Middle Linebacker
No. 54
Oklahoma
"Obtained in the big nine-player swap with Denver, Ed Wahoo McDaniel looms as an anchorman of the defensive unit. With the Broncos he was regarded as one of the finest players.
Of Indian descent, his middle name really is Wahoo. Out of the University of Oklahoma, he had earlier been an All-America fullback in high school in Midland, Texas.
During the off-season he's a professional wrestler, traveling under the name of 'Chief Wahoo.' Born June 19, 1938, he's a colorful, hard-hitting player."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Word around the league is that the Jets dealt for a weak pass defender when they secured Ed (Wahoo) McDaniel from the Broncos last winter. Pegged for middle linebacker duties, the Bernice (Louisiana) Crusher is as aggressive as any against the ground game and relishes in the simple assignment of smashing into blockers and runners; however, he has yet to solve the more subtle phases of pass defense.
He was a scholastic great at fullback who took to linebacking with the same amount of enthusiasm as he does when on the wrestling circuit between seasons."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
Sunday, July 6, 2014
1964 Jets Offensive Line Profiles
MIKE HUDOCK
Center
No. 52
Miami
Though faced with an enormous task in rebuilding New York's offensive line, Coach Ewbank had no worries about the middle being manned by Mike, an original Titan. His aggressive and rugged play was always helpful to both the Jets' running and passing.
This bruiser from the anthracite-laden hills of Pennsylvania achieved college glory in sunny Miami and received a B.S. education. Mike later studied the pro game as a backup to Chuck Bednarik in Philadelphia.
SAM DELUCA
Guard
No. 65
South Carolina
"After graduating from the University of South Carolina, Sam was a draft choice of the Giants."
-1959 Topps CFL No. 67
"One of the best tackles ever to come out of South Carolina, Sam was All-State, All-Conference and third-team All-America in his senior year, 1956. In addition, he won the coveted Jacob's Blocking Award as the conference's best blocker. His value in the line is indicated by the fact that he was elected to play in the North-South, Senior Bowl and College All-Star games.
Sam has played professionally with Toronto of the Canadian League."
-1960 Fleer No. 89
DAN FICCA
Guard
No. 61
USC
"1963 saw Dan continue his development into one of the league's most feared guards. The Jets' coaches have always been high on this young man and traded away all-league guard Bob Mischak to acquire his services.
At the University of Southern California, Dan was a top tackle. A real athlete, he set the discus and shot put records for his Atlas, Pennsylvania high school."
-1964 Topps No. 112
PETE PERREAULT
Guard
No. 64
Boston University
Although he saw only limited action with the Jets last year, New York coaches expect Pete to become a regular guard to solidify the offensive line and help provide a balanced attack.
During his outstanding collegiate career at Boston University, pro scouts were impressed by Pete's ability to quickly learn new methods of offensive line play. He has a B.S. in business administration.
JACK KLOTZ
Offensive Tackle
No. 78
Pennsylvania Military College
"Jack Klotz is a prime example of potential arriving after several years of pro play, most of it on a reserve basis. A New York original in 1960, he was sent to the Chargers in '62 and reacquired before the start of the '63 season. The 29-year-old from Chester, Pennsylvania then showed the benefit of experience by suddenly asserting himself as an offensive tackle. His blocks were on time and he was quick to adjust to the different techniques the defense applied in an effort to curb his efficiency. AFL coaches placed him on the second team last year, and one called him the 'most improved of the season.'"
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Jack began the 1962 season in a New York uniform but was dealt to the San Diego Chargers early in the year. However, the Jets reacquired the big tackle for the '63 campaign.
He is constantly trying to improve his knowledge of the game. At Penn Military College, Jack was a Little All-American. He gained valuable experience in the Canadian League."
-1964 Topps No. 116
SHERMAN PLUNKETT
Offensive Tackle
No. 79
Maryland State
Sherman fortified the offensive line of the new Jets and provided better protection for New York's quarterbacks. Playing in all 14 games, he once again showed surprising speed for a man of his size.
