1962 Bills Offensive Line Profiles

AL BEMILLER
Center
No. 50
Syracuse
Strong, tough and durable Al Bemiller took over as the Bills' starting center and played all 14 games in his rookie season. He's an outstanding blocker who truly distinguished himself on pass protection, thus quickly earning the respect of Buffalo football fans.
In his college days at Syracuse, Al was All-East and was voted 'the college center with the best potential.'

"One of the three outstanding offensive line rookies playing shoulder to shoulder in 1961 for the Bills. The Bills expect Bemiller to become one of football's top centers. He's an exceptionally fine all-around blocker who excels in pass protection.

Bemiller was tutored as an All-East collegian by all-time pro great Jim Ringo. He figures to play in 1962 at 240 pounds, up fifteen from a year ago. Drafted seventh in 1960 as the 'college center with the best pro potential,' he beat out Dan McGrew, the 1960 AFL second-team all-star, early in spring camp to win the job."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program  (War Memorial Stadium)

BILLY SHAW
Guard
No. 66
Georgia Tech
"A former All-American tackle at Georgia Tech, Shaw was switched to guard as a rookie last year and proved to be one of the outstanding linemen in the AFL. A native of Atlanta, he was the No. 2 draft pick of the Bills and was a regular almost from the day he reported to training camp.
Extremely fast, tough and mobile, Billy improved steadily during the season and became one of the league's finest stationary pass protection and 'play lead' blockers."

-1962 Fleer No. 16

"Another of the Bills' fabulous 1960 college draft selections. Picked number two, Shaw was one of seven rookie starters on offense during the 1961 season.

He's big, fast and strong and gets out fast to lead plays. Shaw is the second fastest on the team going down under punts.

He made the greater portion of his college All-America reputation on defense. He may be switched to defensive end in 1962 if Lou Saban can 'come up with an adequate offensive guard replacement.'

Shaw is considered an outstanding prospect for future All-AFL selection wherever he plays."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

TOM DAY 

Guard

No. 60

North Carolina A & T

"Joined the Bills early in the 1961 campaign. Tom is fast and highly mobile for his 250-pound frame. He can play either defensive tackle without loss of effectiveness and puts one of the league's best rushes on a passer.

Tom is a highly articulate graduate of North Carolina A & T College."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

CHUCK MUELHAUPT
Guard
No. 78
Iowa State
Chuck played all 14 games last year and fortified Buffalo's offensive line for a second season.
In Game 10 of the season against the Texans at the Cotton Bowl, he achieved rare recognition for a guard. With Buffalo holding a 23-20 lead in the fourth quarter, Chuck was playing on special teams when he recovered a Dallas fumble in the end zone for an insurance touchdown in what would be a 30-20 Buffalo win.


STEW BARBER

Offensive Tackle

No. 77

Penn State

1962

Although drafted as an offensive tackle, Stew more than ably stepped in as a starting linebacker. He made three interceptions during the year, the most notable coming in Game 11 of the season at Denver. With Buffalo holding on to a 16-10 fourth-quarter lead, Stew returned an interception 21 yards for a touchdown to help the Bills hold off the Broncos for a 23-10 win.

"At 22 years old, he was the baby of the 1961 Bills, the only rookie to crack the starting defensive unit. He was tried as an offensive guard before taking at right outside linebacker. He's one of the hardest and most authoritative tacklers in pro football. He overcame, by hard work and perseverance, an early-season tendency to commit too quickly, due to a lack of experience.

Experts predict a bright future for Barber. All-East at Penn State, he was drafted No. 4 by the Bills, No. 2 by the Cowboys."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

HAROLD OLSON
Offensive Tackle
No. 74
Clemson
For a second year, the 250-pound youngster out of Clemson fortified an improving Buffalo offensive line. Coach Saban has no worries about Chuck's reliability at his tackle position.
As a collegian, Harold clearly demonstrated his ability to block for Tiger passers.

"One of the Bills' top draft choices of 1960. Olson decided to follow pro football as a career after training camp had begun. He had a comparatively rough rookie season because of that, although he was a starter all the way through.

Olson was installed permanently as the right-side offensive tackle, his preferred position, in 1961. He reported 15 pounds under his 1960 playing weight and was faster and more mobile as a result. His game-to-game improvement as a blocker was noticeable. By the end of the season, Olson was rated as one of the AFL's top offensive tackles.

He was a 1959 All-America and All-Atlantic Coast Conference. He was a consensus selection of pro scouts as the outstanding offensive tackle prospect in the intercollegiate ranks. Olson played in the Sugar, Bluebonnet, Blue-Gray, All-American and Senior Bowl Games during his dazzling career at Clemson."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

KEN RICE
Offensive Tackle
No. 75
Auburn
"As a newcomer, Ken Rice of the Buffalo Bills took his place among the fine tackles in pro football. And he'll get better."

-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football

"Football sages predict that Kenny will develop into the best offensive lineman in the league. Fast and agile despite his bulk, this former All-American from Auburn proved a rookie find last year. Kenny was named to the second AFL team on offense.
He proved his versatility by running back a couple of kickoffs for the Bills last year."

-1962 Fleer No. 17

GEORGE FLINT

Offensive Tackle

No. 73

Arizona State

"A three-year All-Border Conference selection at Arizona State. Pro clubs did not dispute his ability. His size, however, appeared to be a drawback to his pro career.

Weights and isometric exercises jumped his college playing weight of 206 pounds to 246 pounds during the off-season. The Bills decided to take a look and Lou Saban liked what he saw from the first day of training camp. The added weight did not detract from his speed. It added strength instead.

A fine blocker, Flint is considered a definite offensive line prospect. He was an intercollegiate shotput champion at Arizona State."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

1962 Profile: Glenn Bass

Split End
No. 88
East Carolina
"Remember the name of Glenn Bass, the Wilson County (North Carolina) whippet who may blossom into the top pass-receiving split end of the year. He nailed 50 aerials in 1961, playing only 11 games, and gained 465 yards. He spurned a baseball bonus to sign with the Chargers who released him at the start of '61.
He has the hands and speed to be a star, but needs the work and experience to develop into one."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

"The leading 1961 pass receiver with 50 receptions, although playing in only 11 games. Bass was selected as the most valuable player on offense by his teammates. The second fastest player on the team, he was signed following his release by San Diego during the training camp period. Bass is now considered one of pro football's brightest split-end prospects.

An All-North State Conference selection at East Carolina College. He was a high draft choice of the St. Louis Cardinals.

A top flight baseball prospect at shortstop, Bass rejected a large major league bonus offer to play pro football."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program (War Memorial Stadium)

1962 Bills Tight End Profiles

ERNIE WARLICK
Tight End
No. 84
North Carolina Central
"Ernie is in his third season with the team. He was chosen on the Negro All-American team for three seasons."

-1959 Topps CFL No. 25

"This is Ernie's fourth year with Calgary. He was named on the Negro All-American team for three years."

-1960 Topps CFL No. 30

"He was named on the Negro All-American team for three seasons. He is from Hickory, North Carolina."

-1961 Topps CFL No. 28

"This five-year pro recently signed as a free agent after four starring years with Calgary (Canadian pro football). A two-time All-Pro in Canada, Warlick caught 150 passes during his Canadian pro career. He's been likened to the famed Dante Lavelli as a pass catcher. His services were bid on by three AFL and three NFL clubs.

He's extremely tough to defend on short yardage, hooks, turns and sideline passes. He has the speed to go deep and is rated an exceptionally fine blocker."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

TOM RYCHLEC
Tight End
No. 81
American International
"Improvement in blocking assignments will make Tom Rychlec a more valuable Bill in 1962. The Meriden (Connecticut) tight end has the best hands on the club and is second to none as a short-pass receiver. He caught 33 passes for 405 yards and scored twice in 1961. He's the man on the spot on that vital third down pass play, and usually comes up with the vital catch."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

"Tom caught 33 passes for 405 yards as a tight end last year. One was a 61-yarder for one of his four touchdowns. The ex-Lion caught 45 passes for 590 yards to lead the Bills in 1960.
He's a strong, solid operator who specializes in decoys and fakes. The Bills use him mostly for the short pass at which he is adept.
He is another outstanding example of big good men coming from little colleges. The Lions drafted Tom after his graduation from American International College."

-1962 Fleer No. 15

MONTE CROCKETT  

Tight End

No. 80

New Mexico Highlands

"He was signed to a Buffalo contract after a 1960 tryout camp, the only candidate of 38 to make the grade. Crockett had only one year of college experience at New Mexico Highlands University before becoming a pro. His inexperience showed in 1960 although improvement was noticeable as the season progressed. He filled out to a solid 220 pounds while retaining speed fourth only to Dubenion, Bass and Brown on the Bills.

He's a good, tough blocker who can be used as both a tight end and a split end. He caught 20 passes for 325 yards in 1961."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program (War Memorial Stadium) 

1962 Bills Quarterback Profiles

JACK KEMP
Quarterback
No. 15
Occidental
"Jack is an outstanding example of the excellent players who develop in the nation's smaller colleges. At Occidental, he was Honorably Mentioned for the Little All-America for three years, 1954 through 1956, and was second in passing in the NAIA (small colleges) in 1956. In his senior year, he averaged more than 150 yards passing per game.
He played for the San Francisco 49ers last year."

-1960 Fleer No. 124

"First among AFL passers in 1960 was quarterback Jackie Kemp, the Los Angeles marksman with prior experience at Pittsburgh. The 26-year-old Occidental College aerialist led all others in yards gained per pass attempt (7.43) while completing 211 of 406 for 3,018 yards. An All-Star selection, he showed shrewdness in play selection and probing of defensive weaknesses."

-1961 Pro Football Handbook

"Potentially one of the finest quarterbacks in the AFL, this heady signal caller began to come into his own last season.
Gaining pro experience after leaving Occidental, Kemp went from the Steelers to the Giants. He played in Calgary in 1959 and then was picked up by the 49ers in mid-season.
Since joining the Chargers, he has been an exceptional performer, leading his team to the Western Division title."

-1961 Fleer No. 155

"Kemp's accurate arm led the Chargers to the Western Division title. Chosen all-league quarterback, Jack led the AFL in passing with 3,018 yards, 51.8 % completions and 20 touchdowns."

-1961 Topps No. 166

Charger quarterback from Occidental. Leading passer in AFL., 6', 200 lbs. 26 years old.

-1961 Golden Tulip San Diego Chargers

"Kemp, after fruitless trials with the Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers of the NFL and Calgary of the Canadian Football League before hitting it 'big' with the Chargers last season, goes into his fifth year of pro football.

Kemp was the passing champion of the AFL in 1960 completing 211 of 406 passes for 3,018 yards and 20 touchdowns. One of the hardest throwing quarterbacks in football, Kemp is expected to achieve even greater heights as the AFL's premier signal-caller. Married."

