Friday, December 29, 2017

1979 Profile: Sherman White

Defensive End
No. 83
California
"Sherman tank. Built to destroy, but has practiced self-destruction most of his pro career. The second player taken in the entire 1972 draft, by Cincinnati, he hasn't come close to All-Pro or even a Pro Bowl. White shouldn't feel alone: Walt Patulski, Dave Butz and John Matuszak haven't either.
He wasn't a particular favorite of Bengals' majordomo Paul Brown and was traded to the Bills in 1976. White has been a starter all three of his years in Buffalo.
The sleeping giant may have awakened in 1978, having probably his best year as a pro. He might hit his peak this autumn.
Born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, White was an All-American at California after having played just two games of football in high school."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

Tuesday, December 19, 2017

1979 Profile: Keith Moody

Kick Returner-Cornerback
No. 46
Syracuse
"Buffalo was past the point of no returns when it drafted Moody 10th in 1976. One year later he finished fourth in the NFL bringing back punts, including club records for return average, 13.1, and the longest return, 91 yards- also the longest in the league that season.
One-year flash? Forget it. Moody came back last year with an 82-yard punt return for a touchdown, tying the Jets' Bruce Harper for the longest return in the league. Moody and Harper had identical 12.6 return averages, second in the NFL to Denver's Rick Upchurch.
Moody was born in Salisbury, North Carolina. A star defensive back at Syracuse, he backs up Mario Clark at left cornerback for the Bills."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

Friday, December 8, 2017

1979 Profile: Tony Greene

Free Safety
No. 43
Maryland
"A second-story man who makes his living in the fall by stealing- 36 interceptions in seven pro seasons, including a pair of nines (1974 and 1977). A charmer with his smile, a player throughout- one of those 'where-do-you-want-me-play, coach' types.
Greene started with the Bills as a cornerback, then switched to free safety. He has played hurt; one year it looked like Tony couldn't play because of a knee injury, but he came back to the secondary when he couldn't walk without limping.
Born in Bethesda, MD, he was a defensive back and sprinter at Maryland and signed with the Bills as a free agent. Greene holds the Buffalo record with a 101-yard interception return in 1976. He has played in two Pro Bowls."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

"A co-holder of a Bills club record with three interceptions in one game, October 30, 1977, Tony has sure hands. Tony was the Bills' Man of the Year in 1976."

-1979 Topps No. 118

Tuesday, November 28, 2017

1979 Profile: Mario Clark

Cornerback
No. 29
Oregon
"Heady, steady ... Chuck Knox's description of Clark, entering his fourth year as a Bills' starter. He never has been a looker-on: he started all four years at Oregon, too.
Clark led Buffalo in interceptions last year with five. He has 14 interceptions in three pro seasons, with a high of seven in '77. This surpasses his college mark of 13.
He's one of the NFL's best young corners but may not get the recognition due him unless the Bills' woeful defense improves. Clark is a very good cover man who likes the challenge of man-to-man coverage, otherwise known as me-and-you, Jack.
Born in Pasadena, but if he wanted to play in a Rose Bowl in his hometown, he should have gone to USC or UCLA. Much closer, too."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

"The Bills' leading interceptor in 1978, Mario has started 43 of 44 games since joining the club in 1976. He tied a Bills record in 1977 with interceptions in four straight games.
One of Mario's majors at Oregon was architecture."

-1979 Topps No. 404

Tuesday, November 21, 2017

1979 Profile: Reggie McKenzie

Guard
No. 67
Michigan
"The other half of perhaps the league's finest guard pair. Only Bob Kuechenberg and Larry Little in Miami would be close.
Mac has played in 101 straight games dating back to 1972 when Buffalo made him its second draft pick. Mac and Joe D. are all that's left from the Electric Company, Buffalo's offensive line in the heyday of O.J. Simpson. Reggie was the juice's main man in Buffalo. Chuck Knox believes he will have his best year in 1979.
Born in Detroit, McKenzie was an All-American at Michigan. He's interested in politics, and also in pulchritude: he married Miss Massachusetts of 1974. He does charity work for the Bills and likes music, reading and racquetball."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

"Reggie's string of consecutive games, which dates to his rookie campaign of 1972, now stands at 101 straight contests as he enters the 1979 season. He has earned All-Pro and All-Conference honors during his career in Buffalo and he won the Wisconsin Pro Football Writers' Award as the NFL's Top Blocking Lineman during 1973.
Reggie has worked in public relations for a hotel."

-1979 Topps No. 468

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

1979 Profile: Joe DeLamielleure

Guard
No. 66
Michigan State
"Consensus All-Pro for the fourth straight season, even without O.J. to block for anymore. Terry Miller should buy Joe D. and Reggie McKenzie steak dinners whenever they ask. Joe D. had a preseason knee injury but didn't miss a game and now has played in 87 consecutive games for the Bills. He's built more like a duplex than an apartment building but, technically, is as fine a blocker as there is in the game.
Born in Detroit, Joe comes from a family of 10 children. He was a tremendous college lineman at Michigan State, the Bills' second first-round pick in 1973 and an instant starter in the pros. Joe works in a bank in the off-season and is part-owner of a restaurant."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

"Joe is a consensus All-Pro selection who has established himself as one of the most outstanding guards in pro football. A perennial Pro Bowl participant, Joe has started every game for the Bills over the course of the past six seasons.
Joe earned invitations to the North-South and Senior Bowl Games after his college career.
Joe spent one winter working in a sheriff's office."

-1979 Topps No. 190

1979 Profile: Reuben Gant

Tight End
No. 88
Oklahoma State
"Reuben G., Reuben G., just how good will you ever be? The answer could be this season.
Gant played three years behind Paul Seymour when the latter was needed as a blocking tight end for O.J. Simpson. O.J. left last year and so did Seymour. Gant had the job to himself for the first time and caught 34 passes for 408 yards (12.0) and five touchdowns. He caught 41 the year before as a reserve, but for only two scores. The Bills are waiting for him to explode, and he will once the overall offense is stable again.
Born in Tulsa, Gant blocked for most of his college career at Oklahoma State. He was drafted No. 1 by the Bills in 1974.
Reuben likes to ride horses in the off-season- after breaking them."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

"A strong receiving threat from the tight end position for the Bills, Reuben enjoyed his best game for the club on November 6, 1977. He caught seven passes for 97 yards in a win against the Patriots.
Reuben looks toward a career in broadcasting."

-1979 Topps No. 358

1979 Profile: Bob Chandler

Wide Receiver
No. 81
USC
"Caught 44 passes, his lowest total in four years, but his 13.2 yards per catch was right around his career average. Captain of the NFL's All-Unsung team, Chandler caught 220 passes in four years but has never played in a Pro Bowl.
Perry Mason with a waistline; he will soon have a law degree after applying himself during the off-season. Born in Long Beach, California, Chandler has that Surf City look.
The player of the game in USC's 1970 Rose Bowl victory over Michigan when he scored the game's only touchdown, Chandler is a natural athlete who was a quarterback as a USC freshman. He was also on the track team and is a fine golfer.
Chandler runs precise passing patterns, relying on quickness and sure hands."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

"Bob currently ranks second to Elbert Dubenion in all receiving categories on the Bills' all-time list of pass catchers.
He attends law school during the off-season"

-1979 Topps No. 292

1979 Profile: Joe Ferguson

Quarterback
No. 12
Arkansas
"Watched Rome burn all around him while playing first fiddle for six years in Buffalo. Had a great offensive line to protect him at one time, not so great anymore. Same with his receivers and running backs. But Joe plays on.
'Like any quarterback, Joe will improve when he has a better surrounding cast,' says coach Chuck Knox. 'I'm not talking simply about the offense. When the defense can stop people, it won't put such a tremendous burden on the offense, the quarterback in particular. Joe's got a great arm and had some great games for us.'
Born in Alvin, Texas, Ferguson was one of Arkansas' great quarterbacks. He was sixth in the AFC in passing last year and fourth in touchdown passes (16)."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

"Ferguson has always been a passer. An underrated quarterback, he has had the misfortune of playing for some outmanned Buffalo Bills teams. With a virtual cast of youngsters and marginal players, Ferguson still finished among the top 10 in NFL quarterback ratings (10th), completing 53% of his passes. With his better supporting cast in 1979, Ferguson could come up a big winner."

-Joel D. Blumberg, Football Forecast 1979

"Joe has moved into second place on the Bills' all-time list in all passing categories.
He threw four touchdown passes in one game against the Patriots on November 23, 1975.
Joe hopes someday to be a coach."

-1979 Topps No. 23

1979 Profile: Terry Miller

Running Back
No. 40
Oklahoma State
"Instant offense. Miller rushed for 1,060 yards as a rookie, re-juicing the Bills' attack after O.J. left. Second to Earl Campbell in the Heisman race of '77 after two straight All-American years at Oklahoma State, some scouts believe that Miller will remain an effective pro longer than Campbell.
Miller's 1,060 was the sixth best ever by an NFL rookie, although accomplished in 16 games. He was one of 11 to crack 1,000 in the NFL last year. He did most of it in the second half of the season after a slow start common for a rook. Miller's 208 yards rushing against the Giants was the league high.
He also caught 22 passes in '78 to top Bills' running backs.
Born in Columbus, Georgia, he has a college degree in finance."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

"One of the NFL's finest rookies in 1978, Terry became a 1,000-yard rusher during his initial campaign. The Bills' leading rusher last season, he ranked fifth in the AFC in that category.
Terry was a consensus All-America pick. He was also the Colorado schoolboy champ in the 60, 100 and 200-yard dashes."

