conditioning this season. (Wismer was never too pleased with his Titan conditioning.)
Still, no matter how much Harry Wismer talked or how funny he got, his team lost an estimated $380,000 last season after losing between $450,000 and $500,000 in 1960. Which isn't funny, even to a funny owner."
-Sport Magazine, March 1962
Head Coach
"If he can spread just 50 percent of the winning spirit he displayed as a player, New York will be in good shape. Generally regarded as one of the two greatest centers of all time, he was the pinwheel of the famed Bears throughout the '40s after bringing Hardin-Simmons to national fame as an All-American pivot.
He takes over his first head coaching assignment and will be vigorous about juicing up the offense, particularly the interior line."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"If he can spread just 50 percent of the winning spirit he displayed as a player, New York will be in good shape. Generally regarded as one of the two greatest centers of all time, he was the pinwheel of the famed Bears throughout the '40s after bringing Hardin-Simmons to national fame as an All-American pivot.
He takes over his first head coaching assignment and will be vigorous about juicing up the offense, particularly the interior line."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
Saturday, May 24, 2014
1962 New York Titans Outlook
"New York is another place where change was necessary. Coach Sammy Baugh and his employers were not in accord on many items of significance. As is usually the case, right or wrong, the employer generally wins. So Baugh was bounced and the Titans will take the field with Clyde 'Bulldog' Turner at the helm."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
New York has made switches and changes, including a new coach in Clyde ('Bulldog') Turner, and the club's officials are quite certain that second place is not a remote possibility. And judging from those who have been assembled, it seems a rather realistic approach.
Turner says he's satisfied with his defense, pointing out that Nick Mumley and Sid Youngelman are battle-wise, knowledgeable ends. He claims there's enough tackle strength in Dick Guesman, Moses Gray, Tom Saidock and Proverb Jacobs, and is delighted with the skills of outside linebacker Larry Grantham.
He feels his deep backs - Dainard Paulson, Lee Riley and Wayne Fontes - are among the loop's best and he's also high on the training camp form of rookies Vaughn Williams, Phil Whitner and Jerry Fields. Turner, in fact, is so optimistic about so many things that he's about to lose his Wailing Wall card in the Coaches' Association.
His enthusiasm carries over to the offensive platoons and he is proud of his two centers, rookie Alex Kroll and Mike Hudock, guards Bob Mischak, Sid Fournet, John McMullen and Bob O'Neill - 'the greatest in the league' - and tackles Jack Klotz and Gene Cockrell.
Turner doesn't have to tell the rest of the league about flankers Don Maynard and Art Powell - they are good - but he doesn't want you to forget closed end Curly Johnson.
There is a decent one-two quarterback combination now that ex-Patriot Butch Songin is looking over the shoulder of Al Dorow. And there's the proper mixture of rushing punch in Bill Mathis, Bob Brooks, Mel West and Dick Christy.
Summing up: even with predicted improvement, there's too much to beat in the Patriots and Oilers. Tab New York for third."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"By changing coaches- from Sammy Baugh to Bulldog Turner- Harry Wismer is keeping up the level of employment in Texas, but he isn't doing an awful lot to keep up his team's playing quality.
Harry Wismer can't seem to get his fill of Texans, though Sammy Baugh came perilously close to testing his capacity last year. Sammy left the Titans, at Harry's request, with one year to go on his contract. His trouble was that he had the nerve to tell the boss what he thought- that the Titans have done a lousy job of stocking their football team. Sammy went back to his Texas ranch.
So Harry reached down into another part of the Texas prairies, where Clyde (Bulldog) Turner has lolled in retirement from pro ball for five years or so and said, 'Here is the man who will lead us.'
To make sure Bulldog didn't hanker too much for folks back home, Harry persuaded George Sauer to leave Waco, where he also had been enjoying his divorce from football since Baylor stopped winning games under his regime a few years back. In addition to helping Bulldog run the team, George is also some kind of assistant general manager or something. Steve Sebo, who had been GM, decided it would be nicer to take up residence in Charlottesville as athletic director of the University of Virginia than to view the concrete from Harry's Park Avenue apartment (which is also Titan HQ).
What has that got to do with improving the Titans, who have played exactly .500 ball in the two seasons that Wismer has been impresario of his own team? Not much. Under the conditions, throwing together a squad from rag-tags and castoffs, Baugh did a marvelous job.
The Titans have been dangerous because they have the ability to score from any place on the field. Only twice last year were they held to as few as 10 points. Generally, they scored at least three touchdowns. Al Dorow, the bald field general, was so unpredictable that even his coaches sometimes didn't know what he had up his sleeve.
The Titans were keeping their heads above water, with a 3-2 record, until the sixth game of the campaign, when Don Maynard hurt a shoulder against Denver. He was useless for the rest of the season. With Art Powell, Maynard formed a 1-2 receiving punch to rival anything in the AFL, even Houston's Hennigan-Groman combine. But Don's loss highlighted a serious fault: they're stocked so thinly that the loss of any one key operator is a mortal blow.
Judging by their recruiting efforts between seasons, they've done very little to alleviate this deficiency. After they signed Alex Kroll, the Rutgers All-American center and their No. 2 choice, and Pitt end John Kuprock, No. 23 in the draft, their pens went dry. Kroll, ticketed mainly for offense, will have a hard time finding a job since incumbent pivot Mike Hudock wasn't a weak point. Kuprock, a husky type, doesn't seem to go with Bulldog's announced plan of using two split ends (Maynard and Powell) plus a fleet slotback (probably Bobby Renn).
The main changes in the Titans will be recasting what they already have. Bulldog hardly had to look at the 1961 films to realize the defense was killing the club. It gave up 389 points, or an average of almost 18 per game.
Up front, Buddy Cockrell, an offensive tackle the last two years, will be moved to defensive end. If veteran Paul Miller, acquired in a trade with Dallas, decides to report, the wings will be strong enough. Sid Youngelman and Dick Guesman are acceptable at tackle.
On offense, Bulldog's main problem is to muster a wide running game. He has insured against Dorow's lapses by getting Ed Songin, the 37-year-young pitcher from Boston. Bill Mathis is the league's premier plunger up the middle. Mel West looks as if he could be the halfback threat if the interior blocking is improved, although he doesn't have the speed to break a game open.
The Polo Grounds will be a nicer place to visit since the baseball Mets obligingly put a new coat of green on the seats. Up until now, the premises have been drab and the club, at least the defensive half of it, the same. This year the decor has changed. But what about the team?"
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football
OFFENSE
"Ends: Bulldog's going to use a slot system, which means both Art Powell and Don Maynard split wide and occasionally in the slot to run with the ball. They're tops. Depth is comforting.
Rating: Very Good
Tackles: One spot is wide open with the shift of Gene Cockrell to defense. Jack Klotz is certain of his job. Roger Ellis has been shifted from center and could make it.
Rating: Fair
Guards: The Titans are so enamored of their veteran corps, headed by All-League Bob Mischak, they're talking about trading one man as surplus.
Rating: Very Good
Centers: Rookie Alex Kroll will have to be really good to beat out veteran Mike Hudock.
Rating: Good
Quarterbacks: If Al Dorow scatters shots, they've now got Ed Songin to steady the team.
Rating: Fair
Halfbacks: Dick Christy and Mel West don't go all the way but they're pluggers.
Rating: Fair
Flankers: Early plans call for Bob Renn as the slot receiver.
Rating: Fair
Fullbacks: Bill Mathis is as good as any in the league in tough yardage situations.
Rating: Very Good
Strength: An excellent one-two receiving punch in Powell and Maynard and good power up the middle with Mathis carrying behind the guards. Weakness: No real breakaway threat as a ball carrier in sight and those quarterbacks are ancient.
Rating: Fair"
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football
DEFENSE
"Ends: The tipoff is that they're expecting Bob Watters, off the Giant taxi squad, to push holdover Nick Mumley. Buddy Cockrell gets a shot at the other flank position.
Rating: Poor
Tackles: Sid Youngelman and Dick Guesman won't get pushed around too often. They have size and savvy but may be a little deficient at rushing the passer.
Rating: Fair
Linebackers: The coaches profess to be satisfied with Larry Grantham (All-League class) and Ed Cooke at the corners and hope that Ted Greene, secured from Dallas, is the solution to the middle. Rookie Phil Whitner is likely to make a place for himself.
Rating: Good
Halfbacks: The new hope is ex-Spartan Wayne Fontes, with a good college rep. Dainard Paulson got his baptism by fire last year. Corner backs are hard to find. This a weak spot.
Rating: Poor
Safeties: Lee Riley and John Bookman won't get fooled too much with their extensive backgrounds. Ed Kovac is a fine athlete who could squeeze in here.
Rating: Fair
Strength: The linebacking crew is probably the best in the short history of the Titans, and the middle of the defensive line is airtight. Weakness: The Titans sorely need help in a couple of spots in the secondary and are looking for defensive ends.
Rating: Poor"
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football
"'The outlook is extremely bright,' is the way Head Coach Clyde 'Bulldog' Turner, the All-Pro great, puts an answer to the usual question as to how the Titans of New York, of the American Football League, shape up for the 1962 season.
Turner took over in February from fellow Texan Sammy Baugh, and has had only a brief period to study the situation. 'The accent will be on youth for the future. I plan to do a great deal of rebuilding this season,' declares Turner. Turner is well underway with his rebuilding program. Such Titan veterans as quarterback Al Dorow, tackles Sid Youngelman and Tom Saidock, defensive halfback John Bookman and others are no longer members of the Titan squad. His program has brought into view 'The New Titans' who appear to have a bright future.
'Along with my coaching staff- assistant coach George Sauer, Johnny Dell Isola and 'Bones' Taylor, I have studied films of last year's games and this season's exhibition games and discovered that we are not without talent. Dell Isola and Taylor are especially helpful in their analysis of last year's players and we are getting to know our new ones very quickly. The Titans won seven and lost seven last season, and the films show me that they could have won at least two of the last seven games. They were in there fighting for the Eastern Division title almost to the end of the season, and with this kind of a base, the future looks bright.