-1961 San Diego Chargers Official Program (Balboa Stadium)

"Unwanted by the Steelers, Giants and 49ers, Jack Kemp found a satisfactory haven with the Chargers in 1960 and showed his appreciation by gaining the AFL's passing championship. He was No. 3 in 1961, gaining 2,686 yards, second to George Blanda, the record-maker.
Now 27, Jack throws harder than any pro quarterback and he must have sure-fingered receivers for maximum success."'

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

"After brief stays with the Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers and New York Giants, and the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League, Jack hit it big with the Chargers.
One of the hardest throwing quarterbacks in pro football, Kemp completed 165 passes in 364 attempts for 2,686 yards, ranking third among AFL passers. In addition, he connected on a 91-yard pass play against Denver, the longest gain of the season by any AFL club.
He was the All-AFL quarterback in 1960 but ranked second in the balloting to George Blanda of Houston last year."

-1962 Fleer No. 79


JOHNNY GREEN
Quarterback
No. 18
Tennessee-Chattanooga
"Green shared the quarterbacking assignment last year, completing 56 of 126 passes, good for 903 yards. Although his touchdown aerials dipped from 10 in 1960 to only six last year, he was the toughest quarterback in the league to intercept. Only four of his passes were stolen, an excellent .039 percentage.
The veteran from Riviera Beach, California came from the Steelers in 1960. He broke into pro ball with the Toronto Argonauts."

-1962 Fleer No. 13


AL DOROW
Quarterback
No. 12
Michigan State

"This is Al's second season. He shared the quarterbacking of the Redskins with Jack Scarbath last year. He wound up the season with four touchdown passes in a victory over the  Cardinals.

Al was a brilliant all-around performer at Michigan State and holds almost every Spartan passing record. He was All-Mid-West in 1951 and All-Service in '52 and '53 at Bolling Field Air Force Base. He starred in the East-West Shrine and Senior Bowl games."

-1955 Bowman No. 77

"Aerial Al was the No. 1 Redskin passer last season and won a berth on the East Pro squad.

While in college he guided his underdog team to astounding routes of Notre Dame and Michigan. Al holds all Michigan State records for most passes.

He can play any backfield post."

-1957 Topps No. 24

"Al was a star in football, basketball and track at Michigan State. He's a good passer and fast runner."

-1959 Topps CFL No. 15

"Al Dorow, the alternate quarterback of the Titans, knows his way around a football field. He called the signals for Michigan State in 1950 and 1951, starting the Spartans on a winning streak that eventually covered twenty-eight games. A versatile back who later performed varied duties in the Michigan State varied attack, he was on the receiving end of the famous 'transcontinental pass' that gave Michigan State a 24-20 victory over Ohio State in 1951.

Al later played with the Bolling Field Air Force team, then put in four seasons with the Washington Redskins and two with the Philadelphia Eagles. In 1956, he played with the East team in the Pro Bowl. He spent last season with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian League.

Married, Dorow has two daughters, Bernadine, 3 1/2, and Debbie, 2."

-1960 New York Titans Official Program

"The top tosser of TD passes in '60 was Al Dorow, who clicked for a high of 26; Al also was No. 2 in the overall passing tables, surpassed only by the Chargers' Jackie Kemp. Considered the AFL's top option signal-caller, he also carried 124 times, more than any Titan back, rushed for seven touchdowns and hung up the No. 1 punting average of 44.0 on six kicks.
Out of Alameda, California, 30-year-old Al spent four years with the Redskins and two with the Eagles."

-1961 Pro Football Handbook

PRO'S PRO
"Most quarterbacks prefer not to risk their necks by carrying the ball, but Al Dorow of the Titans revels in being chased. Maybe it's because he's just as dangerous running as he is passing. The bald New York field general was the second best passer in the AFL and led the loop in touchdown heaves, with 26. Until now he's always played behind top operators- Eddie LeBaron and Norm Van Brocklin. He's in his own class now."

-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1961 Football

"This durable signal-caller has made his mark in college, NFL, Canadian and AFL football. After starring at Michigan State in 1950 and 1951, Dorow went into the service and led the powerful Bolling Air Force Base team. Then it was four seasons with the Washington Redskins, two with the Philadelphia Eagles and a year with the Toronto Argonauts.
He was the Titans' No. 1 choice for their quarterback job, and they were glad to get him."

-1961 Fleer No. 210

"No pro takes more of a beating than this quarterback, who loves to run with the ball as well as throw it. Al led the league in 1960 with 26 touchdown passes."

-1961 Topps No. 149

"Master of the rollout and the AFL's finest rushing quarterback is Al Dorow, the 31-year-old sharpshooter who knows his way around the course. He was the most active of running T-men in 1961, galloping 54 times for 317 yards, a per-carry average of 5.9, more than a yard better than any of the top ten rushers. He was also the most overworked passer in the AFL, tossing 438 forwards and getting the most completions (197), totaling 2,651 yards.
Out of Alameda, California, he was exposed to six NFL (Redskins, Eagles) seasons."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

"Dorow's ability to run, coupled with his great passing arm, has made him one of the most dangerous threats in pro football. His masterly executed roll-outs have caused no end of aggravation for opposing defensemen. His field generalship ranks him as the league's top signal caller.
He finished fourth among AFL passers last year, completing 197 of 438 passes for 2,651 yards."

-1962 Fleer No. 57

"One of the most dangerous quarterbacks in pro football. Dorow's great running ability plus his excellent passing arm keeps defenses completely honest.

In 1960 he led the AFL in touchdown passes with 26 in completing 201 of 396 attempts for an exceptional .508 percentage and 2,848 yards.

The eight-year pro vet previously starred with Washington and Philadelphia before joining the New York Titans two seasons ago to help generate football's most explosive attack.

A former Michigan State All-American (1951), Dorow holds seven MSU all-time passing records. He played in the East-West and Senior Bowl college classics, in the NFL Pro Bowl in 1956 and the AFL Pro Bowl in 1961."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

WARREN RABB
Quarterback
No. 17
LSU

"Because he can think and throw so well, Warren Rabb enters the 1962 campaign as Buffalo's No. 1 quarterback. Appearing in only six games as a 1961 rookie, he saw less work than either M.C. Reynolds or Johnny Green but his training camp form has been excellent and he's the best bet for the future.

Considered a powerful runner who can avoid opposition red-dogging, he's a brilliant threat as a pass option performer and fits in with the club's rollout patterns."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

"Warren is completely recovered from injuries suffered in a game with Dallas last November 12 that cost the Bills his services for the remainder of the season. He sustained the shoulder separation and a torn rib cage when he was belted out of bounds during a 2-point after-touchdown try.
Up to his injury, Warren completed 34 of 74 passes for 586 yards and five touchdowns, a completion average of 46%. More important, he had but two passes intercepted.
Warren joined the Bills from the Lions, with whom he had signed in 1960."

-1962 Fleer No. 22

"A 1961 rookie standout during an all too brief six-game stint. Rabb was injured and out for the remainder of the campaign after that.

He debuted against Houston in the final quarter with the Bills trailing. Running and passing, he engineered a 22-12 upset victory for the Bills. It was the final loss of the season for the American Football League champs.

Rabb is rated a tremendous prospect for a brilliant pro career. He's an accurate passer and a fast and powerful runner who can give the Bills an option threat and circumvent opposition red-dogging.

He quarterbacked the brilliant 1959 LSU backfield that included Billy Cannon and Johnny Robinson, both current AFL standouts."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

1962 Bills Halfback Profiles

WRAY CARLTON

Halfback

No. 30

Duke

"A dual purpose offensive star with speed and power. Carlton can be and has been used interchangeably as a running back and as a fullback. He was the second leading ball carrier in 1961 (3.1) and third leading scorer. He was second-team All-AFL in 1960 when he led the Bills in rushing and scoring and ranked third in pass receptions with 29. He figured in one of the AFL's first trades- the Bills swapped tackle Al Crowe to Boston for Carlton in July 1960.

A former Duke University star, Blue Devils' coach Bill Murray calls Carlton one of the best all-around players he ever coached."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program (War Memorial Stadium)

FRED BROWN
Halfback
No. 46
Georgia
"Only a torn knee ligament prevented Fred Brown, the Atlanta antelope, from pacing all Bill runners in 1961. A slashing smasher who moves off and inside tackle with the power of a fullback, he wheeled for 192 yards on 53 carries and also turned in the longest kickoff return (93 yards) of the year.
He's considered the best running back from the University of Georgia since Charlie Trippi."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

RICHIE LUCAS
Halfback-Safety
No. 11
Penn State
"Lucas played three positions last season after a disappointing rookie year in which he was handicapped by injuries. He was used as a quarterback, flanker and defensive halfback. Overall, Lucas completed 20 of 50 passes for a 40% completion average, 262 yards and two touchdowns.
He was outstanding in the Bills' 41-13 victory over New York on September 17, throwing a pair of touchdown passes and calling an excellent selection of plays as the Bills ran up their highest point total in two years. In his defensive effort, he intercepted two passes against Houston."

-1962 Fleer No. 19

1962 Bills Linebacker Profiles

ARCHIE MATSOS
Middle Linebacker
No. 56
Michigan State
"Speed and agility have brought Archie Matsos two seasons of All-Pro laurels as a middle linebacker. The Detroit-born diagnostician has led the club in individual tackles and his tremendous lateral movement has helped the play of his corner cohorts.
Archie is a busy Buffalo figure at sports dinners and the most popular off-season speaker."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

"This Detroit dandy gained all-league recognition for the second year in a row. His marvelous maneuverability and fine speed enabled him to intercept eight passes in both 1960 and 1961.
A member of Michigan State's Rose Bowl team of 1956, the powerful midwesterner, who was equally at home at center, guard and tackle, was switched to middle linebacker by the Bills because of his ability to diagnose plays."

-1962 Fleer No. 20

"Dynamic All-AFL middle linebacker, 1960-61.

Matsos is comparatively light (215 pounds) but extremely fast and agile. He has the best lateral movement in the league to either side and has 26% more tackles than any other Bill.

He has a keen diagnostic sense that has led to an unusually high number of pass interceptions the past two seasons.

A member of Michigan's 1956 Rose Bowl team, Archie is a much sought-after sports night speaker during the off-season."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

TOM LOUDERBACK 

Middle Linebacker 

No. 54

San Jose State

"Tom did a bang-up job as a middle linebacker for the Raiders last year. He previously played two years with the Philadelphia Eagles and also spent a season with Hamilton in the Canadian League.

He played in both the East-West Shrine Game and the College All-Star contest after playing at San Jose State where he was an All-Coast selection.

He formed and coached the Raider basketball and roller derby teams during the off-season."

