Offensive Backfield Coach
"Evidently a head coach's job at Toledo was not as challenging as an offer to carry on as a Jet offensive backfield boss. Clive Rush decided on his first chance in the professional ranks in '63 after handling aide's duties at Dayton, Ohio State and Oklahoma.
Weeb Ewbank had been aware of Rush's intelligence for a long time and was always impressed with his imaginative approach to a job that too many assistants make a standard operation. Clive is insistent that passing and rushing patterns be switched according to defensive alignments."
Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
Monday, June 30, 2014
1964 Profile: Weeb Ewbank
Head Coach
"The coach, Wilbur (Weeb) Ewbank, is shooting for the AFL Eastern Division title this season after keeping the Jets in the race much longer than anyone anticipated in 1963, his first year.
He's a familiar name to pro football fans. He coached the Baltimore Colts to two NFL titles (1958-59) in his nine-year regime. His nine-year NFL record was 59-52-1.
Now 56, he was a quarterback at Miami (Ohio) University. After coaching aide jobs at Miami, Brown and Great Lakes Naval, he became head coach at Washington (Missouri) University, then went to the Browns before leading the Colts."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Weeb Ewbank is a disbeliever in the accepted fact that a balanced attack is necessary in each game.
'No,' says the ex-Colt pilot, 'an offense is dictated solely by the defense that is must face on each play.'
Ewbank replaced Bulldog Turner for '63 after putting in nine years as the top man in Baltimore. He served Paul Brown as tackle coach with the Browns and had been a head coach of Washington of St. Louis.
A quarterback at Miami of Ohio, he stayed on for 14 years after graduation in the role of assistant coach, leaving in '43 to work with Brown at Great Lakes Naval Station."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"The coach, Wilbur (Weeb) Ewbank, is shooting for the AFL Eastern Division title this season after keeping the Jets in the race much longer than anyone anticipated in 1963, his first year.
He's a familiar name to pro football fans. He coached the Baltimore Colts to two NFL titles (1958-59) in his nine-year regime. His nine-year NFL record was 59-52-1.
Now 56, he was a quarterback at Miami (Ohio) University. After coaching aide jobs at Miami, Brown and Great Lakes Naval, he became head coach at Washington (Missouri) University, then went to the Browns before leading the Colts."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Weeb Ewbank is a disbeliever in the accepted fact that a balanced attack is necessary in each game.
'No,' says the ex-Colt pilot, 'an offense is dictated solely by the defense that is must face on each play.'
Ewbank replaced Bulldog Turner for '63 after putting in nine years as the top man in Baltimore. He served Paul Brown as tackle coach with the Browns and had been a head coach of Washington of St. Louis.
A quarterback at Miami of Ohio, he stayed on for 14 years after graduation in the role of assistant coach, leaving in '43 to work with Brown at Great Lakes Naval Station."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
Saturday, June 28, 2014
1964 New York Jets Outlook
"When Weeb Ewbank took over as coach of the New York Jets prior to last season, a newsman asked him about the team's future.
'We'll be all right,' Ewbank answered, 'as soon as we get a few things organized. I've seen sicker cows than this get well.'
In 1964 the one-time sick cow will, I believe, turn into the healthiest in the AFL's Eastern Division. On a competitive level, this looms as the tightest race in pro football history. Any of the four teams appear capable of winning the title. Last season, remember, there were only two games separating the four clubs. The Boston Patriots won in a playoff against the Buffalo Bills. The Houston Oilers finished a game-and-a-half out of first place, the Jets two games out. To win this year, then, the Jets don't have to improve too much. Chances are, a 9-5 record will win. Maybe 8-6.
The Jets have several factors in their favor this season. Perhaps most important, the personnel has had time to adjust to Ewbank's system; last year it was new to them. To complicate matters, the team wasn't really assembled until the last few days before the season opened because Ewbank was waiting for NFL cuts to stock both his offensive and defensive units. This year there won't be that much juggling. As a result, the training camp games will permit the players to develop as units.
Another reason is the AFL schedule. The Jets play six of their first eight games in shiny Shea Stadium. This stretch of home games should work to their advantage. If they don't take advantage of it, however, they'll be cooked. They must play five of their last six on the road.
Ewbank is a major factor. Player by player, he's building the Jets into a contender, just as he built the NFL Baltimore Colts into a two-time champion in 1958 and 1959. It took him five years in the NFL. It might take him only two in the AFL if his quarterback, Dick Wood, stays healthy. Many pro football observers continue to criticize Wood but Ewbank is sticking with him. That's good enough for me. Not quite a decade ago, you may remember, he stuck with a young QB named Johnny Unitas.
When anybody mentions the AFL Eastern Division championship to Weeb Ewbank, the Jets coach knocks on Wood. Dick Wood.
For some reason, most experts prefer to put knocks on Wood. But Ewbank defends him, pointing out, 'Until he was injured late last season, he was leading the league in touchdown passes (18), he was leading the league in avoiding interceptions (.051 per attempt), he was third in completions (160) and he was third in yards gained, passing (2,202). If Dick keeps improving the way he did late in the season, I think he's going to surprise a lot of people and be a fine quarterback. He's got the arm. All he needs is the experience.'
Apparently, Ewbank is going all the way with Dick Wood. And he just might be going all the way to the Eastern championship.
The Jets don't need to improve much. In the AFL, a team can jump quickly. Look what Oakland did last season: a 10-4-0 record following a 1-13-0 record in 1962. There's no reason the Jets can't climb quickly, too. They were in the race until the next-to-last game last season and with a 5-8-1 record, they finished only two games behind the Patriots and Bills. And all this, remember, was with a makeshift team which really wasn't put together until the week before the season began.
It's always easier to throw an offense together; as a result, the defensive unit sabotaged the offense all season. But during the off-season, Ewbank kept trying to plug holes in his defense.
The Jets swung a nine-man trade with the Broncos, one of the largest deals in pro football history. The key man in the swap was middle linebacker Wahoo McDaniel.
'We need help at linebacker and on the defensive line,' Ewbank says, 'and if we get it, we'll be all right.' Watch for Ewbank to remold his defense again, if necessary. Only Larry Grantham, the two-time All-AFL outside linebacker, would seem to be immune.
This year the Jets have a new stadium, $25 million Shea Stadium. They also have a season-ticket sale that figures to approach 15,000.
They have something else that's new, too: rookies. After the financial farce of the previous regime, the Jets were able to sign many of their draft choices. They shelled out $100,000, it is said, for fullback Matt Snell of Ohio State. They signed two rookie quarterbacks, Pete Liske of Penn State and Mike Taliaferro (pronounced Tol-i-ver) of Illinois, but Ewbank is counting on Dick Wood, along with pass receivers Bake Turner and Don Maynard, to keep the Jets from flaming out.
The Jets won't breeze to the title, though. The Patriots, Bills and Oilers all will be tough. The Patriots with their rugged defensive unit. The Bills with Cookie Gilchrist. The Oilers with ageless George Blanda. But somehow I think the Jets are going to win. If they do, Weeb Ewbank should receive the Veterinarian of the Year Award."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"This is the year the Jets begin to start winning some friends and showing more pep at the box office. The team? Still not enough pros, AFL variety, to hope for more than third place in the East.
There was a flurry of between-season bartering with the Broncos, a five-for-four thing that served to supply New York with additional defensive strength and another candidate for an already overloaded tight end situation. Expected to get regular assignments from Coach Weeb Ewbank are Wahoo McDaniel (linebacker), Gordy Holz (tackle) and Bob Zeman (cornerback and safety). Gene Prebola is the tight end who'll have to fend off so many others seeking recognition.
Offensively, New York is going to battle with outdated weapons and unexploded ammunition. Dick Wood, injury prone and about the only one with battle experience at camp, is the leading quarterback in a backfield group that has Bill Mathis and Mark Smolinski, better blockers than runners, catchers Bake Turner and Don Maynard, maybe the best pair in the league; all, however, will function behind a sketchy line that needs more guards another tackle. Dan Ficca is a quality guard and Jack Klotz conducts himself in becoming fashion at tackle.
After a successful draft, there are some offensive yearlings who are worthy of mention, particularly Pete Liske and Mark Taliaferro, quarterbacks; Rudy Johnson, fullback; Dave Herman, tackle, and Matt Snell, the Ohio State fullback who could pop up in the offensive pattern or take hold of a job as linebacker. Latest plans were for Snell to work in as a running back.
There's a brighter sense of proportion on the defensive side, even with apparent weaknesses in the front, due to an untested bench and the hopeful development of some freshmen who are at least satisfied with financial arrangements.
The linebacking of Dave Yohn, McDaniel and Larry Grantham, an All-League, could be New York's finest muscle. The corner men, with quantity and enough quality to go around, might prove extremely stubborn, especially if Clyde Washington, Dainard Paulson and Marshall Starks continue to develop as anticipated.
Ewbank is a man who refuses to recognize problems. He has long tentacles around both leagues and is not proud about waiting for an NFL dropout, especially one who can throw or run with the ball, before he puts in his claim. A man who has known the very utmost of success while with Baltimore, he'll come up with enough of everything to make the Jets' first year at their new Shea Stadium interesting and commercially successful.
Summing up: OFFENSE - weaknesses all over except at the flanks; more interior linemen required; quarterback of more veteran status, with proper backup-man, would be helpful; running average; rookie crop looks promising. DEFENSE - nothing to be ashamed of with some thinness showing at tackle and end."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Despite their failure to sign a single draft choice, the Jets finished only two games out of first place in 1963 and weren't eliminated from the Eastern race until the next to last game. Weeb Ewbank, who masterminds the Jets, is convinced that with a little luck plus improvements stemming from draft choices, the New York club can go all the way this autumn.
The Jets were eminently successful last winter in acquiring fresh faces. They signed six college players from their 1963 draft list and four futures from 1961 and 1962.
The Jets beat their New York rivals, the Giants of the NFL, to the services of Ohio State's Matt Snell, who can play fullback, defensive end, and linebacker. Snell reportedly was paid $20,000 to sign and $30,000 for his services the first year. Ewbank says he'll play somewhere for certain. Other touted rookies lured into the Jets' camp include Mike Taliaferro, Illinois quarterback; Dave Herman, Michigan State offensive lineman; Rudy Johnson, Nebraska fullback, and Gerry Philbin, Buffalo linebacker.
Ewbank again will go with Dick Wood at quarterback. Wood is the one-time Auburn star who first attracted Ewbank's attention when Weeb coached the Baltimore Colts. Wood has one of football's most powerful arms and one its most fragile knees. He missed the final three games last year because of knee trouble. He's been pronounced fit, but he'll be supported by Taliaferro.
Bill Mathis, Mark Smolinski and Dick Christy return as running backs. The Jets' most solid department is pass receiving, where Bake Turner, Don Maynard, Gene Heeter and Dee Mackey hold forth.
In the offensive line, Jack Klotz and Dan Ficca are a pair of improving blockers. Sherman Plunkett and Mike Hudock are available, and draft choice Herman may help. Defensively, it's imperative that Gordy Holz, Bob Watters and LaVerne Torczon, all front liners, remain healthy. Linebacking should continue to improve with Wahoo McDaniel, acquired from Denver, joining Larry Grantham, Dave Yohn and Pete Perreault. The secondary, with Clyde Washington, Billy Baird, Dainard Paulson and Marshall Starks, again is formidable; Bob Zeman, picked up in the nine-player swap with the Broncos, adds still more strength to this department."
-Bill Wise, 1964 Official Pro Football Almanac
"It might not be evident from the standings, but the New York Jets are on the move. For one thing, they're moving to Shea Stadium, across from the World's Fair Grounds in Flushing Meadows. For another thing, they're moving through the college draft like no other New York AFL entry has before. By the time Weeb Ewbank, backed by the bulging wallets of the Jets' new owners, gets through, New York should be one of the league's strong teams. But not this year.
This season Ewbank will probably again sacrifice his running attack to provide adequate blocking for his paper-mache quarterback, Dick Wood. Last year Weeb used two fullbacks- Mark Smolinski and Billy Mathis- in the starting backfield. Mathis played halfback, and that cut his effectiveness by a good 30 per cent. He is a fine fullback but just so-so at half.
If he gets the protection, Wood is probably the best long thrower in the league. But he's erratic on the medium and short passes. The spindly quarterback has some outstanding receivers. Bake Turner, getting his first chance to play as a pro, caught 71 passes. Veteran Don Maynard caught only 38, but almost a quarter of them went for touchdowns. And there are three tight ends available- Dee Mackey, Gene Prebola and Gene Heeter.
The big offensive problem is the line. If some blockers would appear, the Jets might attempt a distinct running attack. They might also give Wood some added protection.
Ewbank swung a nine-player trade with Denver to help his defense. Three of the four he got will play on the hold-'em unit. They are middle linebacker Wahoo McDaniel, tackle Gordy Holz and safety Bob Zeman.' McDaniel was our key man in the deal,' says Ewbank. Holz is 31 but had a great year in Denver. Zeman was all-league two seasons ago.
Corner backs Marshall Starks and Clyde Washington are thought to be vulnerable. Things are rosier at safety where Dainard Paulson and Bill Baird will be challenged by Zeman.
Rookie linemen Gerry Philbin of the University of Buffalo and Bert Wilder of North Carolina State might help the weak pass rush. No. 1 draft choice Matt Snell of Ohio State may play as a defensive end or linebacker, though he's currently listed at fullback. The Jets outbid the rival New York Giants for Snell and two other touted newcomers, Illinois Rose Bowl quarterback Mike Taliaferro and Michigan State guard Dave Herman. Taliaferro and another rookie, Pete Liske of Penn State, will become very important if an injury puts Liske out of action. No one likes to go with a first-year quarterback, least of all on a team as weak as the Jets. Ewbank will pin his hopes to improved pass protection for Wood.
Ewbank's team won three of its first four games last season. Considering the material he was working with, Weeb had the other AFL coaches talking to themselves. If he can forget about picking everything the Baltimore Colts reject, the Jets might surprise a lot of people before very much longer."
-All-Pro 1964 Football
OFFENSE
Receivers
"Don Maynard and Bake Turner are two of the best long distance threats around. Don caught nine touchdown passes and Bake six. Dee Mackey and Gene Prebola are both seasoned tight ends.
Gene Heeter can block better than Dee and catch better than Gene. Dick Christy is an all-around handyman. He's only 5-10 but does a good job.
Rating: Very Good"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
Interior Linemen
"Any good-looking rookie could win a job here. Jack Klotz was released in '62 but Weeb Ewbank re-signed him and he became the best of a poor group. Pete Perreault was a linebacker last year. Dan Ficca's a steady plugger. Mike Hudock, bothered by injuries, could be the division's best center. Sherman Plunkett grows old.
The Hill boys are about on equal terms. If defensive ends are found, Gerry Philbin may play guard. Roy Hord was a disappointment.
Rating: Poor"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
Quarterbacks
"Dick Wood's next play may be his last. He's ultra brittle.
Mike Taliaferro led the Illini's Big Ten champs. Pete Liske can double on defense.
Rating: Fair"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
Running Backs
"Ewbank sacrifices the running attack to protect Wood. Bill Mathis should be playing fullback, not halfback. If Matt Snell isn't used at full he'll probably be a regular elsewhere.
Mark Smolinski is so-so. Rudy Johnson, a star for Nebraska's Orange Bowl champs, may be the top rookie.
Rating: Poor"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
Kicker
"Jim Turner replaces Dick Guesman.
No Rating"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
DEFENSE
Front Linemen
"The Jets traded Chuck Janerette and Dick Guesman, leaving plenty of room for rookies. Gerry Philbin and Bert Wilder are tough kids. Gordy Holz had a good year but he's 31. A lack of strength hurts LaVerne Torczon. Paul Rochester is a K.C. discard.
Bob Watters played well on occasion last season. Bob McAdams was picked up after the Giants dropped him.
Rating: Poor"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
Linebackers
"Ewbank felt Wahoo McDaniel was the key man in the nine-player deal with Denver. He's tough on the running game. Larry Grantham is small but gets all-star votes. Ralph Baker is rated a top prospect.
Rating: Fair
-All-Pro 1964 Football
Defensive Backs
"Marshall Starks and Clyde Washington, two guys nobody else wanted, did capable jobs at corner back. Starks has a tendency to relax at the wrong time, though.
Bob Zeman brings strength to the safety spot. He has flaws but he'll hit you. So will Dainard Paulson, who could be much better than Bob. Bill Baird has strength and speed.
Rating: Fair
-All-Pro 1964 Football
OUTLOOK
"Someday the Jets will soar to the top, but this year their lumps will resemble the Unisphere.
Prediction: Fourth"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
LOOK OUT FOR THAT BOMB
"Sonny Werblin's Jets ended up exactly where their predecessors- Harry Wismer's Titans- had landed: in last place. But the Jets finished with a respectable record- 5-8-1, beating the likes of Kansas City, Boston and Houston.