-1979 Topps No. 511

1979 Profile: Chuck Knox

Head Coach
"Went to Buffalo- anything to get away from the late Carroll Rosenbloom. Knox produced five divisional titles in five years in Los Angeles but never made the Super Bowl, which turned off Rosenbloom.
A deal was arranged where Knox would get a promotion in Buffalo- football coach AND vice-president in charge of football operations. In other words, he runs the whole show. He didn't do too badly in his first year,  winning five games, or exactly the amount Buffalo had won over the previous two seasons.
The 47-year-old Knox didn't do too badly at the draft table, either, getting running back Terry Miller and defensive tackle Dee Hardison, now starters. With a slew of picks from the 49ers for O.J. Simpson, he should fatten the Bills' roster with talent.
Knox is a great organizer and teacher, a no-nonsense type whose only rap has been conservativeness."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

1979 Buffalo Bills Outlook

1979 Buffalo Bills Team Directory
President: Ralph Wilson
Vice-President, Football Operations-Head Coach: Chuck Knox
Vice-President-General Manager: Stew Barber
Vice-President: Patrick McGroder
Vice-President, Public Relations: L. Budd Thalman
Home Field: Rich Stadium (80,020)

-The Complete Handbook of Pro Football (1979 Edition)

OFFENSE
"The Bills' running game isn't bad with Terry Miller, Curtis Brown and Roland Hooks, who had long runs of 60, 58 and 66 yards respectively. But Brown weighs 203 pounds, which may weigh him down over 16 games if he continues to return kicks, pound through the middle of the line and also block for Miller. Brown certainly stood out last year, helping Miller rush for 1,060 yards and picking up 591 yards (4.6 average) himself.
Quarterback Joe Ferguson could use a burner at wide receiver to open up the Buffalo offense more. Bob Chandler is a tremendous technical receiver and ex-Steeler Frank Lewis had personal highs last year with 41 receptions and seven touchdowns. But Coach Chuck Knox doesn't consider either a deep threat. Maybe young Len Willis, the former Ohio Stater who was injured last year, could be that man. Reuben Gant has come on at tight end and is headed for his best year.
The line still has Joe DeLamielleure and Reggie McKenzie at guards. Willie Parker is the center, with Ken Jones and Joe Devlin the tackles. Devlin is becoming one of the better tackles in the AFC. Remember, Miller didn't do it alone."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

DEFENSE
"All together now: what defense? Certainly not against the rush, where Buffalo was last in the AFC with a 201-yard average. The front four of Ben Williams, Mike Kadish, Dee Hardison and Sherman White didn't frighten anyone. However, Phil Dokes had Kadish beat out until an injury and Hardison was thrown in as a rookie. Scott Hutchinson, also a first-year player in '78, could start this year ahead of either Williams or White. Knox would like to see his Bills cut 50 yards off their rushing yield- to make games fair.
Buffalo's pass defense ranked No. 1 but had a league-low 317 passes attempted against it. Since the Bills were giving up an astronomical 4.8 yards per rushing carry, who needed to throw? Buffalo's linebackers include the transient Tom Graham in the middle and Shane Nelson and Lucius Sanford on the outside. The secondary isn't weak by any means despite the way it earned its No. 1 ranking. Mario Clark, five interceptions, is a strong right corner and Tony Greene a capable free safety. Charles Romes had a good first year at corner, including an 85-yard interception return for a touchdown, longest in the AFC."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

KICKING GAME
"Curtis Brown returned a kickoff 102 yards and Keith Moody brought a punt back 82 yards, the longest punt return in football. Tom Dempsey drilled 10 of 13 field goal attempts in his latest re-emergence. Rusty Jackson's punting average dropped with the thermometer; he finished at 38.8. B-r-r-r-r."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

THE ROOKIES
"The Bills got rich- or at least richer- with Ohio State linebacker Tom Cousineau, the first player taken in the draft, and Clemson wide receiver Jerry Butler, the fifth. Boston College middle guard Fred Smerlas will also help that porous Bills defense inch towards respectability."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition

OUTLOOK
"The Bills offense is good enough to win 10 games, but their defense is capable of losing more. Chuck Knox has lots of draft picks to build the future with. The future certainly isn't now for Buffalo, which will live in the cellar of the strong AFC East. Bring blankets, Chuck."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1979 Edition


"When the Buffalo Bills open their season against the Miami Dolphins on September 2, the mathematical odds will be in favor of coach Chuck Knox's outfit. On a hunch that a team that loses to the same opponent 18 straight times, just HAS to win sometime, the oddsmakers could almost give Buffalo some kind of an edge- something about the law of averages. Those 18 consecutive victories, two of which came last season, established a new NFL record for an all-time winning streak against the same opponent. So, how long can a string like that continue? A long time, maybe.
Except for the Dolphins, Buffalo doesn't meet up with any 1978 playoff-caliber teams [except New England on November 4] until the season's last four games. Then they tackle New England, Denver, Minnesota and Pittsburgh in that order, with the Broncos supplying the only home game. By that time, the Bills should know what the immediate future has in store for them if, by chance, they can survive that formidable four-game gauntlet.
As the Buffalo fans prepare for another season without O.J. Simpson, some interesting statistics have surfaced- figures that may indicate the shape of better things to come. The final total of five Buffalo victories in 1978, for instance, equaled the total number of victories for both 1976 and 1977. If that fails to start the adrenalin flowing, consider this: last season Buffalo lost seven of its games by margins of a touchdown or less. And for the first time since 1975, somebody else besides the Bills finished the season as cellar-dwellers in the AFC East.
The positive thinking factors don't stop there. The club's offensive production was up by 239 yards, even its overall offensive ratings in the NFL turned up slightly. The rushing yardage was especially encouraging, since it showed an increase of more than 500 yards over '77, with the NFL ranking improving from 18th place to 10th.
The biggest plus, however, would seem to be the club's defense against the pass. Here the Bills ranked at the very top of the NFL, permitting a per-game average of only 122.5 yards. Even so, those figures may be deceptive since NFL ball-carriers found Buffalo's defensive unit the easiest one to run through last season. In that department, the Bills ranked at the very bottom of the NFL- in 28th place- by allowing the opposition an average of 201.8 yards rushing per game.
But what about Buffalo's passing game and Joe Ferguson's receivers? Says coach Knox: 'Bob Chandler and Frank Lewis give us two excellent outside receivers, but our need is for a 'burner,' a speed merchant who can give us a deep threat. Lou Piccone provides a measure of depth and an added dimension with his blocking and performance on the special teams. Then, four receivers are coming off the injured reserve- John Holland, Len Willis, Willie Zachery and Dan Fulton. We had great hopes for Fulton in particular but he reported late last year, then he had foot problems that kept him out of practice all season.'
One problem that kept the Buffalo defensive unit off balance the first half of last season was the absence of defensive tackle Mike Kadish, the club's best defensive lineman. With Kadish out, and middle linebacker a weak spot, opposing ball-carriers found the going easy through the center of Buffalo's line. In fact, word got around that Buffalo probably had the weakest defensive middle in the league. Two first-rate rookies, linebacker Lucius Sanford and tackle Dee Hardison, tried to plug the gap as best they could, but it was rough going until Kadish finally settled a contract dispute with the front office and returned to action.
Terry Miller is going to be part of the Buffalo scene for years to come. In late November, he became only the fourth NFL rookie ever to rush for 200 or more yards in a game. He rolled 208 against the New York Giants with the Bills winning, 41-17. The three previous 200-yard rookies were Tom Wilson of Los Angeles, 1956; Cleveland's Jim Brown, 1957; and the incomparable Tony Dorsett of Dallas in 1977.
Will the Buffalo fans get used to the idea that O.J. is no longer around to make the big play? With Terry Miller in the lineup, they might, but still, the feeling lingers that there's only one Orange Juice. Knox recently revealed the reasons why he felt it necessary to send O.J. packing to San Francisco. It seems team morale was a factor.
'On a team that won two games one year and three the next,' said Knox, 'how do you justify giving $733,000 to one guy while the guy next to him gets $33,000?'"

-Herbert M. Furlow, The Pocket Book of Pro Football 1979

OFFENSE
"Quarterbacks: Ferguson set club passing records in 1977, but he couldn't match up to that performance in '78. This was reflected in Buffalo's ranking in team passing which was 12th in the AFC, with an average output of 140.5 yards per game.
Indestructible Bill Munson enters his 16th NFL season a young 38, his arm still effective when needed. He threw 43 times last season and completed 24 for a 55.8 average and four touchdowns. David Mays called a few plays but didn't impress that much.
Running Backs: Miller is the start of this company. He became the 10th rookie to gain a thousand yards when he ran for 123 against Baltimore in the season finale. His final total was 1,060. Even so, Curtis Brown turned in the best average yardage gain per carry with 4.6, slightly better than Miller's 4.5. Brown gained 591 yards on 128 attempts.
Mike Collier was on injured reserve and Steve Powell saw little action. Dennis Johnson showed some form as a rookie and may yet supply Knox with a powerful Miller-Johnson tandem.
If youth and yards are the same, this unit should travel far.
Receivers: Five members of this unit were injured reservists in '78- Fulton, Holland, Shipp, Willis and Zachery. Chandler fell short of 50 receptions for the first time since 1974 but still led Buffalo receivers with 44. A bad knee kept him out of three games. His sidekick Lewis caught 41 for his best year ever and may silence some critics who think the Bills should have a speed burner in his position. Reuben Gant caught 34 while Miller pulled in 22 running patterns from the backfield.
Interior Linemen: Buffalo ranked 13th among the 14 AFC clubs in the final total offense rankings, averaging 289.4 yards per game. This could indicate the aging of veterans such as Reggie McKenzie, Joe DeLamielleure and Willie Parker- or it might mean that young players like Ken Jones and Joe Devlin are not developing fast enough. Or both.
Devlin, Phil Olsen, Eric Smith and Connie Zelencik were injury-prone, with only Devlin seeing action.
Some observers believe the Bills need a bigger and stronger center than Parker as well as a tackle. Jones had some embarrassing moments last season in the first Jets game. He was caught holding four times, causing the recall of two long pass completions from Ferguson to Gant as the Bills lost, 20-21.
Kickers: Tom Dempsey did whatever was asked of him, making good on 36 of 39 PATs and 10 field goals out of 13 attempts. Five field goals were made from 30 or more yards out and he was perfect from up to 29 yards. The trouble was that the Bills didn't get close enough often enough to make field goals a viable scoring alternative. Or that touchdowns were needed most.
Rusty Jackson's punts averaged nearly 39 yards, with one going for 70 yards."

-Herbert M. Furlow, The Pocket Book of Pro Football 1979

DEFENSE
"Front Linemen: Buffalo allowed its opponents a total of 3,228 yards rushing last season. None of the other clubs were that generous. In fact, it was a bad year for Buffalo's defense on the ground, but in the air it was different. Much different. There, the Bills topped the entire NFL in defense against the pass, allowing opponents only 122.5 aerial yards per game. Even so, the Bills tied the Jets for the league's lowest number of quarterback sacks- a mere 22 which indicates a lack of pass-rushing capability in the line.
Kadish, the club's best defensive lineman, was unavailable for about eight games because of a contract dispute. Hardison starred at tackle all season and did fairly well. There's hope that Scott Hutchinson will prove a good end in time.
Linebackers: Lucius Sanford distinguished himself in his rookie year, so much so that his teammates considered any all-rookie team a joke if it didn't name him. Sanford also blocked two field goals in one game against Kansas City. Not bad for a 4th round draft choice.
Some critics think the middle linebacker spot could be in better hands than those of Tom Graham and Randy McClanahan. It isn't easy to please everybody.
Defensive Backs: This unit did much to put Buffalo's pass defense at the league's top. Although interceptions totaled only 14, opposing passers found it hard to find a suitable target in the secondary.
Mario Clark led the club's interceptors with five, while Tony Greene and linebacker Shane Nelson came up with three each. These defenders helped during a dreary defensive year for Buffalo, and they could again."