-1962 Fleer No. 75

"The addition of Jackie Simpson to the linebacking trio will have no effect on the play of Tom Louderback, the Petaluma (Calif.) peach of a tackler who has helped give the Raiders some defensive strength up close. Two years as an Eagle and one in the Canadian circuit furnished the 28-year-old with the all-important experience required to diagnose opposing offenses.

Very active off the field, he's been coach of the club's basketball and roller derby teams."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook (see Raiders)

"A three-year pro, Tom spent the last two seasons with the Oakland Raiders. He's a strong, mobile linebacker with good balance. An All-Pacific Coast selection at San Jose State who played in the East-West Shrine and College All-Star games.

Tom coached the Raiders' off-season basketball and roller derby teams. Opponents think he sometimes roller skates to cover."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

MARV MATUSZAK
Linebacker
No. 55
Tulsa

"When Matuszak comes crashing through to rush a forward passer, better watch out. A mean hunk of man, he's all business.

Marv has been gaining experience each season and has become a pretty tough man to decoy. He usually can spot where a play is coming and has the answers ready and waiting for the ball-carrier. Big blockers don't discourage him, either."

-1958 Topps No. 79

"This could be Marv's year to shine. He could step into any of the linebacker positions and do a bang-up job, having made his knowledge of the game pay handsome dividends.

Drafted third by Pittsburgh in 1953, he clicked as a rookie, then put in two years in the Army. After playing for the Steelers in 1956 he was swapped to San Francisco for the following season and gained All-Pro recognition. In 1958 he was dealt to Green Bay and a year later the Packers sent him to the Colts for guard Fred Thurston. His hometown is South Bend, Indiana, but he's now living in Baltimore."

-1961 Baltimore Colts Official Program

1962

Marv is always bad news for the opposition, whether crashing through the line for a passer or being in the right place to tackle a ball carrier. He can spot where a play is going and is tough to decoy.
Selected to the Pro Bowl as a Steeler rookie in 1953 and again in 1957 as a 49er, Marv was named All-Pro in '57.

"A recent linebacking addition. Marv is starting his eighth pro year and was a two-time All-Pro selection during a career with stops in Pittsburgh, Green Bay, San Francisco and Baltimore.

Matuszak has figured in two big deals while in the NFL: San Francisco traded Earl Morrall and Mike Sandusky to Pittsburgh for him. Later, Baltimore acquired him from Green Bay for Fred Thrurston.

A strong, fast and agile Matuszak can play any of three linebacking positions. He's considered one of Tulsa University's all-time great stars."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

JOHN TRACEY

Linebacker-Tight End

No. 85

Texas A&M

MAIL-ORDER END

"For a fellow who never played high school football, John Tracey has done right well. He's an All-America at Texas A&M now.

John Tracey is six feet, three inches tall and weighs 215 pounds, every inch and pound impressive and ample. And before he came, via the mails, to star at Texas A&M as a mighty end, he had never played high school football- for which he should be ashamed of himself- a big and strong (and, it was discovered later, very talented) fellow like him. 'I just wasn't interested,' he says. 'I didn't know what I was missing.'

Basketball was his game, and he played it fairly well at Northeast Public High School in Philadelphia and at the neighborhood boys' clubs- where he did most of his growing up- until he broke his arm. In June of 1951, he graduated from high school and went to work. There were no college offers because, John thinks, the broken arm prevented the scouts from seeing him during his last year. 'I hung around Philly,' John said, 'doing factory work and playing ball. I even played a year of sandlot football, my first try at it. I guess I was becoming a tramp kid, content to hang aroud.'

Then, in June of 1953 at the age of 19 and two years out of high school, John was drafted and sent to Camp Atterbury in Indiana. That was where he played his first organized football. 'My platoon sergeant was the quarterback for the camp team,' John said. 'After drills, he'd go back out on the field to throw a football around, and I'd go along to catch it. He liked the way I caught the ball and got me a tryout with the camp team.'

The normal run of Army duties being what they are, better than 200 boys showed up for the tryout. Making the team, of course, meant lighter duties. Although Tracey was clearly inexperienced, the coaches liked his size, his speed, his natural talent for catching the ball, and the dogged way he dug in and learned the game. He got a job. He was first-string by mid-season.

When his outfit, the Eighth Division, was moved to Fort Carson, Colorado, John went out for football again. His coach, Chet Lewkaski, had played at Kentucky under Bear Bryant, and after seeing Tracey through a few games he wrote Bryant, now at Texas A&M, to take a look at the boy. Soon, Bryant was at Fort Carson, watched John play, liked what he saw and told him to keep in touch.

In May of 1955, Tracey was discharged and went home to Philadelphia and a job assembling air conditioners. But he knew now that he wanted to go to college and to play football. In the summer, he wrote to Bryant, and, sure enough, Bryant wrote back. Come on ahead, he said, I've cleared an athletic scholarship for you. So John saved his money and in early September, his mail-order scholarship in hand, he flew to College Station, Texas.

'I had decided that I wanted to play football at A&M,' John said. 'You see I'd been away from high school a long while, and I had a lot of studying to make up so I didn't want any distractions. And College Station is a long way from home- 1,745 miles. I know the exact distance. I figured I wouldn't be able run off home every chance I had, and that I'd have to stay and study.'

Getting back to school was tough for him. He had to review all his old high school subjects. Algebra and biology, particularly, were forgotten. And on the field he had to learn, too. 'I was way behind the other fellows.' But John is a natural athlete. He was able to do things easily which other players have to study and practice and strain to master. He beat a high school All-America for a regular end spot on the freshman team. Then, after the first game, he was moved to fullback. The frosh had small backs and the coaches wanted some meat back there. John weighed 220 at the time and could run 100 yards in ten seconds.

Up with the varsity the next spring, he was returned to end and won a starting job. Jack Pardee, the regular fullback, had shoulder troubles, however, and one of the coaches told John to remember his fullback plays, just in case. 'Come on coach,' John said, 'let me play end.'

This was his position. 'I love to catch that ball,' he says. 'There's nothing like it. In college ball I learned that this game is great. In the service there was no go, go, go. Here, it's all go, go, go. There's always a challenge. And I love to catch that ball.

'The only thing I like almost as much is defense. It's an art, I guess. The play comes your way, and you're wondering what the other fellow is thinking. You decide quick and you go at him. The action is great.'

Coach Bryant was exhilarated by what he saw of Tracey. If there is anything Bryant likes, it is a big, burly, hard-nosed player- and Tracey is all of that. He played an aggressive defense, was a natural blocker because 'he just put his nose in there and hit,' and he was a natural pass-catcher. He was All-Southwest at the end of his sophomore season.

Understandably, A&M expected great things of him last year. The Aggies were after a title and John had an important share in the assignment. But he chipped a bone in his ankle early in the game against Baylor. He played the remainder of the quarter; apparently the coaches failed to notice that he was hurt. He came out for four minutes at the end of the quarter, limping, and then went back in. Hobbling around the field in the second half, he was belted again, this time on the elbow. And still he played.

In fact, he played through the entire schedule, mostly because the Aggies were thin behind him, and he had only an average season due to the injuries. 'I didn't mind playing,' he says. 'I wanted to play. I can't watch a ball game.'

This past spring, John was due to have an operation to remove the calcium deposits that had formed on his ankle. But with new coach Jim Myers coming in, he wanted to impress. 'I had my job to protect,' he says. So he talked the doctors into delaying the operation until after spring practice, and he went out and showed his new coach what he could do. 'The ankle held up until the last two days,' he says. 'Then the deposit broke off and the ankle locked. So I went to Houston for the operation. I'm okay now.'

He's okay all around now. At the age of 25 and married, he has ambitions. He wants to play pro ball (which he will) and owns a sportrs shop. He is happy, living in a four-room apartment with his wife Betty ('She's a great housekeeper'), being called 'Pops' by his teammates, finding important friendships with them ('There's isn't a greater bunch of fellows anywhere'), and playing a game he learned late in athletic life and now loves. He is no tramp kid."

-Sport Magazine, November 1958

RALPH FELTON
Linebacker
No. 57
Maryland
Coming to Buffalo from Washington last year, Ralph played in all 14 games, made two interceptions and was named second-team All-AFL by UPI. Primarily a fullback during his college days at Maryland, Ralph has recovered from the knee injuries that threatened his career a few years ago.

"The Bills' old-pro left-side linebacker is starting his 10th season. He's one of the AFL's best red-doggers. He constantly advises, encourages and protects the Bills' younger players. He's particularly adept at covering for injury-slowed teammates without weakening his own position.

Ralph was considered by many observers to be the Bills' most effective 1960 performer. He was an All-American fullback at the University of Maryland. He announced his retirement at the end of 1961, but reconsidered upon close evaluation of the Bills' 1961 title possibilities.

'I think we can do it.' "

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

1962 Bills Defensive Line Profiles

TOM SESTAK

Defensive Tackle

No. 70 

McNeese State

"One of 1962's top rookie sleepers. A rangy 265, Sestak was an All-Conference and Little All-America from McNeese State whom the Bills selected on the 17th round of the draft.

He has speed to go with his size and learns quickly. Sestak made a great impression during the Bills' rookie camp and was installed at defensive tackle almost immediately. He has been battling for a starting berth since the beginning."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

CHUCK MCMURTRY
Defensive Tackle
No. 73
Whittier
"The strongest of all in the AFL is presumed to be Chuck McMurtry, the All-Pro defensive tackle who dropped below 300 pounds and stepped up the quality of his play. Impossible to budge head-on, he's constantly scrapping with two blockers and rarely comes out a loser. He can pursue to the side with surprising speed.
Born in Chandler, Oklahoma, he was a Little All-American at Whittier College."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook


SID YOUNGELMAN
Defensive Tackle
No. 76
Alabama

"Hoist the storm warnings when Sid goes into a game. Chances are that the field will be strewn with enemy ball carriers who thought they could run plays through Sid's slot.

The former Crimson Tide captain was drafted by the 49ers and was later traded to New York. His arrival in  Philadelphia was a big help to the Eagle forward wall.

Sid was Alabama captain his senior year. He starred on defense in the 1953 Orange Bowl."

-1957 Topps No. 145

"The Brooklyn-born brute is one of the National League's toughest linemen. He is hard to move out of position and he is terrific at harassing forward passers. And don't let his size fool you- Sid is a pretty mobile fellow and he can really move when he has to.

During the off-season he keeps up his rugged activity by working as a professional wrestler."

-1958 Topps No. 24

1960
At 6'3" and 255 pounds, Sid is hard to move out of position. He has great mobility despite his size, along with an outstanding ability to bring down ball-carriers and harass passers.
Captain of the Crimson Tide his senior year, Sid starred on defense in the 1953 Orange Bowl. He's a native of Brooklyn and a pro wrestler in the off-season.