Coach Weeb Ewbank based his 1963 hopes on quarterback Dick Wood and he's still going with the lanky 6-4 passer. Up to the time he was injured near the end of the season, Wood was leading the league in touchdown passes and was third in completions. 'If Dick keeps improving his short passes and his pass-action plays,' says Weeb, 'he's going to be a fine quarterback.'
Maybe. One trouble is, Wood- who can throw the long bomb better than perhaps anybody in the league- has weak knees. To keep him sound, the Jets must use the halfback and fullback as blockers, which doesn't do much to help their short passing game. And Wood can't run.
Where the Jets figure to be much stronger is at linebacker. They have Larry Grantham, who is All-League. They picked up Wahoo McDaniel in a nine-man swap with Denver. And they have signed one of the nation's most respected collegians, Ohio State's burly Matt Snell (who may, however, be used at defensive end or fullback).
OFFENSE: Behind Wood at quarterback is Pete Liske and Mike Taliaferro, a rookie from Illinois. If Wood's knees give out, Taliaferro could win the job. Fullback Marl Smolinski is big but slow, and the halfback, Bill Mathis, is also slow, but both can block.
With passing again their strong suit, the Jets are fortunate to have two fine receivers in Don Maynard at flanker and Bake Turner at the split end. The tight end job is up for grabs, with Gene Heeter and Gene Prebola (obtained from Denver) most likely to succeed. The interior of the offensive line needs fixing, with only Dan Ficca and Jack Klotz at guard and tackle [respectively] certain of their jobs. The Jets' top scorer, Dick Guesman, went to Denver and Ewbank needs someone with a talented toe.
DEFENSE: The front four was strengthened by the addition of Gordy Holz, a 260-pound veteran, from Denver. LaVerne Torczon, another veteran, may be at one end with veteran Bob Watters on the other flank. But Gerry Philbin, a rookie from Buffalo, and Bert Wilder of North Carolina State could take their jobs.
The defensive secondary- Clyde Washington, Marshall Starks, Dainard Paulson and Billy Baird- was improving fast at season's end.
OUTLOOK: The Jets depend too much on the long bomb from Wood to Maynard or Turner, but if Snell becomes a standout runner and the defense is as good as it looks, the Jets will rise."
-Pro Football Stars (1964 Edition) edited by John Devaney
LAST YEAR'S STRENGTH: The Jets excelled at the long touchdown play based on top-flight receiving and pass protection. Bake Turner and Don Maynard were standout flankers.
LAST YEAR'S WEAKNESS: The defense, linemen and linebackers alike, was spotty. Larry Grantham was the only consistent player. The running attack was conspicuous by its absence. Quarterback Dick Wood was liked by coach Weeb Ewbank, but only a minority of others. He passed well but couldn't move.
1964 FORECAST: The Jets have attained stability, a sound organization and will open in new Shea Stadium. Only nine players remain from the Titans of the old 1962 management.
The big deal with Denver was pegged around middle linebacker Wahoo McDaniel as far as Ewbank was concerned. He also feels Gordy Holz is a better defensive tackle than Chuck Janerette, can use Bob Zeman in the secondary and Gene Prebola for more help at tight end. Rookies Gerry Philbin and Bert Wilder will contend for defensive line berths, while Ralph Baker, Jeff Ware, Bill Scott and Chuck Robinson were signed as linebackers.
Newcomers Pete Liske and Mike Taliaferro, who led Illinois to the Rose Bowl, move in behind Wood at quarterback. Top draft pick Matt Snell is being considered for linebacker, defensive end or fullback."
-Bob Hoobing, Pro Football Illustrated 1964
1964 New York Jets Preseason Rosters
46 Bill Baird (DB) Oregon State
* Ralph Baker (LB) Penn State
Mike Blazovich (G) Florida State
* Stu Chrirsthilf (DE) Virginia
45 Dick Christy (FL-HB) North Carolina State
61 Dan Ficca (G) USC
60 Larry Grantham (LB) Mississippi
84 Ken Gregory (E) Whittier
85 Gene Heeter (E) Virginia
* Dave Herman (G-T) Michigan State
* Olin Hill (T) Furman
75 Winston Hill (C-T) Texas Southern
Gordy Holz (DT) Minnesota
Ken Honea (LB) Tennessee
63 Roy Hord (G) Duke
52 Mike Hudock (C) Miami
33 Curley Johnson (E-HB) Houston
* Rudy Johnson (K-HB) Nebraska
* Larry Kerstetter (LB) Susquehanna
78 Jack Klotz (T) Pennsylvania Military College
* Pete Liske (QB) Penn State
89 Dee Mackey (E) East Texas State
* Fred Mancuso (C) Richmond
31 Bill Mathis (HB) Clemson
13 Don Maynard (FL) Texas Western
88 Bob McAdams (DT) North Carolina A & T
Wahoo McDaniel (LB) Oklahoma
* Hase McKay (DT) Arizona State
* Jim McKinstry (E) Farmingdale
40 Dainard Paulson (CB) Oregon State
20 Bill Perkins (HB) Iowa
64 Pete Perreault (G-LB) Boston University
* Gerry Philbin (DE-LB) Buffalo
79 Sherman Plunkett (T) Maryland State
* Pete Pompey (DB) Morgan State
Gene Prebola (E) Boston University
Bill Rademacher (DB-FL) Northern Michigan
Chuck Robinson (G-LB) Florida State
73 Paul Rochester (DT) Michigan State
Bill Scott (G-LB) Memphis State
30 Mark Slominski (FB) Wyoming
* Matt Snell (DE-LB-FB) Ohio State
25 Marshall Starks (DB) Illinois
26 Tony Stricker (DB) Colorado
* Mike Taliaferro (QB) Illinois
87 LaVerne Torczon (DE) Nebraska
29 Bake Turner (E) Texas Tech
* Jim Turner (K) Utah State
Jeff Ware (LB) Pittsburgh
42 Clyde Washington (DB) Purdue
86 Bob Watters (DE) Lincoln
Dave West (DB) Central State (Ohio)
* Bert Wilder (DT-DE) North Carolina State
Bill Wood (DB-FL) West Virginia Wesleyan
19 Dick Wood (QB) Auburn
57 Dave Yohn (LB) Gettysburg
Bob Zeman (DB) Wisconsin
* rookie
-Pro Football 1964
Head Coach - Weeb Ewbank
Assistant Coaches: Clive Rush, offensive backfield and receivers; Chuck Knox, offensive line; Walt Michaels, defensive line; J.D. Donaldson, defensive backfield
46 Bill Baird (DB) Oregon State
* Ralph Baker (LB) Penn State
45 Dick Christy (FL-HB) North Carolina State
61 Dan Ficca (G) USC
60 Larry Grantham (LB) Mississippi
84 Ken Gregory (E) Whittier
85 Gene Heeter (E) Virginia
* Dave Herman (G-T) Michigan State
75 Winston Hill (C-T) Texas Southern
Gordy Holz (DT) Minnesota
63 Roy Hord (G) Duke
52 Mike Hudock (C) Miami
33 Curley Johnson (E-HB) Houston
* Rudy Johnson (K-HB) Nebraska
78 Jack Klotz (T) Pennsylvania Military College
* Pete Liske (QB) Penn State
89 Dee Mackey (E) East Texas State
31 Bill Mathis (HB) Clemson
13 Don Maynard (FL) Texas Western
88 Bob McAdams (DT) North Carolina A & T
Wahoo McDaniel (LB) Oklahoma
* Jim McKinstry (E) Farmingdale
40 Dainard Paulson (CB) Oregon State
20 Bill Perkins (HB) Iowa
64 Pete Perreault (G-LB) Boston University
* Gerry Philbin (DE-LB) Buffalo
79 Sherman Plunkett (T) Maryland State
Gene Prebola (E) Boston University
Bill Rademacher (DB-FL) Northern Michigan
81 Will Renfro (DE) Memphis State
Chuck Robinson (G-LB) Florida State
73 Paul Rochester (DT) Michigan State
Bill Scott (G-LB) Memphis State
30 Mark Slominski (FB) Wyoming
* Matt Snell (DE-LB-FB) Ohio State
25 Marshall Starks (DB) Illinois
26 Tony Stricker (DB) Colorado
* Mike Taliaferro (QB) Illinois
87 LaVerne Torczon (DE) Nebraska
29 Bake Turner (E) Texas Tech
Jeff Ware (LB) Pittsburgh
42 Clyde Washington (DB) Purdue
86 Bob Watters (DE) Lincoln
Dave West (DB) Central State (Ohio)
* Bert Wilder (DT-DE) North Carolina State
Bill Wood (DB-FL) West Virginia Wesleyan
19 Dick Wood (QB) Auburn
57 Dave Yohn (LB) Gettysburg
Bob Zeman (DB) Wisconsin
* rookie
-Pro Football Handbook 1964
1964 JETS PRESEASON DEPTH CHARTS
OFFENSE
Receivers
Bake Turner (S) (Texas Tech)
Dick Christy (S-F)(North Carolina State)
Ken Gregory (S) (Whittier)
Gene Heeter (T) (West Virginia)
Dee Mackey (T) (East Texas State)
Gene Prebola (T) (Boston University)
Don Maynard (F) (Texas Western)
(S)-Split End (T)-Tight End (F)-Flanker
Interior Linemen
Jack Klotz (T) (Pennsylvania Military College)
Winston Hill (T) (Texas Southern)
Olin Hill (T) (Furman)
Sherman Plunkett (T) (Maryland State)
Dan Ficca (G) (USC)
Pete Perreault (G) (Boston University)
Roy Hord (G) (Duke)
Dave Herman (G) (Michigan State)
Mike Hudock (C) (Miami)
(T)-Tackle (G)-Guard (C)-Center
Quarterbacks
Dick Wood (Auburn)
Mike Taliaferro (Illinois)
Pete Liske (Penn State)
Running Backs
Mark Smolinski (F) (Wyoming)
Matt Snell (F) (Ohio State)
Curley Johnson (F) (Houston)
Bill Mathis (F) (Clemson)
Bill Perkins (H) (Clemson)
Rudy Johnson (H) (Nebraska)
Kicker
Jim Turner (Utah State)
DEFENSE
Front Linemen
LaVerne Torczon (E) (Nebraska)
Bob Watters (E) (Lincoln)
Gerry Philbin (E) (Buffalo)
Bert Wilder (E) (North Carolina State)
Paul Rochester (T) (Michigan State)
Gordy Holz (T) (Minnesota)
Bob McAdams (T) (North Carolina A & T)
(E)-End (T)-Tackle
Linebackers
Wahoo McDaniel (M) (Oklahoma)
Ralph Baker (M-O) (Penn State)
Dave Yohn (O) (Gettysburg)
Larry Grantham (O) (Mississippi)
(M)-Middle Linebacker (O)-Outside Linebacker
Defensive Backs
Marshall Starks (C) (Illinois)
Clyde Washington (C) (Purdue)
Dave West (C) (Central State, Ohio)
Dainard Paulson (S) (Oregon)
Bill Baird (S) (San Francisco State)
Bob Zeman (S) (Wisconsin)
Tony Stricker (S) (Colorado)
(C)-Cornerback (S)-Safety
-All-Pro 1964 Football
OFFENSE
QB - Dick Wood (Auburn) 19, Mike Taliaferro (Illinois)*, Pete Liske (Penn State)*
HB -Bill Mathis (Clemson) 31, Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45, Bill Perkins (Clemson) 20, Rudy Johnson (Nebraska)*
FB- Matt Snell (Ohio State)*, Mark Smolinski (Wyoming) 30, Curley Johnson (Houston) 33
SE - Bake Turner (Texas Tech) 29, Ken Gregory (Whittier) 84
T - Winston Hill (Texas Southern) 75, Jack Klotz (Pennsylvania Military College) 78
G - Dan Ficca (USC) 61, Roy Hord (Duke) 63
C - Mike Hudock (Miami) 52
G - Dave Herman (Michigan State)*, Pete Perreault (Boston University) 64
T - Sherman Plunkett (Maryland State) 79, Jim McCusker (Pittsburgh) 70
TE - Dee Mackey (East Texas State) 89, Gene Heeter (West Virginia) 85, Gene Prebola (Boston University) 83
FL - Don Maynard (Texas Western) 13
DEFENSE
DE - Bob Watters (Lincoln) 86, Gerry Philbin (Buffalo)*
DT - Paul Rochester (Michigan State) 72, Bob McAdams (North Carolina A & T) 88
DT - Gordy Holz (Minnesota) 74
DE - LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska) 87, Bert Wilder (North Carolina State)*
LB - Ralph Baker (Penn State)*, Bill Scott (Memphis State)*
MLB - Wahoo McDaniel (Oklahoma) 54, Dave Yohn (Gettysburg) 57
LB - Larry Grantham (Mississippi) 60, Jeff Ware (Pittsburgh)*
CB - Marshall Starks (Illinois) 25, Tony Stricker (Colorado) 26
S - Dainard Paulson (Oregon State) 40, Bob Zeman (Wisconsin) 34
S - Bill Baird (San Francisco State) 46
CB - Clyde Washington (Purdue) 42
SPECIALISTS
K - Jim Turner (Utah State)*
P - Curley Johnson (Houston) 33
KR - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
PR - Bill Baird (San Francisco State) 46
* rookie
1964 New York Jets Profile Summary
Head Coach - Weeb Ewbank
Assistant Coach - Clive Rush
QB - Dick Wood (Auburn) 19
QB - Mike Taliaferro (Illinois) 17
QB - Pete Liske (Penn State) 18
HB - Bill Mathis (Clemson) 31
HB - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
HB - Curley Johnson (Houston) 33
FB - Matt Snell (Ohio State) 41
FB - Mark Smolinski (Wyoming) 30
FL - Don Maynard (Texas Western) 13
SE - Bake Turner (Texas Tech) 29
TE - Dee Mackey (East Texas State) 89
TE - Gene Heeter (West Virginia) 85
TE - Gene Prebola (Boston University) 86
C - Mike Hudock (Miami) 52
G - Sam DeLuca (South Carolina) 65
G - Dan Ficca (USC) 61
G - Pete Perreault (Boston University) 64
T - Jack Klotz (Pennsylvania Military College) 78
T - Sherman Plunkett (Maryland State) 79
DT - Gordy Holz (Minnesota) 74
DT - Jim McCusker (Pittsburgh) 70
DT - Bob McAdams (North Carolina A & T) 88
DE - Gerry Philbin (Buffalo) 81
DE - LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska) 87
MLB - Wahoo McDaniel (Oklahoma) 54
LB - Larry Grantham (Mississippi) 60
LB - Jeff Ware (Pittsburgh) 50
CB - Marshall Starks (Illinois) 25
CB - Clyde Washington (Purdue) 42
S - Dainard Paulson (Oregon State) 40
S - Bill Baird (San Francisco State) 46
S - Bob Zeman (Wisconsin) 34
K - Jim Turner (Utah State) 11
P - Curley Johnson (Houston) 33
KR - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
PR - Bill Baird (San Francisco State) 46
'We'll be all right,' Ewbank answered, 'as soon as we get a few things organized. I've seen sicker cows than this get well.'
In 1964 the one-time sick cow will, I believe, turn into the healthiest in the AFL's Eastern Division. On a competitive level, this looms as the tightest race in pro football history. Any of the four teams appear capable of winning the title. Last season, remember, there were only two games separating the four clubs. The Boston Patriots won in a playoff against the Buffalo Bills. The Houston Oilers finished a game-and-a-half out of first place, the Jets two games out. To win this year, then, the Jets don't have to improve too much. Chances are, a 9-5 record will win. Maybe 8-6.
The Jets have several factors in their favor this season. Perhaps most important, the personnel has had time to adjust to Ewbank's system; last year it was new to them. To complicate matters, the team wasn't really assembled until the last few days before the season opened because Ewbank was waiting for NFL cuts to stock both his offensive and defensive units. This year there won't be that much juggling. As a result, the training camp games will permit the players to develop as units.
Another reason is the AFL schedule. The Jets play six of their first eight games in shiny Shea Stadium. This stretch of home games should work to their advantage. If they don't take advantage of it, however, they'll be cooked. They must play five of their last six on the road.
Ewbank is a major factor. Player by player, he's building the Jets into a contender, just as he built the NFL Baltimore Colts into a two-time champion in 1958 and 1959. It took him five years in the NFL. It might take him only two in the AFL if his quarterback, Dick Wood, stays healthy. Many pro football observers continue to criticize Wood but Ewbank is sticking with him. That's good enough for me. Not quite a decade ago, you may remember, he stuck with a young QB named Johnny Unitas.