-Herbert M. Furlow, The Pocket Book of Pro Football 1979


"Another bountiful collegiate draft brought a ton of young talent to the Buffalo roster, all but ensuring continued progress in the club's rebuilding program. Chuck Knox has breathed new life into what had been a downtrodden franchise and expects to field an exciting, if inexperienced, football team in '79.
Knox went to the draft to improve a defense that had the worst record against the run (4.8-yard average yield/23 touchdowns) in the conference and came away with some blue-chippers who might allow him to switch to a 3-4 alignment. The top pick, All-American middle linebacker Tom Cousineau (6'3/228) of Ohio State, and second-round choice Jim Haslett (6'2"/225) of Indiana (PA) are outstanding athletes capable of stepping right into the linebacker unit which includes All-Rookie right linebacker Lucius Sanford and hustling left linebacker Shane Nelson. Randy McClanahan and Tom Graham are inside linebacker reserves while Dan Jilek, Tom Ehlers and Mario Celotto figure as outside backer subs.
A front wall that registered only 22 sacks was comprised of left end Ben Williams (6'3"/ 246), aggressive soph left tackle Dee Hardison (6'4"/270), standout right tackle Mike Kadish (6'2"/272) and right end Sherman White (6'5"/250), with soph end Scott Hutchinson (6'4"/245) and tackle Phil Dokes (6'5"/255) the key backups. Nose tackle Fred Smerlas (6'2"/260) of Boston College, a relentless and strong athlete, and Ken Johnson (6'3"/245) of Knoxville, a quick pass rusher, should provide competition for starting assignments.
A competent secondary unit has standout Mario Clark (five interceptions) and Charles Romes working the corners, with Keith Moody and Eddie McMillan as their reserves. Capable Doug Jones and brilliant Tony Greene will be joined by hard-hitting Bill Simpson, who came over in a preseason deal with the Rams. Steve Freeman and soph Marvin Switzer are holdover subs. All-American Jeff Nixon of Richmond is a super safety prospect and punt returner while Rod Kush of Omaha (Nebraska) seems suited for corner duty.
Knox prefers a conservative run-oriented offense and will again lean heavily on his gifted trio of ball carriers: explosive Terry Miller who darted for 1,060 yards (seven touchdowns) from tailback, shifty fullback Curtis Brown (591 yards) and swing reserve Roland Hooks (358). Backup fullback Dennis Johnson (222), Steve Powell and Mike Collier complete the backfield.
The run lanes are opened by All-Pro right guard Joe DeLamielleure  (6'3"/248) and longtime left guard partner Reggie McKenzie (6'5"/245) plus tackles Joe Devlin (6'5"/254), Ken Jones (6'5"/252), Elbert Drungo (6'5"/264) and center Willie Parker (6'3"/245). Well-regarded rookie tackle Jon Borchardt (6'5"/245) of Montana State and guard Mike Burrow (6'4"/260) of Auburn join key reserve guard Bill Adams, tackle Eric Smith and center Will Grant to add depth.
Mobile quarterback Joe Ferguson responded well to Knox's discipline, cutting his interceptions from 24 in 1977 to 15 in 1978 while passing for 16 touchdowns and 2,136 yards. Rookie Dan Manucci (Kansas State) will compete with veteran Bill Munson and David Mays for backup quarterback jobs.
Key receiver Bob Chandler managed 44 receptions (five touchdowns) despite constant double coverage which should be alleviated this year by the addition of super-talented wide receiver Jerry Butler of Clemson, who was rated the top college flanker by most NFL scouts. Frank Lewis (41 receptions, seven touchdowns) will be the swing reserve, with John Holland, Len Willis, Danny Fulton, Willie Zachary, Lou Piccone and Larry Walton battling it out for the remaining wide receiver jobs. Reuben Gant (34 receptions, seven touchdowns) is set at tight end where Mike Franckowiak and Joe Shipp serve as emergency reserves.
Veteran place kicker Tom Dempsey converted 36 of 38 extra points and 10 of 13 field goal attempts for 66 points while punter Rusty Jackson posted a 38.8 average on 87 attempts. Versatile Keith Moody was outstanding returning punts at a 12.6-yard clip while also averaging 20.6 on kickoff runbacks. Curtis Brown and rookie Nixon will assist Moody on the return teams this season.
Steady improvement can be expected by the youthful Bills as their young players gain game experience, but the high-powered AFC Eastern Division, unfortunately, offers little chance for advancement. The Bills appear at least a year away from playoff-contending status.
'79 Forecast: 5th Place"

-Football Forecast 1979, published by Lexington Library, Inc.

"Many NFL insiders felt that in addition to tabbing Cousineau, the Bills had the best draft of the league's 28 teams. Buffalo got nine of the first 118 players available and most of them were quality personnel.
The first pick, Cousineau, came in the trade with the San Francisco 49ers in which O.J. Simpson went to San Francisco a year ago. They also picked up a fourth-round pick in the same deal- and started the fourth round with the selection of defensive end Ken Johnson of Knoxville.
In between Cousineau and Johnson, the Bills, on their own, picked up four other players. They were Jerry Butler, a wide receiver from Clemson, Fred Smerlas, a defensive tackle from Boston College, Jim Haslett, a well-scouted college linebacker prospect from Indiana (PA), and Jon Borchardt, an offensive tackle from Montana State."

-Norm MacLean, Football Forecast 1979

1978 Profile: Doug Jones

Strong Safety
No. 24
San Fernando Valley
This aggressive safety started all 14 games in both 1976 and '77 after missing all of '75 with a knee injury. Last season Doug grabbed two interceptions for 30 yards, including a touchdown, and returned a recovered fumble 20 yards.
A two-year starter at both cornerback and safety in college, Doug was also a championship hurdler.

Thursday, November 9, 2017

1978 Profile: Tom Ruud

Linebacker
No. 54
Nebraska
The Bills' top draft choice in 1975, Tom saw action all 14 games in both '75 and '76.
A unanimous All-Big Eight selection in 1974, with AP All-American honorable mention, Tom led Nebraska with 104 tackles while recovering three fumbles and intercepting two passes, finishing his college career with 209 tackles. All-Academic Big eight in both 1973 and '74, he played in the Senior Bowl.

Friday, November 3, 2017

1978 Profile: Dan Jilek

Linebacker
No. 51
Michigan
Dan plays aggressively and hits hard. He was named to the NFL All-Rookie team in 1976. That year he was Buffalo's second-leading tackler and also had two pass interceptions, two fumble recoveries and a sack.
A two-time All-Big Ten selection who earned All-American honorable mention, Dan played in both the Hula Bowl and the Japan Bowl.

Friday, October 27, 2017

1978 Profile: Terry Miller

Running Back
1st Round
Oklahoma State
Terry was a consensus All-American for two consecutive years and finished second in the Heisman Trophy balloting in 1977. He rushed for 4,754 yards and 49 touchdowns in four years, becoming the first back in Big  Eight history to rush for over 1,000 yards in three straight seasons. Terry is the all-time leading rusher in conference history and holds all Oklahoma State rushing and scoring records. In 1976, he was the Big Eight Offensive Player of the Year.

Saturday, October 21, 2017

1978 Profile: Phil Dokes

Defensive Tackle
No. 85
Oklahoma State
Buffalo's 1st round pick in 1977, Phil was a two-time All-Big Eight defensive lineman and registered 11 quarterback sacks in 1975. He was named Outstanding Defensive Player in the 1974 Fiesta Bowl and made the Big Eight Academic Team in 1975.
Phil was once named High School Athlete of the Year in Arkansas.

Friday, October 13, 2017

1978 Profiles: Tom Dempsey and Carson Long

TOM DEMPSEY
Place Kicker
No 6
Palomar JC
"If you have a son with a physical handicap and he's having trouble adjusting to it, tell him about Tom Dempsey. Tom was born without a right hand and only half of his right foot, but with encouragement from a sports-minded father and plenty and courage and confidence on his own part, he has become one of the better place-kickers in pro football.
Fitted with a special shoe he designed himself, Tom made good on 21 of 41 field goal attempts last year, including a 55-yarder against the Rams that was just one yard short of the professional record, and he converted 33 of 35 PAT's. His total score of 99 points ranked him fifth in the NFL last season.
After graduating from Palomar Junior College in California, Tom spent some time in minor league ball and on the Chargers' taxi squad."

-Brenda and Jack Zanger, Pro Football 1970

"Tom was signed by the Saints as a free agent in August 1969 and blossomed into a star. His point total of 99 was fifth best in the NFL and set a New Orleans club mark. Tom also set club marks with 22 field goals, 33 PAT's and a 55-yard field goal.
Tom played for Lowell in the Atlantic Coast Football League in 1967. He hit on four field goals, the longest being a 57-yarder.
At one time, Tom was a professional wrestler."

-1970 Topps No. 140

"Even if 270-pound Tom Dempsey hadn't rewritten the record books with a 63-yard field goal against Detroit, he'd still belong in the courage hall of fame. Here's a man born with half a right foot- he uses a special kicking shoe- and the stub of a right hand. 'I've always felt I could do anything anybody else did,' is his philosophy, and it has carried him from being a defensive end in high school and college, to a kicker in a semi-pro league and finally to the longest field goal in NFL history.
Though he did come through in the clutch, Dempsey ranked only 14th among NFC scorers. He kicked 16 of 17 extra points and 18 of 34 field goals for a total of 70 points last season."

-Brenda Zanger, Pro Football 1971

"Booted his way into the record book- and into the hearts of Saints fans- when he kicked a 63-yard field goal, the longest in the history of the NFL, to beat the Lions, 19-17, on November 8.
Dempsey was born with half a right foot and a stub of a right hand. He wears a special shoe approved by the NFL. 'I don't feel hadicapped,' he says. 'I've always been able to do anything anyone else can do. I've felt that way since I was eight or nine.' His parents encouraged him to play football, and with his size he was a defensive end in high school.
He played semi-pro ball and spent 1968 on the Chargers' taxi squad. He signed as a free agent in 1969.
Dempsey kicked four of seven field goals from the 40 to the 49 last season and three of nine from 50 or more yards. But he was erratic kicking from the 30 to the 39- only one out of five. He missed three of 13 from inside the 30.
Dempsey is a Pro Bowl player."

-John Devaney, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football (1971 Edition)

"On November 9, 1970, Tom kicked a 63-yard field goal to help the Saints defeat the Lions 19-17 in the last two seconds. It was the longest field goal in NFL history, breaking the mark of 56  yards held by Bert Rechichar, against the Bears on September 27, 1953. 
The field goal, which was Tom's fourth of the game, broke a barrier. The 60-plus-yard field goal attempt had been routine on practice fields and although it will never become routine in games, it is now likely to be tried more often from time to time when game situations warrant it.
Tom won the Saints' kicking job in the 1969 pre-season game against the Broncos when he booted 3-pointers from the 54, 49 and 12-yard lines. He kicked four field goals each in wins over the Giants and Eagles in 1969.
Tom can throw the shot put 50 yards."