"Sid Youngelman was acquired from the Browns to help the youngsters learn their defensive lessons, but the 29-year-old Brooklynite felt frisky enough to get voted an All-Star tackle. He was a sterling figure with the 49ers, Eagles and Browns before coming to the Titans.
Strong, durable and combative, he is combat-sharpened and wise to the ways of an oncoming offense."

-1961 Pro Football Handbook

"Sid Youngelman is an old hand at the business- he's been a pro since 1955. Youngelman's measurements are 6-5 and 267 and have led him into occasional forays in wrestling, though some guys say he's grappling every time he puts on shoulder pads.
He's a Brooklyn boy who went to Alabama and played in two bowl games and captained the Crimson Tide his senior year. Drafted by the Forty-Niners, he made the merry rounds of the league. One year on the coast as a rookie regular on the defensive unit was followed by three with the Eagles. The Browns acquired him in 1959 and he played on their Front Four, but also played out his option and was quickly grabbed by the AFL. He's the strong force in the Titan forward wall, a strong pass rusher and plenty nimble at 29."

-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football

"One of the old pros of the new league. Sid played in three bowl games while starring at 'Bama, then performed for the San Francisco 49ers, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Cleveland Browns.
Sid works as a school teacher in Brooklyn and appears as a professional wrestler in the Long Island area during the off-season."

-1961 Fleer No. 220

"No one can teach this 'Old Pro' any new tricks of defensive line play. Big Sid, who once tried pro wrestling, plays with the spirit of a rookie."

-1961 Topps No. 152

"Still scrambling with the enthusiasm of a rookie is ponderous Sid Youngelman, 30, who found a new career with the Titans. Considered a relief man after service with the 49ers, Eagles and Browns, his experience went a long way toward making him one of the AFL's most destructive defenders at tackle and end. The Brooklyn-born battler makes the middle of the New York wall a formidable barrier."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook


TOM SAIDOCK
Defensive Tackle
No. 71
Michigan State
"Because of his height [6'5"] and weight [265], Tom lines up in everyone's book as an outstanding tackle. He should prove to be a terrific asset to the Titans. Tom will be a hard man to fool because of the experience he gained playing pro ball for the Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles.
Before turning pro, he attended Michigan State University and was named to the All-Big Ten team."

-1960 Fleer No. 64

"Military service interrupted Saidock's collegiate career at Michigan State. He left after the 1951 and 1952 seasons but came back to star in the 1955 campaign.
He played for two years for the NFL Philadelphia Eagles, then cast his lot with the new league where his height and speed soon made his presence felt."

-1961 Fleer No. 219

"In his own quiet way Big Tom did yeoman work in a defense that was not too strong. Saidock is a fine competitor who never slackens his drive."

-1961 Topps No. 155

"Rangy, rugged Tom plays football with exceptional savor and savvy.
This towering tackle had an interesting career with the Spartans. He played on their 1951 and 1952 teams, then put in three years in service before finishing his varsity term. Following his graduation from Michigan State in 1957, Saidock spent two years with the Eagles.
Off-season, he is a salesman. He is married and the father of a seven-year-old son."

-1962 Fleer No. 66

"The former New York Titan defensive captain, the Bills traded veteran flanker Perry Richards to get him. Saidock is a five-year pro with a three-year military service hitch.

He anchored a rugged Michigan State line during three great Spartan years. He's a powerful, heady player who gives the Bills needed depth."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

JIM SOREY 

Defensive Tackle

No. 79

Texas Southern

"Big and strong. Sorey plays at 278 pounds and is surprisingly quick for his size. He has shown constant improvement during his two years with the Bills.

Sorey was signed by the Bills, who had obtained negotiating rights from Houston Oilers' owner Bud Adams. He was the most valuable lineman in the history of Texas Southern University. He is the heaviest man on the Bills' roster."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

LAVERNE TORCZON
Defensive End
No. 87
Nebraska
"The Browns are still unhappy about losing LaVerne Torczon to the service. Drafted by Cleveland in 1956, he first got in his military duty and then decided to become a Bill in 1960.
One of the finest crashing ends, his destructive style has gained him two-time All-Pro recognition. Born in Columbus, Nebraska, LaVerne still has a sufficient number of seasons remaining to continue his harassment of passers."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

"LaVerne Torczon is captain and defensive end of the Buffalo Bills, a leader who inspires by example, one of the league's most dependable performers the last two years."

-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football

"This All-Leaguer from Nebraska is one of the greatest defensemen in football. He is tremendously versatile, playing equally as well at guard or defensive end.
The Bills' captain was a unanimous selection at end in 1960 and as a linebacker in 1961. He made the All-Big Seven two years and was selected as Nebraska's most valuable player in his senior year. He lost his NFL shot with the Browns when he was called into service in 1957 and was signed by Ottawa Rough Riders of the Canadian Big Four in 1959."

-1962 Fleer No. 21

"Captain of the Buffalo Bills. An All-AFL selection in 1960 and 1961.

Extremely fast and tough with one of the best exterior pass rushes in the business, Torczon is a hard and authoritative tackler. He's been called by former Bills' Coach Buster Ramsey, 'One of the three of four finest defensive ends I have ever seen in pro ball.'

A former captain and most valuable player of the University of Nebraska, Torczon was All-America and All-Big Eight as a collegian."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

MACK YOHO
Defensive End
No. 82
Miami-Ohio
Having played every game for Buffalo in the AFL's first two seasons, Mack is a powerful if underrated part of the feared defensive line of the Bills. As a rookie, he returned an interception 15 yards for a touchdown at Denver and kicked a 48-yard field goal at Houston.
Mack won All-Mid-Atlantic honors as a lineman on both offense and defense.

1962 Profile: Elbert Dubenion

Flanker
No. 44
Bluffton
"The flash with the 'golden wheels' is Elbert Dubenion, the Griffin (Georgia) galloper whom many claim is the fastest of all halfback-receivers. He averaged 40 yards with his eight TDs in 1961, and might have tallied more if he had run 'more intelligently.' He must gain experience in cutting and committing himself.
Elbert averaged 10 yards per rush, gained 461 yards as a receiver and 329 as a kickoff returner."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

"Elbert Dubenion was a bright spot in Buffalo's offense last year. The flanker back the Bills have tabbed as 'the fastest in pro football' scored six touchdowns on pass receptions, grabbing 31 aerials for 461 yards. Nearly all of his touchdowns came on long runs, his longest being a 72-yarder on a pass play.
When the Bluffton Express was busy as a ball carrier he was hard to stop. In 17 rushes he picked up 173 yards for a 10.2 average, the best in the league."

-1962 Fleer No. 14

"Bills' glamorous speed merchant flanker. Considered one of pro football's very fastest operatives (some people say THE FASTEST).

Dubenion graduated from Bluffton (Ohio) College, scoring 57 touchdowns during his three-year varsity career. He caught 31 passes for 461 yards in 1961 and led the Bills in scoring with 48 points. He averaged 10.7 yards as a rusher when the Bills infrequently operated from a tight T.

A good 'comeback' blocker, Dubenion's tremendous speed earned him the sobriquet 'Golden Wheels.' He scored eight touchdowns in 1961 from an average of 40 yards out, pointing up his speed and deception with the ball."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

1962 Bills Cornerback Profiles

WILLIE WEST
Cornerback
No. 47
Oregon

"This swift 5-10, 185-pound back broke in impressively last fall, leading the team with 13 kickoff returns for 370 yards- one for 87 yards. This year, Willie is taking a shot at a defensive backfield post, where his exceptional speed enables him to cover a lot of territory. He is still being used to haul back punts and kickoffs.

He co-captained the Oregon team in 1959 and earned All-Pacific Coast Conference honors that year."

-1961 Baltimore Colts Official Program

1962
Always dangerous on pass defense, Willie brings his elusive maneuvers to the Buffalo secondary this year.
Last year he returned 11 punts 98 yards, an 8.9 average, and returned 16 kicks for 340 yards, a 21.3 average. On opening day last year against the Giants at Yankee Stadium, Willie recovered a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown in the second quarter for the first score of the game.

BOOKER EDGERSON 

Cornerback

No. 24

Western Illinois

"Next to the fabled Dubenion, Edgerson is the Bills' fastest man. He ran a 9.7 hundred at Western Illinois. He was also one of the nation's best intercollegiate best broad-jumpers with leaps of 25 feet to his credit. He's a former Illinois all-state wrestling champ.

A four-year defensive backfield stalwart in college, Lou Saban recruited him as a freshman. In addition to his speed, Edgerson has the quickness and toughness necessary for a pro defensive back. In four years of college he played only three games on offense, yet gained 310 yards and averaged 7.7 yards per carry when his chance finally came."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

JOE CANNAVINO
Cornerback
No. 27
Ohio State

"Another strong defender is Cleveland's Joe Cannavino, who was a Colt draft choice in 1957. Joe, 25, returned four interceptions 45 yards and was particularly effective at halting runners anxious to break into the open."

-1961 Pro Football Handbook

"Back to Buffalo comes Joe Cannavino, originally drafted in 1960 by the Bills who shipped him on to Oakland. The Cleveland-born defender will scrap for a defensive halfback job, aiming at proving his value as a cornerman. He was the Raiders' most valuable at stealing passes (5) in 1961. Joe has the speed and quick-hitting stride to fit in with the offensive unit as a halfback or flanker."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

"The Bills gave up corner back Vern Valdez in a trade with the Raiders for the former Ohio State star. Originally signed by the Bills in 1960, he was sent to Oakland under the AFL's player selection agreement with the newly admitted Oakland franchise.

He's a tough, hard hitting defender who could play offense in a pinch. His two interceptions helped OSU win a 10-7 1958 Rose Bowl thriller over Oregon State."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

JIM CROTTY 

Cornerback

No. 25

Notre Dame

"Late 1961 acquisition by the Bills. Crotty did an outstanding job at right cornerback during the final five games. He played his first game for Buffalo less than 24 hours after reporting in outstanding fashion. He's counted on heavily in the 1962 plans for an improved pass defense and is being shifted to the left (strong) side corner.

Crotty's original contract with the Bills called for a return to free agent status after the season. He liked the Bills and AFL so much he was delighted to sign a regulation contract for this year.

He's strong, smart and an excellent tackler. He has excellent defensive moves."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

1962 Profiles: Cookie Gilchrist and Art Baker

COOKIE GILCHRIST
Fullback
No. 34

"The best scorer in the Big Four last year. Cookie plays tackle and linebacker on defense."

-1961 Topps CFL No. 106

"Gilchrist is from Tarentum, Pennsylvania. He played with Sarnia and Kitchener in the O.R.F.U. and then with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats for two years. He went to Regina for one season before coming to the Argos in 1959.
A great scorer, he can play fullback or tackle. Gilchrist is a fine athlete."