'We will have a team of veterans and youngsters. This is the kind of balance I've always liked to work with. These youngsters are making the veterans fight hard to keep their jobs. If a veteran and a rookie are about even, I'll go with the rookie all the way.
'Defensively, where the Titans were a little weak last year, we are greatly improved. We have recently acquired Billy Atkins from Buffalo. Atkins is a fine defensive halfback. Last year he led the league in pass interceptions, with 10 interceptions. He also led the league in punting with a 45-yard average. The middle linebacker position is still up for grabs with rookies Vaughan Williams and Jerry Fields battling for the job with veteran Hubert Bobo. I think our other linebacker positions look good with All-League linebacker Larry Grantham and young veteran Ed Cooke. Dainard Paulson and Paul Hynes have looked very good at the defensive halfback spots. I think our defense has rounded into a smooth and well-balanced squad.'
The Titans' offensive unit has always been able to score. With a few new plays and a few new faces, the New York Titans are looking forward to scoring many touchdowns.
'I am not in the habit of making predictions or boasting in advance,' says Turner. 'The Titans will be fighting all the way to the wire. I didn't come to New York to lose and I have never liked finishing second.'"
-1962 Oakland Raiders Official Program, September 9 (Frank Youell Field)
1962 NEW YORK TITANS ROSTERS
1962 New York Titans Preseason Roster
57 Hubert Bobo (LB) Ohio State
John Bookman (DB) Miami
Dave Bosson (T) Duke
Arnold Branch (G) Langston
35 Bob Brooks (FB) Ohio
64 Tom Budrewicz (G) Brown
45 Dick Christy (HB) North Carolina State
70 Gene Cockrell (T) Hardin-Simmons
88 Thurlow Cooper (TE) Maryland
Bob Dehlinger (DB) Idaho
12 Al Dorow (QB) Michigan State
Howard Durborow (T) Montclair State
56 Roger Ellis (LB) Maine
Jerry Fields (LB) Ohio State
Don Flynn (DB) Houston
Wayne Fontes (DB) Michigan State
Sid Fournet (G) LSU
Charlie Fries (G-LB) Idaho
50 Jim Furey (C-LB) Kansas
Alan Goldstein (E) North Carolina
60 Larry Grantham (LB) Mississippi
Moses Gray (T) Indiana
Ted Greene (LB) Tampa
72 Dick Guesman (DT) West Virginia
Mike Hudock (C) Miami
Paul Hynes (HB) Louisiana Tech
73 Proverb Jacobs (T) California
Dick Jakotowicz (DT)
20 Curley Johnson (FB) Houston
Jack Johnson (DB) Miami
Karl J. Kaimer (E) Boston
78 John Klotz (T) Pennsylvania Military College
Howard Kovac (HB) Cincinnati
Alex Kroll (C) Rutgers
John Kuprock (E) Pittsburgh
Vernon Lindsey (T) Trinity
31 Bill Mathis (FB) Clemson
13 Don Maynard (FL) Texas Western
Larry McHugh (G) Southern Connecticut State
68 John McMullan (G) Notre Dame
Paul Miller (DE) LSU
67 Bob Mischak (G) Army
Andy Moconyi (HB) Penn State
Frank Morelli (T) Colgate
74 Nick Mumley (DE) Purdue
62 Bob O'Neill (DE) Notre Dame
40 Dainard Paulson (DB) Oregon State
84 Art Powell (SE) San Jose State
10 Bob Renn (HB) Florida State
22 Lee Riley (DB) Detroit
75 Tom Saidock (DT) Michigan State
Bob Scrabis (QB) Penn State
Bill Shockley (K-HB) West Chester
Butch Songin (QB) Boston College
Jesse Thomas (DB) Michigan State
Larry Wagner (T) Vanderbilt
Bob Watters (DE) Lincoln
Mel West (HB) Missouri
Phil Whitner (LB) Montana State
Vaughan Williams (LB) Muskingum
Al Yarbrough (QB) Virginia
76 Sid Youngelman (DT) Alabama
-1962 Pro Football Handbook
1962 New York Titans Preseason Roster, By Position
OFFENSE
Ends
Don Maynard (Texas Western)
Art Powell (San Jose State)
John Kuprock (Pittsburgh)
Al Goldstein (North Carolina)
Perry Richards (Detroit)
Tackles
Jack Klotz (Pennsylvania Military College)
Roger Ellis (Maine)
Dave Bosson (Duke)
Frank Morelli (Colgate)
Guards
Bob Mischak (Army)
John McMullan (Notre Dame)
Sid Fournet (LSU)
Bob O'Neill (Notre Dame)
Centers
Mike Hudock (Miami)
Alex Kroll (Rutgers)
Quarterbacks
Al Dorow (Michigan State)
Ed Songin (Boston College)
Halfbacks
Dick Christy (North Carolina State)
Mel West (Missouri)
Flankers
Bob Renn (Florida State)
Curley Johnson (Houston)
Fullbacks
Bill Mathis (Clemson)
Bob Brooks (Ohio)
DEFENSE
Ends
Gene Cockrell (Hardin-Simmons)
Nick Mumley (Purdue)
Bob Watters (Lincoln)
Dick Jakotowicz
Tackles
Sid Youngelman (Alabama)
Dick Guesman (West Virginia)
Moses Gray (Indiana)
Proverb Jacobs (California)
Linebackers
Larry Grantham (Mississippi)
Ed Cooke (Maryland)
Ted Greene (Tampa)
Jerry Fields (Ohio State)
Phil Whitner (Montana State)
Hubert Bobo (Ohio State)
Halfbacks
Wayne Fontes (Michigan State)
Dainard Paulson (Oregon)
Paul Hynes (Louisiana Tech)
Don Flynn (Houston)
Safeties
Lee Riley (Detroit)
John Bookman (Miami)
Bob Dehlinger (Idaho)
Ed Kovac (Cincinnati)
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football
OFFENSE
Ends
Don Maynard (Texas Western)
Art Powell (San Jose State)
John Kuprock (Pittsburgh)
Al Goldstein (North Carolina)
Perry Richards (Detroit)
Tackles
Jack Klotz (Pennsylvania Military College)
Roger Ellis (Maine)
Dave Bosson (Duke)
Frank Morelli (Colgate)
Guards
Bob Mischak (Army)
John McMullan (Notre Dame)
Sid Fournet (LSU)
Bob O'Neill (Notre Dame)
Centers
Mike Hudock (Miami)
Alex Kroll (Rutgers)
Quarterbacks
Al Dorow (Michigan State)
Ed Songin (Boston College)
Halfbacks
Dick Christy (North Carolina State)
Mel West (Missouri)
Flankers
Bob Renn (Florida State)
Curley Johnson (Houston)
Fullbacks
Bill Mathis (Clemson)
Bob Brooks (Ohio)
DEFENSE
Ends
Gene Cockrell (Hardin-Simmons)
Nick Mumley (Purdue)
Bob Watters (Lincoln)
Dick Jakotowicz
Tackles
Sid Youngelman (Alabama)
Dick Guesman (West Virginia)
Moses Gray (Indiana)
Proverb Jacobs (California)
Linebackers
Larry Grantham (Mississippi)
Ed Cooke (Maryland)
Ted Greene (Tampa)
Jerry Fields (Ohio State)
Phil Whitner (Montana State)
Hubert Bobo (Ohio State)
Halfbacks
Wayne Fontes (Michigan State)
Dainard Paulson (Oregon)
Paul Hynes (Louisiana Tech)
Don Flynn (Houston)
Safeties
Lee Riley (Detroit)
John Bookman (Miami)
Bob Dehlinger (Idaho)
Ed Kovac (Cincinnati)
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football
September 9 New York Titans Numerical Roster (Week 1)
2 Atkins, DHB
11 Songin, QB
12 Green, QB
13 Maynard, FL
20 Johnson, FB
22 Riley, DHB
25 West, HB
26 Fontes, DHB
29 Shockley, HB
31 Mathis, FB
33 Hynes DHB
40 Paulson, DHB
41 Flowers, FB
45 Christy, HB
52 Hudock, C
55 Kroll, C
56 Ellis, LB
57 Bobo, LB
60 Grantham, LB
62 Fournet, G
64 Fields, LB
67 Mischak, G
70 Cockrell, T
72 Guesman, DT
73 Gray, DT
74 Mumley, DT
75 Jacobs, DE
78 Klotz, T
80 Richards, FL
82 Cooke, LB
84 Powell, E
88 Cooper, E
-1962 Oakland Raiders Official Program (Frank Youell Field)
September 16 New York Titans Roster (Week 2)