-1971 Topps No. 5

"Dempsey was the most accurate field kicker in the league last season with 12 successful field goal kicks in 17 attempts (.706). He kicked field goals of 41, 42, 45, 51, 52 and 50 yards and missed only one inside the 30.
The presence of Dempsey,' says Eagles coach Ed Khayat, 'means that our offense is a threat to score any time we get near the 50-yard line. And the fact that he was the most accurate kicker in football last year is most unusual because of all the long attempts that we call upon him to make.'
He was born with only half of a right foot and the stub of a right hand. He wears a special shoe approved by the NFL and says he does not feel handicapped in any way.
Dempsey was dropped by the Saints in the final pre-season cut last season. In the previous season he kicked a record-breaking 63-yard field goal in the last few seconds for a 19-17 victory by the Saints over the Lions. He did not get along with Saint coach J.D. Roberts, one argument being over Dempsey's blimpy weight. He was replaced in New Orleans by Skip Butler. 'The kid he sent in (Butler) kicked off three times out of bounds and made a 12-yard field goal and that's what it took to replace me,' says Dempsey.
He reports a great situation with Khayat. 'He leaves me alone and lets me practice the way I want.' "

-John Devaney, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football (1972 Edition)

"Activated by the Eagles, 11-21-71, Tom kicked three field goals in a 30-27 win against the Cardinals that day. He set a new Eagles' record with a 52-yarder for one of three field goals in a 23-20 win over the Lions on December 4. Tom kicked four field goals in a 19-7 win over the Cardinals on December 12, one going 54 yards to break the club record he established the previous week!
Tom spent the 1968 season on the Chargers' taxi squad."

-1972 Topps No. 175

"After leading the NFC in accuracy in 1971, he dropped to ninth in 1972, hitting only 57% of his boots. Dempsey was 6-for-6 inside the 20; 3-of-6 inside the 30; 7-of-10 inside the 40; 2-of-9 inside the 50 and 2-of-4 beyond the 50. His longest kick was 52 yards.
Tom has problems keeping down his weight. He was born with only half of a right foot and a stub of a right hand. He wears a $150 shoe on his right foot.
'If I have a bad day, I don't read the papers.' "

-John Devaney, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football (1973 Edition)

"Signed by the Eagles for the final five games of 1971, Tom led the league with a .706 field goal percentage. A participant in the 1970 Pro Bowl, he was formerly a member of the Saints."

-1973 Topps No. 59

"One of the greatest long range kickers in pro football history, Tom kicked the longest field goal of all time with a 63-yarder in 1970.
Tom is an account executive in the off-season."

-1974 Topps No. 270

"Tom kicked the longest field goal in NFL history with a 63-yarder for the Saints against the Lions on November 8, 1970. He booted the longest field goal in Eagles' history with a 54-yarder in 1971."

-1975 Topps No. 163

DEMPSEY'S 63-YARDER LONGEST IN HISTORY
November 8, 1970
"Tom kicked a clutch field goal in the closing seconds to give the Saints a come-from-behind victory over the Lions today. The boot was a booming 63-yarder which set a pro standard for the longest kick in history."

-Football Extra, 1975 Topps No. 353

"The Rams' leading scorer in 1975, Tom was third best among NFC kickers."

-1976 Topps No. 519


CARSON LONG
Place Kicker
No. 5
Pittsburgh
Carson was outstanding in his rookie year. He was successful on seven of 11 field goal attempts, including 5-for-8 from at least 30 yards and 3-for-6 from at least 40 yards. Carson also converted 13 of 14 PATs.

Monday, October 2, 2017

1978 Profiles: Ken Jones and Winston Hill

KEN JONES
Offensive Tackle
No. 72
Arkansas State
Ken saw action for Buffalo in all 14 games last year. A defensive end in 1976, he was switched back to the offensive line, where he played in college.
He was a first-team All-America selection of the Football Writers and the Sporting News. As a two-year starter at guard, Ken helped lead the way for the top rushing offense in college football. He played in both the East-West Shrine Game and Senior Bowl.


WINSTON HILL
Offensive Tackle
No. 76
Texas Southern
"The Jets believe that big Winston Hill could blossom into one of the top offensive tackles in the league.
In 1963, Hill, a 275-pounder, started out on the New York taxi squad after signing as a free agent. Last year, he was a starter and made the East All-Star team. That's rapid progress.
Winston can also play offensive center - and he did for three games last season."

-Jack Zanger, Pro Football 1965

"Winston was signed by the New York Jets as a free agent in 1963. Last season, the big, strong tackle opened the campaign on the taxi squad, but his solid performance during team drills convinced Weeb Ewbank to activate him. Winston played three games at center when injuries rocked the Jets at that spot.
The young offensive tackle has what it takes to develop into one of the best linemen in the league. Winston played in the AFL East-West All-Star Game.
Winston was his high school's tennis singles champ from 1957-1959."

-1965 Topps No. 116

"The offensive tackle was signed as a free agent by the Jets in 1963. Last year Winston missed the entire preseason schedule because of an injury and it wasn't until the second half of the season that he displayed true form.
Winston was a tennis champion in high school."

-1966 Topps No. 92

"This is Winston's fourth year at left tackle for the Jets. The good pass protector is also capable of playing at center. In 1964, Winston played tackle for the East in the AFL All-Star contest.
From 1957-59, Winston was the high school tennis champ of Texas."

-1967 Topps No. 95

"Slowed down in mid-season by an ankle injury, offensive tackle Winston Hill still had his finest year, making the All-Star team for the second time in his career.
The 6-4, 275-pounder has consistently improved in his five pro seasons, and is big enough, strong enough and young enough to become one of the better linemen in the league. Winston gives good pass protection to Mr. Namath, and he can provide the punch necessary to open up the running game.
Now in his sixth year as a regular, the tall Texan signed as a free agent in 1963."

-Jack Zanger, Pro Football 1968

1969
Winston has been a virtually impenetrable pass blocking stalwart for the Jets since his rookie season. Though an AFL All-Star in 1964, '67 and '68, his greatest glory came in historic Super Bowl III. Joe Namath's masterful deployment of the Jet running backs was helped immeasurable by Winston spending the entire game overpowering Colt defensive end Ordell Braase. This was an offensive lineman's performance that was admired by knowledgeable football fans everywhere.

"Last season, this big left tackle, 6-4 and 280 pounds and once a high school tennis champion, was being called the best offensive tackle in the game. The head coaches picked him on their All-Pro combined AFL-NFL team. Like all the Jets on the offensive line, Winston worries about his man getting by him to knock down Joe Namath.
'The way I feel,' he says, 'when someone hits Joe it's like someone walking up and punching my wife in the face.' A smiling, cheerful giant, he played at Texas Southern and was an All-America in his senior year. The Colts drafted him and let him go, and the Jets picked him up as a free agent.
Big but awkward, he had a lot to learn and the learning didn't always come quickly, but now, entering his eighth pro season, Winston has graduated into the superior class."

-Brenda and Jack Zanger, Pro Football 1970

"Though he had been a stalwart on New York's offensive line for six years, Winston Hill was barely heard of until his brilliant handling of Ben Davidson and Ordell Braase in the 1968 AFL Championship and Super Bowl, respectively. Now the 6-4, 270-pound offensive left tackle is universally regarded as a standout lineman.
Two of his finest games of 1970 were against Los Angeles' Coy Bacon and Minnesota's Jim Marshall. The Jets scored major upset victories in both games.
Hill was originally drafted by Baltimore out of Texas Southern, but the Colts let him go before he had played even a minute for them. The Jets saw enough in the huge but awkward youngster to sign him as a free agent. Winston has enjoyed the finest two seasons of his career the past two years since he lowered his weight from the 280-pound bracket."

-Brenda Zanger, Pro Football 1971

"All-Pro tackle who continued to perform as one of the best in the game in 1970. Hill was a unanimous All-AFC pick and was named to the Pro Bowl after being named to the combined (AFL-NFL) All-Pro team in 1969. He was also chosen as the most valuable offensive player by the Jets writers and broadcasters.
Last year Winston had outstanding games against Los Angeles' Coy Bacon and Minnesota's Jim Marshall as the Jets won both games. He also had standout games against Oakland and Miami late in the season.
Hill came to the Jets in 1963 as a free agent from the Colts after Baltimore had drafted him. He was an AFL All-Star four times and won press notices with his handling of Ordell Braase and Ben Davidson in the championship games of 1968.
He's a great pass protector for Namath but says he likes to block for the run more. He came to camp lighter than ever last year at 263.
He was a Texas state high school tennis champion from Weldon High for three years, '57-'59. Weldon also won the district grid crown four years with Hill. He relaxes by playing tennis.
Winston makes his home in Littleton, Colorado. His hometown is Gladewater, Texas."

-The New York Jets Official 1971 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos

"One of the few Jets to make it through the season in one piece in 1971. Hill was the only Jet to be selected for the Pro Bowl game, and it marked the second time he was so honored. Also a four-time pick to the old AFL All-Star Game, Winston has played over 100 straight games for the Jets after being cast off by the Baltimore Colts in 1963. He's the best lineman in the team's history.
An offensive co-captain, Hill switched from left to right tackle last season to make way for Bob Svihus. The move did not affect his play.
Winston got his degree at Texas Southern, then did graduate work at Nebraska. He's from Gladewater, Texas."

-Jim Benagh, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1972 Edition

"'The biggest thing I can do' says Winston, 'is carry out my blocking assignments. In pro ball you're dealing with men. The pride in the individual is what makes him perform.'
Winston is a great pass protector for Joe Namath but he likes to block for the run more. He won press notices for his handling of the Colts' Ordell Braase and the Raiders' Ben Davidson in the Jets' championship games during the 1968 season.
Winston was a high school tennis champ."

-1972 Topps No. 295

"Once again Hill earned himself All-Pro honors in '71, this time at a new position. After eight years on the left side of the line, Hill was asked to make the move to right tackle and accomplished it cleanly. He had another outstanding year and was chosen to the Pro Bowl.
Hill was elected offensive co-captain along with John Schmitt prior to the season opener. Winston made the move to the right side to accommodate the newly-acquired Bob Svihus, saying he would do anything to help the team. According to line coach Wimp Hewgley, Hill was just as consistent at his well-known pass blocking skills at the new spot as he had been when he won All-Pro and All-AFC honors on the other side.
A year ago Winston played a key role in wins over LA and Minnesota by neutralizing Coy Bacon and Jim Marshall. He prefers to block for the running game but is perhaps the most proficient pass blocker in the business today. After experimenting with a lower weight in 1970, Hill came in and stayed around 270 throughout 1971.
Four times an AFL All-Star, Hill won press acclaim for his work against Ordell Braase and Ben Davidson in the championship games of 1968. He came to the Jets in 1963 as a free agent from the Colts after Baltimore and Weeb Ewbank had drafted him.
Hill was a Texas state high school tennis champion from Weldon High for three years, '57-'59. Weldon also won the district grid crown four years with Hill. He still plays tennis regularly.
Winston still makes his home in Littleton, Colorado, where he is the owner of a ranch. His hometown is Gladewater, Texas."

-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos

"One of the top offensive tackles in the game, Hill earned himself Pro Bowl honors for the sixth consecutive year in 1972. It was the seventh time overall that Winnie has been chosen for the Pro Bowl game. He has played both sides for the Jets, switching to the right side in 1971 after spending eight years at left tackle. He made the move so impressively that the Pro Bowl beckoned even at a new position.
Hill has been co-captain of the offense (1971) and is the Jets player representative. He has played in 138 straight games, the longest streak by a Jet. He plays a major role in most Jet victories by neutralizing the pass rush from his side. Hill won press acclaim for his work against Ordell Braase and Ben Davidson in the championship games of 1968. He came to the Jets in 1963 as a free agent after Baltimore and Weeb Ewbank had drafted him.
Winston was a Texas state high school tennis champion from Weldon for three years, 1957-59. He makes his off-season home in Englewood, Colorado and he owns a ranch. His hometown is Gladewater, Texas."