When anybody mentions the AFL Eastern Division championship to Weeb Ewbank, the Jets coach knocks on Wood. Dick Wood.
For some reason, most experts prefer to put knocks on Wood. But Ewbank defends him, pointing out, 'Until he was injured late last season, he was leading the league in touchdown passes (18), he was leading the league in avoiding interceptions (.051 per attempt), he was third in completions (160) and he was third in yards gained, passing (2,202). If Dick keeps improving the way he did late in the season, I think he's going to surprise a lot of people and be a fine quarterback. He's got the arm. All he needs is the experience.'
Apparently, Ewbank is going all the way with Dick Wood. And he just might be going all the way to the Eastern championship.
The Jets don't need to improve much. In the AFL, a team can jump quickly. Look what Oakland did last season: a 10-4-0 record following a 1-13-0 record in 1962. There's no reason the Jets can't climb quickly, too. They were in the race until the next-to-last game last season and with a 5-8-1 record, they finished only two games behind the Patriots and Bills. And all this, remember, was with a makeshift team which really wasn't put together until the week before the season began.
It's always easier to throw an offense together; as a result, the defensive unit sabotaged the offense all season. But during the off-season, Ewbank kept trying to plug holes in his defense.
The Jets swung a nine-man trade with the Broncos, one of the largest deals in pro football history. The key man in the swap was middle linebacker Wahoo McDaniel.
'We need help at linebacker and on the defensive line,' Ewbank says, 'and if we get it, we'll be all right.' Watch for Ewbank to remold his defense again, if necessary. Only Larry Grantham, the two-time All-AFL outside linebacker, would seem to be immune.
This year the Jets have a new stadium, $25 million Shea Stadium. They also have a season-ticket sale that figures to approach 15,000.
They have something else that's new, too: rookies. After the financial farce of the previous regime, the Jets were able to sign many of their draft choices. They shelled out $100,000, it is said, for fullback Matt Snell of Ohio State. They signed two rookie quarterbacks, Pete Liske of Penn State and Mike Taliaferro (pronounced Tol-i-ver) of Illinois, but Ewbank is counting on Dick Wood, along with pass receivers Bake Turner and Don Maynard, to keep the Jets from flaming out.
The Jets won't breeze to the title, though. The Patriots, Bills and Oilers all will be tough. The Patriots with their rugged defensive unit. The Bills with Cookie Gilchrist. The Oilers with ageless George Blanda. But somehow I think the Jets are going to win. If they do, Weeb Ewbank should receive the Veterinarian of the Year Award."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"This is the year the Jets begin to start winning some friends and showing more pep at the box office. The team? Still not enough pros, AFL variety, to hope for more than third place in the East.
There was a flurry of between-season bartering with the Broncos, a five-for-four thing that served to supply New York with additional defensive strength and another candidate for an already overloaded tight end situation. Expected to get regular assignments from Coach Weeb Ewbank are Wahoo McDaniel (linebacker), Gordy Holz (tackle) and Bob Zeman (cornerback and safety). Gene Prebola is the tight end who'll have to fend off so many others seeking recognition.
Offensively, New York is going to battle with outdated weapons and unexploded ammunition. Dick Wood, injury prone and about the only one with battle experience at camp, is the leading quarterback in a backfield group that has Bill Mathis and Mark Smolinski, better blockers than runners, catchers Bake Turner and Don Maynard, maybe the best pair in the league; all, however, will function behind a sketchy line that needs more guards another tackle. Dan Ficca is a quality guard and Jack Klotz conducts himself in becoming fashion at tackle.
After a successful draft, there are some offensive yearlings who are worthy of mention, particularly Pete Liske and Mark Taliaferro, quarterbacks; Rudy Johnson, fullback; Dave Herman, tackle, and Matt Snell, the Ohio State fullback who could pop up in the offensive pattern or take hold of a job as linebacker. Latest plans were for Snell to work in as a running back.
There's a brighter sense of proportion on the defensive side, even with apparent weaknesses in the front, due to an untested bench and the hopeful development of some freshmen who are at least satisfied with financial arrangements.
The linebacking of Dave Yohn, McDaniel and Larry Grantham, an All-League, could be New York's finest muscle. The corner men, with quantity and enough quality to go around, might prove extremely stubborn, especially if Clyde Washington, Dainard Paulson and Marshall Starks continue to develop as anticipated.
Ewbank is a man who refuses to recognize problems. He has long tentacles around both leagues and is not proud about waiting for an NFL dropout, especially one who can throw or run with the ball, before he puts in his claim. A man who has known the very utmost of success while with Baltimore, he'll come up with enough of everything to make the Jets' first year at their new Shea Stadium interesting and commercially successful.
Summing up: OFFENSE - weaknesses all over except at the flanks; more interior linemen required; quarterback of more veteran status, with proper backup-man, would be helpful; running average; rookie crop looks promising. DEFENSE - nothing to be ashamed of with some thinness showing at tackle and end."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Despite their failure to sign a single draft choice, the Jets finished only two games out of first place in 1963 and weren't eliminated from the Eastern race until the next to last game. Weeb Ewbank, who masterminds the Jets, is convinced that with a little luck plus improvements stemming from draft choices, the New York club can go all the way this autumn.
The Jets were eminently successful last winter in acquiring fresh faces. They signed six college players from their 1963 draft list and four futures from 1961 and 1962.
The Jets beat their New York rivals, the Giants of the NFL, to the services of Ohio State's Matt Snell, who can play fullback, defensive end, and linebacker. Snell reportedly was paid $20,000 to sign and $30,000 for his services the first year. Ewbank says he'll play somewhere for certain. Other touted rookies lured into the Jets' camp include Mike Taliaferro, Illinois quarterback; Dave Herman, Michigan State offensive lineman; Rudy Johnson, Nebraska fullback, and Gerry Philbin, Buffalo linebacker.
Ewbank again will go with Dick Wood at quarterback. Wood is the one-time Auburn star who first attracted Ewbank's attention when Weeb coached the Baltimore Colts. Wood has one of football's most powerful arms and one its most fragile knees. He missed the final three games last year because of knee trouble. He's been pronounced fit, but he'll be supported by Taliaferro.
Bill Mathis, Mark Smolinski and Dick Christy return as running backs. The Jets' most solid department is pass receiving, where Bake Turner, Don Maynard, Gene Heeter and Dee Mackey hold forth.
In the offensive line, Jack Klotz and Dan Ficca are a pair of improving blockers. Sherman Plunkett and Mike Hudock are available, and draft choice Herman may help. Defensively, it's imperative that Gordy Holz, Bob Watters and LaVerne Torczon, all front liners, remain healthy. Linebacking should continue to improve with Wahoo McDaniel, acquired from Denver, joining Larry Grantham, Dave Yohn and Pete Perreault. The secondary, with Clyde Washington, Billy Baird, Dainard Paulson and Marshall Starks, again is formidable; Bob Zeman, picked up in the nine-player swap with the Broncos, adds still more strength to this department."
-Bill Wise, 1964 Official Pro Football Almanac
"It might not be evident from the standings, but the New York Jets are on the move. For one thing, they're moving to Shea Stadium, across from the World's Fair Grounds in Flushing Meadows. For another thing, they're moving through the college draft like no other New York AFL entry has before. By the time Weeb Ewbank, backed by the bulging wallets of the Jets' new owners, gets through, New York should be one of the league's strong teams. But not this year.
This season Ewbank will probably again sacrifice his running attack to provide adequate blocking for his paper-mache quarterback, Dick Wood. Last year Weeb used two fullbacks- Mark Smolinski and Billy Mathis- in the starting backfield. Mathis played halfback, and that cut his effectiveness by a good 30 per cent. He is a fine fullback but just so-so at half.
If he gets the protection, Wood is probably the best long thrower in the league. But he's erratic on the medium and short passes. The spindly quarterback has some outstanding receivers. Bake Turner, getting his first chance to play as a pro, caught 71 passes. Veteran Don Maynard caught only 38, but almost a quarter of them went for touchdowns. And there are three tight ends available- Dee Mackey, Gene Prebola and Gene Heeter.
The big offensive problem is the line. If some blockers would appear, the Jets might attempt a distinct running attack. They might also give Wood some added protection.
Ewbank swung a nine-player trade with Denver to help his defense. Three of the four he got will play on the hold-'em unit. They are middle linebacker Wahoo McDaniel, tackle Gordy Holz and safety Bob Zeman.' McDaniel was our key man in the deal,' says Ewbank. Holz is 31 but had a great year in Denver. Zeman was all-league two seasons ago.
Corner backs Marshall Starks and Clyde Washington are thought to be vulnerable. Things are rosier at safety where Dainard Paulson and Bill Baird will be challenged by Zeman.
Rookie linemen Gerry Philbin of the University of Buffalo and Bert Wilder of North Carolina State might help the weak pass rush. No. 1 draft choice Matt Snell of Ohio State may play as a defensive end or linebacker, though he's currently listed at fullback. The Jets outbid the rival New York Giants for Snell and two other touted newcomers, Illinois Rose Bowl quarterback Mike Taliaferro and Michigan State guard Dave Herman. Taliaferro and another rookie, Pete Liske of Penn State, will become very important if an injury puts Liske out of action. No one likes to go with a first-year quarterback, least of all on a team as weak as the Jets. Ewbank will pin his hopes to improved pass protection for Wood.
Ewbank's team won three of its first four games last season. Considering the material he was working with, Weeb had the other AFL coaches talking to themselves. If he can forget about picking everything the Baltimore Colts reject, the Jets might surprise a lot of people before very much longer."
-All-Pro 1964 Football
OFFENSE
Receivers
"Don Maynard and Bake Turner are two of the best long distance threats around. Don caught nine touchdown passes and Bake six. Dee Mackey and Gene Prebola are both seasoned tight ends.
Gene Heeter can block better than Dee and catch better than Gene. Dick Christy is an all-around handyman. He's only 5-10 but does a good job.
Rating: Very Good"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
Interior Linemen
"Any good-looking rookie could win a job here. Jack Klotz was released in '62 but Weeb Ewbank re-signed him and he became the best of a poor group. Pete Perreault was a linebacker last year. Dan Ficca's a steady plugger. Mike Hudock, bothered by injuries, could be the division's best center. Sherman Plunkett grows old.
The Hill boys are about on equal terms. If defensive ends are found, Gerry Philbin may play guard. Roy Hord was a disappointment.
Rating: Poor"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
Quarterbacks
"Dick Wood's next play may be his last. He's ultra brittle.
Mike Taliaferro led the Illini's Big Ten champs. Pete Liske can double on defense.
Rating: Fair"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
Running Backs
"Ewbank sacrifices the running attack to protect Wood. Bill Mathis should be playing fullback, not halfback. If Matt Snell isn't used at full he'll probably be a regular elsewhere.
Mark Smolinski is so-so. Rudy Johnson, a star for Nebraska's Orange Bowl champs, may be the top rookie.
Rating: Poor"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
Kicker
"Jim Turner replaces Dick Guesman.
No Rating"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
DEFENSE
Front Linemen
"The Jets traded Chuck Janerette and Dick Guesman, leaving plenty of room for rookies. Gerry Philbin and Bert Wilder are tough kids. Gordy Holz had a good year but he's 31. A lack of strength hurts LaVerne Torczon. Paul Rochester is a K.C. discard.
Bob Watters played well on occasion last season. Bob McAdams was picked up after the Giants dropped him.
Rating: Poor"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
Linebackers
"Ewbank felt Wahoo McDaniel was the key man in the nine-player deal with Denver. He's tough on the running game. Larry Grantham is small but gets all-star votes. Ralph Baker is rated a top prospect.
Rating: Fair
-All-Pro 1964 Football
Defensive Backs
"Marshall Starks and Clyde Washington, two guys nobody else wanted, did capable jobs at corner back. Starks has a tendency to relax at the wrong time, though.
Bob Zeman brings strength to the safety spot. He has flaws but he'll hit you. So will Dainard Paulson, who could be much better than Bob. Bill Baird has strength and speed.
Rating: Fair
-All-Pro 1964 Football
OUTLOOK
"Someday the Jets will soar to the top, but this year their lumps will resemble the Unisphere.
Prediction: Fourth"
-All-Pro 1964 Football
LOOK OUT FOR THAT BOMB
"Sonny Werblin's Jets ended up exactly where their predecessors- Harry Wismer's Titans- had landed: in last place. But the Jets finished with a respectable record- 5-8-1, beating the likes of Kansas City, Boston and Houston.
Coach Weeb Ewbank based his 1963 hopes on quarterback Dick Wood and he's still going with the lanky 6-4 passer. Up to the time he was injured near the end of the season, Wood was leading the league in touchdown passes and was third in completions. 'If Dick keeps improving his short passes and his pass-action plays,' says Weeb, 'he's going to be a fine quarterback.'
Maybe. One trouble is, Wood- who can throw the long bomb better than perhaps anybody in the league- has weak knees. To keep him sound, the Jets must use the halfback and fullback as blockers, which doesn't do much to help their short passing game. And Wood can't run.
Where the Jets figure to be much stronger is at linebacker. They have Larry Grantham, who is All-League. They picked up Wahoo McDaniel in a nine-man swap with Denver. And they have signed one of the nation's most respected collegians, Ohio State's burly Matt Snell (who may, however, be used at defensive end or fullback).
OFFENSE: Behind Wood at quarterback is Pete Liske and Mike Taliaferro, a rookie from Illinois. If Wood's knees give out, Taliaferro could win the job. Fullback Marl Smolinski is big but slow, and the halfback, Bill Mathis, is also slow, but both can block.
With passing again their strong suit, the Jets are fortunate to have two fine receivers in Don Maynard at flanker and Bake Turner at the split end. The tight end job is up for grabs, with Gene Heeter and Gene Prebola (obtained from Denver) most likely to succeed. The interior of the offensive line needs fixing, with only Dan Ficca and Jack Klotz at guard and tackle [respectively] certain of their jobs. The Jets' top scorer, Dick Guesman, went to Denver and Ewbank needs someone with a talented toe.
DEFENSE: The front four was strengthened by the addition of Gordy Holz, a 260-pound veteran, from Denver. LaVerne Torczon, another veteran, may be at one end with veteran Bob Watters on the other flank. But Gerry Philbin, a rookie from Buffalo, and Bert Wilder of North Carolina State could take their jobs.
The defensive secondary- Clyde Washington, Marshall Starks, Dainard Paulson and Billy Baird- was improving fast at season's end.
OUTLOOK: The Jets depend too much on the long bomb from Wood to Maynard or Turner, but if Snell becomes a standout runner and the defense is as good as it looks, the Jets will rise."
-Pro Football Stars (1964 Edition) edited by John Devaney
LAST YEAR'S STRENGTH: The Jets excelled at the long touchdown play based on top-flight receiving and pass protection. Bake Turner and Don Maynard were standout flankers.
LAST YEAR'S WEAKNESS: The defense, linemen and linebackers alike, was spotty. Larry Grantham was the only consistent player. The running attack was conspicuous by its absence. Quarterback Dick Wood was liked by coach Weeb Ewbank, but only a minority of others. He passed well but couldn't move.
1964 FORECAST: The Jets have attained stability, a sound organization and will open in new Shea Stadium. Only nine players remain from the Titans of the old 1962 management.
The big deal with Denver was pegged around middle linebacker Wahoo McDaniel as far as Ewbank was concerned. He also feels Gordy Holz is a better defensive tackle than Chuck Janerette, can use Bob Zeman in the secondary and Gene Prebola for more help at tight end. Rookies Gerry Philbin and Bert Wilder will contend for defensive line berths, while Ralph Baker, Jeff Ware, Bill Scott and Chuck Robinson were signed as linebackers.
Newcomers Pete Liske and Mike Taliaferro, who led Illinois to the Rose Bowl, move in behind Wood at quarterback. Top draft pick Matt Snell is being considered for linebacker, defensive end or fullback."