OFFENSE
Quarterback
No. Name
11 Butch Songin (Boston College)
12 Johnny Green (Tennessee-Chattanooga)
17 Lee Grosscup (Utah)
Halfback
25 Melvin West (Missouri)
29 Bill Shockley (West Chester)
45 Dick Christy (North Carolina State)
Fullback
20 Curley Johnson (Houston)
41 Charlie Flowers (Mississippi)
End
13 Don Maynard (Texas Western)
80 Perry Richards (Detroit)
84 Art Powell (San Jose State)
88 Thurlow Cooper (Maine)
Tackle
70 Gene Cockrell (Hardin-Simmons)
78 Jack Klotz (Pennsylvania Military College)
Guard
56 Roger Ellis (Maine)
62 Sid Fournet (LSU)
67 Bob Mischak (Army)
Center
52 Mike Hudock (Miami) (Fla.)
55 Alex Kroll (Rutgers)
DEFENSE
End
74 Nick Mumley (Purdue)
75 Proverb Jacobs (California)
Tackle
72 Dick Guesman (West Virginia)
73 Moses Gray (Indiana)
Linebacker
57 Hubert Bobo (Ohio State)
60 Larry Grantham (Mississippi)
64 Jerry Fields (Ohio State)
82 Ed Cooke (Maryland)
Defensive Back
2 Bill Atkins (Auburn)
22 Lee Riley (Detroit)
26 Wayne Fontes (Michigan State)
33 Paul Hynes (Lousiana Tech)
40 Dainard Paulson (Oregon State)
-1962 San Diego Chargers Official Program (Balboa Stadium)
1962 NEW YORK TITANS DEPTH CHARTS
1962 New York Titans Preseason Depth Chart
OFFENSEQB Al Dorow (Michigan State) 12, Butch Songin (Boston College) 11, Bob Scrabis (Penn State) 19
HB Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45, Mel West (Missouri) 25, Bill Shockley (West Chester) 29
FB Bill Mathis (Clemson) 31, Bob Brooks (Ohio) 37
SE Art Powell (San Jose State) 84, Perry Richards (Detroit) 80
T Alex Kroll (Rutgers)*, Jack Klotz (Pennsylvania Military College) 78
G Bob Mischak (Army) 67
C Mike Hudock (Miami) 52, Roger Ellis (Maine) 56
G Sid Fournet (LSU) 62, John McMullan (Notre Dame) 68
T Gene Cockrell (Hardin-Simmons) 70, Frank Morelli (Colgate) 79
TE Thurlow Cooper (Maine) 88, Curley Johnson 20
FL Don Maynard (Texas Western) 13, Alan Goldstein (North Carolina) 81
DEFENSE
DE Bob Watters (Lincoln) 76, Paul Miller (LSU) 85
DT Proverb Jacobs (California) 75, Moses Gray (Indiana) 73
DT Dick Guesman (West Virginia) 77, Larry Wagner (Vanderbilt)*
DE Nick Mumley (Purdue) 74, Bob O'Neill (Notre Dame) 83
LB Ed Cooke (Maryland) 82, Jerry Fields (Ohio State) 64
MLB Hubert Bobo (Ohio State) 57, Ted Greene (Tampa) 54, Roger Ellis (Maine) 56
LB Larry Grantham (Mississippi) 60, Phil Whitner (Montana State)*
CB Paul Hynes (Louisiana Tech) 33, Wayne Fontes (Michigan State)*
S Johnny Bookman (Miami) 42, Ed Kovac (Cincinnati) 35
S Lee Riley (Detroit) 22, Don Flynn (Houston) 15
CB Dainard Paulson (Oregon State) 40, Jack Johnson (Miami) 32
SPECIALISTS
K Bill Shockley (West Chester) 29
P Curley Johnson (Houston) 20
* rookie
November 4 (Week 9) Depth Chart
Titans On Offense
QB Johnny Green 12, Bob Scrabis 15, Harold Stephens 12
LHB Jim Tiller 24, Dick Christy 45, Dewey Bohling 26
FB Curley Johnson 20, Bill Mathis 31
RHB Don Maynard 13, Bill Shockley 29, Karl Kaimer 86
LE Art Powell 84, Kaimer 86
LT Alex Kroll 55
LG Bob Mischak 67
C Mike Hudock 52, Alex Kroll 55
RG Roger Ellis 56, Sid Fournet 62
RT Gene Cockrell 70, Fran Morelli 79
RE Thurlow Cooper 88, Karl Kaimer 86
Titans on Defense
LDE Nick Mumley 74, John Kenerson 75
LDT George Strugar 73
RDT LaVerne Torczon 78, John Kenerson 75
RDE Bob Watters 76
LLB Ed Cooke 82
MLB Jerry Fields 64, Hubert Bobo 57
RLB Larry Grantham 60
LCB Dainard Paulson 40, Jerry Fields 64
RCB Paul Hynes 33, Dainard Paulson 40, Perry Richards 80
LS Ed Kovac 35, Billy Atkins 2
RS Lee Riley 22, Dainard Paulson 40
Titans Specialists
Punters: Curley Johnson 20, Billy Atkins 2
PAT: Bill Shockley 29
Field Goals: Bill Shockley 29
Kickoffs: Bill Shockley 29
-November 4, 1962, New York Titans Official Program (The Polo Grounds)
New York Titans Profiles, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
Bulldog Turner (head coach)
Ed Cooke
Al Dorow
Larry Grantham
Jack Johnson
Bill Mathis
John McMullan
Bob Mischak
Art Powell
Butch Songin
Sid Youngelman
Mel West
1962 New York Titans Fleer Cards
Bob Brooks
Dick Christy
Al Dorow
Larry Grantham
Mike Hudock
Bill Mathis
Don Maynard
Nick Mumley
Art Powell
Tom Saidock
Butch Songin
New York Titans Probable Starting Offense
September 9 (Week 1)
LE Art Powell 84
LT Jack Klotz 78
LG Bob Mischak 67
C Mike Hudock 52
RG Sid Fournet 62
RT Bud Cockrell 70
RE Thurlow Cooper 88
QB Butch Songin 11
LH Don Maynard 13
RH Mel West 25
FB John Johnson 20
-Oakland Raiders September 9, 1962, Official Program (Frank Youell Field)
1962 New York Titans Program Portraits
Dick Christy (HB)
Ed Cooke (LB)
Mike Hudock (C)
Jack Klotz (T)
Don Maynard (FL)
Bob Mischak (G)
Art Powell (SE)
Butch Songin (QB)
-1962 San Diego Chargers Official Program (Balboa Stadium)
Hubert Bobo (LB) Ohio State
Dick Christy (HB) North Carolina State
Gene Cockrell (T) Hardin-Simmons
Ed Cooke (LB) Maryland
Thurlow Cooper (TE) Maine
Roger Ellis (LB) Maine
Jerry Fields (LB) Ohio State
Sid Fournet (G) LSU
Dick Guesman (DT) West Virginia
Mike Hudock (C) Miami
Paul Hynes (DHB) Louisiana Tech
Curley Johnson (FB-P) Houston
Don Maynard (FL) Texas Western
Bob Mischak (G) Army
Nick Mumley (DE) Purdue
Dainard Paulson (DHB) Oregon State
Art Powell (SE) San Jose
Perry Richards (E) Detroit
Lee Riley (S) Detroit
Butch Songin (QB) Boston College
LaVerne Torczon (DE) Nebraska
-1962 Dallas Texans Official Program (The Cotton Bowl)
1962 New York Titans Profile Summary
Owner: Harry Wismer
Head Coach: Bulldog Turner
QB Al Dorow (Michigan State) 12
QB Johnny Green (Tennessee-Chattanooga) 18
QB Butch Songin (Boston College) 11
QB Lee Grosscup (Utah) 17
HB Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
HB Mel West (Missouri) 25
FB Bill Mathis (Clemson) 31
FB Charlie Flowers (Mississippi) 41
FB Bob Brooks (Ohio) 37
FL Don Maynard (Texas Western) 13
FL Alan Goldstein (North Carolina) 81
SE Art Powell (San Jose State) 84
TE Thurlow Cooper (Maine) 88
C Mike Hudock (Miami) 52
G Bob Mischak (Army) 67
G John McMullan (Notre Dame) 68
T Jack Klotz (Pennsylvania Military College) 78
T Gene Cockrell (Hardin-Simmons) 70
DT Sid Youngelman (Alabama) 71
DT Tom Saidock (Michigan State) 75
DE Nick Mumley (Purdue) 74
DE LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska) 87
MLB Hubert Bobo (Ohio State) 57
LB Larry Grantham (Mississippi) 60
LB Ed Cooke (Maryland) 82
CB Dainard Paulson (Oregon State) 40
CB Jack Johnson (Miami) 32
S Billy Atkins (Auburn) 2
S Lee Riley (Detroit) 22
K Billy Atkins (Auburn) 2
P Billy Atkins (Auburn) 2
Head Coach: Bulldog Turner
QB Al Dorow (Michigan State) 12
QB Johnny Green (Tennessee-Chattanooga) 18
QB Butch Songin (Boston College) 11
QB Lee Grosscup (Utah) 17
HB Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
HB Mel West (Missouri) 25
FB Bill Mathis (Clemson) 31
FB Charlie Flowers (Mississippi) 41
FB Bob Brooks (Ohio) 37
FL Don Maynard (Texas Western) 13
FL Alan Goldstein (North Carolina) 81
SE Art Powell (San Jose State) 84
TE Thurlow Cooper (Maine) 88
C Mike Hudock (Miami) 52
G Bob Mischak (Army) 67
G John McMullan (Notre Dame) 68
T Jack Klotz (Pennsylvania Military College) 78
T Gene Cockrell (Hardin-Simmons) 70
DT Sid Youngelman (Alabama) 71
DT Tom Saidock (Michigan State) 75
DE Nick Mumley (Purdue) 74
DE LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska) 87
MLB Hubert Bobo (Ohio State) 57
LB Larry Grantham (Mississippi) 60
LB Ed Cooke (Maryland) 82
CB Dainard Paulson (Oregon State) 40
CB Jack Johnson (Miami) 32
S Billy Atkins (Auburn) 2
S Lee Riley (Detroit) 22
K Billy Atkins (Auburn) 2
P Billy Atkins (Auburn) 2
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
1961 New York Titans Defensive Back Profiles
ROGER DONNAHOO
Cornerback
No. 46
Michigan State
"Alert and agile, Roger intercepted six passes. He made headlines when he picked up a blocked punt on the last play of the 1960 Denver game and ran for the winning touchdown."
-1961 Topps No. 156
JOHN BOOKMAN
Cornerback
No. 42
Miami
"A candidate on defense, Bookman is a light but very fast halfback or safety man. He runs the hundred in 10 flat, the 220 in 21.7.
A No. 8 draft choice, Bookman is a Marine reservist.
His hometown is Baton Rouge, Louisiana."
-1957 Jay Publishing
"John Bookman (22) is one of the two rookies to win jobs with the Giants this season. Only 175 pounds but very fast, he has been a valuable addition to the defensive platoon's umbrella. As of midseason, he led the Giants in interceptions.
A native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, John attended Miami University of Florida. He's married and has an infant daughter."
-1957 New York Giants Official Program (Yankee Stadium)
"Getting plenty of attention for his nuisance tactics as a defensive halfback in 1960 is the 26-year-old ball hawk from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Tabbed an All-League choice by many, John proved worthy of this praise by intercepting four forwards and covering receivers with great skill."
-Don Schiffer, 1961 Pro Football Handbook
BERT RECHICAR
Cornerback-Tight End-Place Kicker
No. 44
Tennessee
"The Vol wingback returned a punt 100 yards against Washington & Lee. His ability to fade rivals makes him an ace pass receiver."