He played for Coach Ewbank in Baltimore in 1958 and 1959 and even returned a kick 12 yards in '59.
Center
No. 52
Miami
Though faced with an enormous task in rebuilding New York's offensive line, Coach Ewbank had no worries about the middle being manned by Mike, an original Titan. His aggressive and rugged play was always helpful to both the Jets' running and passing.
This bruiser from the anthracite-laden hills of Pennsylvania achieved college glory in sunny Miami and received a B.S. education. Mike later studied the pro game as a backup to Chuck Bednarik in Philadelphia.
SAM DELUCA
Guard
No. 65
South Carolina
"After graduating from the University of South Carolina, Sam was a draft choice of the Giants."
-1959 Topps CFL No. 67
"One of the best tackles ever to come out of South Carolina, Sam was All-State, All-Conference and third-team All-America in his senior year, 1956. In addition, he won the coveted Jacob's Blocking Award as the conference's best blocker. His value in the line is indicated by the fact that he was elected to play in the North-South, Senior Bowl and College All-Star games.
Sam has played professionally with Toronto of the Canadian League."
-1960 Fleer No. 89
DAN FICCA
Guard
No. 61
USC
"1963 saw Dan continue his development into one of the league's most feared guards. The Jets' coaches have always been high on this young man and traded away all-league guard Bob Mischak to acquire his services.
At the University of Southern California, Dan was a top tackle. A real athlete, he set the discus and shot put records for his Atlas, Pennsylvania high school."
-1964 Topps No. 112
PETE PERREAULT
Guard
No. 64
Boston University
Although he saw only limited action with the Jets last year, New York coaches expect Pete to become a regular guard to solidify the offensive line and help provide a balanced attack.
During his outstanding collegiate career at Boston University, pro scouts were impressed by Pete's ability to quickly learn new methods of offensive line play. He has a B.S. in business administration.
JACK KLOTZ
Offensive Tackle
No. 78
Pennsylvania Military College
"Jack Klotz is a prime example of potential arriving after several years of pro play, most of it on a reserve basis. A New York original in 1960, he was sent to the Chargers in '62 and reacquired before the start of the '63 season. The 29-year-old from Chester, Pennsylvania then showed the benefit of experience by suddenly asserting himself as an offensive tackle. His blocks were on time and he was quick to adjust to the different techniques the defense applied in an effort to curb his efficiency. AFL coaches placed him on the second team last year, and one called him the 'most improved of the season.'"
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Jack began the 1962 season in a New York uniform but was dealt to the San Diego Chargers early in the year. However, the Jets reacquired the big tackle for the '63 campaign.
He is constantly trying to improve his knowledge of the game. At Penn Military College, Jack was a Little All-American. He gained valuable experience in the Canadian League."
-1964 Topps No. 116
SHERMAN PLUNKETT
Offensive Tackle
No. 79
Maryland State
Sherman fortified the offensive line of the new Jets and provided better protection for New York's quarterbacks. Playing in all 14 games, he once again showed surprising speed for a man of his size.
He played for Coach Ewbank in Baltimore in 1958 and 1959 and even returned a kick 12 yards in '59.
1964 Profile: Don Maynard
Flanker
No. 13
Texas Western
"Another outstanding pass catcher, Don Maynard has been a hero for the Jets since the inaugural 1960 AFL season. He caught 38 passes last season for 780 yards and nine touchdowns, although occasionally bothered by injuries. In 1960 he was the All-AFL flanker.
Out of Texas Western, he was a star in the 1956 Sun Bowl and in the Blue-Gray Game. Drafted by the Giants, he specialized in kick returns but was cut before joining the AFL.
Slim, almost skinny, he's considered one of the most elusive players in pro football."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Outside of a year's stopover in the Canadian League, Don Maynard has worked both parts of the New York pro scene, beginning with the Giants in 1958 and as a Jet in 1960.
Injuries slowed him down last season and he missed two games with leg wounds but still managed to catch 38 passes for 780 yards and led the club in touchdowns (9).