-Bob Hoobing, Pro Football Illustrated 1964
1964 New York Jets Preseason Rosters
46 Bill Baird (DB) Oregon State
* Ralph Baker (LB) Penn State
Mike Blazovich (G) Florida State
* Stu Chrirsthilf (DE) Virginia
45 Dick Christy (FL-HB) North Carolina State
61 Dan Ficca (G) USC
60 Larry Grantham (LB) Mississippi
84 Ken Gregory (E) Whittier
85 Gene Heeter (E) Virginia
* Dave Herman (G-T) Michigan State
* Olin Hill (T) Furman
75 Winston Hill (C-T) Texas Southern
Gordy Holz (DT) Minnesota
Ken Honea (LB) Tennessee
63 Roy Hord (G) Duke
52 Mike Hudock (C) Miami
33 Curley Johnson (E-HB) Houston
* Rudy Johnson (K-HB) Nebraska
* Larry Kerstetter (LB) Susquehanna
78 Jack Klotz (T) Pennsylvania Military College
* Pete Liske (QB) Penn State
89 Dee Mackey (E) East Texas State
* Fred Mancuso (C) Richmond
31 Bill Mathis (HB) Clemson
13 Don Maynard (FL) Texas Western
88 Bob McAdams (DT) North Carolina A & T
Wahoo McDaniel (LB) Oklahoma
* Hase McKay (DT) Arizona State
* Jim McKinstry (E) Farmingdale
40 Dainard Paulson (CB) Oregon State
20 Bill Perkins (HB) Iowa
64 Pete Perreault (G-LB) Boston University
* Gerry Philbin (DE-LB) Buffalo
79 Sherman Plunkett (T) Maryland State
* Pete Pompey (DB) Morgan State
Gene Prebola (E) Boston University
Bill Rademacher (DB-FL) Northern Michigan
Chuck Robinson (G-LB) Florida State
73 Paul Rochester (DT) Michigan State
Bill Scott (G-LB) Memphis State
30 Mark Slominski (FB) Wyoming
* Matt Snell (DE-LB-FB) Ohio State
25 Marshall Starks (DB) Illinois
26 Tony Stricker (DB) Colorado
* Mike Taliaferro (QB) Illinois
87 LaVerne Torczon (DE) Nebraska
29 Bake Turner (E) Texas Tech
* Jim Turner (K) Utah State
Jeff Ware (LB) Pittsburgh
42 Clyde Washington (DB) Purdue
86 Bob Watters (DE) Lincoln
Dave West (DB) Central State (Ohio)
* Bert Wilder (DT-DE) North Carolina State
Bill Wood (DB-FL) West Virginia Wesleyan
19 Dick Wood (QB) Auburn
57 Dave Yohn (LB) Gettysburg
Bob Zeman (DB) Wisconsin
* rookie
-Pro Football 1964
Head Coach - Weeb Ewbank
Assistant Coaches: Clive Rush, offensive backfield and receivers; Chuck Knox, offensive line; Walt Michaels, defensive line; J.D. Donaldson, defensive backfield
46 Bill Baird (DB) Oregon State
* Ralph Baker (LB) Penn State
45 Dick Christy (FL-HB) North Carolina State
61 Dan Ficca (G) USC
60 Larry Grantham (LB) Mississippi
84 Ken Gregory (E) Whittier
85 Gene Heeter (E) Virginia
* Dave Herman (G-T) Michigan State
75 Winston Hill (C-T) Texas Southern
Gordy Holz (DT) Minnesota
63 Roy Hord (G) Duke
52 Mike Hudock (C) Miami
33 Curley Johnson (E-HB) Houston
* Rudy Johnson (K-HB) Nebraska
78 Jack Klotz (T) Pennsylvania Military College
* Pete Liske (QB) Penn State
89 Dee Mackey (E) East Texas State
31 Bill Mathis (HB) Clemson
13 Don Maynard (FL) Texas Western
88 Bob McAdams (DT) North Carolina A & T
Wahoo McDaniel (LB) Oklahoma
* Jim McKinstry (E) Farmingdale
40 Dainard Paulson (CB) Oregon State
20 Bill Perkins (HB) Iowa
64 Pete Perreault (G-LB) Boston University
* Gerry Philbin (DE-LB) Buffalo
79 Sherman Plunkett (T) Maryland State
Gene Prebola (E) Boston University
Bill Rademacher (DB-FL) Northern Michigan
81 Will Renfro (DE) Memphis State
Chuck Robinson (G-LB) Florida State
73 Paul Rochester (DT) Michigan State
Bill Scott (G-LB) Memphis State
30 Mark Slominski (FB) Wyoming
* Matt Snell (DE-LB-FB) Ohio State
25 Marshall Starks (DB) Illinois
26 Tony Stricker (DB) Colorado
* Mike Taliaferro (QB) Illinois
87 LaVerne Torczon (DE) Nebraska
29 Bake Turner (E) Texas Tech
Jeff Ware (LB) Pittsburgh
42 Clyde Washington (DB) Purdue
86 Bob Watters (DE) Lincoln
Dave West (DB) Central State (Ohio)
* Bert Wilder (DT-DE) North Carolina State
Bill Wood (DB-FL) West Virginia Wesleyan
19 Dick Wood (QB) Auburn
57 Dave Yohn (LB) Gettysburg
Bob Zeman (DB) Wisconsin
* rookie
-Pro Football Handbook 1964
1964 JETS PRESEASON DEPTH CHARTS
OFFENSE
Receivers
Bake Turner (S) (Texas Tech)
Dick Christy (S-F)(North Carolina State)
Ken Gregory (S) (Whittier)
Gene Heeter (T) (West Virginia)
Dee Mackey (T) (East Texas State)
Gene Prebola (T) (Boston University)
Don Maynard (F) (Texas Western)
(S)-Split End (T)-Tight End (F)-Flanker
Interior Linemen
Jack Klotz (T) (Pennsylvania Military College)
Winston Hill (T) (Texas Southern)
Olin Hill (T) (Furman)
Sherman Plunkett (T) (Maryland State)
Dan Ficca (G) (USC)
Pete Perreault (G) (Boston University)
Roy Hord (G) (Duke)
Dave Herman (G) (Michigan State)
Mike Hudock (C) (Miami)
(T)-Tackle (G)-Guard (C)-Center
Quarterbacks
Dick Wood (Auburn)
Mike Taliaferro (Illinois)
Pete Liske (Penn State)
Running Backs
Mark Smolinski (F) (Wyoming)
Matt Snell (F) (Ohio State)
Curley Johnson (F) (Houston)
Bill Mathis (F) (Clemson)
Bill Perkins (H) (Clemson)
Rudy Johnson (H) (Nebraska)
Kicker
Jim Turner (Utah State)
DEFENSE
Front Linemen
LaVerne Torczon (E) (Nebraska)
Bob Watters (E) (Lincoln)
Gerry Philbin (E) (Buffalo)
Bert Wilder (E) (North Carolina State)
Paul Rochester (T) (Michigan State)
Gordy Holz (T) (Minnesota)
Bob McAdams (T) (North Carolina A & T)
(E)-End (T)-Tackle
Linebackers
Wahoo McDaniel (M) (Oklahoma)
Ralph Baker (M-O) (Penn State)
Dave Yohn (O) (Gettysburg)
Larry Grantham (O) (Mississippi)
(M)-Middle Linebacker (O)-Outside Linebacker
Defensive Backs
Marshall Starks (C) (Illinois)
Clyde Washington (C) (Purdue)
Dave West (C) (Central State, Ohio)
Dainard Paulson (S) (Oregon)
Bill Baird (S) (San Francisco State)
Bob Zeman (S) (Wisconsin)
Tony Stricker (S) (Colorado)
(C)-Cornerback (S)-Safety
-All-Pro 1964 Football
OFFENSE
QB - Dick Wood (Auburn) 19, Mike Taliaferro (Illinois)*, Pete Liske (Penn State)*
HB -Bill Mathis (Clemson) 31, Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45, Bill Perkins (Clemson) 20, Rudy Johnson (Nebraska)*
FB- Matt Snell (Ohio State)*, Mark Smolinski (Wyoming) 30, Curley Johnson (Houston) 33
SE - Bake Turner (Texas Tech) 29, Ken Gregory (Whittier) 84
T - Winston Hill (Texas Southern) 75, Jack Klotz (Pennsylvania Military College) 78
G - Dan Ficca (USC) 61, Roy Hord (Duke) 63
C - Mike Hudock (Miami) 52
G - Dave Herman (Michigan State)*, Pete Perreault (Boston University) 64
T - Sherman Plunkett (Maryland State) 79, Jim McCusker (Pittsburgh) 70
TE - Dee Mackey (East Texas State) 89, Gene Heeter (West Virginia) 85, Gene Prebola (Boston University) 83
FL - Don Maynard (Texas Western) 13
DEFENSE
DE - Bob Watters (Lincoln) 86, Gerry Philbin (Buffalo)*
DT - Paul Rochester (Michigan State) 72, Bob McAdams (North Carolina A & T) 88
DT - Gordy Holz (Minnesota) 74
DE - LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska) 87, Bert Wilder (North Carolina State)*
LB - Ralph Baker (Penn State)*, Bill Scott (Memphis State)*
MLB - Wahoo McDaniel (Oklahoma) 54, Dave Yohn (Gettysburg) 57
LB - Larry Grantham (Mississippi) 60, Jeff Ware (Pittsburgh)*
CB - Marshall Starks (Illinois) 25, Tony Stricker (Colorado) 26
S - Dainard Paulson (Oregon State) 40, Bob Zeman (Wisconsin) 34
S - Bill Baird (San Francisco State) 46
CB - Clyde Washington (Purdue) 42
SPECIALISTS
K - Jim Turner (Utah State)*
P - Curley Johnson (Houston) 33
KR - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
PR - Bill Baird (San Francisco State) 46
* rookie
1964 New York Jets Profile Summary
Head Coach - Weeb Ewbank
Assistant Coach - Clive Rush
QB - Dick Wood (Auburn) 19
QB - Mike Taliaferro (Illinois) 17
QB - Pete Liske (Penn State) 18
HB - Bill Mathis (Clemson) 31
HB - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
HB - Curley Johnson (Houston) 33
FB - Matt Snell (Ohio State) 41
FB - Mark Smolinski (Wyoming) 30
FL - Don Maynard (Texas Western) 13
SE - Bake Turner (Texas Tech) 29
TE - Dee Mackey (East Texas State) 89
TE - Gene Heeter (West Virginia) 85
TE - Gene Prebola (Boston University) 86
C - Mike Hudock (Miami) 52
G - Sam DeLuca (South Carolina) 65
G - Dan Ficca (USC) 61
G - Pete Perreault (Boston University) 64
T - Jack Klotz (Pennsylvania Military College) 78
T - Sherman Plunkett (Maryland State) 79
DT - Gordy Holz (Minnesota) 74
DT - Jim McCusker (Pittsburgh) 70
DT - Bob McAdams (North Carolina A & T) 88
DE - Gerry Philbin (Buffalo) 81
DE - LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska) 87
MLB - Wahoo McDaniel (Oklahoma) 54
LB - Larry Grantham (Mississippi) 60
LB - Jeff Ware (Pittsburgh) 50
CB - Marshall Starks (Illinois) 25
CB - Clyde Washington (Purdue) 42
S - Dainard Paulson (Oregon State) 40
S - Bill Baird (San Francisco State) 46
S - Bob Zeman (Wisconsin) 34
K - Jim Turner (Utah State) 11
P - Curley Johnson (Houston) 33
KR - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
PR - Bill Baird (San Francisco State) 46
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
1963 Profile: Dee Mackey
Tight End
No. 89
East Texas State
Dee got Baltimore's 1962 season started with the first two scores on opening day at Memorial Stadium. After a seven-yard touchdown reception from Johnny Unitas in the first quarter, he caught a 39-yarder from Unitas in the second quarter. Both touchdowns would prove decisive in Baltimore's 30-27 win over the Rams. Dee also recorded the first score of the game the following week when he received an 11-yard touchdown pass from Johnny U in the first quarter of another home victory for the Colts.
As a collegian with East Texas in 1959, Dee caught 32 passes for 600 yards.
No. 89
East Texas State
Dee got Baltimore's 1962 season started with the first two scores on opening day at Memorial Stadium. After a seven-yard touchdown reception from Johnny Unitas in the first quarter, he caught a 39-yarder from Unitas in the second quarter. Both touchdowns would prove decisive in Baltimore's 30-27 win over the Rams. Dee also recorded the first score of the game the following week when he received an 11-yard touchdown pass from Johnny U in the first quarter of another home victory for the Colts.
As a collegian with East Texas in 1959, Dee caught 32 passes for 600 yards.
1963 Profiles: Lee Riley and Billy Atkins
LEE RILEY
Safety
No. 22
Detroit
"Lee Riley had a picnic in '62, all because quarterbacks insisted on throwing the long ball into his protective sphere of influence. This ex-Eagle safety man picked off 11 of the enemy's bombs and tied an AFL record for interceptions. He also shut off many potential TD tosses with his alert foot movements and quick hands.
Now 28, he's certain he's acquired enough knowledge of offensive patterns and passing habits to prove valuable to the Jets for many more seasons. A trifle weak against running plays, he has the disturbing the habit of leaving his territory unguarded on occasion."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"Lee is the quarterback of the Jets defensive secondary, virtually a coach on the field based on his six years of experience in pro ball. He's New York's best insurance against pass completions, with savvy picked up in tenures with Detroit, Philadelphia and New York of the NFL.
He is also a star performer, leading the AFL in pass interceptions in 1962 with a record-tying total of 11."
-1963 Fleer No. 19
BILLY ATKINS
Safety-Punter
No. 2
Auburn
"With good health, Billy Atkins should qualify as the best punter in the league. The booter from Millport, Alabama, who did top the circuit in '61, came up with a shoulder injury in '62 and was below par as kicker, punter and safety man. Billy was one of the best at intercepting passes and defending against long aerials when he was a Bill in '60 and '61.
He had a brief trial with the 49ers before coming to the AFL."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
Safety
No. 22
Detroit
"Lee Riley had a picnic in '62, all because quarterbacks insisted on throwing the long ball into his protective sphere of influence. This ex-Eagle safety man picked off 11 of the enemy's bombs and tied an AFL record for interceptions. He also shut off many potential TD tosses with his alert foot movements and quick hands.
Now 28, he's certain he's acquired enough knowledge of offensive patterns and passing habits to prove valuable to the Jets for many more seasons. A trifle weak against running plays, he has the disturbing the habit of leaving his territory unguarded on occasion."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"Lee is the quarterback of the Jets defensive secondary, virtually a coach on the field based on his six years of experience in pro ball. He's New York's best insurance against pass completions, with savvy picked up in tenures with Detroit, Philadelphia and New York of the NFL.
He is also a star performer, leading the AFL in pass interceptions in 1962 with a record-tying total of 11."
-1963 Fleer No. 19
BILLY ATKINS
Safety-Punter
No. 2
Auburn
"With good health, Billy Atkins should qualify as the best punter in the league. The booter from Millport, Alabama, who did top the circuit in '61, came up with a shoulder injury in '62 and was below par as kicker, punter and safety man. Billy was one of the best at intercepting passes and defending against long aerials when he was a Bill in '60 and '61.
He had a brief trial with the 49ers before coming to the AFL."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
1963 Jet Defensive Line Profiles
CHUCK JANERETTE
Defensive Tackle
No. 72
Penn State
"A three-sport star at Germantown (Penn.) High School, he earned four college football letters. Janerette was mentioned for All-American squads and played in the Copper Bowl and All-American Bowl. He was named to the 1960 College All-Star Game."
-1961Bell Brand No. 36
1962
One of the fastest offensive tackles in the pros, Chuck played every game as a rookie for the Rams in 1960. Last year, he made the Giant offensive line a solid wall of protection for Giant quarterbacks and even recovered a fumble.
Chuck earned four college football letters, earned All-American honorable mention, and played in the Copper Bowl and All-American Bowl.
1963
Having provided outstanding protection for Giant quarterbacks as an offensive tackle, Chuck crosses the Harlem River and switches to the other side of the line of scrimmage to fortify the defensive front wall of the new Jets. This former Penn State All-American is one of the fastest linemen in the pros.
DICK GUESMAN
Defensive Tackle
No. 77
West Virginia
An original Titan, Dick once again uses his 6'4" and 255 pounds to provide New York with aggressive defensive line play. He also proved himself as a place kicker in a November 1961 game against Oakland in the Polo Grounds, with two field goals (including a 40-yarder in the second quarter to give New York a 13-6 lead) and two extra points in a 23-13 Titan victory.
PAUL ROCHESTER
Defensive Tackle
No. 73
Michigan State
"Rookie linemen on the Texans' roster look to him to steer them over the pitfalls. A one-man crashing gang, he's outstanding at ending off [sic] high powered ground attacks.
He broke in with the Texans in 1960 and last year received honorable mention to the AFL all-star team. Jerry Mays and Paul form an excellent pair at the defensive tackle positions."
-1962 Fleer No. 33
No. 87
Nebraska
"New coach Weeb Ewbank will appreciate the end play of LaVerne Torczon, the crasher from Columbus, Nebraska who was a Bill in '60 and did a destructive job on passers. Dealt to New York last year, he gave the club a more substantial defensive front and kept the runners from attempting too many flank movements around his area.
He was first drafted by the Browns in '56.
Durable and dependable, he's quick to shake off injury and is always in condition."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
NICK MUMLEY
Defensive End
No. 74
Purdue
"Nick has been steady on the forward defensive wall of the New York club from the day he reported on the eve of the 1960 season, acquired in a trade from the Dallas Texans.