-1951 Topps Magic No. 30
"Bert won four football letters playing on the nation's top-ranking 1951 team- Tennessee. He was mentioned for All-American and was chosen All-Southeastern Conference. He played in the Cotton Bowl, Sugar Bowl and College All-Star Game."
-1952 Bowman No. 136
"Voted Baltimore's Most Valuable Defensive Back in 1953, the former Tennessee All-American also holds the NFL record for field goals with a great boot of 56 yards last year. He doubles as an end on offense and snared two touchdown passes.
Bert, a handsome, dark-haired country boy, was named the Colts' Most Popular Player by the Baltimore fans."
-1954 Bowman No. 26
"The rugged Rechichar tied an N.F.L. record last year when he kicked three field goals in one game against the Rams. He currently holds the world's record for long-distance field goal kicking, having kicked one 56 yards against the Bears in 1953.
Rechichar played defense last year but may be switched to offense this season because of his size and power."
-1955 Bowman No. 20
"Bert's amazing kicking accuracy made him Baltimore's top scorer in 1955. In his first field goal attempt as a pro, he booted a record breaking 56-yard 3-pointer! He can star on offense and on defense.
Before deciding on a football career, Bert played baseball for Cleveland Indian farm clubs."
-1956 Topps No. 84
"In last season's Pro Bowl, Bert stole the show to win the Halas Trophy. He booted four long-distance field goals, beating the East with kicks of 52 and 41 yards, and two that traveled 44 yards.
Bert also holds the pro mark- a 56-yard field goal in his first attempt!"
-1957 Topps No. 41
"Bert still holds the National Football League record for the longest field goal ever made- a 56-yarder he booted back in 1953. He's also one of the Colts' ace pass defenders. Last season he was credited with making five interceptions."
-1958 Topps No. 74
DICK FELT
Safety
No. 23
BYU
Dick gained valuable experience while appearing in all 14 games last year. Opposing AFL quarterbacks now know he is a threat to intercept a pass.
Twice all-conference on offense as a collegian, Dick once scored four touchdowns in one quarter. He was also an All-Air Force halfback.
LEE RILEY
Safety
No. 22
Detroit
"Riley was the Lions' 4th draft choice after being unanimous All-Missouri Valley Conference halfback for two straight years. He compiled a 4.4 rushing average in four years of college football. He was scouted personally by Lions' coach Buddy Parker.
A fine runner, Riley will be used primarily with the offensive unit but may also see service as a defensive halfback."
-1955 Bowman No. 21
"A defensive back now in his fifth season. Riley was a Lion rookie, traded to the Eagles in 1956. He led the club in kickoff returns and was second in punt returns. He played offensive halfback in the Army in '57.
Riley lives in Schenectady, New York."
-Pro Football Handbook 1959
Lee appeared in every game with the Eagles in 1958 and 1959 and with the Giants last year. His skilled hands and NFL experience will be of great value to the promising New York secondary.
A unanimous All-Missouri Valley halfback two straight years, Lee registered a 4.4-yard rushing average in four years as a collegian. He was scouted personally by coach Buddy Parker of the Lions, with whom Lee began his pro career.
JUNIOR WREN
Safety
No. 21
Missouri
"When it comes to shaking up a short pass receiver, Junior is the man you want. His jarring tackles have cost the enemy the ball many times."
-1961 Topps No. 111
DAINARD PAULSON
Defensive Back
1st Year
Oregon State
"The chunky halfback hopes to break into the Titan defensive backfield. In addition to two seasons at Oregon State, during which he was voted the team's most valuable player, Dainard put in two years of service at El Camino Junior College. He led OSC in punting in 1959, with an average of 45.5 yards per kick- a respectable norm in any league.
A resident of Inglewood, Calif., Dainard operates a landscaping business during the off-season."
-1961 New York Titans Official Yearbook
JIM NIEMANN
Defensive Halfback
1st Year
Cincinnati
"Another highly touted newcomer to the Titans, Jim made one of the best records of Ohio football during his days at the University of Cincinnati. He won All-Ohio honors and was selected on three all-opponent teams. He tried out for pro baseball following his graduation, then switched to football and has had professional experience with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Niemann brings with him a reputation as one of the hardest hitting defense men in the game. He lives in Cincinnati, Ohio."
-1961 New York Titans Official Yearbook
1961 New York Titans Running Back Profiles
DEWEY BOHLING
Halfback
No. 26
Hardin-Simmons
"The best of all Titans on the ground was Dewey Bohling, the 24-year-old halfback out of Albuquerque, New Mexico. A disciple of Baugh's while at Hardin-Simmons, Dewey dashed off 438 yards in '60, 12th best in the AFL. He also caught 30 passes for 268 yards, converting four of them into touchdowns. He had a previous trial with the Steelers."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"When a coach takes over a new team, he likes to have players he knows around him. So Sammy Baugh went after a four-year veteran of his college teams at Hardin-Simmons, a man he knew was a bouncy, jolting runner. Bohling had carried the mail and the fight for Baugh well in college, and he did exactly that for his old coach during their debut year in New York."
-1961 Fleer No. 214
PETE HART
Fullback
No. 33
Hardin-Simmons
"Hart, one of leading ground-gainers in the nation in 1957 and 1958 while playing for Sammy Baugh at Hardin-Simmons, passed up pro ball in 1959 to coach high school. When Baugh took over as head coach of the Titans, he persuaded Hart to join him.
Hart proved his value by averaging 4.5 yards per carry and blocking solidly. His sophomore campaign should be a great one."
-1961 Fleer No. 212
Halfback
No. 26
Hardin-Simmons
"The best of all Titans on the ground was Dewey Bohling, the 24-year-old halfback out of Albuquerque, New Mexico. A disciple of Baugh's while at Hardin-Simmons, Dewey dashed off 438 yards in '60, 12th best in the AFL. He also caught 30 passes for 268 yards, converting four of them into touchdowns. He had a previous trial with the Steelers."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"When a coach takes over a new team, he likes to have players he knows around him. So Sammy Baugh went after a four-year veteran of his college teams at Hardin-Simmons, a man he knew was a bouncy, jolting runner. Bohling had carried the mail and the fight for Baugh well in college, and he did exactly that for his old coach during their debut year in New York."
-1961 Fleer No. 214
PETE HART
Fullback
No. 33
Hardin-Simmons
"Hart, one of leading ground-gainers in the nation in 1957 and 1958 while playing for Sammy Baugh at Hardin-Simmons, passed up pro ball in 1959 to coach high school. When Baugh took over as head coach of the Titans, he persuaded Hart to join him.
Hart proved his value by averaging 4.5 yards per carry and blocking solidly. His sophomore campaign should be a great one."
-1961 Fleer No. 212
MIKE HAGLER
Halfback
No. 32
Iowa
"Mike is in his second year with the Roughriders. In 1957 he was a star with the University of Iowa. He's a good ball carrier."
-1959 Topps CFL No. 86
"Mike is in his third season in Regina. He's rated as one of the most colorful runners in the Western Interprovincial Football Union."
-1960 Topps CFL No. 55
1961 Profile: Bill Shockley and Curley Johnson
BILL SHOCKLEY
Place Kicker-Halfback
No. 29
West Chester
"Bill Shockley was the big man at small West Chester Teachers and shows promise of doing major things in the AFL. He was No. 4 in total points, scoring 86, and was first in points after touchdown, notching 47. A bruising halfback and forceful runner, he averaged 4.2 yards. Now 23, the Malverne (Pennsylvania) marvel also was among the most active at returning kickoffs, taking back 17 for 411 yards."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"This Little All-America star holds all his school's scoring records, including 15 touchdowns in a season, 42 points after touchdowns in a season, and 132 points in a season. Bill was an all-around star, sought also by big league baseball teams.
Despite his size, Bill does one of the heavy jobs in pro ball: kicking off, conversions and field goals. He was fourth among Titan ball carriers in ground gained and led the scorers with 86 points."
-1961 Fleer No. 213
CURLEY JOHNSON
Punter-Fullback
No. 20
Houston
"Big and fast, this former University of Houston operative can play either halfback or fullback. Johnson averaged five yards per carry during his three years at Houston and averaged more than 40 yards punting in 1956.
The 24-year-old native of Dallas spent all of the 1958 season and part of 1959 with the Baltimore Colts. His pro experience can only add to his value on the Dallas roster."
-1960 Fleer No. 123
Capable of being used as a halfback or fullback, Curley will be deployed by Coach Baugh primarily as a punter. In 14 games with the Dallas Texans last year, he caught 10 passes for an average of 17.4 yards per reception.
Place Kicker-Halfback
No. 29
West Chester
"Bill Shockley was the big man at small West Chester Teachers and shows promise of doing major things in the AFL. He was No. 4 in total points, scoring 86, and was first in points after touchdown, notching 47. A bruising halfback and forceful runner, he averaged 4.2 yards. Now 23, the Malverne (Pennsylvania) marvel also was among the most active at returning kickoffs, taking back 17 for 411 yards."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"This Little All-America star holds all his school's scoring records, including 15 touchdowns in a season, 42 points after touchdowns in a season, and 132 points in a season. Bill was an all-around star, sought also by big league baseball teams.
Despite his size, Bill does one of the heavy jobs in pro ball: kicking off, conversions and field goals. He was fourth among Titan ball carriers in ground gained and led the scorers with 86 points."
-1961 Fleer No. 213
CURLEY JOHNSON
Punter-Fullback
No. 20
Houston
"Big and fast, this former University of Houston operative can play either halfback or fullback. Johnson averaged five yards per carry during his three years at Houston and averaged more than 40 yards punting in 1956.
The 24-year-old native of Dallas spent all of the 1958 season and part of 1959 with the Baltimore Colts. His pro experience can only add to his value on the Dallas roster."
-1960 Fleer No. 123
Capable of being used as a halfback or fullback, Curley will be deployed by Coach Baugh primarily as a punter. In 14 games with the Dallas Texans last year, he caught 10 passes for an average of 17.4 yards per reception.