-1962 Topps CFL No. 134

"The most recent signee of the Bills, Gilchrist had a fabulous Canadian pro record with Hamilton, Regina and Toronto. He's considered one of the all-time great pros north of the border.

Gilchrist averaged over seven yards a carry as a running back. He's also rated as one of the best linebackers on defense and is a top place kicker. He has a sprinter's speed despite his size and the power of a bulldozer. Cookie is one of the most colorful players in football."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

ART BAKER
Fullback
No. 33
Syracuse
"Those who are paid tackle him claim Art Baker runs harder than any other AFL fullback. Added determination can make him a standout and improve on his 1961 per carry average of 3.3. Born in Erie, Pennsylvania, he was a powerful line smasher at Syracuse and was also immovable on defense, being drafted No. 1 by the Eagles, who desired him for their defensive platoon.
Art went on the wrestling circuit after the '61 season."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

"The former Syracuse fullback, in his rookie season in the AFL, drove for 498 yards in 152 rushes to rank seventh among the leading ground gainers. In addition to his hard running ability, Baker contributed to the Bills' offense by his machine-like blocking, paving the way for big runs by fellow backs.
He averaged five yards per carry in three collegiate seasons with the Orange."

-1962 Fleer No. 12

"The Bills' leading 1961 ground gainer (3.3 average). Over the last four games, however, he averaged seven yards per carry. Baker is one of football's most powerful runners.

He made three All-America teams during three starring years with Syracuse University. He carried a five-yard average in college and was rated one of the Orange's best defensive players. Drafted No. 3 by the Bills, he was drafted No. 1 by the Philadelphia Eagles for his defensive prowess. He starred for the East in the first Coaches' All-America Bowl game in Buffalo in June of 1961.

A National Intercollegiate wrestling champion (191 pounds) in college, Baker began his off-season career as pro wrestler after the 1961 AFL season."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

1962 Bills Safety Profiles

CARL TASEFF 

Safety

No. 23

John Carroll

"A Little All-America selection in college, he plays halfback on defense and either fullback or halfback on offense. When Zollie Toth was injured last season, Taseff took over at fullback and did such a good job that he remained an offensive back the rest of the season.

A 'control' runner, he picks his holes well and has a nifty change of pace which allows him to set up would-be tacklers for blocks and fakes."

-1955 Bowman No. 103

"Carl was the league leader in 1956 with the most punt returns and most yardage via the runback route. In one game, he settled under a punt on his own 10-yard line and bolted 90 yards for a score.

Carl scored 22 touchdowns as a college senior. He gained 3,045 rushing yards in his varsity career."

-1957 Topps No. 77

"Rebounding from a badly broken nose that idled him through the last eight games of 1957, Carl sparkled throughout 1958, starting every contest and intercepting seven passes.

He's been a busy guy since coming to Baltimore, returning 102 punts for 768 yards and hauling 28 kickoffs back for a total of 730 yards. As a rusher, Taseff has averaged 4.9 yards per trip. Three times he has exceeded 90 yards on scoring excursions, once with a punt and twice with missed field goals.

The Cleveland Browns drafted him on the 22nd round in 1951. Carl lives in Parma, Ohio."

-1959 Baltimore Colts Official Program

"Taseff quietly begins his ninth pro year. He started as a Brown in 1951, became a Colt in '53 and, except for '57 when a broken nose knocked him out of action, has been quite active as a defensive halfback and punt returner. In '59 he was No. 10 in the league in returns, carting 15 for 104 yards; he also picked off two enemy tosses. Shifty and difficult to contain once under way, Taseff has also been an offensive back.

He was a Little All-American at John Carroll University and lives in Parma, Ohio."

-1960 Pro Football Handbook  

"This fall may find Carl on the attack for the first time since he smashed for 284 yards as a fullback in 1954. Since then he's been a highly effective defensive halfback- tackling hard and intercepting 17 passes and returning them 183 yards.

He's also a dependable scatback on punts and kickoffs, having accumulated 762 yards on 101 punds and 674 yards via 28 kickoffs. Minus blinding speed, Carl picks his way carefully and has runbacks of 96 and 99 yards to his credit.

Drafted 22nd by Cleveland in 1951, he spent 1952 in the Army before coming to Baltimore. His hometown in Parma, Ohio."

-1960 Baltimore Colts Official Program

"Twice selected an All-Pro defensive back. Taseff had an eight-year hitch with the Baltimore Colts. Also rated one of pro football's best kickoff and punt return men, he's gained over 1,000 yards on kickoff returns.

Taseff is smart and always thinking on the field. He stays in top physical condition all year, accounting for his ability to continue into his 10th season without a noticeable loss of speed or agility."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

CARL CHARON 

Safety

No. 43

Michigan State

"Another promising rookie from Michigan State. He's considered an outstanding defensive halfback prospect despite the fact Charon concentrated on defense only during his senior college season. He was an outstanding running back during his sophomore and junior years. A three-sport star at Michigan State, Charon is fast and extremely strong. His lack of height does not seem to be a deterrent."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program (War Memorial Stadium)

RAY ABRUZZESE 

Safety

No. 46

Alabama

"Tough and talented defensive halfback for 1961 national champion University of Alabama. He intercepted four passes for the Crimson Tide in '61 and made 56 individual tackles. 

Shifted to offense by Bills' coach Lou Saban, he has the speed and power to do a big job despite the competition and a lack of experience. Used as a wild card substitute, he's also considered an excellent punt return man."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

BILLY ATKINS
Safety-Kicker
No. 20
Auburn
"The man who gets the biggest 'boot' out of the game is Billy Atkins, the Millport (Alabama) mechanic who established AFL records in 1961 with 84 punts and a 45 per punt average. He led pass interceptors (10) last year and dashed for 87 yards on two running attempts from a fake kick formation.
Billy was an All-Pro selection as a safetyman."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

"Billy Atkins of the Buffalo Bills led the AFL in two departments in 1961- interceptions, with 11, and punting, with a 45-yard average. The former Forty-Niner and Auburn star had his greatest season in pro ball."

-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football

"An All-Southeastern Conference halfback in college, this Birmingham, Alabama speedster switched to defense in the pros and he was rewarded last year by making the second All-Pro team in the AFL. A brilliant kicker, Bill led all the Bills' punters in 1961 with a 45.0 yard average for 84 kicks.
A star in the East-West and College All-Star contests after graduating in 1957, Atkins joined the San Francisco 49ers in 1958. Two years later he joined the Bills."

-1962 Fleer No. 18

WAYNE CROW
Safety-Offensive Halfback-Punter
No. 22
California

"Wayne made his college reputation at California as an offensive star, both at quarterback and at halfback. He was voted the Bears' top offensive player in the 1959 Rose Bowl. When he graduated he was voted Cal's outstanding athlete for his football and track contributions.

Upon joining the Raiders he showed his all-around skill by fitting in neatly on defense."

-1961 Fleer No. 198

"An indispensable all-service man to Oakland, Wayne has seen duty on the Raiders' offensive, defensive and kicking teams. A halfback and quarterback at California, Wayne was used primarily as a defensive back in 1960. In 1961, Oakland was ailing for an offensive halfback. Since he played that position in college, Wayne was called on to perform. He did his job well, piling up 490 yards on 119 carries for a 4.1 average. This ranked him eighth among AFL runners.

Crow is also the Raiders' punter. In 1961, he averaged 41.5 on 63 punts."

-1962 Fleer No. 73

"A wrenched knee slowed up halfback-punter Wayne Crow in 1961, but not sufficiently to keep him from leading the club in running (490 yards on 119 carries), gaining 196 yards on 23 receptions and closing out as the league's No. 3 punter with a 41.5 average- all after being transferred from the defensive platoon.

The 24-year-old from Corcoran, Calif., came to the club in '60 and was outstanding as a rookie safety intercepting four passes. One of the few genuine two-way threats in the loop, his '62 future is still to be determined now that Bo Roberson has been acquired from San Diego."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook 

"Obtained from Oakland in early July in a trade for M.C. Reynolds and Chuck McMurtry. The Raiders leading rusher in 1961, Crow averaged 4.1 yards on 119 carries, ranking eighth in the league. He caught 23 passes.

Crow also averaged 41.5 yards  per punt to rank second only to the Bills' Billy Atkins. He can also play defense."

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

Wayne was used by Oakland mostly as a defensive back as a rookie in 1960 and on offense as a halfback last year, serving as the Raiders' punter both seasons. His 72-yard punt in 1960 was the AFL's longest that season, and in 1961 he averaged 41.5 yards on 63 punts, his longest 77 yards. Wayne's 490 yards rushing in '61 placed him eighth in the AFL.
In his college career at California, Wayne was both a quarterback and a halfback.

1962 Buffalo Bills Coaching Staff

LOU SABAN

Head Coach
"Lou played his collegiate football at the University of Indiana. While there he was rated an All-Big 10 fullback, All-Big 10 quarterback and Most Valuable Player and was captain of the team in 1943.
Professionally, Lou played with the Cleveland Browns for four years, was captain of the team for four years and was All-Pro for two years. Cleveland won league championships all four years.
Saban brings to the Patriots many years of coaching experience, the most recent of which was the heading coaching assignment at Western Illinois University. Last year he was named 'Coach of the Year' in his conference. He also was assistant to Otto Graham in last year's College All-Star Game, the collegians against the Baltimore Colts."

-1960 Fleer No. 55

"This 39-year-old All-NFL linebacking genius of the Browns in the late '40s has more than a working knowledge of offense as well, having been a quarterback and fullback at the University of Indiana. He served as head coach at Case Tech and Western Illinois and was an assistant at the University of Washington. He received his degree from Baldwin-Wallace.
Lou believes a successful pro club must have size, speed and a passing attack before defense and offense can be placed in perspective."

-1961 Pro Football Handbook

"He's ready to prove that the Patriots made a mistake in dropping him as he assumes his second AFL coaching assignment. Lou refuses to fool himself concerning the qualifications of his players and analyzes their credentials objectively.
A former fierce linebacker with the Browns, he was widely heralded for his ability to read opposing offenses. Now 40, he was a quarterback and fullback at Indiana and has accumulated a vast of knowledge of defense and offense. Lou previously served as the head mentor at Northwestern, Western Illinois and Case Tech and was an assistant at the U. of Washington."

-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

JOEL COLLIER

Defensive Backs Coach

"Collier came to the Patriots with Saban from Western Illinois where he served as end coach for the last four seasons. He was also the school's freshman basketball mentor.

A 1954 graduate of Northwestern, Collier is a native of Rock Island, Illinois. He is married and the father of two."

-1960 American Football League Yearbook (Jay Publishing)

RED MILLER 

Offensive Line Coach

"Miller was a guard for Western Illinois in 1947-48-49. He was named Most Valuable Player on the squad each year as well as Illinois Athletic Conference MVP in '47.