The timber-tall lineman, a tackle at Purdue, had been a high draft choice in 1959, but service in the College All-Star Game cut down his opportunity his opportunity to impress the brass in a short trial. The last couple of years, he has been operating at left end and putting a strong rush on opposition passers."
-1963 Fleer No. 22
Defensive Tackle
No. 72
Penn State
"A three-sport star at Germantown (Penn.) High School, he earned four college football letters. Janerette was mentioned for All-American squads and played in the Copper Bowl and All-American Bowl. He was named to the 1960 College All-Star Game."
-1961Bell Brand No. 36
1962
One of the fastest offensive tackles in the pros, Chuck played every game as a rookie for the Rams in 1960. Last year, he made the Giant offensive line a solid wall of protection for Giant quarterbacks and even recovered a fumble.
Chuck earned four college football letters, earned All-American honorable mention, and played in the Copper Bowl and All-American Bowl.
1963
Having provided outstanding protection for Giant quarterbacks as an offensive tackle, Chuck crosses the Harlem River and switches to the other side of the line of scrimmage to fortify the defensive front wall of the new Jets. This former Penn State All-American is one of the fastest linemen in the pros.
DICK GUESMAN
Defensive Tackle
No. 77
West Virginia
An original Titan, Dick once again uses his 6'4" and 255 pounds to provide New York with aggressive defensive line play. He also proved himself as a place kicker in a November 1961 game against Oakland in the Polo Grounds, with two field goals (including a 40-yarder in the second quarter to give New York a 13-6 lead) and two extra points in a 23-13 Titan victory.
PAUL ROCHESTER
Defensive Tackle
No. 73
Michigan State
"Rookie linemen on the Texans' roster look to him to steer them over the pitfalls. A one-man crashing gang, he's outstanding at ending off [sic] high powered ground attacks.
He broke in with the Texans in 1960 and last year received honorable mention to the AFL all-star team. Jerry Mays and Paul form an excellent pair at the defensive tackle positions."
-1962 Fleer No. 33
LAVERNE TORCZON
Defensive EndNo. 87
Nebraska
"New coach Weeb Ewbank will appreciate the end play of LaVerne Torczon, the crasher from Columbus, Nebraska who was a Bill in '60 and did a destructive job on passers. Dealt to New York last year, he gave the club a more substantial defensive front and kept the runners from attempting too many flank movements around his area.
He was first drafted by the Browns in '56.
Durable and dependable, he's quick to shake off injury and is always in condition."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
NICK MUMLEY
Defensive End
No. 74
Purdue
"Nick has been steady on the forward defensive wall of the New York club from the day he reported on the eve of the 1960 season, acquired in a trade from the Dallas Texans.
The timber-tall lineman, a tackle at Purdue, had been a high draft choice in 1959, but service in the College All-Star Game cut down his opportunity his opportunity to impress the brass in a short trial. The last couple of years, he has been operating at left end and putting a strong rush on opposition passers."
-1963 Fleer No. 22
1963 Profiles: Dainard Paulson and Clyde Washington
DAINARD PAULSON
Cornerback
No. 40
Oregon State
"Two seasons in New York livery have established this husky Californian on the defensive left flank of New York's deep umbrella. By the end of his rookie year, the coaches were calling him the best man in their secondary.
At Oregon State, Dainard starred on the other end of the stick, as a triple threat tailback in the single wing. If New York ever needs his services as a punter, he's on call. He once owned the Pacific Coast record with a 45.4 average per kick."
-1963 Fleer No. 18
CLYDE WASHINGTON
Cornerback
No. 42
Purdue
Clyde's best pro season was with Boston in 1961 when he played every game and recorded four interceptions, including one returned 33 yards. He brings his experience to the Jet defensive secondary as a vital cog in Coach Ewbank's rebuilding defense.
Cornerback
No. 40
Oregon State
"Two seasons in New York livery have established this husky Californian on the defensive left flank of New York's deep umbrella. By the end of his rookie year, the coaches were calling him the best man in their secondary.
At Oregon State, Dainard starred on the other end of the stick, as a triple threat tailback in the single wing. If New York ever needs his services as a punter, he's on call. He once owned the Pacific Coast record with a 45.4 average per kick."
-1963 Fleer No. 18
CLYDE WASHINGTON
Cornerback
No. 42
Purdue
Clyde's best pro season was with Boston in 1961 when he played every game and recorded four interceptions, including one returned 33 yards. He brings his experience to the Jet defensive secondary as a vital cog in Coach Ewbank's rebuilding defense.
1963 Profiles: Dick Christy and Bill Shockley
DICK CHRISTY
Halfback-Kick Returner
No. 45
North Carolina State
"The club offensive leader in '62 was Dick Christy, the Ridley Park (Pennsylvania) heavy-duty halfback who earned every dollar of his hard-to-collect salary last year. This ex-Redskin totaled more than 1,000 yards as a runner (535) and receiver (538); in addition, he led the loop in returning punts and was No. 9 in bringing back kickoffs.
Solid and secure at left halfback, he knows the potential of his opposition and works most effectively on their shortcomings. Now 27, he's approaching the peak of his game and is figured on shouldering much of the '63 Jet offensive burden."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"No man in the AFL worked harder in 1962 than this scooter. He was ninth in the league in rushing (114 carries for 535 yards); third in receiving (62 for 538 yards); ninth in kickoff returns (21.6 average on 38 carries) and the AFL's finest in the tough area of punt returns (13 for an average gain of 19.2 yards). Hard-rock Dick, brilliant in the open field, has been New York's heavy duty man for two seasons."
-1963 Fleer No. 14
BILL SHOCKLEY
Place Kicker-Halfback
No. 29
West Chester
"One fellow who'll keep his club in the game with his foot is Bill Shockley, the 25-year-old master at placement kicking. He's one of the handiest and most reliable at aiming for those three-pointers and is as certain as taxes on anything out to the 40-yard line. His strong follow-through and sturdy leg motion enable him to get the kick away rapidly, and he is one of the most difficult to block.
Out of Malvern, Pennsylvania, he led the club scorers in 1962 and was No. 10 in the league with 68 points."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
Halfback-Kick Returner
No. 45
North Carolina State
"The club offensive leader in '62 was Dick Christy, the Ridley Park (Pennsylvania) heavy-duty halfback who earned every dollar of his hard-to-collect salary last year. This ex-Redskin totaled more than 1,000 yards as a runner (535) and receiver (538); in addition, he led the loop in returning punts and was No. 9 in bringing back kickoffs.
Solid and secure at left halfback, he knows the potential of his opposition and works most effectively on their shortcomings. Now 27, he's approaching the peak of his game and is figured on shouldering much of the '63 Jet offensive burden."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"No man in the AFL worked harder in 1962 than this scooter. He was ninth in the league in rushing (114 carries for 535 yards); third in receiving (62 for 538 yards); ninth in kickoff returns (21.6 average on 38 carries) and the AFL's finest in the tough area of punt returns (13 for an average gain of 19.2 yards). Hard-rock Dick, brilliant in the open field, has been New York's heavy duty man for two seasons."
-1963 Fleer No. 14
BILL SHOCKLEY
Place Kicker-Halfback
No. 29
West Chester
"One fellow who'll keep his club in the game with his foot is Bill Shockley, the 25-year-old master at placement kicking. He's one of the handiest and most reliable at aiming for those three-pointers and is as certain as taxes on anything out to the 40-yard line. His strong follow-through and sturdy leg motion enable him to get the kick away rapidly, and he is one of the most difficult to block.
Out of Malvern, Pennsylvania, he led the club scorers in 1962 and was No. 10 in the league with 68 points."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
1963 Profiles: Bill Mathis and Mark Smolinski
BILL MATHIS
Fullback
No. 31
Clemson
"Few fullbacks put in as hard a day at practice or in a game as Bill Mathis, the 25-year-old toiler from Manchester, Connecticut.
He fell off in personal production in '62, all because his blocking was so vitally required to juice up a passing attack. Bill was quite sound in all departments in '61 when he topped the AFL in rushing attempts (202) and advanced more than 900 yards as a runner and receiver.
His moves are quite deceptive and he's quite capable of running short hook patterns.
The Oilers had him in '60 only to turn him over to New York during the training period."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"Until he banged up a shoulder in the preseason exercises, Bill had never missed a minute of action on the football field because of injury through any phase of his career. The injury virtually wiped him out for the 1962 campaign.
In 1961, he was second in the AFL in rushing with 846 yards on 202 carries and was the All-League fullback, and also the MVP on his own club.
He was a college halfback because of his speed and has grown into a burly 230-pounder."
-1963 Fleer No. 12
MARK SMOLINSKI
Fullback
No. 30
Wyoming
"The new Colt fullback of the future may very well be Mark Smolinski, the Roger City (Mich.) ripper who showed so much spark when Joe Perry came down with late-season injuries.
Signed as a free agent, Smolinski showed such determination to make the squad that he was taken on as a third fullback in 1961. Used sparingly last year, he rushed for 98 yards and added another 100 as pass-catcher."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
Fullback
No. 31
Clemson
"Few fullbacks put in as hard a day at practice or in a game as Bill Mathis, the 25-year-old toiler from Manchester, Connecticut.
He fell off in personal production in '62, all because his blocking was so vitally required to juice up a passing attack. Bill was quite sound in all departments in '61 when he topped the AFL in rushing attempts (202) and advanced more than 900 yards as a runner and receiver.
His moves are quite deceptive and he's quite capable of running short hook patterns.
The Oilers had him in '60 only to turn him over to New York during the training period."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"Until he banged up a shoulder in the preseason exercises, Bill had never missed a minute of action on the football field because of injury through any phase of his career. The injury virtually wiped him out for the 1962 campaign.
In 1961, he was second in the AFL in rushing with 846 yards on 202 carries and was the All-League fullback, and also the MVP on his own club.
He was a college halfback because of his speed and has grown into a burly 230-pounder."
-1963 Fleer No. 12
MARK SMOLINSKI
Fullback
No. 30
Wyoming
"The new Colt fullback of the future may very well be Mark Smolinski, the Roger City (Mich.) ripper who showed so much spark when Joe Perry came down with late-season injuries.
Signed as a free agent, Smolinski showed such determination to make the squad that he was taken on as a third fullback in 1961. Used sparingly last year, he rushed for 98 yards and added another 100 as pass-catcher."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
1963 Profile: Lee Grosscup
Quarterback
No. 17
Utah
"It's quite possible that the future of the Jets is tied up with the growth and development of Lee Grosscup, the much publicized quarterback who couldn't make it as a Giant for three years and then failed in an opportunity at Minnesota. This former Utah All-American came to the AFL last year and clicked in his first opportunity; then came an arm injury and then he was below form for the remainder of the season.
Intelligent, sensitive and adaptable, he has the natural tools to shake up the New York offense and the gambling instinct to become a sharpie at quarterback."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"Nobody could have had a more sensational debut than sharpshooter Lee when he joined New York two days before their opening game with Oakland and had three touchdowns on his first four passing attempts. He looked like a man who could bust the league wide open as he fired the team to two victories in their first three games.
Despite a severe knee injury, suffered against Buffalo, Lee bolstered the New York offense on some occasions."
-1963 Fleer No. 13
No. 17
Utah
"It's quite possible that the future of the Jets is tied up with the growth and development of Lee Grosscup, the much publicized quarterback who couldn't make it as a Giant for three years and then failed in an opportunity at Minnesota. This former Utah All-American came to the AFL last year and clicked in his first opportunity; then came an arm injury and then he was below form for the remainder of the season.
Intelligent, sensitive and adaptable, he has the natural tools to shake up the New York offense and the gambling instinct to become a sharpie at quarterback."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"Nobody could have had a more sensational debut than sharpshooter Lee when he joined New York two days before their opening game with Oakland and had three touchdowns on his first four passing attempts. He looked like a man who could bust the league wide open as he fired the team to two victories in their first three games.
Despite a severe knee injury, suffered against Buffalo, Lee bolstered the New York offense on some occasions."
-1963 Fleer No. 13
1963 Jet Linebacker Profiles
HUBERT BOBO
Middle Linebacker
No. 57
Ohio State
"The football spotlight has been on Big Bo for a decade since he starred as a sophomore fullback regular on an Ohio State Rose Bowl team.
New York has found him a stable, steady performer at the crucial middle linebacker position. He likes to hit, the first requisite of a good defender.
The amazing thing about Bo is that he has had to play his recent campaigns on a pair of bad knees, both scarred from operations. But happily they keep gaining strength with time."
-1963 Fleer No. 21
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
Having played every for the Titans in 1961 and 1962, Ed made three interceptions in '61, including one returned 43 yards.
It was in the sixth game of the 1962 season with New York still holding to title hopes, however, that he showed his truly gritty spirit. With the Titans trailing the Oilers in the third quarter at Jeppesen Stadium, Ed recovered a Houston fumble in the end zone for a touchdown, narrowing Houston's lead to 35-17, although the Oilers would win 56-17.
WALT MICHAELS
Linebacker-Coach
No. 34
Washington & Lee
"Best Brown linebacker, say NFL coaches. Michaels earned All-Pro recognition for his bruising play.
He was originally drafted by the Browns but traded to the Packers in '51. He came back in a 1952 deal, has been a regular ever since and now calls the defensive signals. His brother Lou is a topflight place-kicker and Ram defensive end.
Born in Swoyerville, Pa., Walt was a first-rate plunging fullback in college."
-1960 Pro Football Handbook
"From superior college fullback to All-NFL linebacker is the success story of Walt Michaels, the Swoyerville (Pa.) signal-caller on defense, whose brother Lou is a Steeler defensive end. Walt was a Packer for one season (1951) after being drafted by the Browns.
He believes in position play, preferring to guard his right side against all invaders."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"The hub of Paul Brown's defending corps since 1952 has been Walt Michaels. From his corner linebacking post, Walt calls the signals and after ten pro seasons he retains the speed to nab fleet runners on wide sweeps and protect the flat zones on passes.
A dairy farmer in Pennsylvania during the off-season, Walt was fullback star at Washington & Lee. His brother, Lou, plays with the Rams."
-1961 Fleer No. 18
"One of the fine defensive leaders of the Browns, Walt is alert to all of the opposing team play. He is a tough man to start with."
-1961 Topps No. 75
"Walt has been with the Browns since 1952, playing only as a linebacker. He calls the Browns' defensive signals."
-1961 National City Bank (Cleveland), Set No. 1, Player No. 4
"Coming over from Oakland to New York is Walt Michaels, the one-time All-NFL linebacker who put in so many excellent years with the Browns and one season at Green Bay. Born in Swoyerville, Pennsylvania, his brother, Lou, is the kicking ace and crack defensive end of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Walt was a player under Ewbank when Weeb coached linemen."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
Middle Linebacker
No. 57
Ohio State
"The football spotlight has been on Big Bo for a decade since he starred as a sophomore fullback regular on an Ohio State Rose Bowl team.
New York has found him a stable, steady performer at the crucial middle linebacker position. He likes to hit, the first requisite of a good defender.
The amazing thing about Bo is that he has had to play his recent campaigns on a pair of bad knees, both scarred from operations. But happily they keep gaining strength with time."
-1963 Fleer No. 21
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
Having played every for the Titans in 1961 and 1962, Ed made three interceptions in '61, including one returned 43 yards.
It was in the sixth game of the 1962 season with New York still holding to title hopes, however, that he showed his truly gritty spirit. With the Titans trailing the Oilers in the third quarter at Jeppesen Stadium, Ed recovered a Houston fumble in the end zone for a touchdown, narrowing Houston's lead to 35-17, although the Oilers would win 56-17.
WALT MICHAELS
Linebacker-Coach
No. 34
Washington & Lee
"Best Brown linebacker, say NFL coaches. Michaels earned All-Pro recognition for his bruising play.
He was originally drafted by the Browns but traded to the Packers in '51. He came back in a 1952 deal, has been a regular ever since and now calls the defensive signals. His brother Lou is a topflight place-kicker and Ram defensive end.
Born in Swoyerville, Pa., Walt was a first-rate plunging fullback in college."
-1960 Pro Football Handbook
"From superior college fullback to All-NFL linebacker is the success story of Walt Michaels, the Swoyerville (Pa.) signal-caller on defense, whose brother Lou is a Steeler defensive end. Walt was a Packer for one season (1951) after being drafted by the Browns.
He believes in position play, preferring to guard his right side against all invaders."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"The hub of Paul Brown's defending corps since 1952 has been Walt Michaels. From his corner linebacking post, Walt calls the signals and after ten pro seasons he retains the speed to nab fleet runners on wide sweeps and protect the flat zones on passes.
A dairy farmer in Pennsylvania during the off-season, Walt was fullback star at Washington & Lee. His brother, Lou, plays with the Rams."
-1961 Fleer No. 18
"One of the fine defensive leaders of the Browns, Walt is alert to all of the opposing team play. He is a tough man to start with."