-The New York Jets Official 1973 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos

"A four-time AFL All-Star, Winston likes to block for the Jets' running game more but is perhaps the most proficient pass blocker in pro football today. An All-Pro selection once again in 1972, he had another outstanding season and was selected to the AFC Pro Bowl squad.
Winston played both offense and defense in college."

-1973 Topps No. 150

Tuesday, September 19, 2017

1978 Profiles: Joe Devlin and Elbert Drungo

JOE DEVLIN
Offensive Tackle
No. 70
Iowa
With excellent athletic ability and body strength, Joe solidifies the Buffalo offensive line at his tackle spot.
Joe was a three-year starter for Iowa and was a first-team Sporting News All-American. His performance earned him an invitation to the Blue-Gray Game.


ELBERT DRUNGO
Offensive Tackle
No. 79
Tennessee State
"Last season, his second year as a pro, Elbert Drungo earned a starting job on the offensive line. Used as a backup tackle in his rookie year, in addition to working on special teams, he took over at right guard and did an excellent job.
Despite his size (6-5, 250 pounds), Drungo has outstanding speed and quickness for a guard. Of course, he can still be used at tackle if necessary.
The Oilers' third draft choice in 1969, Drungo was an All-Conference tight end for three seasons at Tennessee State."

-Brenda Zanger, Pro Football 1971

"One of the few bright spots on the Oiler offensive line. Elbert missed three full games but had a solid year.
He came to the Oilers as a third round draft choice and potential tackle. He had mostly played tight end in college, for which he earned All-Conference honors three years running and Pittsburgh Courier (all-black) All-America honors as a senior.
Elbert was a backup tackle as a rookie but became a starting guard in 1970. Fast, strong and quick, he could go back to tackle if needed. He played every game in his first two years.
He is nicknamed 'Sonny.' From Columbus, Mississippi, where he was born, he's married."

-Jim Benagh, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football (1972 Edition)

"A solid pass protection blocker and good lead blocker, Elbert can play either guard or tackle. He was the Oilers' outstanding offensive lineman in 1971.
Elbert likes to draw."

-1974 Topps No. 388

"Elbert has good speed and strength and is a solid pass protector. Possessed with the ability to play either tackle or guard, he was selected as the Oilers' Outstanding Lineman for the 1971 season.
Elbert was an all-conference tight end for three years at Tennessee State and played linebacker as a college freshman. He was an All-America choice as a junior and senior. He ran back a kickoff 25 yards in 1970."

-1975 Topps No. 474

Sunday, September 10, 2017

1978 Profile: Eddie McMillan

Cornerback
No. 41
Florida State
"An All-Rookie selection for the Rams in 1973, Eddie was a starter in all but four games in his three seasons in Los Angeles.
At Florida State, he began his senior year by returning the opening kickoff of the season 96 yards for a touchdown. Eddie has outstanding speed- he ran the 100-yard dash in 9.6 seconds while at Florida State."

-1978 Topps No. 244

Thursday, August 31, 2017

1978 Profile: Frank Lewis

Wide Receiver
No. 82
Grambling
"Thought by many Grambling insiders to be the best pro prospect to come out of the little football citadel. Lewis can be a running back or receiver. Art Rooney, Jr. of the Steelers called him another Gale Sayers long before Pittsburgh drafted him No. 1. Ex-pro star Lenny Moore says, 'You got to see him to believe him, he's got moves you won't believe.' He does a 9.4 hundred and 4.4 in the 40-yard dash.
Lewis is mainly a pass catcher, but averaged 17.2 yards a carry on 45 rushes in 1969. A hamstring pull held him back in 1970 but he still led the team in scoring for the third straight year. He's no stranger to Three Rivers Stadium fans because he scored three touchdowns there against Morgan State in 1970."

-John Devaney, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football (1971 Edition)

"One of the Steelers' most potent bomb theats, Frank was injured towards the end of 1972 and had to miss the playoffs. He catches the ball well and is very fluid."

-1973 Topps No. 456

"An outstanding receiver, Frank can also be a very effective punt returner and runner on the end-around play.
He was a wingback at Grambling and made Third Team Little All-America in 1970. Frank scored 42 touchdowns in college."

-1975 Topps No. 71

"A very consistent receiver for the Steelers, Frank is effective on the end-around play and can be used as a punt returner. He's extremely fast and an outstanding long-bomb threat."

-1976 Topps No. 261

"Frank is very effective on the end-around play and was used as a punt returner early in his career due to his running ability. He made the sensational catch in the 1975 Playoff game against the Colts that led to the Steelers' first score. Frank had a very effective season in 1975 with an average-per-catch of 18.1.
He scored 42 touchdowns rushing and receiving during his career at Grambling."

-1977 Topps No. 319

"Frank continues to maintain a high average-per-catch which has characterized his career. He needs 16 catches to move into the top 10 among all-time Steeler receivers.
Frank majored in recreation at Grambling."

-1978 Topps No. 431

Thursday, August 24, 2017

1978 Profile: Dennis L. Johnson

Defensive End
No. 75
"Delaware Dennis had the Redskins' longest run with an intercepted pass in 1975. He was credited with 116 unassisted tackles, 39 assists, three fumble recoveries and two interceptions during his three years at Delaware. He played offense and defense."

-1976 Topps No. 523

"Dennis gained a starting assignment for the Redskins in 1975 and has been a key member of the club's defensive front since that time. He was credited with three fumble recoveries, four and a half quarterback sacks and a key interception for the Redskins in 1976.
Dennis played in the Boardwalk Bowl twice during his college career at Delaware."

-1978 Topps No. 31

Sunday, August 13, 2017

1978 Profile: Marv Bateman

Punter
No. 7
Utah
"The AFC's fourth leading punter in 1977, Marv had a 42.8 average in 1976 to lead all of pro football. That season he also had the NFL's longest kick, a 78-yard boot against the Oilers.
Marv is interested in residential property sales."

-1978 Topps No. 286

Wednesday, August 2, 2017

1978 Profile: Dwight Harrison

Cornerback
No. 28
Texas A & I
"Dwight has played cornerback for five years since being shifted from wide receiver at the beginning of the 1973 season. He had a 40-yard runback of an intercepted pass in 1975.
Forestry and conservation are Dwight's career interests."

-1978 Topps No. 496

Friday, July 28, 2017

1978 Profiles: Lou Piccone and Larry Walton

LOU PICCONE
Wide Receiver
No. 89
West Liberty State
"Piccone returned more kickoffs for more yardage than any other specialist in the NFL in 1974. He brought back 39 kickoffs for 961 yards, good for a 24.6 average, third best in Jet history and the finest mark since 1966. His longest was a 46-yarder against New England. Lou also had a fumble recovery, against Miami; the recovery led to the Jets' first touchdown in a 17-14 upset of the Dolphins.
Lou has good speed and developed his moves as the season progressed. He spent two years in the minor leagues, one with the Youngstown Hardhats and one with the Bridgeport Jets, and was a regular at both spots. Lou signed with the Jets as a free agent.
Lou majored in health and physical education with a minor in speech. His hometown is Vineland, New Jersey."

-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook

"A versatile player who saw playing time on special teams and as a wide receiver in 1975, Lou returned 26 kickoffs for 637 yards, a 24.5 average, and returned 18 punts 74 yards, a 4.1 average.
Lou was involved in a training camp contract dispute and walked out of camp for seven days. He played in 13 of 14 regular-season games. He missed the second Baltimore game with a charley horse, and also suffered a preseason shoulder injury. Lou shared the wide receiver spot with Ed Bell at Buffalo and with Willie Brister at Minnesota while Jerome Barkum was nursing injuries. He returned a kick 53 yards against the Chiefs and [another] 42 yards against the Patriots. He captained the specialty teams for the majority of 1975. Piccone played out his option but re-signed for 1976. He may be tried in the defensive backfield.
Piccone returned more kickoffs for more yardage than any other specialist in the NFL in 1974. He brought back 39 kickoffs for 961 yards, good for a 24.6 average, third best in Jet history and the finest mark since 1966. Lou also had a fumble recovery, against Miami; the recovery led to the Jets' first touchdown in a 17-14 upset of the Dolphins.
He spent two seasons in the minor leagues, one with the Youngstown Hardhats and one with the Bridgeport Jets, and was a regular at both spots. Lou signed with the Jets as a free agent.
Lou played running back at West Liberty State for four years. He played on two championship teams and reached the NAIA semifinals in 1970 and 1971.
He majored in health and physical education with a minor in speech. His hometown is Vineland, New Jersey."

-1976 New York Jets Media Guide

"In 1976 Lou saw his most action since making the pros as a free agent in 1974. He played in all 14 games and started seven at wide receiver.
'He loves to play ... gives you 100 percent and is a great special teamer,' head coach Walt Michaels says. Last year Piccone caught 15 passes for 147 yards, a 12.3 average.
He once again led the team in punt and kickoff returns. Lou ran back 31 kickoffs for 788 yards for a 23.6 average, including a career longest 58 yards in the second New England game. He returned 21 punts 173 yards for an 8.2 average and broke a 60-yarder for a touchdown against Tampa Bay, the first Jet punt return for a touchdown since 1972 and the longest of Piccone's career. His 112 yards against the Buccaneers was the second-best punt return day in Jets history.
Piccone holds the club record for kickoff return yardage in a season (961 in 1974) and a career (2,386) as well as most career kickoff returns (96). He returned more kickoffs (39) for more yardage than any other specialist in the NFL in 1974, his rookie season. Lou returned five kickoffs for 157 yards against New England in '74, second-best in Jets annals. His career kickoff average is 24.9 and he has averaged 5.7 yards on 48 career punt returns.
He played out his option in 1975 but re-signed for 1976. Lou first signed with the Jets in '74 after spending two seasons in the minors with the Youngstown Hardhats and the Bridgeport Jets.
Lou excels as a tackler on punt returns and kickoff coverage. He's usually one of the first men downfield and is a reckless pursuer.
Lou played running back at West Liberty State for four years. He played on two championship teams and reached the NAIA semifinals in 1970 and 1971.
He majored in health and physical education with a minor in speech. His hometown is Vineland, New Jersey."

-1977 New York Jets Media Guide

"A valuable specialty teams performer in addition to being a superb wide receiver, Lou excels as a tackler on punt and kickoff return coverage. A reckless pursuer, he's usually one of the first men downfield.
Lou was a running back in college. He played minor league football in Youngstown and Bridgeport in 1972 and 1975."

-1978 Topps No. 448


LARRY WALTON
Wide Receiver
No. 49
Arizona State
"Larry had 158 yards and three touchdowns against the Browns in 1970, 103 yards against the Packers in 1971 and 101 yards against the Chargers in 1972. He has a good pair of hands.
Larry ran track in college."

