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.
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