-1961 Topps No. 75
"Walt has been with the Browns since 1952, playing only as a linebacker. He calls the Browns' defensive signals."
-1961 National City Bank (Cleveland), Set No. 1, Player No. 4
"Coming over from Oakland to New York is Walt Michaels, the one-time All-NFL linebacker who put in so many excellent years with the Browns and one season at Green Bay. Born in Swoyerville, Pennsylvania, his brother, Lou, is the kicking ace and crack defensive end of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Walt was a player under Ewbank when Weeb coached linemen."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
1963 Jet Offensive Line Profiles
MIKE HUDOCK
Center
No. 52
Miami
Mike is one of the best centers in the AFL at aggressive straight-ahead blocking for his team's ball-carriers and has the speed and rugged attitude to block downfield. He's an original Titan who bolstered New York's line in every game last year.
After an All-Conference college career at Miami of Florida, Mike spent two years in Philadelphia backing up Chuck Bednarik.
BOB MISCHAK
Guard
No. 67
Army
"A pro guard has the roughest of all offensive chores - he must do battle with heavier defensive tackles, spin and pivot out of the line and lead the interference while hustling at full speed. Bob Mischak performs these functions so well that he has acquired the respect of rival linemen throughout the league.
A regular with the Giants, he went to the AFL in 1960 and has been a high-ranking performer for three years. Now 30, this West Point graduate is out of Union, New Jersey, where he holds a responsible position in the telephone company."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"Bob is strictly class on the offensive line of New York and has been from the moment the team first took the field. He has gained All-AFL acclamation for three years and is recognized as a guard without a discernible weakness.
At West Point, he was a brilliant end, an All-East choice, and made a spectacular come-from-behind tackle on a fleet Duke back to save an important victory. New York persuaded him to come out of a year's retirement and have been well rewarded."
-1963 Fleer No. 17
SID FOURNET
Guard
No. 62
LSU
Sid played every game for the Dallas Texans in 1960 and '61 as well every game for the Titans last year. Coach Ewbank knows the importance of a solid offensive line to a team's passing game and knows Sid is an extremely durable professional he can depend on at guard.
A consensus All-American for LSU in 1954, Sid even caught a 12-yard pass that season.
SHERMAN PLUNKETT
Offensive Tackle
No. 79
Maryland State
Sherman's arrival in at the Polo Grounds brings greater protection for New York quarterbacks. Able to run the 40-yard dash in 5.2 seconds, he is a rare combination of size and speed.
He played every game for the Baltimore Colts in their NFL championship seasons of 1958 and 1959, so Coach Ewbank knows what this immense young man is capable of.
ALEX KROLL
Offensive Tackle
No. 55
Rutgers
"Alex has had to justify his salary in pro ball the hard way- playing a position for which he had no previous training. He was the big new name added to the club last year, famed for his All-American play as a center at Rutgers. New York didn't need a pivot. They did need an offensive tackle, and Alex was thrust into the breach.
He's literally growing into the job, expanding his size by 10 much-needed pounds and learning under fire."
-1963 Fleer No. 16
Center
No. 52
Miami
Mike is one of the best centers in the AFL at aggressive straight-ahead blocking for his team's ball-carriers and has the speed and rugged attitude to block downfield. He's an original Titan who bolstered New York's line in every game last year.
After an All-Conference college career at Miami of Florida, Mike spent two years in Philadelphia backing up Chuck Bednarik.
BOB MISCHAK
Guard
No. 67
Army
"A pro guard has the roughest of all offensive chores - he must do battle with heavier defensive tackles, spin and pivot out of the line and lead the interference while hustling at full speed. Bob Mischak performs these functions so well that he has acquired the respect of rival linemen throughout the league.
A regular with the Giants, he went to the AFL in 1960 and has been a high-ranking performer for three years. Now 30, this West Point graduate is out of Union, New Jersey, where he holds a responsible position in the telephone company."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"Bob is strictly class on the offensive line of New York and has been from the moment the team first took the field. He has gained All-AFL acclamation for three years and is recognized as a guard without a discernible weakness.
At West Point, he was a brilliant end, an All-East choice, and made a spectacular come-from-behind tackle on a fleet Duke back to save an important victory. New York persuaded him to come out of a year's retirement and have been well rewarded."
-1963 Fleer No. 17
SID FOURNET
Guard
No. 62
LSU
Sid played every game for the Dallas Texans in 1960 and '61 as well every game for the Titans last year. Coach Ewbank knows the importance of a solid offensive line to a team's passing game and knows Sid is an extremely durable professional he can depend on at guard.
A consensus All-American for LSU in 1954, Sid even caught a 12-yard pass that season.
SHERMAN PLUNKETT
Offensive Tackle
No. 79
Maryland State
Sherman's arrival in at the Polo Grounds brings greater protection for New York quarterbacks. Able to run the 40-yard dash in 5.2 seconds, he is a rare combination of size and speed.
He played every game for the Baltimore Colts in their NFL championship seasons of 1958 and 1959, so Coach Ewbank knows what this immense young man is capable of.
ALEX KROLL
Offensive Tackle
No. 55
Rutgers
"Alex has had to justify his salary in pro ball the hard way- playing a position for which he had no previous training. He was the big new name added to the club last year, famed for his All-American play as a center at Rutgers. New York didn't need a pivot. They did need an offensive tackle, and Alex was thrust into the breach.
He's literally growing into the job, expanding his size by 10 much-needed pounds and learning under fire."
-1963 Fleer No. 16
1963 Profile: Don Maynard
Flanker
No. 13
Texas Western
"Few flankers are capable of flashing the moves of Don Maynard, an ex-Giant who got a new lease on grid life just across the river. Used in the NFL chiefly as a punt and kickoff retriever, he was immediately pressed into service as a flanking back for his new club and has been one of the AFL's best at that job. He draws two defenders along every time he begins his complex pass patterns. Don can hook in and out, is expert at skirting the sidelines and can cut back with alarming speed.
He was the No. 5 receiver in '62, taking 56 passes and was No. 2 in yards gained (1,041).
Now 27, he's from Colorado City, Texas."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"Slim Don is New York's man of many speeds- all of them forward. He has a faculty for making more out of a pass reception than any man in the league.
Last fall he was the AFL's top man in average gain, at 18.5 yards per catch. In his three seasons, the slim sprinter (once clocked in 9.5 for the 100) has grabbed 171 passes and scored 22 touchdowns."
-1963 Fleer No. 15
No. 13
Texas Western
"Few flankers are capable of flashing the moves of Don Maynard, an ex-Giant who got a new lease on grid life just across the river. Used in the NFL chiefly as a punt and kickoff retriever, he was immediately pressed into service as a flanking back for his new club and has been one of the AFL's best at that job. He draws two defenders along every time he begins his complex pass patterns. Don can hook in and out, is expert at skirting the sidelines and can cut back with alarming speed.
He was the No. 5 receiver in '62, taking 56 passes and was No. 2 in yards gained (1,041).
Now 27, he's from Colorado City, Texas."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"Slim Don is New York's man of many speeds- all of them forward. He has a faculty for making more out of a pass reception than any man in the league.
Last fall he was the AFL's top man in average gain, at 18.5 yards per catch. In his three seasons, the slim sprinter (once clocked in 9.5 for the 100) has grabbed 171 passes and scored 22 touchdowns."
-1963 Fleer No. 15
1963 Profile: Bake Turner
Split End
No. 29
Texas Tech
In 14 games as a Colt rookie in 1962, Bake distinguished himself as a punt returner. He finished eighth in punt return yards (95) and recorded the league's eighth-longest punt return (43 yards). Bake showed the pass-catching potential he brings to the new Jets when last year he caught a 74-yard touchdown pass in a 42-17 Baltimore victory over Minnesota
In 1959 at Texas Tech, Bake made 22 receptions for 444 yards and a 20.2 average. He graduated as the school's all-time leading receiver.
No. 29
Texas Tech
In 14 games as a Colt rookie in 1962, Bake distinguished himself as a punt returner. He finished eighth in punt return yards (95) and recorded the league's eighth-longest punt return (43 yards). Bake showed the pass-catching potential he brings to the new Jets when last year he caught a 74-yard touchdown pass in a 42-17 Baltimore victory over Minnesota
In 1959 at Texas Tech, Bake made 22 receptions for 444 yards and a 20.2 average. He graduated as the school's all-time leading receiver.
1963 Profile: Weeb Ewbank
Head Coach
"The skipper starts his fifth term as the Colt master, determined to keep possession of the NFL title.
Ewbank began coaching at Miami (Ohio) University where he played as an undergraduate; he moved on to Great Lakes Naval Station, Brown University and Washington (Missouri) University before going to the Browns as tackle coach.
Known as a demon organizer, he is a believer in charting each day in training, each hour in practice, each play in a game. Ewbank's classroom techniques are part of his season-long curriculum and proof that it paid off is evidenced in the remarkable rise of the Colts.
Born in Richmond, Indiana, he now lives in Baltimore."
-Pro Football Handbook 1959
"Hoss boss started handling his Colts in 1954, his first top pro assignment. He had five years as tackle coach under Paul Brown where he learned to be fussy about details, fundamentals and classroom briefings.
Born in Richmond, Indiana, Ewbank played at Miami (Ohio), then returned as coach of his alma mater. He also coached at Great Lakes Naval Station, Brown University and Washington (Missouri) University.
Ewbank believes games are won on weekdays when practice prepares a team for Sunday's opponent. Each practice period is charted as to the progress of the Colts. Ewbank will not tolerate overconfidence and loafing and can crack a sharp whip when necessary.
He enters the 1960 season with no more worlds to conquer- 'except a third straight title,' he says."
-1960 Pro Football Handbook
"Ewbank begins his eighth year as headmaster of the Hosses. He formerly served as the tackle coach of the Browns and has expert knowledge of line play, offense and defense.
He's a graduate of Miami (Ohio), where he had his first coaching job. He also worked at Brown University before going to Washington (Mo.) University in his initial head coach role.
Details fascinate him and he spends hours in prepractice lectures, studying films and correcting mistakes. Ewbank has developed a theory of 'togetherness,' believing in keeping his squad together from the first preseason practice through the final game."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Some whisper that there's a bit of the martinet in Weeb which makes playing for him a bit difficult; not so, according to the way the 1961 Colts rallied behind him when rumors had him headed for the coaching graveyard. Weeb now begins his ninth campaign as keeper of the Colts, still insistent on having the complete squad together in training, practice and between games for the purpose of team unity.
Although his playing experience was at quarterback (Miami of Ohio), his first pro job was as tackle instructor for the Browns."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"Weeb could very well be the first to serve all three pro leagues as a coach. He was the line boss when Cleveland was in the All-America Conference; he took the top job at Baltimore and turned out two playoff champions. Tireless as a worker, he's most insistent on following through on exacting details and wants everything in organized form. Offensive-minded at all times, he likes to stress the air attack because 'it gets you there faster.'
Weeb played quarterback at Miami (Ohio) and put in five years as the tackle tutor of the Browns. He is another in the growing line of ex-NFL coaches to take employment in the newer league. He replaces Bulldog Turner."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"The skipper starts his fifth term as the Colt master, determined to keep possession of the NFL title.
Ewbank began coaching at Miami (Ohio) University where he played as an undergraduate; he moved on to Great Lakes Naval Station, Brown University and Washington (Missouri) University before going to the Browns as tackle coach.
Known as a demon organizer, he is a believer in charting each day in training, each hour in practice, each play in a game. Ewbank's classroom techniques are part of his season-long curriculum and proof that it paid off is evidenced in the remarkable rise of the Colts.
Born in Richmond, Indiana, he now lives in Baltimore."
-Pro Football Handbook 1959
"Hoss boss started handling his Colts in 1954, his first top pro assignment. He had five years as tackle coach under Paul Brown where he learned to be fussy about details, fundamentals and classroom briefings.
Born in Richmond, Indiana, Ewbank played at Miami (Ohio), then returned as coach of his alma mater. He also coached at Great Lakes Naval Station, Brown University and Washington (Missouri) University.
Ewbank believes games are won on weekdays when practice prepares a team for Sunday's opponent. Each practice period is charted as to the progress of the Colts. Ewbank will not tolerate overconfidence and loafing and can crack a sharp whip when necessary.
He enters the 1960 season with no more worlds to conquer- 'except a third straight title,' he says."
-1960 Pro Football Handbook
"Ewbank begins his eighth year as headmaster of the Hosses. He formerly served as the tackle coach of the Browns and has expert knowledge of line play, offense and defense.
He's a graduate of Miami (Ohio), where he had his first coaching job. He also worked at Brown University before going to Washington (Mo.) University in his initial head coach role.
Details fascinate him and he spends hours in prepractice lectures, studying films and correcting mistakes. Ewbank has developed a theory of 'togetherness,' believing in keeping his squad together from the first preseason practice through the final game."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Some whisper that there's a bit of the martinet in Weeb which makes playing for him a bit difficult; not so, according to the way the 1961 Colts rallied behind him when rumors had him headed for the coaching graveyard. Weeb now begins his ninth campaign as keeper of the Colts, still insistent on having the complete squad together in training, practice and between games for the purpose of team unity.
Although his playing experience was at quarterback (Miami of Ohio), his first pro job was as tackle instructor for the Browns."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
"Weeb could very well be the first to serve all three pro leagues as a coach. He was the line boss when Cleveland was in the All-America Conference; he took the top job at Baltimore and turned out two playoff champions. Tireless as a worker, he's most insistent on following through on exacting details and wants everything in organized form. Offensive-minded at all times, he likes to stress the air attack because 'it gets you there faster.'
Weeb played quarterback at Miami (Ohio) and put in five years as the tackle tutor of the Browns. He is another in the growing line of ex-NFL coaches to take employment in the newer league. He replaces Bulldog Turner."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
Sunday, June 8, 2014
1963 New York Jets Outlook
"Everything is clean and new around here. There is a fresh set of club officials; the coaching staff is on the scene for the first time, and the name is sleek and modern and a delight to headline writers. But we have to stop here and honestly wonder if New York expects to move from the Eastern cellar, only because it was unable to sign any young college talent or affect any trades of consequence.
Handcuffed by a lack of operating cash at the end of '62, New York was unable to enter the draft market. Ironically, the purchasers have the desire and money to wheel and deal but the prize chickens have been plucked, leaving only some rather lean bones to pick on. This does not help the chances of a franchise which the AFL would like to see a bit stronger.
Those who are old Titans and new Jets are definitely not of inferior quality; it's just that there's not enough of them.
Starting in the backfield, Dick Christy, flanker Don Maynard and fullback Bill Mathis are capable people who would be more effective with a steady quarterback. Lee Grosscup, an old-young ex-Giant, and Butch Songin, a former Patriot, could supply stability if both can stay out of harm's way. New York was quarterback poor in '62 due to a series of frustrating injuries.
The offensive forwards are operating with short personnel, particularly at end where Thurlow Cooper and Perry Richards are alone now that Art Powell has gone West. Tackles and guards are not in abundance but they are qualified. Gene Cockrell and Francis Morelli are the tackles. Bob Mischak, Sid Fournet and Roger Ellis are back at guard. The center is Mike Hudock.
All along the defensive points there are willing and talented hands - but again, not enough of them.
Nick Mumley and LaVerne Torczon, ends; Dick Guesman and George Strugar, tackles, comprise a stubborn front which needs plenty of additional hands. The linebackers, however, are a different breed, plentiful and productive, led by Larry Grantham, Hubert Bobo, Jerry Fields and Ed Cooke.
Help at the corner spots and at the safety slots would be appreciated. Dainard Paulson, Paul Hynes and Ed Kovac take turns at halfback; Lee Riley, Bill Atkins (when in shape) and Bill Shockley are the deep dissuaders.
Ewbank, a hard and proud worker, will fret and fume until he gets more personnel. If he hollers long and hard - and stays for a season or two - he'll get the Jets out of the cellar ... but not in '63."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"New York, New York, it's a wonderful town.
For the American Football League, New York has been nothing but a Giant pain in the neck ever since the fledgling organization began in 1960. The AFL's dirtiest show window was in New York and Harry Wismer, ex-president of the ex-Titans, washed a lot of laundry there.
The Wismer organization was so incredibly bad that no one took the Titans seriously. Wismer was a joke, so his team had to be. During the many months that it took to get rid of Wismer, many an AFL executive wondered if the league really needed New York. Wouldn't it be better to set up shop in another town, a non-competitive one like New Orleans or Atlanta as far away as possible from those New York Giants? The answer, of course, was no. Any major sports organization in America must have a going concern in New York or fold. The reason is that the city is a center of communications.