-1974 Topps No. 76

"Larry enjoyed his most productive season for the Lions in 1974 as the club's third leading receiver, his longest gainer going for 48 yards. He was a star running back in college."

-1975 Topps No. 393

"Larry came back strong last season after missing 1975 with a knee injury. A talented performer, he has also been used as a ball carrier and an option passer for the Lions. Larry caught eight passes in one game in 1973.
He was mainly a runner at Arizona State, with his biggest day being 125 yards and four touchdowns in 1967."

-1977 Topps No. 286

Monday, July 17, 2017

1978 Profiles: Merv Krakau and Tom Graham

MERV KRAKAU
Middle Linebacker
No. 52
Iowa State
"One of the most improved players on the Bills' squad, Merv was an effective specialty teams player before becoming a starter.
He was a defensive tackle at Iowa State and was Lineman of the Week for a 1972 performance against Nebraska."
Merv has ambitions to be a teacher after his playing career."

-1978 Topps, No. 369


TOM GRAHAM
Middle Linebacker
No. 58
Oregon
"Tom Graham, Oregon, at 232 has enough bulk to play in the middle and the pros think he's a good one."

-Bob Billings, Football Digest, January 1972

"Another player who suffered a broken ankle in his senior year after having an outstanding junior year. Tom was All-Coast as a junior and had a standout sophomore year, too, making 20 tackles in his varsity debut. He was coached in college by Jerry Frei, now the Broncos' offensive line coach.
A sociology major, Tom is from  Harbor City, California."

-Jim Benagh, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football (1972 Edition)

"A very aggressive player, coaches feel Tom can become a great linebacker. In 1972, he became a starter for the Broncos in the sixth game of his rookie season.
Tom's cousin is former Oakland A's outfielder Bobby Brooks."

-1974 Topps No. 432

"A very aggressive player, Tom became the Broncos' middle linebacker in the sixth game of 1972, a game won by the Broncos over the Raiders, 30-23. A college teammate of Ahmad Rashad of the Bills, he was credited with 20 tackles against Utah in his college debut."

-1975 Topps No. 239

Wednesday, July 12, 2017

1978 Profile: Reuben Gant

Tight End
No. 88
Oklahoma State
"Reuben has improved his blocking tremendously and has become a very reliable player for the Bills.
He was a three-time honorable mention All-Big 8 at Oklahoma State and was considered to be the best downfield blocker on the offensive line.
Reuben's hobbies include horseback riding."

-1978 Topps, No. 212

Wednesday, July 5, 2017

1978 Profile: Willie Parker

Center
No. 61
North Texas State
"With versatility as his major asset, Willie became the Bills' regular center in 1977. He has the ability to play guard or center and has been used by the Bills as a snapper on punts and placement kicks.
A strong specialty teams player, he was drafted by the 49ers in 1971 and spent most of that campaign on the reserve squad. Willie was traded to the Bills by the Los Angeles Rams on September 10, 1973. He was All-Missouri Valley in college during the 1970 campaign.
Willie is in the insurance business."

-1978 Topps, No. 176

Monday, June 26, 2017

1978 Profile: Mike Kadish

Defensive Tackle
No. 71
Notre Dame
"One of the Bills' most consistent defensive linemen, Mike enjoyed his finest campaign with the club in 1976. He was credited with 54 unassisted tackles and 41 assists that season and also led the defense with six and a half sacks.
Mike has started every game for the Bills the past three seasons. He realized a lineman's dream in 1975 when he scored a touchdown after running 22 yards with a lateral against the Steelers. He is extremely quick.
Mike is an avid golfer."

1978 Topps, No. 148

Wednesday, June 14, 2017

1978 Profiles: Roland Hooks

Running Back
No. 25
North Carolina State
"Heir apparent to O.J. Simpson. And how about filling THOSE shoes, boys and girls?
Hooks rushed for 497 yards (3.9 [yards average per attempt]) after Simpson was injured a year ago. He had a 66-yard run, the second longest non-scoring run in the AFC. 'Hook'em' Hooks, now in his fourth year with Buffalo after being drafted 10th out of North Carolina State, has been Simpson's valet ever since and now seeks his own identity.
Born in Brooklyn, where he became an elusive back, it is reported, the first time he was tackled on asphalt. Hooks has never scored a touchdown for the Bills, even though he also has returned punts and kickoffs. If he does well this fall, he will get a TV Hertz ad jumping suitcases in a Buffalo airport."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

"A versatile and valuable performer for the Bills the past two seasons, Roland is one of the club's leading punt and kickoff return artists. He had the Bills' longest runback of 1976 with a 79-yard kickoff return against the Dolphins. Roland holds the North Carolina State record of 981 kickoff return yards.
Roland enjoys handball."

-1978 Topps, No. 471


Tuesday, June 6, 2017

1978 Profile: Tony Greene

Free Safety
No. 43
Maryland
"It's not easy being Greene- the devil it isn't. Not if you're Tony Greene. The Bills' talented veteran leaves others green with envy the way he plays free safety.
He intercepted nine passes a year ago, matching his pro high and one behind the pro leader, Lyle Blackwood of Baltimore. Greene has had 29 pass thefts over the last four seasons. A talented, versatile athlete, he has played cornerback and both safeties in his seven years with Buffalo.
Born in Bethesda, Maryland, Greene was a defensive back at Maryland and a 9.5 sprinter on the track team. A free agent- one more time?- signed by the Bills, he holds the club record with a 101-yard interception return, the NFL's longest in 1976."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

"Tony set a Bills' record with a 101-yard return for a touchdown against the Chiefs on October 3, 1976, the longest interception return of the year in the NFL. He has great speed.
Tony enjoys music and dancing."

-1978 Topps, No. 251

Wednesday, May 31, 2017

1978 Profile: Mario Clark

Cornerback
No. 29
Oregon
"Potentially an outstanding cornerback. Clark intercepted seven passes in his second year, which is outstanding considering that the Bills have no pass rush. He has started every game since the Bills drafted him in 1976.
Clark could become the Bills' land baron if O.J. leaves any over. He majored in architecture and real estate at Oregon, where he had 13 career interceptions and was the first Pacific 8 freshman ever named National Player of the Week. Clark was born in Pasadena, California, near the Rose Bowl, but never played there for lowly Oregon.
He's a bachelor whose hobbies include music, reupholstering furniture and intimidating quarterbacks."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

"A very reliable performer for the Bills, Mario shows improvement in every game. Named to the NFL All-Rookie Team in 1976, he was credited with defensing 18 passes.
Mario was an All-Pacific 8 selection of both AP and UPI at Oregon. He was an honorable mention AP All-America with 13 career interceptions.
Mario's hobbies include reupholstering furniture."

-1978 Topps, No. 57

Thursday, May 25, 2017

1978 Profile: Sherman White

Defensive End
No. 83
California
"What went wrong? The second player taken in the 1972 draft, he had it all, the scouts said, but where did it go? White shouldn't feel too badly, though. Walt Patulski was drafted ahead of him, by Buffalo, and never did a thing, really. White was drafted by Cincinnati, never was one of Paul Brown's favorites and was traded to Buffalo before the 1976 season.
Born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, White was a basketball player in high school and played only two games of football before attending college. He rapidly developed into an All-American as a University of California senior.
White lives in Oakland and works with disadvantaged youth in the off-season."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

Saturday, May 13, 2017

1978 Profile: Paul Seymour

Tight End
No. 87
Michigan
"How many starting tight ends do you know that could survive while catching only two passes a season? It's possible. Paul Seymour caught that many a year ago and is in no danger of not starting in Buffalo. The reason? He is a bludgeoning blocker.
Reuben Gant, his 'backup,' caught 41 passes. When the Bills want to throw, they bring in Gant and throw to him. If Chuck Knox decides to play Gant more regularly, Seymour will play tackle. But he WILL play.
Born in Detroit, Seymour is one of the finest linemen in University of Michigan history. He was drafted in the first round in 1973, just ahead of DeLamielleure. His brother Jim was a Notre Dame wide receiver who played in the NFL."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

"Although his receiving statistics are impressive, Paul's value to the Bills is more as a strong and devastating blocker. A consistent player week after week, he has started 69 of 70 games at tight end since being converted from tackle.
Paul plays the guitar."

-1978 Topps, No. 424

Thursday, May 4, 2017

1978 Profile: Reggie McKenzie

Guard
No. 67
Michigan
"Buffalo doesn't suffer from a Mac attack. The town has its Big Mac and he's a good friend of the Juice. McKenzie was voted the NFL's best blocking lineman by a Wisconsin group in 1973 when O.J. rushed for 2,003 yards. He was All-Pro in '73 and '74, but recent honors have gone to his running mate Joe DeLamielleure. McKenzie takes great pride in the accomplishments of the Bills' offensive line as a unit. He's a very intense performer.
Reggie has a good eye for beauty; he married Miss Massachusetts of 1974, Gthellean Hicks. Born in Detroit, he was recruited by Michigan after an assistant football coach saw him punch out a kid after losing a high school wrestling match. Really! Reggie doesn't wrestle anymore."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

"Reggie has now started 85 consecutive regular-season games for the Bills over the past six campaigns. He continues to refine the skills which earned him All-Pro and All-Conference honors in 1973 and 1974. Winner of the Wisconsin Pro Football Writers' Award as the NFL's top blocking lineman of 1973, Reggie is an intense competitor with pride in the accomplishments of the Bills' offensive line as a unit. He has outstanding speed off the snap.
Reggie's wife was voted as Miss Massachusetts of 1974."

-1978 Topps, No. 323

Tuesday, April 25, 2017

1978 Profile: Joe DeLamielleure

Guard
No. 68
Michigan State
"Joe D.; let's leave it at that. All-Pro the last two years, the second time made Joe feel great because he did it without O.J. Simpson for most of the season.
An outstanding blocker, both in run and pass situations, he's been a starter since 1973, when the Bills drafted him in the first round. Reggie McKenzie was O.J.'s 'main man,' but Joe D. is considered the better guard. He gives juice to the 'Electric Company,' which gave juice to the Juice.
Born in Detroit, Joe lives in Center Line, Michigan even though he plays just to the right of center. One of 10 children, he was an outstanding lineman at Michigan State and in the East-West Shrine Game. Joe works as a banker in the off-season."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

"In 1977, for the third consecutive season, Joe was the Bills' most honored offensive lineman. He was accorded All-Pro recognition last season and saw action in the Pro Bowl at Tampa last January.
In five straight years with the Bills, Joe has started every game and now ranks as one of the most outstanding guards in pro football. Named to the NFL All-Rookie team for the 1973 season in a poll taken by UPI, he was an offensive guard and tackle in college.
Joe is one of the best racquetball players on the Bills' squad."