The league is aware of his breakaway speed and rare is the play when he doesn't have two men tailing him when he springs loose from his flanker post. Don has been extremely effective in changing speeds when moving downfield and always seems to have a high speed left when it becomes necessary to get beyond the last defender."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Don's a fine, speedy runner and still has the potential to turn into one of pro football's biggest stars. The fast flanker finished fifth in pass receiving in 1962.
During his college career, Don played in the 1956 Sun Bowl and the 1957 Blue-Grey Game as a halfback. Just before he joined the American Football League, Don played football in Canada."
-1964 Topps No. 121
No. 13
Texas Western
"Another outstanding pass catcher, Don Maynard has been a hero for the Jets since the inaugural 1960 AFL season. He caught 38 passes last season for 780 yards and nine touchdowns, although occasionally bothered by injuries. In 1960 he was the All-AFL flanker.
Out of Texas Western, he was a star in the 1956 Sun Bowl and in the Blue-Gray Game. Drafted by the Giants, he specialized in kick returns but was cut before joining the AFL.
Slim, almost skinny, he's considered one of the most elusive players in pro football."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Outside of a year's stopover in the Canadian League, Don Maynard has worked both parts of the New York pro scene, beginning with the Giants in 1958 and as a Jet in 1960.
Injuries slowed him down last season and he missed two games with leg wounds but still managed to catch 38 passes for 780 yards and led the club in touchdowns (9).
The league is aware of his breakaway speed and rare is the play when he doesn't have two men tailing him when he springs loose from his flanker post. Don has been extremely effective in changing speeds when moving downfield and always seems to have a high speed left when it becomes necessary to get beyond the last defender."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Don's a fine, speedy runner and still has the potential to turn into one of pro football's biggest stars. The fast flanker finished fifth in pass receiving in 1962.
During his college career, Don played in the 1956 Sun Bowl and the 1957 Blue-Grey Game as a halfback. Just before he joined the American Football League, Don played football in Canada."
-1964 Topps No. 121
1964 Profiles: Dick Christy and Curley Johnson
DICK CHRISTY
Kick Returner-Halfback
No. 45
North Carolina State
"No matter where Dick Christy is spotted, he's a top vet in any utility role. He can play left halfback, slot back, flanker and return kickoffs and punts. Out of Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, he's 28 and the type needed around a club that's being infiltrated by young and inexperienced personnel.
Dick took 24 kickoffs for 585 yards last year and also returned nine punts for 46 yards. As a receiver, he made eight catches for 73 yards."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Dick ranked fifth in the American Football League in kickoff returns, including one sensational 71-yard runback. In 1962, the halfback had his busiest season in pro football. Dick topped the AFL in punt returns, caught 62 passes and rushed 114 times that year.
A fast runner, the Jets halfback has a knack of getting that all-important extra yard or two."
-1964 Topps No. 111
"Dick averaged 24 yards per kickoff return, tops on the Jets and fifth highest in the American Football League."
-1964 Topps No. 131
CURLEY JOHNSON
Punter-Halfback
No. 33
Houston
"One of the New York Jets' most versatile performers, Curley finished fourth in the American Football League in punting last season. Primarily he is used as a fullback or a halfback.
Curley broke into the AFL back in 1960 with the Dallas Texans. Purchased by the New York club in 1962, Coach Ewbank feels that Curley is one of the game's most improved players."
-1964 Topps No. 114
"Curley punted a ball 64 yards last year. He averaged 42.6 yards a punt, fourth-best total in the AFL."
-1964 Topps No. 131
Kick Returner-Halfback
No. 45
North Carolina State
"No matter where Dick Christy is spotted, he's a top vet in any utility role. He can play left halfback, slot back, flanker and return kickoffs and punts. Out of Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, he's 28 and the type needed around a club that's being infiltrated by young and inexperienced personnel.