The two major wire services, which provide at least half of all the sports copy read in the nation's daily newspapers, are in New York, and the bulk of the copy is written there. Radio, television, magazines- their origins are in New York. The sportswriters who feed these media work in Manhattan and to attract their attention, team promoters must present their products there.
Without New York exposure, the teams or leagues are gradually forgotten by the communications people. And publicity is the lifeblood of any professional sports organization. If the American Football League had abandoned the nation's No. 1 metropolis, following the Wismer-Titan disaster, the organization would have reverted to minor league status within three years.
The other seven franchises in the American Football League, which collectively have lost almost $4,000,000 in starting their circuit, were most fortunate to trade Wismer for new owner David (Sonny) Werblin and his rich race track pals. Werblin has long been associated with Music Corporation of America, an outfit which knows how to run a first-class operation.
All of Werblin's early moves were first class, such as hiring Weeb Ewbank as coach and Joe Cahill as promotion-publicity director. Ewbank, let out by the Colts, was by far the best man available and the same could be said for Cahill, the capable man behind the Army Athletic Association at West Point.
It may sound funny but New York, in turn, needed an AFL team. Financing for the new Shea Stadium in Flushing Meadows was predicated on a pro football tenant. If the tenant disappeared, heaven knows what would have happened to the municipal stadium.
As a nucleus, Ewbank has on offense two adequate quarterbacks, Lee Grosscup and John Green; two dependable running backs, Dick Christy and Bill Mathis; and a flanker, Don Maynard. That gives Weeb a backfield. The line is full of problems. On defense, he has one outstanding linebacker, Larry Grantham, and half a secondary with Bill Atkins and Dainard Paulson. Elsewhere, it's a fill-in situation.
Ewbank will have to build his ball club in a hurry from the cuts of the other clubs in both leagues- he chose only two players in the special AFL draft. Weeb's first New York team will be strictly a paste-up job. The only Titans receiving '63 contracts were the only ones considered to be worth keeping.
The Jets are starting from scratch this season and that means they are three years behind their AFL competitors."
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
OFFENSE
Receivers
"Art Powell played out his contract and went to Oakland. That broke up the team's best asset, the Maynard-Powell combo. There's no one left like Art.
Glen Knight had two shots with the Giants but never impressed. Karl Kaimer, a long shot, made the squad last year and contributed. Thurlow Cooper was an original Titan. Despite his lack of speed, he's done a good job. Gene Heeter came from Buffalo.
Rating: Poor"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
Interior Linemen
"It's a nucleus. Dick Guesman also can play defense. Bob Mischak slipped in '62, but don't count him out. Bob is likely to pair with John McMullan, who's trying a comeback. He never should have been dropped in '62. Fran Morelli broke in capably and could play regularly. Mike Hudock is a fine center, an original member of the team.
The Giants cut Ted Poliskin at camp last summer. Clarence Gadsen's size is impressive. Roger Ellis is a capable reserve. Charles Stick and Larry Reaves are just names."
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
Quarterbacks
"Both Lee Grosscup and Johnny Green wound up '62 as cripples. Grosscup can be an AFL star. He has the arm.
Rating: Good"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
Running Backs
"For Bill Mathis, forget '62. He was hurt. Dick Christy had a fine year. The Jets need more like him.
Merrill Douglas had three years with the Bears. He can help. Ed Kovac will stick, maybe on defense.
Rating: Fair"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
Kicker
"Bill Shockley in '62: 13-for-26 in field goal attempts.
Rating: Fair"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
DEFENSE
Front Linemen
"A beginning. George Strugar had five years in the NFL. John Kenerson is an ex-Ram, Bob Watters is ex-Giant taxi squad. Laverne Torczon was once All-League at Buffalo. John Kapele once did time with the Steelers.
Nick Mumley was a fixture with the Titans. He must fight to stick.
It's not hard to fill the gaps here.
Rating: Fair"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
Linebackers
"Hubert Bobo's taped knee belongs in a museum. All-League Larry Grantham is a class player, probably the Jets' best. Ed Cooke was a steady hand with the Titans; Jerry Fields is a spare who can improve.
Rating: Poor"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
Defensive Backs
"Billy Atkins, hurt in '62, has been All-League. He can punt, too. Dainard Paulson was a bright discovery. Lee Riley set an AFL record for interceptions.
Rating: Fair"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
OUTLOOK
"Unhappily, the standings won't reflect all the changes that have been made. Not this year, anyway. Prediction: Fourth."
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
"They used to be the Titans but new coach Weeb Ewbank vows to erase all memories of that bedraggled entry. It's going to take time, though, because the Jets don't have much to start with.
Among those Ewbank will build his fortunes around are quarterback Lee Grosscup, offensive guard Bob Mischak, linebacker Larry Grantham, defensive tackle Dick Guesman, deep back Lee Riley, fullback Bill Mathis and halfback Dick Christy."
Inside Football 1963
"The New York entry in the AFL has a glossy new plant in which to play its game, a reputable coaching staff by headed diligent Weeb Ewbank, a well-heeled set of owners directed by Sonny Werblin and a lot of paid-up debts. All identification with the tenuous regime of Harry Wismer was discarded by changing the name from Titans to Jets.
In short, everything about the operation is big league - except the team.
The league dilly-dallied in settling the New York situation until almost every fine college prospect in the county was signed up and the good free agents corralled. The Jets are left with the same team that miraculously was able to win five games in an impossible situation - sometimes they didn't get paid (until the league stepped in), the coaching was disorganized and the talent was lacking (one back kept his job because Mrs. Wismer liked the way he ran).
Ewbank, who left the security of being paid not to coach Baltimore in '63, wasn't dismayed. He faced a comparable situation when he first took over the Colts in 1954 and built them to championship status in four years. In New York, he inherited a dozen players or so who qualify as pros. The quarterbacks, Lee Grosscup and Johnny Green, would look good on a lot of other teams. Ex-Giant Grosscup had an amazing debut against Oakland - two passes, two touchdowns.
Bill Mathis at fullback and Dick Christy at halfback are solid. Christy, not big, will probably become a flanker. Bob Mischak at guard and Mike Hudock at center are proficient offensive linemen. Skinny Don Maynard has had brilliant moments as a receiver; Art Powell's defection to Oakland leaves him the lone threat. On defense, George Strugar and Dick Guesman are dependable linemen, and veteran safety Lee Riley led all of football with 11 interceptions last season. Linebacker Larry Grantham is another bulwark on defense. Of course, that's just a bare nucleus. Ewbank is confident that his close contacts built up through three decades of coaching at all levels will produce enough free agents to pad out the squad. He can't forget that he once found Johnny Unitas on a Pittsburgh sandlot. In addition, the league committed itself to furnish a certain amount of help with a special draft. But the Jets selected just two untested college kids."
-1963 Official Pro Football Almanac
1963 New York Jets Preseason Roster
57 Hubert Bobo (LB) Ohio State
* Tom Bolz (E) Detroit
* Ed Buettner (OE)
* Norman Butz (OE) Baltimore
45 Dick Christy (HB) North Carolina State
70 Gene Cockrell (T) Hardin-Simmons
82 Ed Cooke (LB) Maryland
88 Thurlow Cooper (OE) Maryland
-- Merrill Douglas (FB) Utah
56 Roger Ellis (C-G) Maine
64 Jerry Fields (LB) Ohio State
62 Sid Fournet (G) LSU
* Clarence Gadsden (OT) Maryland State
60 Larry Grantham (LB) Mississippi
12 Johnny Green (QB) Tennessee-Chattanooga
17 Lee Grosscup (QB) Utah
72 Dick Guesman (DT) West Virginia
* Gene Heeter (E) West Virginia
52 Mike Hudock (C) Miami
-- Paul Hynes (HB) Louisiana Tech
86 Karl Kaimer (E) Boston
-- John Kapele (E) Brigham Young
-- Glen Knight (E-HB) Shaw
-- Howard Kovac (CB) Cincinnati
* Lou Lingerman (DE)
31 Bill Mathis (FB) Clemson
13 Don Maynard (FL) Texas Western
* Jim McKinstry (LB) Farmingdale
68 John McMullan (G) Notre Dame
67 Bob Mischak (G) Army
-- Frank Morelli (OT) Colgate
74 Nick Mumley (DE) Purdue
40 Dainard Paulson (CB) Oregon State
* Ted Poliskis (T) Hofstra
* George Rapp (E) Richmond
* Larry Reaves (G-T) Arizona State
-- Will Renfro (G) Memphis State
80 Perry Richards (OE) Detroit
22 Lee Riley (S) Detroit
-- T. Robotti (FB) Boston College
29 Bill Shockley (HB) West Chester
* Jeff Slabaugh (T) Indiana
* Robert Smith (LB) Toledo
11 Butch Songin (QB) Boston College
* George Spradlin (FB)
* Charles Stick (G) Louisville
* Tony Stricker (FL) Colorado
73 George Strugar (DT) Washington
87 LaVerne Torczon (DE) Nebraska
* Ernie Velten (HB) Gettysburg
83 Bob Watters (DE) Lincoln
* rookie
-Pro Football 1963
1963 NEW YORK JETS PRESEASON DEPTH CHARTS
OFFENSE
Receivers
Glen Knight (S) (Shaw)
George Rapp (S) (Richmond)
Thurlow Cooper (T) (Maine)
Gene Heeter (T) (West Virginia)
Tom Bolz (T) (Detroit)
Karl Kaimer (T) (Boston University)
Don Maynard (F) (Texas Western)
Tony Stricker (F) (Colorado)
(S)-Split End (T)-Tight End (F)-Flanker
Interior Linemen
Dick Guesman (T) (West Virginia)
Clarence Gadsden (T) (Maryland State)
Frank Morelli (T) (Colgate)
Ted Poliskin (T) (Hofstra)
Bob Mischak (G) (Army)
John McMullan (G) (Notre Dame)
Charles Stick (G) (Louisville)
Larry Reaves (G-T) (Arizona State)
Roger Ellis (C-G) (Maine)
Mike Hudock (C) (Miami)
(T)-Tackle (G)-Guard (C)-Center
Quarterbacks
Johnny Green (Tennessee-Chattanooga)
Lee Grosscup (Utah)
Running Backs
Bill Mathis (F) (Clemson)
Merrill Douglas (F) (Utah)
Ed Kovac (H) (Cincinnati)
Dick Christy (H) (North Carolina State)
(F)-Fullback (H)-Halfback
Kicker
Bill Shockley (West Chester)
DEFENSE
Front Linemen
Bob Watters (E) (Lincoln)
Nick Mumley (E) (Purdue)
John Kapele (E) (Brigham Young)
LaVerne Torczon (E) (Nebraska)
George Strugar (T) (Washington)
John Kenerson (T) (Kentucky State)
(E)-End (T)-Tackle
Linebackers
Hubert Bobo (M) (Ohio State)
Larry Grantham (O) (Mississippi)
Ed Cooke (O) (Maryland)
Jerry Fields (O) (Ohio State)
(M)-Middle Linebacker (O)-Outside Linebacker
Defensive Backs
Billy Atkins (C-S) (Auburn)
Dainard Paulson (C) (Oregon)
Lee Riley (S) (Detroit)
(C)-Cornerback (S)-Safety
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
OFFENSE
QB- Lee Grosscup (Utah)
HB - Dick Christy (North Carolina State)
FB - Bill Mathis (Clemson)
E - Thurlow Cooper (Maine)
T - Alex Kroll (Rutgers)
G - Roger Ellis (Maine)
C - Mike Hudock (Miami)
G - Bob Mischak (Army), Sid Fournet (LSU)
T - Frank Morelli (Colgate)
TE - Perry Richards (Detroit)
FL - Don Maynard (Texas Western)
DEFENSE
DE - Nick Mumley (Purdue)
DT - Dick Guesman (West Virginia)
DT - George Strugar (Washington)
DE - LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska)
LB - Larry Grantham (Mississippi)
MLB - Hubert Bobo (Ohio State)
LB - Ed Cooke (Maryland), Jerry Fields (Ohio State)
CB - Dainard Paulson (Oregon State)
S - Lee Riley (Detroit)
S - Billy Atkins (Auburn)
CB - Paul Hynes (Louisiana Tech), Ed Kovac (Cincinnati)
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
OFFENSE
QB - Lee Grosscup (Utah) 17, Johnny Green (Tennessee-Chattanooga) 12
HB - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45, Ed Kovac (Cincinnati) 35, Curley Johnson (Houston) 33
FB- Bill Mathis (Clemson) 31, Mark Smolinski (Wyoming) 30, Merrill Douglas (Utah) 36
SE - Bake Turner (Texas Tech) 29, Ken Gregory (Whittier) 84, Perry Richards (Detroit) 80
T - Winston Hill (Texas Southern)*, Jack Klotz (Pennsylvania Military College) 78
G - Dan Ficca (USC) 61, Roger Ellis (Maine) 56
C - Mike Hudock (Miami) 52, Charley Theokas (Massachusetts)*
G - Sid Fournet (LSU) 62, Charles Stick (Louisville)*
T - Sherman Plunkett (Maryland State) 79, Alex Kroll (Rutgers) 55, Clarence Gadsden (Maryland State)*
TE - Dee Mackey (East Texas State) 89, Thurlow Cooper (Maine) 88, Gene Heeter (West Virginia)*
FL - Don Maynard (Texas Western) 13
DEFENSE
DE - Bob Watters (Lincoln) 86, John Kenerson (Kentucky State) 75
DT - Chuck Janerette (Penn State) 72, George Strugar (Washington) 73
DT - Dick Guesman (West Virginia) 77, John Kapele (Brigham Young) 64
DE - LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska) 87
LB - Jim Price (Auburn)*, Ed Cooke (Maryland) 82
MLB - Dave Yohn (Gettysburg) 57, Jerry Fields (Ohio State) 64
LB - Larry Grantham (Mississippi) 60, Walt Michaels (Washington & Lee) 34
CB - Tony Stricker (Colorado)*, Ed Kovac (Cincinnati) 35
S - Dainard Paulson (Oregon State) 40, Billy Atkins (Auburn) 2
S - Bill Baird (San Francisco State)*, Lee Riley (Detroit) 22
CB - Clyde Washington (Purdue) 42, Marshall Starks (Illinois)*
SPECIALISTS
K - Dick Guesman (West Virginia) 77
P - Curley Johnson (Houston) 33
KR - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
PR - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
* rookie
1963 New York Jets Profile Summary
Head Coach - Weeb Ewbank
Assistant Coach - Walt Michaels
QB - Lee Grosscup (Utah) 17
HB - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
HB - Bill Shockley (West Chester) 24
FB- Bill Mathis (Clemson) 31
FB - Mark Smolinski (Wyoming) 30
FL - Don Maynard (Texas Western) 13
SE - Bake Turner (Texas Tech) 29
TE - Dee Mackey (East Texas State) 89
C - Mike Hudock (Miami) 52
G - Bob Mischak (Army) 67
G - Sid Fournet (LSU) 62
T - Sherman Plunkett (Maryland State) 79
T - Alex Kroll (Rutgers) 55
DT - Chuck Janerette (Penn State) 72
DT - Dick Guesman (West Virginia) 77
DT - Paul Rochester (Michigan State) 73
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
LB - Walt Michaels (Washington & Lee) 34
S - Lee Riley (Detroit) 22
S - Billy Atkins (Auburn) 2
CB - Dainard Paulson (Oregon State) 40
CB - Clyde Washington (Purdue) 42
K - Bill Shockley (West Chester) 24
P - Billy Atkins (Auburn) 2
KR - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
PR - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
Handcuffed by a lack of operating cash at the end of '62, New York was unable to enter the draft market. Ironically, the purchasers have the desire and money to wheel and deal but the prize chickens have been plucked, leaving only some rather lean bones to pick on. This does not help the chances of a franchise which the AFL would like to see a bit stronger.
Those who are old Titans and new Jets are definitely not of inferior quality; it's just that there's not enough of them.
Starting in the backfield, Dick Christy, flanker Don Maynard and fullback Bill Mathis are capable people who would be more effective with a steady quarterback. Lee Grosscup, an old-young ex-Giant, and Butch Songin, a former Patriot, could supply stability if both can stay out of harm's way. New York was quarterback poor in '62 due to a series of frustrating injuries.
The offensive forwards are operating with short personnel, particularly at end where Thurlow Cooper and Perry Richards are alone now that Art Powell has gone West. Tackles and guards are not in abundance but they are qualified. Gene Cockrell and Francis Morelli are the tackles. Bob Mischak, Sid Fournet and Roger Ellis are back at guard. The center is Mike Hudock.
All along the defensive points there are willing and talented hands - but again, not enough of them.
Nick Mumley and LaVerne Torczon, ends; Dick Guesman and George Strugar, tackles, comprise a stubborn front which needs plenty of additional hands. The linebackers, however, are a different breed, plentiful and productive, led by Larry Grantham, Hubert Bobo, Jerry Fields and Ed Cooke.