1961 Profiles: Dick Christy and Leon Burton
DICK CHRISTY
Halfback
No. 45
North Carolina State
"Still the holder of eight North Carolina State and conference records, including rushing, scoring, most points in one game and longest (46 yards) field goal, Dick was recently traded from the Boston Patriots. The all-around ground gainer for the Patriots last season, he had 363 yards rushing, 268 yards on passes, 617 yards on kickoff returns and 73 yards on punt returns for a total of 1,321 yards. He scored six touchdowns for that new AFL team."
-1961 Fleer No. 190
"Christy, acquired in a Boston deal, is a three-way threat. In 1960 he averaged 4.7 yards rushing, caught 26 passes and ranked sixth in the AFL in kickoff returns."
-1961 Topps No. 184
LEON BURTON
Kick Returner-Halfback
No. 24
Arizona State
"High on the '60 list of kick-retrievers was Leon Burton, the 26-year-old flyer from Flint, Michigan. Leon returned 12 punts for 93 yards, the sixth-best mark in this department, and hauled back a top total of 31 kickoffs for a league record of 891 yards. He was No. 2 in average yards per kickoff return (28.7), but first in touchdowns made (2)."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
Halfback
No. 45
North Carolina State
"Still the holder of eight North Carolina State and conference records, including rushing, scoring, most points in one game and longest (46 yards) field goal, Dick was recently traded from the Boston Patriots. The all-around ground gainer for the Patriots last season, he had 363 yards rushing, 268 yards on passes, 617 yards on kickoff returns and 73 yards on punt returns for a total of 1,321 yards. He scored six touchdowns for that new AFL team."
-1961 Fleer No. 190
"Christy, acquired in a Boston deal, is a three-way threat. In 1960 he averaged 4.7 yards rushing, caught 26 passes and ranked sixth in the AFL in kickoff returns."
-1961 Topps No. 184
LEON BURTON
Kick Returner-Halfback
No. 24
Arizona State
"High on the '60 list of kick-retrievers was Leon Burton, the 26-year-old flyer from Flint, Michigan. Leon returned 12 punts for 93 yards, the sixth-best mark in this department, and hauled back a top total of 31 kickoffs for a league record of 891 yards. He was No. 2 in average yards per kickoff return (28.7), but first in touchdowns made (2)."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
1961 Titan Defensive Back Profiles
ROGER DONNAHOO
Cornerback
No. 46
Michigan State
"Alert and agile, Roger intercepted six passes. He made headlines when he picked up a blocked punt on the last play of the 1960 Denver game and ran for the winning touchdown."
-1961 Topps No. 156
JOHN BOOKMAN
Cornerback
No. 42
Miami
"Getting plenty of attention for his nuisance tactics as a defensive halfback in 1960 is the 26-year-old ball hawk from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Tabbed an All-League choice by many, John proved worthy of this praise by intercepting four forwards and covering receivers with great skill."
-Don Schiffer, 1961 Pro Football Handbook
DICK FELT
Safety
No. 23
BYU
Dick gained valuable experience while appearing in all 14 games last year. Opposing AFL quarterbacks now know he is a threat to intercept a pass.
Twice all-conference on offense as a collegian, Dick once scored four touchdowns in one quarter. He was also an All-Air Force halfback.
LEE RILEY
Safety
No. 22
Detroit
"A defensive back now in his fifth season. Riley was a Lion rookie, traded to the Eagles in 1956. He led the club in kickoff returns and was second in punt returns. He played offensive halfback in the Army in '57.
Riley lives in Schenectady, New York."
-Pro Football Handbook 1959
Lee appeared in every game with the Eagles in 1958 and 1959 and with the Giants last year. His skilled hands and NFL experience will be of great value to the promising New York secondary.
A unanimous All-Missouri Valley halfback two straight years, Lee registered a 4.4-yard rushing average in four years as a collegian. He was scouted personally by coach Buddy Parker of the Lions, with whom Lee began his pro career.
Cornerback
No. 46
Michigan State
"Alert and agile, Roger intercepted six passes. He made headlines when he picked up a blocked punt on the last play of the 1960 Denver game and ran for the winning touchdown."
-1961 Topps No. 156
JOHN BOOKMAN
Cornerback
No. 42
Miami
"A candidate on defense, Bookman is a light but very fast halfback or safety man. He runs the hundred in 10 flat, the 220 in 21.7.
A No. 8 draft choice, Bookman is a Marine reservist.
His hometown is Baton Rouge, Louisiana."
-1957 Jay Publishing
"John Bookman (22) is one of the two rookies to win jobs with the Giants this season. Only 175 pounds but very fast, he has been a valuable addition to the defensive platoon's umbrella. As of midseason, he led the Giants in interceptions.
A native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, John attended Miami University of Florida. He's married and has an infant daughter."
-1957 New York Giants Official Program (Yankee Stadium)
"Getting plenty of attention for his nuisance tactics as a defensive halfback in 1960 is the 26-year-old ball hawk from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Tabbed an All-League choice by many, John proved worthy of this praise by intercepting four forwards and covering receivers with great skill."
-Don Schiffer, 1961 Pro Football Handbook
DICK FELT
Safety
No. 23
BYU
Dick gained valuable experience while appearing in all 14 games last year. Opposing AFL quarterbacks now know he is a threat to intercept a pass.
Twice all-conference on offense as a collegian, Dick once scored four touchdowns in one quarter. He was also an All-Air Force halfback.
LEE RILEY
Safety
No. 22
Detroit
"A defensive back now in his fifth season. Riley was a Lion rookie, traded to the Eagles in 1956. He led the club in kickoff returns and was second in punt returns. He played offensive halfback in the Army in '57.
Riley lives in Schenectady, New York."
-Pro Football Handbook 1959
Lee appeared in every game with the Eagles in 1958 and 1959 and with the Giants last year. His skilled hands and NFL experience will be of great value to the promising New York secondary.
A unanimous All-Missouri Valley halfback two straight years, Lee registered a 4.4-yard rushing average in four years as a collegian. He was scouted personally by coach Buddy Parker of the Lions, with whom Lee began his pro career.
1961 New York Titans Defensive Line Profiles
SID YOUNGELMAN
Defensive Tackle
No. 76
Alabama
"Sid Youngelman was acquired from the Browns to help the youngsters learn their defensive lessons, but the 29-year-old Brooklynite felt frisky enough to get voted an All-Star tackle. He was a sterling figure with the 49ers, Eagles and Browns before coming to the Titans.
Strong, durable and combative, he is combat-sharpened and wise to the ways of an oncoming offense."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Sid Youngelman is an old hand at the business- he's been a pro since 1955. Youngelman's measurements are 6-5 and 267 and have led him into occasional forays in wrestling, though some guys say he's grappling every time he puts on shoulder pads.
He's a Brooklyn boy who went to Alabama and played in two bowl games and captained the Crimson Tide his senior year. Drafted by the Forty-Niners, he made the merry rounds of the league. One year on the coast as a rookie regular on the defensive unit was followed by three with the Eagles. The Browns acquired him in 1959 and he played on their Front Four, but also played out his option and was quickly grabbed by the AFL. He's the strong force in the Titan forward wall, a strong pass rusher and plenty nimble at 29."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"One of the old pros of the new league. Sid played in three bowl games while starring at 'Bama, then performed for the San Francisco 49ers, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Cleveland Browns.
Sid works as a school teacher in Brooklyn and appears as a professional wrestler in the Long Island area during the off-season."
-1961 Fleer No. 220
"No one can teach this 'Old Pro' any new tricks of defensive line play. Big Sid, who once tried pro wrestling, plays with the spirit of a rookie."
-1961 Topps No. 152
TOM SAIDOCK
Defensive Tackle
No. 75
Michigan State
"Military service interrupted Saidock's collegiate career at Michigan State. He left after the 1951 and 1952 seasons but came back to star in the 1955 campaign.
He played for two years for the NFL Philadelphia Eagles, then cast his lot with the new league where his height and speed soon made his presence felt."
-1961 Fleer No. 219
"In his own quiet way Big Tom did yeoman work in a defense that was not too strong. Saidock is a fine competitor who never slackens his drive."
-1961 Topps No. 155
Defensive Tackle
No. 76
Alabama
"Sid Youngelman was acquired from the Browns to help the youngsters learn their defensive lessons, but the 29-year-old Brooklynite felt frisky enough to get voted an All-Star tackle. He was a sterling figure with the 49ers, Eagles and Browns before coming to the Titans.
Strong, durable and combative, he is combat-sharpened and wise to the ways of an oncoming offense."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Sid Youngelman is an old hand at the business- he's been a pro since 1955. Youngelman's measurements are 6-5 and 267 and have led him into occasional forays in wrestling, though some guys say he's grappling every time he puts on shoulder pads.
He's a Brooklyn boy who went to Alabama and played in two bowl games and captained the Crimson Tide his senior year. Drafted by the Forty-Niners, he made the merry rounds of the league. One year on the coast as a rookie regular on the defensive unit was followed by three with the Eagles. The Browns acquired him in 1959 and he played on their Front Four, but also played out his option and was quickly grabbed by the AFL. He's the strong force in the Titan forward wall, a strong pass rusher and plenty nimble at 29."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"One of the old pros of the new league. Sid played in three bowl games while starring at 'Bama, then performed for the San Francisco 49ers, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Cleveland Browns.
Sid works as a school teacher in Brooklyn and appears as a professional wrestler in the Long Island area during the off-season."
-1961 Fleer No. 220
"No one can teach this 'Old Pro' any new tricks of defensive line play. Big Sid, who once tried pro wrestling, plays with the spirit of a rookie."
-1961 Topps No. 152
TOM SAIDOCK
Defensive Tackle
No. 75
Michigan State
"Military service interrupted Saidock's collegiate career at Michigan State. He left after the 1951 and 1952 seasons but came back to star in the 1955 campaign.
He played for two years for the NFL Philadelphia Eagles, then cast his lot with the new league where his height and speed soon made his presence felt."
-1961 Fleer No. 219
"In his own quiet way Big Tom did yeoman work in a defense that was not too strong. Saidock is a fine competitor who never slackens his drive."