Dick took 24 kickoffs for 585 yards last year and also returned nine punts for 46 yards. As a receiver, he made eight catches for 73 yards."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Dick ranked fifth in the American Football League in kickoff returns, including one sensational 71-yard runback. In 1962, the halfback had his busiest season in pro football. Dick topped the AFL in punt returns, caught 62 passes and rushed 114 times that year.
A fast runner, the Jets halfback has a knack of getting that all-important extra yard or two."
-1964 Topps No. 111
"Dick averaged 24 yards per kickoff return, tops on the Jets and fifth highest in the American Football League."
-1964 Topps No. 131
CURLEY JOHNSON
Punter-Halfback
No. 33
Houston
"One of the New York Jets' most versatile performers, Curley finished fourth in the American Football League in punting last season. Primarily he is used as a fullback or a halfback.
Curley broke into the AFL back in 1960 with the Dallas Texans. Purchased by the New York club in 1962, Coach Ewbank feels that Curley is one of the game's most improved players."
-1964 Topps No. 114
"Curley punted a ball 64 yards last year. He averaged 42.6 yards a punt, fourth-best total in the AFL."
-1964 Topps No. 131
1964 Profile: Mark Smolinski
Fullback
No. 30
Wyoming
"Another ex-Colt, fullback Mark Smolinski is considered the most dependable runner on the Jets. He gained 561 yards on 150 carries last season. He also caught 34 passes for 278 yards to become the most prolific double-duty back on the team. Mark is considered an excellent pass blocker in protecting the quarterback.
He also played for Ewbank in 1961 and 1962, coming to the Colts as a free agent although he had been a star at Wyoming.
Burly and strong, he's only 25 and figures to have many more good seasons ahead."
Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Another one of the many Baltimore rejects to find a Jet berth was Mark Smolinski, who had been signed to a Colt contract in '61 as a free agent by his present coach, Weeb Ewbank.
For straight power pressure, the 25-year-old roughneck out of Rogers City, Michigan is a superior hitter and brings along his own blocking power when giving the passers time to spot receivers.
The most active New York rusher last year, he carried 150 times for 561 yards, many of them acquired when a first down was required to keep a drive in progress. As a receiver he hauled in 34 passes, gaining 278 yards."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"What a season Mark had with the New York Jets in 1963! A longtime favorite of Head Coach Weeb Ewbank, he finished ninth in the American Football in rushing last year.
Although used primarily as a fullback, he has had enough experience to play on the kickoff and punt teams. Mark figures to have another big year in 1964."
-1964 Topps No. 124
No. 30
Wyoming
"Another ex-Colt, fullback Mark Smolinski is considered the most dependable runner on the Jets. He gained 561 yards on 150 carries last season. He also caught 34 passes for 278 yards to become the most prolific double-duty back on the team. Mark is considered an excellent pass blocker in protecting the quarterback.
He also played for Ewbank in 1961 and 1962, coming to the Colts as a free agent although he had been a star at Wyoming.
Burly and strong, he's only 25 and figures to have many more good seasons ahead."
Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Another one of the many Baltimore rejects to find a Jet berth was Mark Smolinski, who had been signed to a Colt contract in '61 as a free agent by his present coach, Weeb Ewbank.
For straight power pressure, the 25-year-old roughneck out of Rogers City, Michigan is a superior hitter and brings along his own blocking power when giving the passers time to spot receivers.
The most active New York rusher last year, he carried 150 times for 561 yards, many of them acquired when a first down was required to keep a drive in progress. As a receiver he hauled in 34 passes, gaining 278 yards."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"What a season Mark had with the New York Jets in 1963! A longtime favorite of Head Coach Weeb Ewbank, he finished ninth in the American Football in rushing last year.
Although used primarily as a fullback, he has had enough experience to play on the kickoff and punt teams. Mark figures to have another big year in 1964."
-1964 Topps No. 124
1964 Jets Defensive Tackle Profiles
GORDY HOLZ
Defensive Tackle
No. 74
Minnesota
"The 'small' defensive tackle, Gordy, is lighter by 10 pounds than his teammate Bud McFadin, but his brain strength and skill in sizing up enemy plays make him one of the brighter attractions among the Broncos.