He was a high school mentor for three seasons before becoming the line coach at Carthage (Ill.) College in 1954. He switched to Western Illinois in '57 where he was head swimming coach as well as line coach under Lou Saban.

Miller is a native of Macomb, Illinois,  and is married with two children."

-1960 American Football League Yearbook (Jay Publishing)

JERRY SMITH 

Defensive Line Coach

"Smith comes to the 49ers from the University of Wisconsin where he has played football for three years. He was a first-string tackle on the 1951 team that ranked as the best defensive team in the nation. He has been chosen for such honorary teams as the All-Big Ten and All-Midwest and played on the 1952 East team that nosed out the West by a 15-14 score in the annual East-West Shrine Game in San Francisco on New Year's Day.

Smith is an all-around athlete who is majoring in physical education at Wisconsin. In high school he excelled at basketball, baseball and football. His hobby is golf. He is considered an excellent pro prospect."

-1952 Bowman No. 65

"Smith spent the 1959 campaign as line coach at the University of Dayton. A native of Dayton, he attended the University of Wisconsin and was an All-Big Ten guard in 1951. He played in the East-West Shrine Game.

Smith was an offensive guard for the San Francisco 49ers in 1952 and 1953. After two years in the Army, he split the 1956 season between the 49ers and Packers as a defensive end before retiring from active play."

-1960 American Football League Yearbook (Jay Publishing)

1962 Buffalo Bills Outlook

"Far too many seams need to be sewn before the Buffalo Bills can be granted stature. Threads hang loosely in both platoons with the severest tears in the ground attack, the defensive front wall and the defensive backfield.

There's not enough power in the offensive backfield, either, and stronger and faster runners are a necessity. Warren Rabb, who throws and think better than rivals M.C. Reynolds and Johnny Green, will be the quarterback. But no matter who takes over the T, he'll have to search for running cooperation. Fullback Art Baker developed slowly in '61 and halfback Wilmer Fowler, in just one play last season, is questionable. Fred Brown is a trifle shy at rounding the corners and there could be too much faith placed in yearling Glenn Glass, a sparkler as an option man.
Pass receivers and interior linemen are the Bills' better employees. Elbert Dubenion is the fastest of all flankers. Perry Richards and Glenn Bass, acquired from San Diego, are tabbed for split end duty. The tight flankers are Tom Rychlec and Monte Crocket.
The interior - Harold Olson and Ken Rice, tackles; Chuck Muelhaupt and Billy Shaw, guards, and Al Bemiller, center - is young, strong and has the advantage of starting the season as a group. They were caught in many mistakes in '61, always the curse of the youthful pro.
A defensive end is needed to go along with LaVerne Torczon. Mack Yoho is too light to sustain the weekend pounding without relief. Jim Toons, a fierce rookie from little North Carolina A & T, is by far the best of those on display in training. Chuck McMurtry and Jim Sorey return to tackle.
Archie Matsos, Stew Barber and Ralph Felton form a firm trio of linebackers but even they must sit down once in a while. Look for Yoho to join this threesome if Toons takes over at end.
Trouble looms at the corner halfback poles. Joe Cannavino, an ex-Raider, is one possibility and so is Jim Crotty, a late-'61 arrival. The safety spots will be occupied by Billy Atkins and Jimmy Wagstaff. Here, too, another is needed and it could be Fowler if he's not required as a runner, or possibly Richie Lucas.
Summing up: a thin line of quality is much too insufficient and too much of a load for coach Lou Saban. Buffalo will remain in fourth place, a shade below the New York Titans."

-1962 Pro Football Handbook


"Relatively settled at quarterback for the first time and well-stocked with muscle and speed in all other places, this club should give loyal hometown fans something to shout about.
The Buffalo Bills have all the ingredients of a winning professional football team- an enlightened owner who doesn't flinch when writing checks, a hustling general manager with a desirable coaching and playing background, a personable new coach with modern ideas and a flock of muscular players ideally blended between the young and the old.
But anybody going out on a limb to pick them for first place had better bring a ladder. The Bills have lacked the most important ingredient of all- an established quarterback. And, in the eyes of Buffalo fans, they have committed the most horrifying sin of all- they don't win at home. In two years their record is five and nine in league competition. That's not going to lure support forever, though Buffalo fans have been very patient and will keep flocking to War Memorial Stadium ... mainly because things have to get better with all that talent hanging around.'
'We have some noteworthy problems,' says Coach Lou Saban with caution, 'but we have a good, young nucleus of players. We could be very troublesome to clubs who figure as contenders.'
What Lou actually means is ... if Warren Rabb comes through at quarterback ... if they locate an outside runner ... if they can plug the secondary holes at the corner spots ... if Elbert Dubenion learns to run pass patterns ... if a tight end who can block pops up ...
Rabb has priority. 'He can throw,' Saban lauded, 'and he's a thinker. In addition, at 6-4, 205 pounds, he's a powerful running threat.'
The former LSU teammate of Billy Cannon sat moldering on Detroit's bench for a couple of years and was hampered by joining the Bills late in 1961. All their hopes aren't centered on him, though. They have greater than ever protection at the vital signal-calling spot with M.C. Reynolds, a former Cardinal star, and Johnny Green, who lacks mobility but has the surest arm of all.
The outside running will come from Fred Brown, who was hurt intermittently in '61, No. 2 draft choice Glen Glass and surprise signee Dean Look, a Michigan State All-American of a few years back who quit a baseball career for the gridiron.
The inside running is supplied by Art Baker, who could be great if he put his mind to it, and Wray Carlton. They have to go with Dubenion again as the flanker because he's the kind who can bust a game open. As Monte Crockett gains experience- he had only one year of college ball- he may prove himself at tight end.
The Bills were inconsistent offensively last year because at one time they had seven rookies in the lineup: deep end Glen Bass, tackle Ken Rice, guard Billy Shaw and center Al Bemiller, with Rabb, Brown and Baker in the backfield. The lineup is potentially the best in the AFL. One of these days they'll settle down.
The heritage left by Buster Ramsey, the deposed coach, was a fine defense that generally kept the Bills within scoring range of their opponents. LaVerne Torczon and Chuck McMurtry were powers up front. Tom Day will be put at a tackle slot to get a better pass rush. Mack Yoho may be shifted from end to linebacker, though the cast already there- Ralph Felton, Arch Matsos and Stew Barber- was as good as any in the league.
The secondary was troublesome when Richie McCabe suddenly quit and Jim Wagstaff was hurt. Only Billy Atkins, an All-AFL choice and the Bills' MVP, held up. A trade brought Joe Cannavino from Oakland, and Jim Crotty, picked up as a free agent when the Redskins let him go, was a late-season revelation. Some of those offensive halfbacks, plus Richie Lucas, could get into the act, too.
Owner Ralph Wilson has been the model of patience waiting for the Bills to straighten out. GM Dick Gallagher has hustled players so fast that no one has had a chance to get complacent. No one worked harder than Ramsey, but Buster was stubborn in some of his judgments and tried to do too much himself. Saban is an organization man. He had his disappointments as coach of the Patriots, but he impressed Wilson in one respect- his teams kept beating Buffalo. That got him the job.
He has the talent to play with. If everything falls right, the Bills will do more than make trouble for the contenders: they'll be among them."

-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football

OFFENSE
"Ends: The future is still ahead for kids like Glenn Bass and Monte Crockett, both with great speed and little background. But the Bills right now are more interested in the present.
Rating: Fair
Tackles: Ken Rice and Harold Olson have all the equipment plus youth on their side. Rice, especially, is headed for All-Pro honors. Don Chelf is the swing man.
Rating: Very Good
Guards: The Bills are looking for a running mate for Billy Shaw, who was a bright rookie last year. It might be Orlando Ferrante from the Chargers or rookie Jim LeCompte. They can go back to Chuck Muelhaupt. All have good size.
Rating: Fair
Centers: Al Bemiller is due to become one of the standout centers in the AFL.
Rating: Good
Quarterbacks: First call goes to Warren Rabb, who lacks only experience. R.C. Reynolds has that. Johnny Green has the best arm of the trio.
Rating: Fair
Halfbacks: Fred Brown's injuries last year leaves the race wide open, but he can do.
Rating: Fair
Flankers: Despite his blazing speed, Elbert Dubenion still hasn't perfected his pass routes.
Rating: Good
Fullbacks: Art Baker showed signs of stardom late in the season.
Rating: Good
Strength: All those rookie of last year  (four on the front line) are maturing. The line from tackle to tackle looks better. Weakness: The passing game is erratic, the Bills lack a top-notch outside runner and there's no sustained threat among the receivers.
Rating: Fair"

-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football

DEFENSE
"Ends: There's a strong chance they'll make a linebacker out of Mack Yoho and move one of the tackles, like Tom Day, over to team with the highly rated LaVerne Torczon.
Rating: Good
Tackles: Chuck McMurtry is the strong man of the league, and Jim Sorey is just as big, with Day pushing the latter for a starting job. No one runs on them.
Rating: Very Good
Linebackers: Ralph Felton made a big difference in the club after joining them last year. He steadies kids like Stew Barber with his experience. Archie Matsos is still a fireball in the middle, and now Mack Yoho joins the linebacker corps, with Barber the swing man.
Rating: Very Good
Halfbacks: This is the spot they've got to plug. They have high hopes for Jim Crotty after what he showed in late exposure, and Joe Cannavino had a good rep in Oakland.
Rating: Fair
Safeties: Billy Atkins was a standout for the Bills a year ago, and Jim Wagstaff, when in top shape, is every bit as good. Richie Lucas has to some place, too.
Rating: Very Good
Strength: There's a tough front four, first developed by Buster Ramsey, and the linebackers behind them mop up. Atkins keys the secondary. Weakness: If Yoho is moved, the Bills need another lineman, and the halfback situation is spotty.
Rating: Very Good"