-1961 Topps No. 155
DICK GUESMAN
Defensive Tackle-Place Kicker
No. 72
West Virginia
"Dick is one of a number of rugged linemen to graduate from West Virginia University to professional football. Other distinguished Mountaineer linemen to make the grade include Sam Huff, Joe Stydahar, Bruce Bosley and Chuck Howley. Guesman was one of the top 1960 draft choices of the Baltimore Colts, but the Titans snatched him away at the start of last season. He served as a defensive tackle replacement for Sid Youngelman and Tom Saidock, and in a pinch he showed he could play on either end of the defensive rush line.
Those who have followed his career predict a bright future for this tough Pittsburgh, Pa., resident."
-1961 New York Titans Official Yearbook
DICK LEADBETTER
Defensive Tackle
Free Agent
Maine
"Dick comes from the northeastern section of the country, an area usually neglected by professional talent scouts. The Titans landed two top-notch Yankee Conference performers last year, in Roger Ellis and Thurlow Cooper, and they're looking for the strapping [6'3", 238] Leadbetter to bolster the Titan defensive bulwark.
As the Maine captain in 1960, he was named to the All-Yankee Conference team. Dick lives in Bangor, Maine."
-1961 New York Titans Official Yearbook
NICK MUMLEY
Defensive End
No. 74
Purdue
"Very few blockers have had much success in blotting Nick Mumley out of the action. The 255-pound defensive end out of Lafayette, Indiana was bad news for enemy gunners, showing excellent pursuit as a pass rusher, and he was an unwelcome sight for running halfbacks who took to his flank.
Nick, 25, learned his lessons well at Purdue and is only a season away from All-Star recognition."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
BOB REIFSNYDER
Defensive End
No. 79
Navy
"Bob was the sensation of the Navy team in 1956 and 1957, starring in the Sailors' Cotton Bowl victory over Mississippi and winning the Maxwell Trophy in the latter year. A knee injury wrecked his final year at Annapolis, and the same injury delayed his pro career.
Starting the 1960 season with the Los Angeles Chargers, he was traded to the Titans. The injury healed, and now he's a one-man trouble shooter for the New York team."
-1961 Fleer No. 218
Defensive End
No. 74
Purdue
"Very few blockers have had much success in blotting Nick Mumley out of the action. The 255-pound defensive end out of Lafayette, Indiana was bad news for enemy gunners, showing excellent pursuit as a pass rusher, and he was an unwelcome sight for running halfbacks who took to his flank.
Nick, 25, learned his lessons well at Purdue and is only a season away from All-Star recognition."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
BOB REIFSNYDER
Defensive End
No. 79
Navy
"Bob was the sensation of the Navy team in 1956 and 1957, starring in the Sailors' Cotton Bowl victory over Mississippi and winning the Maxwell Trophy in the latter year. A knee injury wrecked his final year at Annapolis, and the same injury delayed his pro career.
Starting the 1960 season with the Los Angeles Chargers, he was traded to the Titans. The injury healed, and now he's a one-man trouble shooter for the New York team."
-1961 Fleer No. 218
1961 New York Titans Receiver Profiles
ART POWELL
Split End
No. 84
San Jose State
"The surprise of '60 was why the Eagles permitted end Art Powell to get away. He was among the standout NFL rookies in '59, excelling in punt and kickoff returns. Voted an AFL All-Star for his feat in leading the loop in catching touchdown passes (14) and taking down 72 passes for 1,265 yards. He also gained 63 yards with two kickoff returns.
Only 24, this San Jose (California) sparkler figures to remain among the high echelon offensive stars."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"'Art Powell,' said Sammy Baugh, the finest passer in football history, 'is the best receiver I've ever seen.'
Powell was a defensive back before he joined the Titans.
The end with the most natural class in the league is Powell. For a guy of 24, he's had a rather stormy career. His older brother is a former heavyweight fighter and defensive end who plays with the Oakland Raiders. Like Charlie, Art was a brilliant high school athlete in San Diego; he went on to San Jose State, scored 47 points in one basketball game and then led the nation in receiving as a sophomore end with 40 catches, five for touchdowns. All-American honors loomed, but Art jumped school and went up to Canada for a couple of seasons. When his college class was graduated, the Eagles drafted Art, who switched over to defense and made the grade as a regular in the secondary. The pros are looking for his kind, a 6-3 212-pounder who can run with everybody. As a rookie he led the NFL in kickoff returns, taking one ball back 95 yards against the Giants, missing a touchdown when he stepped into a hole and fell down. He returned a punt 58 yards for a score.
It looked like a long career in the NFL for him as 1960 began, but the Eagles weren't enchanted with his behavior. They cut him loose, and not a team in the league picked him up; no one wanted to risk his temperament. The Titans weren't so queasy. First, they put him at offensive end, which Art wanted. Then they left him alone, and he revealed tremendous talent. Until he joined the team just before the season, the lone receiver was Don Maynard, the slim kid from Texas Western who had been discarded by the Giants. With both of them in the lineup, defenses went nuts; they gathered in 141 passes to be the most effective unit in pro football, and Powell scored 14 touchdowns to lead the league. If Art never caught a pass, he'd still be the most valuable guy in the Titans lineup, for every team is forced to double up its coverage on him. Acting as a decoy, he frees Maynard and the backs for receptions."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"When it comes to leaving his feet and beating a defender to a pass, powerful Powell is in a class by himself. His 14 touchdowns were tops in the league."
-1961 Topps No. 151
THURLOW COOPER
Tight End
No. 88
Maine
Cooper is a blocking tight end who also caught nine passes for 161 yards, a 17.9 average. His longest reception was for 38 yards and he scored three touchdowns.
In a distinguished collegiate career at the University of Maine, Cooper was All-Maine three years, All-Yankee Conference two years and All-New England in 1956, the same year he earned Little All-America honorable mention.
Split End
No. 84
San Jose State
"The surprise of '60 was why the Eagles permitted end Art Powell to get away. He was among the standout NFL rookies in '59, excelling in punt and kickoff returns. Voted an AFL All-Star for his feat in leading the loop in catching touchdown passes (14) and taking down 72 passes for 1,265 yards. He also gained 63 yards with two kickoff returns.
Only 24, this San Jose (California) sparkler figures to remain among the high echelon offensive stars."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"'Art Powell,' said Sammy Baugh, the finest passer in football history, 'is the best receiver I've ever seen.'
Powell was a defensive back before he joined the Titans.
The end with the most natural class in the league is Powell. For a guy of 24, he's had a rather stormy career. His older brother is a former heavyweight fighter and defensive end who plays with the Oakland Raiders. Like Charlie, Art was a brilliant high school athlete in San Diego; he went on to San Jose State, scored 47 points in one basketball game and then led the nation in receiving as a sophomore end with 40 catches, five for touchdowns. All-American honors loomed, but Art jumped school and went up to Canada for a couple of seasons. When his college class was graduated, the Eagles drafted Art, who switched over to defense and made the grade as a regular in the secondary. The pros are looking for his kind, a 6-3 212-pounder who can run with everybody. As a rookie he led the NFL in kickoff returns, taking one ball back 95 yards against the Giants, missing a touchdown when he stepped into a hole and fell down. He returned a punt 58 yards for a score.
It looked like a long career in the NFL for him as 1960 began, but the Eagles weren't enchanted with his behavior. They cut him loose, and not a team in the league picked him up; no one wanted to risk his temperament. The Titans weren't so queasy. First, they put him at offensive end, which Art wanted. Then they left him alone, and he revealed tremendous talent. Until he joined the team just before the season, the lone receiver was Don Maynard, the slim kid from Texas Western who had been discarded by the Giants. With both of them in the lineup, defenses went nuts; they gathered in 141 passes to be the most effective unit in pro football, and Powell scored 14 touchdowns to lead the league. If Art never caught a pass, he'd still be the most valuable guy in the Titans lineup, for every team is forced to double up its coverage on him. Acting as a decoy, he frees Maynard and the backs for receptions."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"When it comes to leaving his feet and beating a defender to a pass, powerful Powell is in a class by himself. His 14 touchdowns were tops in the league."
-1961 Topps No. 151
THURLOW COOPER
Tight End
No. 88
Maine
Cooper is a blocking tight end who also caught nine passes for 161 yards, a 17.9 average. His longest reception was for 38 yards and he scored three touchdowns.
In a distinguished collegiate career at the University of Maine, Cooper was All-Maine three years, All-Yankee Conference two years and All-New England in 1956, the same year he earned Little All-America honorable mention.
DAVE ROSS
End
No. 80
Los Angeles State
"Coach Sammy Baugh thinks highly of the young California product. At LA State, Dave led the California IAA in pass receiving, won All-Conference honors and was named a first-team Junior College All-American.
Ross has size and there's no question about his speed- he won the NCAA regional high hurdles championship in 1959. He was signed by the Detroit Lions last year but later acquired by the Titans.
He lives in Whittier, California, also the hometown of Richard Nixon. Dave is married and has a 4 1/2-year-old son, Ronald David."
-1961 New York Titans Official Yearbook
1961 New York Titans Offensive Line Profiles
MIKE HUDOCK
Center
No. 52
Miami
"Rugged and aggressive are the words for this Pennsylvanian who first attracted attention while playing under Andy Gustafson at Miami. His All-Conference rating there earned him a job with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he spent two fruitful years understudying the mighty Chuck Bednarik.
On the offense for the Titans, he showed Coach Sammy Baugh how the enemy center could be moved aside, up or over."
-1961 Fleer No. 217
BOB MISCHAK
Guard
No. 67
Army
"The best offensive guard in '60 was Bob Mischak, the ex-West Point hero who earned his spurs as a Giant. The 28-year-old bruiser who couldn't make it with the Browns in '57 stayed out of the game in '59, working as a telephone supervisor in Union City, New Jersey.