He made his pro debut in Canada, with Winnipeg, where he improved his play, particularly his ability to move laterally."
-1961 Fleer No. 154
"Gordy has been a standout on defense for the Broncos ever since he was acquired in a trade with the Boston Patriots two years ago. His weight (270) and experience were instrumental in the team's improvement in the second half of the season. The Holz-McFadin tackle team (Bud McFadin weighs 280) is one of the most powerful in football.
Gordy made his pro debut in Canada with Winnipeg, then joined the American Football League in 1960."
-1962 Fleer No. 40
1964
An AFL original, Gordy played every game for the Broncos from 1960 through 1963. Though possessing great physical strength and great skill in anticipating opposing plays, he improved his overall movement on the field after playing for Winnipeg of the CFL.
JIM MCCUSKER
Defensive Tackle
No. 70
Pittsburgh
"McCusker had a fine rookie season in '58 and is regarded as an outstanding offensive tackle. His college coaches agreed that he was the 'best lineman' in just about every game he played. McCusker has developed the knack of opening holes when yardage is vitally needed.
He was born in Jamestown, New York."
-Pro Football Handbook 1959
"McCusker passed his first pro year as a Cardinal in 1958 and his potential was so highly regarded he seemed set for a long time as an offensive tackle. A smart trade made him a 1959 Eagle. He learns quickly and will not make the same mistake twice.
Born in Jamestown, New York, McCusker was a great favorite at the University of Pittsburgh."
-1960 Pro Football Handbook
"Just when the enemy ball carrier thinks he is in the clear, he has the unpleasant surprise of meeting Jim. The tackle usually leaves'em helpless."
-1961 Topps No. 100
"During the past couple of seasons, Jim has become one of the club's most improved players. Originally the second draft pick by the Cardinals, he joined Philadelphia in 1959."
-1963 Topps No. 116
BOB MCADAMS
Defensive Tackle
No. 88
North Carolina A & T
"The big tackle is a tough man to elude once he sets his sights on you. Tall and strong, Bob McAdams has good speed for a man of his build.
He joined the New York Jets after the 1963 season began and showed great potential. Hard-hitting Bob figures heavily in the Jets' plans for the coming campaign.
Bob came to the American Football League after a fine career at North Carolina A & T."
-1964 Topps No. 118
Defensive Tackle
No. 74
Minnesota
"The 'small' defensive tackle, Gordy, is lighter by 10 pounds than his teammate Bud McFadin, but his brain strength and skill in sizing up enemy plays make him one of the brighter attractions among the Broncos.
He made his pro debut in Canada, with Winnipeg, where he improved his play, particularly his ability to move laterally."
-1961 Fleer No. 154
"Gordy has been a standout on defense for the Broncos ever since he was acquired in a trade with the Boston Patriots two years ago. His weight (270) and experience were instrumental in the team's improvement in the second half of the season. The Holz-McFadin tackle team (Bud McFadin weighs 280) is one of the most powerful in football.
Gordy made his pro debut in Canada with Winnipeg, then joined the American Football League in 1960."
-1962 Fleer No. 40
1964
An AFL original, Gordy played every game for the Broncos from 1960 through 1963. Though possessing great physical strength and great skill in anticipating opposing plays, he improved his overall movement on the field after playing for Winnipeg of the CFL.
JIM MCCUSKER
Defensive Tackle
No. 70
Pittsburgh
"McCusker had a fine rookie season in '58 and is regarded as an outstanding offensive tackle. His college coaches agreed that he was the 'best lineman' in just about every game he played. McCusker has developed the knack of opening holes when yardage is vitally needed.
He was born in Jamestown, New York."
-Pro Football Handbook 1959
"McCusker passed his first pro year as a Cardinal in 1958 and his potential was so highly regarded he seemed set for a long time as an offensive tackle. A smart trade made him a 1959 Eagle. He learns quickly and will not make the same mistake twice.