Help at the corner spots and at the safety slots would be appreciated. Dainard Paulson, Paul Hynes and Ed Kovac take turns at halfback; Lee Riley, Bill Atkins (when in shape) and Bill Shockley are the deep dissuaders.
Ewbank, a hard and proud worker, will fret and fume until he gets more personnel. If he hollers long and hard - and stays for a season or two - he'll get the Jets out of the cellar ... but not in '63."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
"New York, New York, it's a wonderful town.
For the American Football League, New York has been nothing but a Giant pain in the neck ever since the fledgling organization began in 1960. The AFL's dirtiest show window was in New York and Harry Wismer, ex-president of the ex-Titans, washed a lot of laundry there.
The Wismer organization was so incredibly bad that no one took the Titans seriously. Wismer was a joke, so his team had to be. During the many months that it took to get rid of Wismer, many an AFL executive wondered if the league really needed New York. Wouldn't it be better to set up shop in another town, a non-competitive one like New Orleans or Atlanta as far away as possible from those New York Giants? The answer, of course, was no. Any major sports organization in America must have a going concern in New York or fold. The reason is that the city is a center of communications.
The two major wire services, which provide at least half of all the sports copy read in the nation's daily newspapers, are in New York, and the bulk of the copy is written there. Radio, television, magazines- their origins are in New York. The sportswriters who feed these media work in Manhattan and to attract their attention, team promoters must present their products there.
Without New York exposure, the teams or leagues are gradually forgotten by the communications people. And publicity is the lifeblood of any professional sports organization. If the American Football League had abandoned the nation's No. 1 metropolis, following the Wismer-Titan disaster, the organization would have reverted to minor league status within three years.
The other seven franchises in the American Football League, which collectively have lost almost $4,000,000 in starting their circuit, were most fortunate to trade Wismer for new owner David (Sonny) Werblin and his rich race track pals. Werblin has long been associated with Music Corporation of America, an outfit which knows how to run a first-class operation.
All of Werblin's early moves were first class, such as hiring Weeb Ewbank as coach and Joe Cahill as promotion-publicity director. Ewbank, let out by the Colts, was by far the best man available and the same could be said for Cahill, the capable man behind the Army Athletic Association at West Point.
It may sound funny but New York, in turn, needed an AFL team. Financing for the new Shea Stadium in Flushing Meadows was predicated on a pro football tenant. If the tenant disappeared, heaven knows what would have happened to the municipal stadium.
As a nucleus, Ewbank has on offense two adequate quarterbacks, Lee Grosscup and John Green; two dependable running backs, Dick Christy and Bill Mathis; and a flanker, Don Maynard. That gives Weeb a backfield. The line is full of problems. On defense, he has one outstanding linebacker, Larry Grantham, and half a secondary with Bill Atkins and Dainard Paulson. Elsewhere, it's a fill-in situation.
Ewbank will have to build his ball club in a hurry from the cuts of the other clubs in both leagues- he chose only two players in the special AFL draft. Weeb's first New York team will be strictly a paste-up job. The only Titans receiving '63 contracts were the only ones considered to be worth keeping.
The Jets are starting from scratch this season and that means they are three years behind their AFL competitors."
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
OFFENSE
Receivers
"Art Powell played out his contract and went to Oakland. That broke up the team's best asset, the Maynard-Powell combo. There's no one left like Art.
Glen Knight had two shots with the Giants but never impressed. Karl Kaimer, a long shot, made the squad last year and contributed. Thurlow Cooper was an original Titan. Despite his lack of speed, he's done a good job. Gene Heeter came from Buffalo.
Rating: Poor"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
Interior Linemen
"It's a nucleus. Dick Guesman also can play defense. Bob Mischak slipped in '62, but don't count him out. Bob is likely to pair with John McMullan, who's trying a comeback. He never should have been dropped in '62. Fran Morelli broke in capably and could play regularly. Mike Hudock is a fine center, an original member of the team.
The Giants cut Ted Poliskin at camp last summer. Clarence Gadsen's size is impressive. Roger Ellis is a capable reserve. Charles Stick and Larry Reaves are just names."
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
Quarterbacks
"Both Lee Grosscup and Johnny Green wound up '62 as cripples. Grosscup can be an AFL star. He has the arm.
Rating: Good"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
Running Backs
"For Bill Mathis, forget '62. He was hurt. Dick Christy had a fine year. The Jets need more like him.
Merrill Douglas had three years with the Bears. He can help. Ed Kovac will stick, maybe on defense.
Rating: Fair"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
Kicker
"Bill Shockley in '62: 13-for-26 in field goal attempts.
Rating: Fair"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
DEFENSE
Front Linemen
"A beginning. George Strugar had five years in the NFL. John Kenerson is an ex-Ram, Bob Watters is ex-Giant taxi squad. Laverne Torczon was once All-League at Buffalo. John Kapele once did time with the Steelers.
Nick Mumley was a fixture with the Titans. He must fight to stick.
It's not hard to fill the gaps here.
Rating: Fair"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
Linebackers
"Hubert Bobo's taped knee belongs in a museum. All-League Larry Grantham is a class player, probably the Jets' best. Ed Cooke was a steady hand with the Titans; Jerry Fields is a spare who can improve.
Rating: Poor"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
Defensive Backs
"Billy Atkins, hurt in '62, has been All-League. He can punt, too. Dainard Paulson was a bright discovery. Lee Riley set an AFL record for interceptions.
Rating: Fair"
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
OUTLOOK
"Unhappily, the standings won't reflect all the changes that have been made. Not this year, anyway. Prediction: Fourth."
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
"They used to be the Titans but new coach Weeb Ewbank vows to erase all memories of that bedraggled entry. It's going to take time, though, because the Jets don't have much to start with.
Among those Ewbank will build his fortunes around are quarterback Lee Grosscup, offensive guard Bob Mischak, linebacker Larry Grantham, defensive tackle Dick Guesman, deep back Lee Riley, fullback Bill Mathis and halfback Dick Christy."
Inside Football 1963
"The New York entry in the AFL has a glossy new plant in which to play its game, a reputable coaching staff by headed diligent Weeb Ewbank, a well-heeled set of owners directed by Sonny Werblin and a lot of paid-up debts. All identification with the tenuous regime of Harry Wismer was discarded by changing the name from Titans to Jets.
In short, everything about the operation is big league - except the team.
The league dilly-dallied in settling the New York situation until almost every fine college prospect in the county was signed up and the good free agents corralled. The Jets are left with the same team that miraculously was able to win five games in an impossible situation - sometimes they didn't get paid (until the league stepped in), the coaching was disorganized and the talent was lacking (one back kept his job because Mrs. Wismer liked the way he ran).
Ewbank, who left the security of being paid not to coach Baltimore in '63, wasn't dismayed. He faced a comparable situation when he first took over the Colts in 1954 and built them to championship status in four years. In New York, he inherited a dozen players or so who qualify as pros. The quarterbacks, Lee Grosscup and Johnny Green, would look good on a lot of other teams. Ex-Giant Grosscup had an amazing debut against Oakland - two passes, two touchdowns.
Bill Mathis at fullback and Dick Christy at halfback are solid. Christy, not big, will probably become a flanker. Bob Mischak at guard and Mike Hudock at center are proficient offensive linemen. Skinny Don Maynard has had brilliant moments as a receiver; Art Powell's defection to Oakland leaves him the lone threat. On defense, George Strugar and Dick Guesman are dependable linemen, and veteran safety Lee Riley led all of football with 11 interceptions last season. Linebacker Larry Grantham is another bulwark on defense. Of course, that's just a bare nucleus. Ewbank is confident that his close contacts built up through three decades of coaching at all levels will produce enough free agents to pad out the squad. He can't forget that he once found Johnny Unitas on a Pittsburgh sandlot. In addition, the league committed itself to furnish a certain amount of help with a special draft. But the Jets selected just two untested college kids."
-1963 Official Pro Football Almanac
1963 New York Jets Preseason Roster
57 Hubert Bobo (LB) Ohio State
* Tom Bolz (E) Detroit
* Ed Buettner (OE)
* Norman Butz (OE) Baltimore
45 Dick Christy (HB) North Carolina State
70 Gene Cockrell (T) Hardin-Simmons
82 Ed Cooke (LB) Maryland
88 Thurlow Cooper (OE) Maryland
-- Merrill Douglas (FB) Utah
56 Roger Ellis (C-G) Maine
64 Jerry Fields (LB) Ohio State
62 Sid Fournet (G) LSU
* Clarence Gadsden (OT) Maryland State
60 Larry Grantham (LB) Mississippi
12 Johnny Green (QB) Tennessee-Chattanooga
17 Lee Grosscup (QB) Utah
72 Dick Guesman (DT) West Virginia
* Gene Heeter (E) West Virginia
52 Mike Hudock (C) Miami
-- Paul Hynes (HB) Louisiana Tech
86 Karl Kaimer (E) Boston
-- John Kapele (E) Brigham Young
-- Glen Knight (E-HB) Shaw
-- Howard Kovac (CB) Cincinnati
* Lou Lingerman (DE)
31 Bill Mathis (FB) Clemson
13 Don Maynard (FL) Texas Western
* Jim McKinstry (LB) Farmingdale
68 John McMullan (G) Notre Dame
67 Bob Mischak (G) Army
-- Frank Morelli (OT) Colgate
74 Nick Mumley (DE) Purdue
40 Dainard Paulson (CB) Oregon State
* Ted Poliskis (T) Hofstra
* George Rapp (E) Richmond
* Larry Reaves (G-T) Arizona State
-- Will Renfro (G) Memphis State
80 Perry Richards (OE) Detroit
22 Lee Riley (S) Detroit
-- T. Robotti (FB) Boston College
29 Bill Shockley (HB) West Chester
* Jeff Slabaugh (T) Indiana
* Robert Smith (LB) Toledo
11 Butch Songin (QB) Boston College
* George Spradlin (FB)
* Charles Stick (G) Louisville
* Tony Stricker (FL) Colorado
73 George Strugar (DT) Washington
87 LaVerne Torczon (DE) Nebraska
* Ernie Velten (HB) Gettysburg
83 Bob Watters (DE) Lincoln
* rookie
-Pro Football 1963
1963 NEW YORK JETS PRESEASON DEPTH CHARTS
OFFENSE
Receivers
Glen Knight (S) (Shaw)
George Rapp (S) (Richmond)
Thurlow Cooper (T) (Maine)
Gene Heeter (T) (West Virginia)
Tom Bolz (T) (Detroit)
Karl Kaimer (T) (Boston University)
Don Maynard (F) (Texas Western)
Tony Stricker (F) (Colorado)
(S)-Split End (T)-Tight End (F)-Flanker
Interior Linemen
Dick Guesman (T) (West Virginia)
Clarence Gadsden (T) (Maryland State)
Frank Morelli (T) (Colgate)
Ted Poliskin (T) (Hofstra)
Bob Mischak (G) (Army)
John McMullan (G) (Notre Dame)
Charles Stick (G) (Louisville)
Larry Reaves (G-T) (Arizona State)
Roger Ellis (C-G) (Maine)
Mike Hudock (C) (Miami)
(T)-Tackle (G)-Guard (C)-Center
Quarterbacks
Johnny Green (Tennessee-Chattanooga)
Lee Grosscup (Utah)
Running Backs
Bill Mathis (F) (Clemson)
Merrill Douglas (F) (Utah)
Ed Kovac (H) (Cincinnati)
Dick Christy (H) (North Carolina State)
(F)-Fullback (H)-Halfback
Kicker
Bill Shockley (West Chester)
DEFENSE
Front Linemen
Bob Watters (E) (Lincoln)
Nick Mumley (E) (Purdue)
John Kapele (E) (Brigham Young)
LaVerne Torczon (E) (Nebraska)
George Strugar (T) (Washington)
John Kenerson (T) (Kentucky State)
(E)-End (T)-Tackle
Linebackers
Hubert Bobo (M) (Ohio State)
Larry Grantham (O) (Mississippi)
Ed Cooke (O) (Maryland)
Jerry Fields (O) (Ohio State)
(M)-Middle Linebacker (O)-Outside Linebacker
Defensive Backs
Billy Atkins (C-S) (Auburn)
Dainard Paulson (C) (Oregon)
Lee Riley (S) (Detroit)
(C)-Cornerback (S)-Safety
-Harold Rosenthal, All-Pro 1963 Football
OFFENSE
QB- Lee Grosscup (Utah)
HB - Dick Christy (North Carolina State)
FB - Bill Mathis (Clemson)
E - Thurlow Cooper (Maine)
T - Alex Kroll (Rutgers)
G - Roger Ellis (Maine)
C - Mike Hudock (Miami)
G - Bob Mischak (Army), Sid Fournet (LSU)
T - Frank Morelli (Colgate)
TE - Perry Richards (Detroit)
FL - Don Maynard (Texas Western)
DEFENSE
DE - Nick Mumley (Purdue)
DT - Dick Guesman (West Virginia)
DT - George Strugar (Washington)
DE - LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska)
LB - Larry Grantham (Mississippi)
MLB - Hubert Bobo (Ohio State)
LB - Ed Cooke (Maryland), Jerry Fields (Ohio State)
CB - Dainard Paulson (Oregon State)
S - Lee Riley (Detroit)
S - Billy Atkins (Auburn)
CB - Paul Hynes (Louisiana Tech), Ed Kovac (Cincinnati)
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1963
OFFENSE
QB - Lee Grosscup (Utah) 17, Johnny Green (Tennessee-Chattanooga) 12
HB - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45, Ed Kovac (Cincinnati) 35, Curley Johnson (Houston) 33
FB- Bill Mathis (Clemson) 31, Mark Smolinski (Wyoming) 30, Merrill Douglas (Utah) 36
SE - Bake Turner (Texas Tech) 29, Ken Gregory (Whittier) 84, Perry Richards (Detroit) 80
T - Winston Hill (Texas Southern)*, Jack Klotz (Pennsylvania Military College) 78
G - Dan Ficca (USC) 61, Roger Ellis (Maine) 56
C - Mike Hudock (Miami) 52, Charley Theokas (Massachusetts)*
G - Sid Fournet (LSU) 62, Charles Stick (Louisville)*
T - Sherman Plunkett (Maryland State) 79, Alex Kroll (Rutgers) 55, Clarence Gadsden (Maryland State)*
TE - Dee Mackey (East Texas State) 89, Thurlow Cooper (Maine) 88, Gene Heeter (West Virginia)*
FL - Don Maynard (Texas Western) 13
DEFENSE
DE - Bob Watters (Lincoln) 86, John Kenerson (Kentucky State) 75
DT - Chuck Janerette (Penn State) 72, George Strugar (Washington) 73
DT - Dick Guesman (West Virginia) 77, John Kapele (Brigham Young) 64
DE - LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska) 87
LB - Jim Price (Auburn)*, Ed Cooke (Maryland) 82
MLB - Dave Yohn (Gettysburg) 57, Jerry Fields (Ohio State) 64
LB - Larry Grantham (Mississippi) 60, Walt Michaels (Washington & Lee) 34
CB - Tony Stricker (Colorado)*, Ed Kovac (Cincinnati) 35
S - Dainard Paulson (Oregon State) 40, Billy Atkins (Auburn) 2
S - Bill Baird (San Francisco State)*, Lee Riley (Detroit) 22
CB - Clyde Washington (Purdue) 42, Marshall Starks (Illinois)*
SPECIALISTS
K - Dick Guesman (West Virginia) 77
P - Curley Johnson (Houston) 33
KR - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
PR - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
* rookie
1963 New York Jets Profile Summary
Head Coach - Weeb Ewbank
Assistant Coach - Walt Michaels
QB - Lee Grosscup (Utah) 17
HB - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
HB - Bill Shockley (West Chester) 24
FB- Bill Mathis (Clemson) 31
FB - Mark Smolinski (Wyoming) 30
FL - Don Maynard (Texas Western) 13
SE - Bake Turner (Texas Tech) 29
TE - Dee Mackey (East Texas State) 89
C - Mike Hudock (Miami) 52
G - Bob Mischak (Army) 67
G - Sid Fournet (LSU) 62
T - Sherman Plunkett (Maryland State) 79
T - Alex Kroll (Rutgers) 55
DT - Chuck Janerette (Penn State) 72
DT - Dick Guesman (West Virginia) 77
DT - Paul Rochester (Michigan State) 73
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
LB - Walt Michaels (Washington & Lee) 34
S - Lee Riley (Detroit) 22
S - Billy Atkins (Auburn) 2
CB - Dainard Paulson (Oregon State) 40
CB - Clyde Washington (Purdue) 42
K - Bill Shockley (West Chester) 24
P - Billy Atkins (Auburn) 2
KR - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
PR - Dick Christy (North Carolina State) 45
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