Named tops at his position by the press, Bob is among the most effective guards, straightaway and running, in the business."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Guard Bob Mischak of the Titans is one of the most versatile linemen in the league. Bob is one of the few West Pointers to go into pro ball. At the Academy, he played end. The Browns drafted him, and after his compulsory Army duty as a lieutenant in the airborne infantry, Bob reported to their camp in 1957, then cut out after a couple of weeks. The Giants got him in a trade and persuaded him to report in 1958. By then he had grown into a 235-pounder without sacrificing much of his speed, so the Giants decided to try him at guard. As a rookie, he played as a regular on an Eastern Division championship team at a position completely new to him. A fat offer by the Titans last summer lured him back after a year on the sidelines."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"When Bob graduated from West Point in 1954, the Cleveland Browns wanted him right away, but Red Blaik's versatile star fulfilled his military obligation first. Out of military uniform in 1957, he resumed football in Cleveland.
The following year Bob was traded to the Giants. He 'retired' in 1959 but the Titans talked him into coming back and both the club and this alert, stalwart lineman are happy with the decision."
-1961 Fleer No. 216
"Mischak, a West Point grad, returned to pro football in 1960 after a year's layoff and made the All-AFL team.
He has fine speed and is a strong blocker."
-1961 Topps No. 153
JOHN MCMULLAN
Guard
No. 68
Notre Dame
John was a standout at Demarest High School in New Jersey and an honorable mention All-American at Notre Dame. He played every game in the Titans' inaugural season. He's a hard-hitting guard who has distinguished himself with his talent for pulling out of the line to lead running plays.
JACK KLOTZ
Offensive Tackle
No. 78
Pennsylvania Military College
After a Little All-American career at Pennsylvania Military College, Jack sharpened his skills in the Canadian Football League. He appeared in every game last year and showed an impressive ability to adjust to the methods of opposing defensive linemen.
GENE COCKRELL
Offensive Tackle
No. 70
Hardin-Simmons
Whether Titan quarterbacks need reliable blocking for running plays or for passing plays, they know Gene will use all of his 6'4" and 247 pounds to help steady the offensive line. He appeared in all 14 games last year and impressed New York coaches with his play.
Center
No. 52
Miami
"Rugged and aggressive are the words for this Pennsylvanian who first attracted attention while playing under Andy Gustafson at Miami. His All-Conference rating there earned him a job with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he spent two fruitful years understudying the mighty Chuck Bednarik.
On the offense for the Titans, he showed Coach Sammy Baugh how the enemy center could be moved aside, up or over."
-1961 Fleer No. 217
BOB MISCHAK
Guard
No. 67
Army
"The best offensive guard in '60 was Bob Mischak, the ex-West Point hero who earned his spurs as a Giant. The 28-year-old bruiser who couldn't make it with the Browns in '57 stayed out of the game in '59, working as a telephone supervisor in Union City, New Jersey.
Named tops at his position by the press, Bob is among the most effective guards, straightaway and running, in the business."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Guard Bob Mischak of the Titans is one of the most versatile linemen in the league. Bob is one of the few West Pointers to go into pro ball. At the Academy, he played end. The Browns drafted him, and after his compulsory Army duty as a lieutenant in the airborne infantry, Bob reported to their camp in 1957, then cut out after a couple of weeks. The Giants got him in a trade and persuaded him to report in 1958. By then he had grown into a 235-pounder without sacrificing much of his speed, so the Giants decided to try him at guard. As a rookie, he played as a regular on an Eastern Division championship team at a position completely new to him. A fat offer by the Titans last summer lured him back after a year on the sidelines."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"When Bob graduated from West Point in 1954, the Cleveland Browns wanted him right away, but Red Blaik's versatile star fulfilled his military obligation first. Out of military uniform in 1957, he resumed football in Cleveland.
The following year Bob was traded to the Giants. He 'retired' in 1959 but the Titans talked him into coming back and both the club and this alert, stalwart lineman are happy with the decision."
-1961 Fleer No. 216
"Mischak, a West Point grad, returned to pro football in 1960 after a year's layoff and made the All-AFL team.
He has fine speed and is a strong blocker."
-1961 Topps No. 153
JOHN MCMULLAN
Guard
No. 68
Notre Dame
John was a standout at Demarest High School in New Jersey and an honorable mention All-American at Notre Dame. He played every game in the Titans' inaugural season. He's a hard-hitting guard who has distinguished himself with his talent for pulling out of the line to lead running plays.
OFFENSIVE GUARDS
"Today is 'New Jersey Day' with the Titan guards John McMullan of Hoboken and Bob Mischak of Union, being honored by their neighbors and friends. Mayor John Grogan of Hoboken and some 3,000 Boy Scouts of the Bergen County Group are in the stands."
-December 3, 1961, Official New York Titans Program
ARNOLD BRANCH
Guard
Free Agent
Langston
"At Langston, the big guard- who's also serviceable at tackle- was named the outstanding lineman of the Oklahoma Collegiate Conference as well as an NAIA All-American. In addition to these and other kudos Branch earned during four seasons of football, he also was a distance runner and field man on the track squad and a forward on the basketball team for two years.
Fast and rugged, he's entering his first season of professional football. A chemistry major with a B.S. degree, Arnold is continuing his studies during the off-season."
-1961 New York Titans Official Yearbook
Offensive Tackle
No. 78
Pennsylvania Military College
After a Little All-American career at Pennsylvania Military College, Jack sharpened his skills in the Canadian Football League. He appeared in every game last year and showed an impressive ability to adjust to the methods of opposing defensive linemen.
"Fast afoot for his mammoth proportions, Klotz impressed the Titans from the start of last season. He fits into the picture as a swing replacement at either tackle on the offensive unit. And in a pinch, he can also play at offensive guard or in the defensive line.
A four-year letterman at Penn Military, Jack was a first-team All-American selection in 1956. He later played with the San Diego, Calif., Marine Base unit which was undefeated in both 1957 and 1958. Jack spent the following season in the Canadian League."
-1961 New York Titans Official Yearbook
GENE COCKRELL
Offensive Tackle
No. 70
Hardin-Simmons
Whether Titan quarterbacks need reliable blocking for running plays or for passing plays, they know Gene will use all of his 6'4" and 247 pounds to help steady the offensive line. He appeared in all 14 games last year and impressed New York coaches with his play.
"Offensive captain of the Titans, Cockrell is a sturdy blocker both at the line and downfield.
He attended the University of Oklahoma for two years and was a guard and tackle on the undefeated Sooners team of 1954. He then transferred to Hardin-Simmons, where he was an outstanding Border Conference lineman for two years under Sammy Baugh.
During the off-season, the three-year veteran runs a ranch of his own in his native Pampa, Texas. Gene is also a well-known rodeo performer in the Longhorn State, which is as good as anything for preparing him for the rugged competition of pro football.
Cockrell is married and has two sons."
-1961 New York Titans Official Yearbook
PROVERB JACOBS
Offensive Tackle-Defensive Tackle
No. 73
California
"It's a well-known proverb around the N.F.L. that you don't 'mess' with Jacobs. He's big and strong and fast for his size.
Proverb's debut season in 1958 impressed everyone."
-1959 Topps No. 108
"The No. 2 draft choice of the Eagles in 1958, Proverb Jacobs (73) was signed by the Giants as a free agent last spring. The 225-pound California graduate fits into the picture as a spare tackle. He is serviceable on both offense and defense. In a pinch, he also could handle the place-kicking assignment. He can really boom the ball."
-1960 New York Giants Official Program (Yankee Stadium)
FRANK MORELLI
Offensive Tackle
Free Agent
Colgate
"The hulking tackle is expected to beef up the Titans' offensive forward wall. A Colgate starter for two years before he dropped out of school, Frank was twice a preseason selection All-East selection of Stanley Woodward.
Joining the Titans won't be an altogether strange experience for Morelli, because he got his initial football schooling under Titan line coach John Dell Isola while attending Medford High. Frank's cousin, John Morelli, played pro football with the old Boston Yankees and the New York Yankees.
Off-season, Frank does construction work while continuing his studies at Boston University."
-1961 New York Titans Official Yearbook
MOSES GRAY
Offensive Tackle
27th Round
Indiana
"Both of New York's professional teams drafted this young Giant [6'3", 260] last winter, but the Titans lured him into the American League fold. Gray was a standout regular for three years at Indiana.
His speed and aggressiveness impressed the scouts, and they're saying he has the potential to become a crack professional lineman. Through Gray is able to go both ways, the Titans will probably use him on the offensive line.
Moses lives in Conemaugh, Pa."
-1961 New York Titans Official Yearbook
1961 Profile: Don Maynard
Flanker
No. 13
Texas Western
"Don Maynard is now considered among the best of pass-catchers and had a fine season as a spread end. The 25-year-old speedster from Colorado City, Texas, who was found wanting by the Giants, nailed 72 passes for 1,265 yards and six TDs. He also carried back three kickoffs for 59 yards.
Few in the circuit can match his speed at starting from his wide post, and his cutting ability makes him difficult to defend."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Don Maynard, who operates on the flank for New York and ranked third in receiving, was let go by the Giants because of 'bad hands.' A 9.6 sprinter, he never loosened up as a Giant rookie in 1958. They said he didn't know his routes, couldn't catch a ball. That isn't what the Titans- or the opposing teams- say."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"With exceptional hands, and the ability to cut and go after catching a pass, Maynard proved his right to stardom in the initial Titan campaign. With the NFL Giants in 1958 and part of 1959, he shifted to the Canadian League before joining Sammy Baugh's AFL team.
At Texas Western Maynard was an All-Conference halfback on a championship team that posted a 9-1 record."
-1961 Fleer No. 215
"When this slender, elusive Texan went to his flanker post, he became a marked man. Though guarded closely, he caught 72 passes for six touchdowns and 1,265 yards."
-1961 Topps No. 150
No. 13
Texas Western
"Don Maynard is now considered among the best of pass-catchers and had a fine season as a spread end. The 25-year-old speedster from Colorado City, Texas, who was found wanting by the Giants, nailed 72 passes for 1,265 yards and six TDs. He also carried back three kickoffs for 59 yards.
Few in the circuit can match his speed at starting from his wide post, and his cutting ability makes him difficult to defend."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Don Maynard, who operates on the flank for New York and ranked third in receiving, was let go by the Giants because of 'bad hands.' A 9.6 sprinter, he never loosened up as a Giant rookie in 1958. They said he didn't know his routes, couldn't catch a ball. That isn't what the Titans- or the opposing teams- say."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"With exceptional hands, and the ability to cut and go after catching a pass, Maynard proved his right to stardom in the initial Titan campaign. With the NFL Giants in 1958 and part of 1959, he shifted to the Canadian League before joining Sammy Baugh's AFL team.