-1978 Topps, No. 20

Wednesday, April 19, 2017

1978 Profile: Jim Braxton

Fullback
No. 34
West Virginia
"Roll out the barrel. Hey, why is this offensive guard carrying the ball? Braxton looked fat, slow and over-the-hill last year after an 800-yard season two years before. Maybe Braxton, a damaging blocker, missed O.J. Whatever, he looked like a man in need of a physical overhaul.
Born in Vanderbilt, PA, Braxton starred at West Virginia, where he also threw the discus. The Bills drafted him in the third round of the 1971 draft. He tore ligaments, which wiped him out for the '76 season; maybe he was still feeling the effects last year. He has had a weight problem throughout his NFL career.
Braxton works for the governor of West Virginia in the off-season, speaking mainly to young people. He collects coins as a hobby."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

"Ranked among the top four all-time Bills rushers, Jim has scored three touchdowns in four different games during his career. He's a strong runner, and a clever receiver and blocker.
Coin collecting is one of Jim's hobbies."

-1978 Topps, No. 114

Wednesday, April 12, 2017

1978 Profile: Bob Chandler

Wide Receiver
No. 81
USC
"Guess who has led all NFL wide receivers in receptions the last two years. No, not Drew Pearson, Cliff Branch or Sammy White ... Bob Chandler. That's right, Bob Chandler. Don't be surprised. Chandler is underrated but talented. He had 60 receptions last year, 176 the last three but always watches the Pro Bowl on TV.
Born in Long Beach, California, Chandler started his USC career as a quarterback, and in his first game as a wide receiver caught eight passes. He scored the only touchdown of the 1970 Rose Bowl when he was voted Player of the Game. He's a talented athlete who was on the USC track team and now tears up golf courses. Chandler is closing in on his law degree and is active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

"One of the NFL's most outstanding wide receivers, Bob runs precise patterns and relies on quickness and moves plus sure hands. He is the holder on conversions and field goals.
Bob participated in the long jump, high jump and triple jump at USC."

1978 Topps, No. 85

Thursday, April 6, 2017

1978 Profiles: Joe Ferguson and Bill Munson

JOE FERGUSON
Quarterback
No. 12
Arkansas
"Ranked 13th in AFC passing ... say it isn't so, Joe. He has had moments of greatness but has been an overall disappointment: 12 touchdowns and 24 interceptions last year. Without O.J. Simpson, Ferguson still led the AFC in passing yardage with 2,803. But he is a 50 per cent passer, nothing more. A streak passer, his career statistics are 52 touchdowns and 74 interceptions.
Born in Alvin, Texas, he grew up in Shreveport, Louisiana and attended the same high school as Terry Bradshaw. Ferguson fell off his last year at Arkansas, but the Bills drafted him third in 1973. He has been their starting quarterback since he was a rookie.
Joe wants to coach someday. He breeds and raises Arabian horses."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

"Joe set the Bills' passing mark for highest completion percentage in one game with 81.3%. It came when he hit on 13 of 16 passes against the Packers in 1974.
He made the UPI All-Rookie team in 1973 when he started every game.
Joe is involved in breeding and raising Arabian horses."

-1978 Topps, No. 339


BILL MUNSON
Quarterback
No. 9
Utah State
"His ability to get rid of the ball quickly and surprising coolness under fire helped catapult Bill Munson to the top of the list of NFL rookie quarterbacks last season. Pressed into service as first-stringer for the first five games, due to Roman Gabriel's knee injury, Bill handled himself like a veteran. He wound up the year completing 108 passes in 223 attempts; he flung nine touchdown passes and one of them, a 95-yarder to Bucky Pope, was the longest completion of the season.
He was drafted No. 1 out of Utah State, after a brilliant college career."

-Jack Zanger, Pro Football 1965

"After a brilliant rookie campaign in 1964, Bill Munson was well on his way to an even better season last year, when he was suddenly upended by 49er defensive end Clark Miller and suffered torn knee ligaments. He missed the last four games of the season, winding up with an impressive 144 completions on 267 attempts, for 1,701 yards and 11 touchdowns.
He won the first-string job away from Roman Gabriel on his ability to set up and get rid of the ball more quickly. He has quicker, surer moves than the 6-3 Gabriel, and while he doesn't possess Gabe's long-bomb thrust, he's a good short passer who throws with accuracy.
But he's still learning. At Utah State, where he played his college football, Bill didn't get a chance to throw too much."

-Jack Zanger, Pro Football 1966

"Bill got his baptism by fire in his rookie year due to a serious injury to Roman Gabriel's knee in 1964. Bill played so well, he won a spot on the NFL All-Rookie team.
In '65, he was 13th in passing. He completed 144 out of 267, with 10 touchdowns."

-1966 Philadelphia No. 101

"He may have had to comb himself free of some cobwebs, but Bill Munson is overjoyed to drape himself in Lion blue. Bill's been on the inactive side the past couple of seasons, but he's a most proficient quarterback who seems certain to solve a nagging problem in Detroit.
He was the regular quarterback of the Rams until 49er defensive end Clark Miller crashed into him, wrecking his knee and causing him to miss the last four games of the 1965 season. By the time Bill was well enough to play again, Roman Gabriel had taken over the first-string job.
The Rams' No. 1 draft choice when he came out of Utah State, he was named to the NFL's All-Rookie team in 1964. He was even better in '65 when he completed 144 out of 267 passes for 1,701 yards, a 53.9 percentage and ten touchdowns.
He's always been known for his accuracy on short- and medium-range passes, but Bill can throw the bomb, too."

-Jack Zanger, Pro Football 1968

"In his last couple of seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, Bill Munson played backup man to Roman Gabriel at quarterback. But last season, his first with the Lions, he wound up ahead of Gabe in the NFL passing tables when he finished seventh with 181 completions out of 329 throws for 2,311 yards and a 55 percent completion average. His eight interceptions tied for the fewest in the league. All of which convinced the Lions of what Munson knew all along- that he could lead an offense.
Trouble was, he lost his regular job in LA to Gabriel when he sustained a knee injury several years ago. As the Lions' number one man, Bill had some outstanding days, such as striking for three touchdowns against the Bears and throwing 13 of 22 completions against the Packers- both in winning efforts.
Bill is an excellent medium-range passer, but he can heave the bomb, too. All he needs is for someone to go deep. The Lions gave up three players and a number one draft choice to get him."

-Jack Zanger, Pro Football 1969

"The Lions gave up Milt Plum, Pat Studstill and Tom Watkins to acquire this quarterback. The ex-Ram completed 27 passes in a 1965 game, the top mark by an L.A. quarterback in 14 years. Bill is strong-armed and accurate.
Bill was named the top back in the Senior Bowl in 1965."

-1969 Topps No. 11

"To a great extent, Detroit's hopes for a division title in 1970 rest on the shoulders of seven-year veteran Bill Munson.
The Los Angeles Rams' first draft pick in 1963, he went on to become a starter for them at times, until he was injured and eventually lost the number one job to Roman Gabriel. Bill played out his option and came to Detroit in a 1968 deal that involved Pat Studstill, Milt Plum, Tommy Watkins and a first-round draft choice. He completed 181 passes that season, the most in Lion history, and his 2,311 yards gained in the air was a personal high for him.
But last year, the 6-2, 210-pounder missed a good part of the season with a broken hand, and Greg Landry replaced him. Nevertheless, in eight games he completed 84 passes for over a thousand yards and seven touchdowns.
Munson, who commanded a running game at Utah State, was named Outstanding Back in the '63 Senior Bowl. His major strength is the quick, short pass, but he can unload the bomb when necessary."

-Brenda and Jack Zanger, Pro Football 1970

"As a senior at Utah State in 1963, Bill led the NCAA in fewest interceptions with only three. He was voted the top back in the Senior Bowl and also starred in the East-West Shrine Game.
Bill has bounced back from numerous injuries. He was with the Rams for two seasons before a knee operation forced him out of the regular lineup. Traded to the Lions in '68, he was the NFL's seventh-ranked passer."

-1970 Topps No. 221

"During the first part of last season, most of the credit for the Lions' 5-1 record was contributed to the outstanding quarterbacking of Bill Munson. But then came three straight losses and Munson suddenly found himself picking up splinters on the bench.
When he was going strong, as against Chicago when he completed 13 of 19 for 229 yards, Bill was almost unstoppable. But when he cooled off, the pocket passer found problems hitting his deep receivers. He finished eighth in the conference.
An outstanding passer at Utah State, Munson led the nation by having only three passes intercepted in 1963. Then four years with the Rams- a knee operation in 1966 cost him his job when Roman Gabriel took over. In 1968, the Lions gave up three players plus draft choices to get Bill. In his first season with Detroit he set a team record of 181 completions, but a broken finger cost him half of the '69 campaign."

-Brenda Zanger, Pro Football 1971

"Used interchangeably with Greg Landry for the second year in a row, Bill completed 84 of 158 passes for 1,049 yards and 10 touchdowns. His specialty is the quick, short pass.
The No. 1 draft pick of Los Angeles in 1964, he was the Rams' No. 1 quarterback, until replaced by Roman Gabriel. He was traded to Detroit in 1968 in exchange for three veterans and the Lions' No. 1 draft choice.
In 1968, despite a shin operation and neck injuries, Bill completed 181 passes for a Lions' record. He had his biggest day completing 26 of 37 passes against Baltimore. A hard-luck player, he broke a finger on his throwing hand in 1969 and missed seven games.
Bill is a native of Sacramento, California, who attended Foothill Junior College before enrolling at Utah State. During the off-season, he's a steel salesman in the Detroit area."

-John Devaney, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football (1971 Edition)

"Bill had an outstanding day against the Colts in 1968, with 26 completions in 37 tries for 262 yards. He rewrote passing marks at Utah State. Bill was voted the outstanding back in the Senior Bowl."

-1974 Topps No. 173

"In seven seasons with the Lions, Bill has passed for 7,835 yards and 51 touchdowns. He has an accurate arm."

-1975 Topps No. 172

Thursday, March 30, 2017

1978 Profiles: Chuck Knox and Tom Caitlin

CHUCK KNOX
Head Coach
HOW A $400,000 MISSION LED TO EVENTUAL PRO MERGER
Signing of Namath By Jets Saved Old AFL From Destruction
"The scene is a darkened briefing room in the war ministry, New York division.
Stark photographs of various contracts are on the walls. At the table are two members of the cabinet and a young acolyte who has been summoned for a dangerous mission. Ordinarily the acolyte is a drill sergeant for the troops. But he possesses special backgrounding which makes him invaluable for the forthcoming mission.
The mission is to rendezvous with a certain Hungarian expert who has the armament to bring a quick and victorious end to the war.
'Make no slip, do not let him out of your sight, make contact in the distant location, accompany him across the continent and deliver him to us. Price is no object. The other side is after him just as desperately.'
Fadeout ...
Chuck Knox talks wistfully about the stranger than fiction caper just described in what perhaps is only a slight over-dramatization. Knox had a vital role in it.
Pro football today is one giant and hugely profitable brotherhood. The expensive signing war is long over.
But it never would have happened ... the American Football League would have been destroyed ... if the Jets had failed to sign the $400,000 quarterback. This signing of Joe Namath was the catalyst leading to pro football's peace treaty and merger, and a radical change in the economy of all sports.
The man commissioned with bringing Namath into the AFL camp was Knox.
He, then, in 1964 was the young line coach of the Jets. Today he is the man credited with revitalizing the Lions' offensive line.