-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football


1962 BUFFALO BILLS ROSTERS

1962 Buffalo Bills Preseason Roster

20 Bill Atkins (DB) Auburn

33 Art Baker (FB) Syracuse

64 Stew Barber (LB) Penn State

88 Glenn Bass (E) East Carolina College

50 Al Bemiller (C) Syracuse

Jake Bodkin (LB) South Carolina

26 Dewey Bohling (HB) Hardin-Simmons

46 Fred Brown (HB) Georgia

Joe Cannavino (DB) Ohio State

30 Wray Carlton (FB) (Duke)

77 Don Chelf (T) Iowa

Dave Cloutier (HB) Maine

80 Monte Crockett (E) New Mexico Highlands

Jerry Croft (G) Bowling Green

James Crotty (HB) Notre Dame

78 Tom Day (T-G) North Carolina A&T

Tom Dellinger (HB) North Carolina State

60 John Dittrich (G) Wisconsin

44 Elbert Dubenion (HB) Bluffton

57 Ralph Felton (LB) Maryland

Orlando Ferrante (G) USC

Wilmer Fowler (HB) Northwestern

Jerry Frye (LB) South Carolina

Glenn Glass (HB) Tennessee

18 John Green (QB) Tennessee- Chattanooga

Carey Henley (LB) Tennessee- Chattanooga

Russ Hepner (HB) Bowling Green

Frank Imperiale (T) Southern Illinois

Fred Jakunuas (C) Detroit

Bill Johnson (LB) Southeast Louisiana

Jim LeCompte (G) North Carolina

Richie Lucas (HB) Penn State

56 Archie Matsos (LB) Michigan State

42 Don McDonald (DB) Houston

73 Chuck McMurtry (DT) Whittier

Collice Moore (G) North Carolina State

70 Ed Muelhaupt (G) Iowa State

74 Harold Olson (T) Clemson

Tom Pennington (E-K) Georgia

Ted Plumb (E) Baylor

17 Warren Rabb (QB) LSU

14 M.C. Reynolds (QB) LSU

75 Ken Rice (T) Auburn

84 Perry Richards (E) Detroit

81 Tom Rychlec (E) American International

Tom Sestak (E) McNeese State

66 Billy Shaw (G) Georgia Tech

79 Jim Sorey (DT) Texas Southern

Mike Stratton (E) Tennessee

Jim Toons (E) North Carolina A&T

87 LaVerne Torczon (DE) Nebraska

Dave Viti (E) Boston University

22 Jim Wagstaff (DB) Idaho State

Jim Webster (DB) Marquette

Manchester Wheeler (QB) Maine

Paul White (HB) Florida

71 Mack Yoho (DE) Miami-Ohio

-1962 Pro Football Handbook

1962 Buffalo Bills Preseason Positional Roster

OFFENSE
Ends
Glenn Bass (Eastern Carolina)
Monte Crockett (New Mexico Highlands)
Tom Rychlec (American International)
Tom Pennington (Georgia)

Tackles
Ken Rice (Auburn)
Harold Olson (Clemson)
Don Chelf (Iowa)
Jerry Croft (Bowling Green)

Guards
Billy Shaw (Georgia Tech)
Orlando Ferrante (USC)
Chuck Muelhaupt (Iowa State)
Jim LeCompte (North Carolina)
John Dittrich (Wisconsin)

Centers
Al Bemiller (Syracuse)
Frank Jackunas (Detroit)

Quarterbacks
Johnny Green (Tennessee-Chattanooga)
Warren Rabb (LSU)
M.C. Reynolds (LSU)

Halfbacks
Fred Brown (Georgia)
Glen Glass (Tennessee)

Flankers
Elbert Dubenion (Bluffton)
Bucky Bolden (Morris Brown)

Fullbacks
Art Baker (Syracuse)
Wray Carlton (Duke)

DEFENSE
Ends
LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska)
Mack Yoho (Miami-Ohio)
Tom Sestak (McNeese State)
Jim Toons (North Carolina A & T)

Tackles
Chuck McMurtry (Whittier)
Jim Sorey (Texas Southern)
Tom Day (North Carolina A & T)
Tom Saidock (Michigan State)

Linebackers
Archie Matsos (Michigan State)
Ralph Felton (Maryland)
Stew Barber (Penn State)
Bill Johnson (Southeast Louisiana)
Jake Bodkin (South Carolina)
Paul Hodge (Pittsburgh)

Halfbacks
Jim Crotty (Notre Dame)
Joe Cannavino (Ohio State)
Wilmer Fowler (Northwestern)
Paul White (Florida)

Safeties
Jim Wagstaff (Idaho State)
Billy Atkins (Auburn)
Richie Lucas (Penn State)
Tom Dellinger (North Carolina State)

-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1962 Football

September 9 Roster

Ray Abruzzese, HB

Art Baker, FB

Stew Barber, T

Glenn Bass, E

Al Bemiller, C

Joe Cannivino, DHB

Wray Carlton, HB

Carl Charon, DHB

Monte Crockett, E

Jim Crotty, DHB

Wayne Crow, HB

Tom Day, G

Jerry DeLucca, T

Al Dorow, QB

Elbert Dubenion, HB

Booker Edgerson, DHB

Ralph Felton, LB

George Flint, G

Cookie Gilchrist, FB

Tom Louderback, LB

Archie Matsos, LB

Marv Matuszak, LB

Harold Olson, T

Warren Rabb, QB

Tom Saidock, DT

Tom Sestak

Billy Shaw, G

Jim Sorey, DT

Carl Taseff, DHB

LaVerne Torczon, DE

Ernie Warlick, E

Mack Yoho, DE

Sid Youngelman, DT

1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

1962 BUFFALO BILLS DEPTH CHARTS

1962 Buffalo Bills Preseason Depth Chart
OFFENSE
QB Warren Rabb (LSU) 17, Johnny Green (Tennessee-Chattanooga) 18, M.C. Reynolds (LSU) 14
HB Richie Lucas (Penn State) 11, Fred Brown (Georgia) 46, Dewey Bohling (Hardin-Simmons) 26, Wayne Crow (California) 22
FB Cookie Gilchrist*, Art Baker (Syracuse) 33, Wray Carlton (Duke) 30
SE Glenn Bass (East Carolina) 88, Tom Pennington (Georgia)*
T Harold Olson (Clemson) 74, Jerry DeLucca (Middle Tennessee State) 72
G Billy Shaw (Georgia Tech) 66, George Flint (Arizona State)*
C Al Bemiller (Syracuse) 50, Frank Jackunas (Detroit)*
G Tom Day (North Carolina A & T) 60, Orlando Ferrante (USC) 68
T Stew Barber (Penn State) 64, Ken Rice (Auburn) 75, Don Chelf (Iowa) 77
TE Ernie Warlick (North Carolina Central)*, Monte Crockett (New Mexico Highlands) 80, Tom Rychlec (American International) 81
FL Elbert Dubenion (Bluffton) 44

DEFENSE
DE Mack Yoho (Miami-Ohio) 82, Jim Toons (North Carolina A & T)*
DT Sid Youngelman (Alabama) 76, Tom Saidock (Michigan State) 71
DT Jim Sorey (Texas Southern) 79, Tom Sestak (McNeese State)*
DE LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska) 87
LB Marv Matuszak (Tulsa) 55, Ralph Felton (Maryland) 57
MLB Archie Matsos (Michigan State) 56
LB Mike Stratton  (Tennessee)*, Stew Barber (Penn State) 64
CB Joe Cannavino (Ohio State) 27
S Jim Wagstaff (Idaho State) 22, Richie Lucas (Penn State) 11
S Billy Atkins (Auburn) 20, Carl Charon (Michigan State)*
CB Booker Edgerson (Western Illinois)*, Jim Crotty (Notre Dame) 25

SPECIALISTS
K Billy Atkins (Auburn) 20
P Wayne Crow (California) 22
KR Elbert Dubenion (Bluffton) 44
PR Glenn Bass (East Carolina) 88

* rookie

September 9 Probable Offensive Starters

LE  Glen Bass 88

LT  Stew Barber 77

LG  Billy Shaw 66

C    Al Bemiller 50

RG Tom Day 88

RT Harold Olson 74

RE Ernie Warlick 84

QB Al Dorow 12

LH Wray Carlton 30

RH Elbert Dubenion 44

FB Cookie Gilchrist 34

-1962 Buffalo Bills Official Program, War Memorial Stadium

December 8 Depth Chart

Offense

QB Warren Rabb 17, Jack Kemp 15

LHB Wray Carlton 30, Wayne Crow 22

FB Cookie Gilchrist 34, Willie Jones 27

FL Elbert Dubenion 44

LE Glenn Bass 88, Tom Rychlec 81

LT Stew Barber 77, Jerry DeLucca 72

LG Billy Shaw 66, George Flint 73

C    Al Bemiller 50

RG Tom Day 60, George Flint 73

RT Harold Olson 74, Jerry DeLucca 72

RE Ernie Warlick 84, Monte Crockett 80

Defense

LDE Mack Yoho 82, Jim Sorey 79

LDT Sid Youngelman 76, Jim Sorey 79

RDT Tom Sestak, Jim Sorey 79

RDE Leroy Moore 87, Jim Sorey 79

LLB Marv Matuszak 55, John Tracey 85

MLB Archie Matsos 56, John Tracey 85

RLB Mike Stratton 58, John Tracey 85

LW Willie West 47, Tom Minter 25

RW Booker Edgerson 24, Tom Minter 25

LS Carl Taseff 23, Ray Abruzzese 46

RS Carl Charon 43, Ray Abruzzese 46

Specialists

P Wayne Crow 22

Kickoffs, Field Goals, PAT Mack Yoho 82, Cookie Gilchrist 34

Holder: Warren Rabb 17

-1962 New York Titans Official Program, The Polo Grounds

Buffalo Bills Profiles, 1962 Pro Football Handbook

Lou Saban (head coach)

Billy Atkins

Art Baker

Glenn Bass

Fred Brown

Joe Cannavino

Elbert Dubenion

Archie Matsos

Chuck McMurtry

Warren Rabb

Tom Rychlec

LaVerne Torczon 

1962 Buffalo Bills Fleer Cards

Billy Atkins

Art Baker

Elbert Dubenion

Johnny Green

Richie Lucas

Archie Matsos

Warren Rabb

Ken Rice

Tom Rychlec

Billy Shaw 

LaVerne Torczon 

1962 Buffalo Bills Profile Summary
Head Coach: Lou Saban

QB Jack Kemp (Occidental) 15
QB Johnny Green (Tennessee-Chattanooga) 18
QB Al Dorow (Michigan State) 12
QB Warren Rabb (LSU) 17
HB Richie Lucas (Penn State) 11
HB Fred Brown (Georgia) 46
FB Cookie Gilchrist 34
FB Art Baker (Syracuse) 33
FL Elbert Dubenion (Bluffton) 44
SE Glenn Bass (East Carolina) 88
TE Ernie Warlick (North Carolina Central) 84
TE Tom Rychlec (American International) 81
C Al Bemiller (Syracuse) 50
G Billy Shaw (Georgia Tech) 66
G Chuck Muelhaupt (Iowa State) 70
T Harold Olson (Clemson) 74
T Ken Rice (Auburn) 75

DT Chuck McMurtry (Whittier) 73
DT Sid Youngelman (Alabama) 76
DT Tom Saidock (Michigan State) 71
DE LaVerne Torczon (Nebraska) 87
DE Mack Yoho (Miami-Ohio) 82
MLB Archie Matsos (Michigan State) 56
LB Marv Matuszak (Tulsa) 55
LB Stew Barber (Penn State) 64
LB Ralph Felton (Maryland) 57
CB Willie West (Oregon) 47
CB Joe Cannavino (Ohio State) 27
S Billy Atkins (Auburn) 20
S Wayne Crow (California) 22
S Richie Lucas (Penn State) 11

K Billy Atkins (Auburn) 20
P Billy Atkins (Auburn) 20
P Wayne Crow (California) 22

Other 1961 Bill Profiles

JOHNNY GREEN
Quarterback
No. 18
Chattanooga
"None of the '61 rookie hopefuls at the Bills' training camp carried quarterback credentials, enough evidence to tab veteran Johnny Green as No. 1 at the T job. The 24-year-old Riviera Beach (California) rifle came from the Steelers early in '60 and went on to top all Bill aerialists, tossing 10 TD bombs and gaining 228 yards."