At Texas Western Maynard was an All-Conference halfback on a championship team that posted a 9-1 record."
-1961 Fleer No. 215
"When this slender, elusive Texan went to his flanker post, he became a marked man. Though guarded closely, he caught 72 passes for six touchdowns and 1,265 yards."
-1961 Topps No. 150
1961 New York Titans Linebacker Profiles
HUBERT BOBO
Middle Linebacker
No. 57
Ohio State
Hubert stabilized New York's linebacking corps over the course of the 1960 season with his steady play. His desire to hit, undiminished by operations on both his knees, inspired his Titan teammates last year.
A sophomore standout at fullback for an Ohio State Rose Bowl team, Hubert averaged 6.1 yards.
LARRY GRANTHAM
Linebacker
No. 60
Mississippi
"Drafted as an offensive end, Larry Grantham was converted to a linebacker and did so well that he earned All-Star selection. An All-American from Ole Miss, the 22-year-old from Crystal Springs, Mississippi has amazing speed and a keen diagnostic mind. Quicker than most of the backs attempting to bypass him, he also popped up with five interceptions."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Larry Grantham is a unique specimen in this game of giants. He's a 195-pounder who holds down a corner linebacker position. The Titans admit he lacks size for the job, but he's always one step ahead of the other guy and gets the job done, so why quibble about tonnage. Larry was a fine end for the Mississippi Rebs before the Titans signed him, played in the Hula Bowl in January 1960 and was voted the outstanding lineman. He went with the AFL because his size would have been against him with an NFL club."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"An offensive end in college, Larry learned his linebacking trade fast as a pro rookie. He has speed, quick reactions and sharp gridiron instincts."
-1961 Topps No. 154
Middle Linebacker
No. 57
Ohio State
Hubert stabilized New York's linebacking corps over the course of the 1960 season with his steady play. His desire to hit, undiminished by operations on both his knees, inspired his Titan teammates last year.
A sophomore standout at fullback for an Ohio State Rose Bowl team, Hubert averaged 6.1 yards.
LARRY GRANTHAM
Linebacker
No. 60
Mississippi
"Drafted as an offensive end, Larry Grantham was converted to a linebacker and did so well that he earned All-Star selection. An All-American from Ole Miss, the 22-year-old from Crystal Springs, Mississippi has amazing speed and a keen diagnostic mind. Quicker than most of the backs attempting to bypass him, he also popped up with five interceptions."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Larry Grantham is a unique specimen in this game of giants. He's a 195-pounder who holds down a corner linebacker position. The Titans admit he lacks size for the job, but he's always one step ahead of the other guy and gets the job done, so why quibble about tonnage. Larry was a fine end for the Mississippi Rebs before the Titans signed him, played in the Hula Bowl in January 1960 and was voted the outstanding lineman. He went with the AFL because his size would have been against him with an NFL club."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"An offensive end in college, Larry learned his linebacking trade fast as a pro rookie. He has speed, quick reactions and sharp gridiron instincts."
-1961 Topps No. 154
"The former crack lineman for Ole Miss's 1959 Sugar Bowl champs was one of the outstanding rookies in professional football last year. Larry earned a spot on the All-Pro squad as a mainstay of the Titan defensive unit.
Though Larry is smallish as outside linebackers go, he nevertheless earned himself the reputation of a devastating tackler. Numbered among his assets are blazing speed, hair-trigger reactions and keen football instincts.
In his senior year at Ole Miss, Larry received an All-American honorable mention as well as the most valuable lineman award in the Hula Bowl. Oddly enough, he went to Ole Miss on a baseball scholarship. But after his freshman year, he devoted his entire attention to football.
He lives with his wife in Crystal Springs, Mississippi."
-1961 New York Titans Official Yearbook
"Another defensive-platooner has been named the recipient of the Buick Electra-Convertible Award among the Titans. This is Larry Grantham, who uses his weekend passes from military duties at Fort Devens in Massachusetts to fly to New York and rejoin his team mates.
Grantham is listed on the Army rolls as a demolition expert and had already served a term, been released and called back to service in the Berlin Crisis. Grantham- of all the Titan defense men who have been playing so well this year- seems better able to diagnose plays quickly and move to the right place to defend against them. In the victory over Buffalo, for which he won this award, he got into the Buffalo backfield an amazing number of times to break up plays almost before they were started."
-December 3, 1961, Official New York Titans Program
HIGH-STYLE RIDING FOR TITAN OF THE WEEK
"Once more Buick, the official car of the Titans, is making available for a month's use one of their 1962 convertibles to the player chosen best of the Titans for today's game. Buick Motor Division is doing this for each of the home games of the Titans.
The players are named by a committee of sports writers covering Titan games at the Polo Grounds and are awarded at halftime of each of the home games. Today's award will go to Larry Grantham, chosen as outstanding Titan in the game against the Buffalo Bills on November 23.
The player chosen in today's game will be given the use of his convertible for a month when the team meets the Houston Oilers here on December 10. No player may be chosen more than once. Dick Christy won the first award, Bill Mathis the second, Dick Felt the third and Ed Cooke the fourth.
The contest continues through the last game of the season here, when the player named, if he chooses, may use his car to drive home in, Buick to make arrangements to pick it up wherever it is taken."
-December 3, 1961, Official New York Titans Program
ED BELL
Linebacker
No. 25
Pennsylvania
"For linebacking play, not many are the equal of Ed Bell, the 30-year-old Elkins Park (Pennsylvania) panther who was a two-time All-America end selection at Pennsylvania. Ed had three NFL seasons and two in the Canadian circuit before displaying his many assets with the Titans. He intercepted two passes in '60 and statisticians lost count of the number he knocked down."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
Linebacker
No. 25
Pennsylvania
"For linebacking play, not many are the equal of Ed Bell, the 30-year-old Elkins Park (Pennsylvania) panther who was a two-time All-America end selection at Pennsylvania. Ed had three NFL seasons and two in the Canadian circuit before displaying his many assets with the Titans. He intercepted two passes in '60 and statisticians lost count of the number he knocked down."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
1961 Profiles: Al Dorow and Dick Jamieson
AL DOROW
Quarterback
No. 12
Michigan State
"The top tosser of TD passes in '60 was Al Dorow, who clicked for a high of 26; Al also was No. 2 in the overall passing tables, surpassed only by the Chargers' Jackie Kemp. Considered the AFL's top option signal-caller, he also carried 124 times, more than any Titan back, rushed for seven touchdowns and hung up the No. 1 punting average of 44.0 on six kicks.
Out of Alameda, California, 30-year-old Al spent four years with the Redskins and two with the Eagles."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
PRO'S PRO
"Most quarterbacks prefer not to risk their necks by carrying the ball, but Al Dorow of the Titans revels in being chased. Maybe it's because he's just as dangerous running as he is passing. The bald New York field general was the second best passer in the AFL and led the loop in touchdown heaves, with 26. Until now he's always played behind top operators- Eddie LeBaron and Norm Van Brocklin. He's in his own class now."
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1961 Football
"This durable signal caller has made his mark in college, NFL, Canadian and AFL football. After starring at Michigan State in 1950 and 1951, Dorow went into the service and led the powerful Bolling Air Force Base team. Then it was four seasons with the Washington Redskins, two with the Philadelphia Eagles and a year with the Toronto Argonauts.
He was the Titans' No. 1 choice for their quarterback job, and they were glad to get him."
-1961 Fleer No. 210
"No pro takes more of a beating than this quarterback, who loves to run with the ball as well as throw it. Al led the league in 1960 with 26 touchdown passes."
-1961 Topps No. 149
DICK JAMIESON
Quarterback
No. 15
Bradley
"This Little All-America quarterback of 1956 also starred in basketball and baseball for the Bradley Braves. As a sophomore, he won the NCAA total offense crown.
Under contract to the Baltimore Colts in 1959, Dick joined the Titans as understudy to first-string Al Dorow. He threw 70 passes for the Titans last year, completed 35 and had only two intercepted."
-1961 Fleer No. 211
Quarterback
No. 12
Michigan State
"The top tosser of TD passes in '60 was Al Dorow, who clicked for a high of 26; Al also was No. 2 in the overall passing tables, surpassed only by the Chargers' Jackie Kemp. Considered the AFL's top option signal-caller, he also carried 124 times, more than any Titan back, rushed for seven touchdowns and hung up the No. 1 punting average of 44.0 on six kicks.
Out of Alameda, California, 30-year-old Al spent four years with the Redskins and two with the Eagles."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
PRO'S PRO
"Most quarterbacks prefer not to risk their necks by carrying the ball, but Al Dorow of the Titans revels in being chased. Maybe it's because he's just as dangerous running as he is passing. The bald New York field general was the second best passer in the AFL and led the loop in touchdown heaves, with 26. Until now he's always played behind top operators- Eddie LeBaron and Norm Van Brocklin. He's in his own class now."
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1961 Football
"This durable signal caller has made his mark in college, NFL, Canadian and AFL football. After starring at Michigan State in 1950 and 1951, Dorow went into the service and led the powerful Bolling Air Force Base team. Then it was four seasons with the Washington Redskins, two with the Philadelphia Eagles and a year with the Toronto Argonauts.
He was the Titans' No. 1 choice for their quarterback job, and they were glad to get him."
-1961 Fleer No. 210
"No pro takes more of a beating than this quarterback, who loves to run with the ball as well as throw it. Al led the league in 1960 with 26 touchdown passes."
-1961 Topps No. 149
DICK JAMIESON
Quarterback
No. 15
Bradley
"This Little All-America quarterback of 1956 also starred in basketball and baseball for the Bradley Braves. As a sophomore, he won the NCAA total offense crown.
Under contract to the Baltimore Colts in 1959, Dick joined the Titans as understudy to first-string Al Dorow. He threw 70 passes for the Titans last year, completed 35 and had only two intercepted."
-1961 Fleer No. 211
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