Born in Jamestown, New York, McCusker was a great favorite at the University of Pittsburgh."
-1960 Pro Football Handbook
"Just when the enemy ball carrier thinks he is in the clear, he has the unpleasant surprise of meeting Jim. The tackle usually leaves'em helpless."
-1961 Topps No. 100
"During the past couple of seasons, Jim has become one of the club's most improved players. Originally the second draft pick by the Cardinals, he joined Philadelphia in 1959."
-1963 Topps No. 116
BOB MCADAMS
Defensive Tackle
No. 88
North Carolina A & T
"The big tackle is a tough man to elude once he sets his sights on you. Tall and strong, Bob McAdams has good speed for a man of his build.
He joined the New York Jets after the 1963 season began and showed great potential. Hard-hitting Bob figures heavily in the Jets' plans for the coming campaign.
Bob came to the American Football League after a fine career at North Carolina A & T."
-1964 Topps No. 118
1964 Profile: Bake Turner
Split End
No. 29
Texas Tech
"Recognized as among the swiftest players in the AFL, split end Bake Turner should continue to improve with more experience.
Released by the Colts shortly before the 1963 AFL season opened, the Jets quickly signed him and he may prove to be a costly NFL mistake. He caught 71 passes for 1,007 yards and six touchdowns. This season he's a threat to make the All-AFL squad.
Out of Texas Tech, he was a 12th-round choice of the Colts who used him to run back kicks.
Bake was voted the team's MVP by his teammates last season."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Bake Turner couldn't make it after he had been a Colt for one season; cast adrift 10 days before the 1963 campaign opened, he was given a Jet trial and impressed so favorably in an exhibition game that the split end duties were his. Never was a snap decision so successful as the 24-year-old from Alpine, Texas sped to the No. 3 league rating for receiving, hauling in 71 passes for 1,007 yards and six touchdowns.
Everyone expects additional improvement, particularly after he's learned the habits of the many defensemen he was forced to outspeed. He must learn to use fakes more if he intends to maintain his high standards."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Bake was a real coup for the Jets last year. Signed just ten days before the opening game of the season, he showed his worth right away. In his premiere performance in a New York uniform, Bake grabbed 10 passes. In 1963, Bake finished third in the American Football League in pass receiving.
With good speed, the end has the legs to break away from the secondary."
1964 Topps No. 127
"Bake finished third in the AFL in pass receiving with 71 catches. He gained 1,007 yards for the Jets."
-1964 Topps No. 131
No. 29
Texas Tech
"Recognized as among the swiftest players in the AFL, split end Bake Turner should continue to improve with more experience.
Released by the Colts shortly before the 1963 AFL season opened, the Jets quickly signed him and he may prove to be a costly NFL mistake. He caught 71 passes for 1,007 yards and six touchdowns. This season he's a threat to make the All-AFL squad.
Out of Texas Tech, he was a 12th-round choice of the Colts who used him to run back kicks.
Bake was voted the team's MVP by his teammates last season."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Bake Turner couldn't make it after he had been a Colt for one season; cast adrift 10 days before the 1963 campaign opened, he was given a Jet trial and impressed so favorably in an exhibition game that the split end duties were his. Never was a snap decision so successful as the 24-year-old from Alpine, Texas sped to the No. 3 league rating for receiving, hauling in 71 passes for 1,007 yards and six touchdowns.
Everyone expects additional improvement, particularly after he's learned the habits of the many defensemen he was forced to outspeed. He must learn to use fakes more if he intends to maintain his high standards."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Bake was a real coup for the Jets last year. Signed just ten days before the opening game of the season, he showed his worth right away. In his premiere performance in a New York uniform, Bake grabbed 10 passes. In 1963, Bake finished third in the American Football League in pass receiving.
With good speed, the end has the legs to break away from the secondary."
1964 Topps No. 127
"Bake finished third in the AFL in pass receiving with 71 catches. He gained 1,007 yards for the Jets."
-1964 Topps No. 131
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