-1961 Pro Football Handbook

"He can throw and he can run. That's what coaches dream of in a quarterback, and that's what Green has to offer. With the height and weight to take a chance at running the ball, he worries would-be rushers because of his accuracy on the long throw.
A three-year regular at Chattanooga, Green broke into pro ball with the Toronto Argonauts, then switched to the Pittsburgh Steelers."

-1961 Fleer No. 133


JOE KULBACKI
Halfback
No. 43
Purdue
"Keeping busy fielding punts and kickoffs in '60 was Joe Kulbacki, team leader in both departments. The 23-year-old Irvine (Pennsylvania) speedster gained 226 yards on 13 kickoffs and added 100 yards with 12 punts, many of which of which he refused to play 'safe' with a fair catch signal.
An all-purpose performer, Joe can also turn in a dependable defensive job."

-1961 Pro Football Handbook


DEWEY BOHLING
Halfback
No. 26
Hardin-Simmons
"The best of all Titans on the ground was Dewey Bohling, the 24-year-old halfback out of Albuquerque, New Mexico. A disciple of Baugh's while at Hardin-Simmons, Dewey dashed off 438 yards in 1960, 12th best in the AFL. He also caught 30 passes for 268 yards, converting four of them into touchdowns.
Dewey had a previous trial with the Steelers."

-1961 Pro Football Handbook

"When a coach takes over a new team, he likes to have players he knows around him. So Sammy Baugh went after a four-year veteran of his college teams at Hardin-Simmons, a man he knew was a bouncy, jolting runner. Bohling had carried the mail and the fight for Baugh well in college, and he did exactly that for his old coach during their debut year in New York."

-1961 Fleer No. 214


ART BAKER
Fullback
No. 33
Syracuse
"Art signed with the NFL Bills in preference to the NFL Eagles, who made him a No. 1 draft pick. Speedy and powerful, he has run 100 yards in 10.1 seconds."

-1961 Topps No. 163


PERRY RICHARDS
Split End
No. 84
Detroit
"Playing with the Detroit Lions and the St. Louis Cardinals, Perry has shown flashes of fine talent as an offensive end. When Detroit rocketed to the championship in '57, he gave them valuable assistance as a rookie receiver.
He's got good size and sure hands, and now after four years of playing pro he should be in a position to lend a valuable lift to a brand new organization."

-1961 Fleer No. 130


TOM RYCHLEC
Tight End
No. 81
American International
"A mighty big man from a small school, Rychlec was an All-New England, All-East and Little All-American selection while in college. In 1956, he led the nation's collegians in pass catching, with 45. After the 1957 College All-Star Game in Chicago, he was signed by the Detroit Lions.
This outstanding end was high on coach Buster Ramsey's 'must get' list when the Bills were formed."

-1961 Fleer No. 137

"One of the few pro ends who was equally outstanding as a blocker and pass-catcher, Tom is fast and aggressive. He led the Bills in 1960 by catching 44 passes."

-1961 Topps No. 164


PHIL BLAZER
Guard
No. 60
North Carolina
"Fast, intelligent and mobile, this excellent blocking lineman was the only Atlantic Coast Conference gridder selected for the 1959 College All-Star squad. Captain of the Tar Heels, he played in the North-South Shrine Game and the Senior Bowl, where his powerful play as an offensive guard caught the eye of professional scouts for both leagues.
His gentle, handsome features make it hard to believe he's such a rugged competitor on the field."

-1961 Fleer No. 139


BILLY SHAW
Guard
2nd Round
Georgia Tech
Coach Ramsey is confident this young man out of Georgia Tech can be the type of tough and mobile guard who can fortify Buffalo's offensive line. Whether leading the way on a running play or protecting the quarterback on a passing play, Billy is a former All-American tackle ready to become an outstanding pro guard for many years to come.


KEN RICE
Offensive Tackle
1st Round
Auburn
"This huge, agile tackle was everyone's All-American in 1960. Ken was the first draft choice of both the AFL Bills and the NFL St. Louis Cardinals."

-1961 Topps No. 162


STEW BARBER
Offensive Tackle
4th Round
Penn State
This 250-pounder out of Penn State is known to scouts for the excellent pass-blocking he provides for quarterbacks. Stardom is predicted for Stew, who always works extremely hard to improve his performance.


GENE GRABOSKY
Defensive Tackle
No. 78
Syracuse
"Sidelined early in the season with an unfortunate knee injury, Gene came back strongly for the last two games and did an excellent job on defense. However, the knee continued to bother him and minor surgery was undertaken this winter which has corrected the condition.
He is looked to this year as an important factor in strengthening the Bills' defense which is already one of the best in the league."

-1961 Fleer No. 143


MACK YOHO
Defensive End
No. 71
Miami-Ohio
"Canadian professional fans have reason to remember Yoho. His toe won the 1959 playoff game between Ottawa and Montreal. Mack was picked up by Ottawa coach Frank Clair after starring for Ara Parseghian at Miami, where he earned All-Mid-Atlantic Conference honors as an offensive tackle and defensive end.
The Bills used him exclusively at defensive end last year."

-1961 Fleer No. 138

"Mack is one of the most underrated defensive linemen in the league. Especially good at rushing opposing passers, he is a mobile, powerful tackler."

-1961 Topps No. 165


JOE SCHAFFER
Linebacker
No. 67
Tennessee
A rugged competitor who played every game last year, Joe returned an interception 19 yards. His intense desire inspires Buffalo's linebacking corps.
Joe was an outstanding tackle at Tennessee. Captain of the Volunteers in 1959, he was selected All-Southeastern Conference that year.


RALPH FELTON
Linebacker
No. 57
Maryland
"Ralph keeps on the move during a game. He switches back and forth as he figures out the plays and usually is a thorn in the side of quarterbacks who look to outwit him. Ralph is also deadly on pass defense."

-1960 Topps No. 129

"The Redskins traded this proficient linebacker to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1958. Released just after the start of the season, Ralph migrated right back to Washington.
He has become the anchor of the Skin linebacking corps. Bad knees threatened to end his career a couple of seasons ago.
At Maryland, the seven-year veteran was known primarily for his offensive play at fullback."

-1961 Fleer No. 115


RICHIE MCCABE
Cornerback
No. 45
Pittsburgh
"Richie has the greatest top-level experience in the league. The 27-year-old Pittsburgher, one of the lightest men in football at 168, played five years in the NFL with the Steelers and the Redskins. As a kid, he was a water boy for the Steelers, and owner Art Rooney remembered this when Richie finished his schooling at Pitt. Normally introverted, he talks constantly to his opponents during the game to divert them from concentrating on pass catching."

-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football

PRO'S PRO
"As a kid around Pittsburgh, McCabe used to carry the water bucket for the Steelers, so it was only natural he should wind up as one of their defensive halfbacks when he finished his football career at Pitt. He also played with the Redskins in his five-year tenure in the NFL.
Still young and spry at 27, Richie is the studious type, slim and bespectacled (off the field), with a gift for diagnosing opposition plays. He's a teacher in the off-season."

-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1961 Football

"Richie got his first pro football lessons as a waterboy for the Pittsburgh Steelers. One of the top pass defenders in the loop, he was voted an AFL All-Star."

-1961 Topps No. 161


BILLY KINARD
Cornerback
No. 24
Mississippi
Billy is a dependable veteran who can run with the fastest offensive ends while rarely making a mistake. Playing in every game last year, this 1956 second round pick was a respected defensive back with both Cleveland and Green Bay before joining the new league. Billy was a rookie standout returning kicks, including one for 56 yards, averaging 28.0 yards.
Lettering four years at Ole Miss, he played in the Sugar Bowl in '53 and '55 as well as the '56 Cotton Bowl. Billy is the brother pro football stalwarts Bruiser Kinard and George Kinard.

JIM WAGSTAFF

Safety
No. 22
Idaho State
"Jim Wagstaff's previous exposure to coach Buster Ramsey got him a job with Buffalo. He went to Idaho State, where his finest achievement was breaking the Rocky Moutain Conference pole vault record; he topped 14 feet consistently. The leaping ability impressed the Detroit Lions, who had reached into the Rockies for such other great defenders as Jack Christiansen and Jim David, and they drafted him in 1958.
An injury spoiled his rookie season and in 1959 he was shipped to the Cardinals- just for decoration, it turned out. He became a free agent last fall after the Bills were in camp. Ramsey remembered the kid from Idaho with steel springs in his legs and picked him up. Among the rewards for the Bills was a 38-yard touchdown jaunt with a stolen pass that broke a second-quarter tie with the Patriots and sparked Buffalo to a win in their December meeting.
Jim teaches school back home in Idaho to help support his growing family- three little ones. He also goes in strong for hunting and fishing in the Rockies."

-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football


BILL SHOCKLEY
Place Kicker-Halfback
No. 29
West Chester
1960
Bill was the biggest football star at small West Chester during his collegiate career. He's the kind of man teams from the new league are looking to from little-known sources of campus gridiron talent.
A bruising halfback, the Titans will most likely utilize Bill's ability as a place kicker. Every club needs those successful kickoffs, field goal attempts and conversions for a winning season. Bill can also serve with distinction on the other side of the field with daring and with blazing speed on punt and kickoff returns. And he still can be called on for halfback duty.

"Bill Shockley was the big man at small West Chester Teachers and shows promise of doing major things in the AFL. He was No. 4 in total points, scoring 86, and was first in points after touchdown, notching 47. A bruising halfback and forceful runner, he averaged 4.2 yards. Now 23, the Malverne (Pennsylvania) marvel also was among the most active at returning kickoffs, taking back 17 for 411 yards."

-1961 Pro Football Handbook

"This Little All-America star holds all his school's scoring records, including 15 touchdowns in a season, 42 points after touchdowns in a season, and 132 points in a season. Bill was an all-around star, sought also by big league baseball teams.
Despite his size, Bill does one of the heavy jobs in pro ball: kicking off, conversions and field goals. He was fourth among Titan ball carriers in ground gained and led the scorers with 86 points."

-1961 Fleer No. 213