'I was assigned to it because I had known Joe from western Pennsylvania,' Knox recalls.
'I'd coached football in Ellwood City, Pa., against Beaver Falls while Joe was in junior high there. The first time I ever saw Joe was in Beaver Falls. He was playing junior high basketball. He was in the eighth grade then. I saw him play football his senior year. He played on an undefeated team. His coach, Larry Bruno, was an old friend of mine.

'I was coaching at the University of Kentucky then and I tried to recruit him out of high school, but he decided to go to Alabama. I'd known his brother Frank well, too, because he'd gone to Kentucky.'
With this intelligence on file, Sonny Werblin, owner of the Jets, settled on line coach Knox as his liaison man with Namath in December of 1964. Knox was dispatched south to the Alabama campus after briefing from Werblin and Coach Weeb Ewbank.
'Sonny Werblin had been in the talent business for many, many years,' said Knox. 'He'd handled top entertainment. He knew the value of a buy like Namath. He knew what a guy like Namath would mean to the Jets and to the AFL. What Werblin said in effect was we had to have him regardless of price.'
The St. Louis Cardinals, of the more powerful National Football League, had also drafted Namath. If they got him, the AFL likely could have gone under. The AFL had to get a player of Namath's magnitude to escalate the war and hasten the peace.
'It was before Alabama was going to play in the Orange Bowl and Bear Bryant had given Joe 10 days off along with the rest of the team,' said Knox. 'Joe was free to talk then and we were going to play in San Diego on the next Sunday.
'On Friday I flew to Birmingham and on to Tuscaloosa, picked up Joe Namath and Mike Bite, Joe's attorney, and flew back to Birmingham. On Saturday morning we flew from Birmingham to Los Angeles. We checked into the Beverly Wilshire, went to Chasen's. We met out there with Werblin, Ewbank and Bob Schulman, a tax expert from Washington, D.C., who was there to determine the best way to set up the money.
'Then we flew to San Diego and Joe went to the game with us. Then he went back to Alabama.
'The week prior to the Orange Bowl I went down to Miami to keep tabs on Joe. As soon as the Orange Bowl game was over we signed him and had the press conference the next day.'
Namath was signed for $427,000, a figure so shocking because it was four times more than any other draft choice had ever received. It shocked especially the NFL. Suddenly prices for college draft choices zoomed and the war became more intense- and the merger by treaty was the only solution.
'Teams were hiding out players at that time and there were all kinds of shenanigans,' said Knox. 'But Namath had given us assurances he wouldn't sign with the Cardinals until he talked to us and got our figure. He kept his word.'
Knox recalled there was one near snafu during his mission. There was a fear Namath had been spirited by the Cardinals during the night.
'Joe at that particular time liked to sleep in the morning,' said Knox. 'He almost missed the plane out of Birmingham. We had to rush for the plane carrying our own bags.
'I wonder what would have happened if I'd showed in L.A. without Joe.'
Maybe Pete Rozelle can find the answer hidden in the Pentagon Papers."

-Jerry Green, The Detroit News (Football Digest, November 1971)

TIP FROM THE COACH
"The four teams that made it to the conference finals were all fine defensive teams,' says new coach Chuck Knox. "If you have a fine defensive team, you will have a chance to win every game you play because your defensive will keep you within range of your goal."

-The Complete Handbook of Pro Football (1973 Edition)

"Shufflin' off to Buffalo isn't the recommended way to keep the victories rolling in. Not when you're Chuck Knox, who won five NFC West titles in five years in Los Angeles. He couldn't stand working for Rams' owner Carroll Rosenbloom, however- too much quarterback interference. Knox isn't the Hollywood type anyway.
But what, for heaven's sake, can he expect in Buffalo, where Lou Saban dismantled a good team? 'I'm not a miracle worker,' said Knox. 'But hard work can make up for a lot of things. I guarantee that no coaching staff will out-work us.' Whether that is enough remains to be seen.
Born in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, Knox won't have the expert advice of Don Klosterman on scouting college talent. But Chuck is now in charge of the entire football operation in Buffalo, so all is not all lost."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition


TOM CAITLIN 
Defensive Coordinator
"One of the most sought after players in football, All-American Caitlin came to the Browns by way of a trade with Baltimore involving 15 players. A great defensive prospect, Caitlin is a lightning play analyst and has the speed and agility to match his reactions. He is considered top linebacking material."

-1953 Bowman No. 35

"Tom was drafted by Baltimore but dealt to the Browns in 1953 when he became a regular linebacker. He called the defensive signals in '54 and then went into military service as a pilot. He rejoined the club in '57.
Tom was born in Ponca City, Oklahoma, where he works as a salesman."

-Pro Football Handbook 1959

Friday, March 24, 2017

1978 Buffalo Bills Outlook

TEAM DIRECTORY
President: Ralph Wilson
Vice-President, Football Operations-Head Coach: Chuck Knox
Vice-President-General Manager: Stew Barber
Vice-President: Patrick McGroder
Vice-President, Public Relations: L. Budd Thalman
Home Field: Rich Stadium (80,020)

-The Complete Handbook of Pro Football (1978 Edition)

OFFENSE
"Orange juice sales are down in Buffalo, where people don't run through airports, or look anymore for that gifted athlete who did. Niagara Falls, it's said, doesn't even fall with the same force. Buffalo lost its No. 1 tourist attraction, Orenthal James Simpson, the man who made the Buffalo Bills and, it's to be assumed, will now break them. O.J. has now gone home to San Francisco, leaving Roland Hooks to try and run his sweeps. But how do you snake through holes like The Juice?
New coach Chuck Knox, who allowed the trade, said, in essence, 'OK, we don't figure to win this year, maybe not even next year. It's the future we're concerned with.'
Well, the rape of the Bills is complete. O.J. is near the Golden Gate, J.D. is in Motown, Ahmad in Icicleville, Pat rushing passers in Oakland.
What's left is Joe Ferguson, an average quarterback; Hooks and Jim Braxton, average backs; a strong line with no one to open holes for; and a capable wide receiver in Bob Chandler. Buffalo's offense, once the game's most productive, now slips into the sunset- over San Francisco."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

DEFENSE
"Without Simpson, Buffalo's defense figures to be on the field even longer this fall. The Bills' defense has presented a problem for the offense for a number of years, namely how to outscore what it has given up. Without Simpson and playing in the loaded AFC East, the Bills will be lucky to win two games. It won't be the fault of the entire Bills' defense. The secondary is one of the AFC's finest- Tony Greene, Mario Clark, Dwight Harrison and Doug Jones. Greene had nine interceptions and Clark seven- the second and fourth best records in football.
But as good as Buffalo is against the pass, it's just as bad against the run. Opposing running backs feel like O.J. when they know it's Buffalo's defense they're running against. The Bills surrendered 171 yards rushing a game, placing them 25th in football. Buffalo wound up 23rd in team defense because of its sieve-like tendencies against the run. Mike Kadish isn't bad, but Bill Dunstan and Sherman White are journeymen. The Bills had only 17 quarterback sacks- the worst record in the NFL. Which makes their secondary something special."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

KICKING GAME
"How would you like to be Carson Long? Only 14 PAT attempts in 14 games and 11 field goal attempts, making seven. Marv Bateman, whose dream is to out-punt Ray Guy someday, finished below his expectations at 39.9. Keith Moody and John Kimbrough each returned a punt for a touchdown, so not all is lost."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

THE ROOKIES
"O.J. Simpson is gone and the Bills immediately replaced him with Oklahoma State great Terry Miller. Then Buffalo got down to a more serious area of concern, drafting defensive ends Dee Hardison of North Carolina and Scott Hutchinson of Florida."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition

OUTLOOK
"Working under Carroll Rosenbloom was nothing in comparison to what Chuck Knox will experience this season. He inherits a team with more holes than the Watergate coverup. He'll need a long contract to endure those sleepless, winless nights to which he's unaccustomed."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1978 Edition


"The announcement that O.J. Simpson had shuffled off FROM Buffalo to San Francisco didn't exactly come as a thunderbolt. It was more or less expected, given all the talking and balking about the Juice's expressed desires to finish his career somewhere on California's shores, the land he calls home. What did come as a surprise was the announcement that highly successful Los Angeles head coach Chuck Knox would be taking over the Bills, replacing Jim Ringo in a job that's rapidly becoming noted for its transitory nature.
Knox is Buffalo's third head coach in less than three years. Ringo took over from Lou Saban in mid-season of 1976 and finally wound up with a 3-20 record overall. And now, enter Knox who was supposed to have herded the Rams all the way into the Super Bowl last year. Instead, they got stuck in a highly unusual mud bog and lost an NFC division playoff to a weather-hardened bunch of Minnesota Vikings, 14-7. It was a bizarre ending to Knox's well-founded hopes of a Super Bowl game after achieving the playoffs all five of his years in Los Angeles, his record there being 54-15-1.
Buffalo's All-Pro guard Joe DeLamielleure expressed the feelings of perhaps quite a few Bills when asked his views on the new head coach. 'A lot of guys couldn't believe it at first,' DeLamielleure confided. 'And then, it gave them a lot of confidence because Chuck Knox must see something positive here. He's a proven head coach and we're just happy that he could see enough here to interest him.'
What does interest Knox in Buffalo? It certainly can't be the weather, not after those years in balmy L-A. While the Bills have won only five of their last 28 games, Knox can rightfully discern some positive points. The 1977 passing offense, for instance, led the entire NFL in yards gained through the air, even though Joe Ferguson's performance at quarterback last season wasn't all that impressive. What was very noteworthy, however, was the Buffalo corps of receivers who caught a total of 221 passes for an average gain of 12.7 yards.
The Bills didn't rank quite so high in rushing offense, but they finished quite a way up the ladder in total offense- an AFC fourth behind the heady company of Oakland, Pittsburgh and Baltimore. Ferguson's final game of '77 was a club record-breaker. In closing out the schedule against the Dolphins in the Orange Bowl, he completed 25 passes in 40 attempts for 331 yards and a touchdown. The 25 completions broke a Buffalo record for one game. He also surpassed club one-season marks for passing attempts with 457 and completions with 221.
In another area, corner Keith Moody, in his second year, set a new Buffalo record for best punt return average for a season, 13.1 yards per carry. Also, his 91-yard punt return for a touchdown against Cleveland is the longest in Buffalo annals. And for the second successive year, Bob Chandler caught more passes than any other NFL wide receiver. Whether it's offense or defense, Knox will find plenty about the Bills to keep him interested while he tries to achieve the balance of a tightrope walker over nearby Niagara Falls.
Of interest, naturally, are Knox's feelings about walking into the Buffalo job while one of pro football's greatest, the redoubtable Orange Juice, is walking out. 'The trade of Simpson to San Francisco creates an element of uncertainty at running back,' Knox admits. 'You don't lose an athlete of O.J.'s stature without feeling it. But we're optimistic about the prospect of finding a solid replacement. Roland Hooks did a good job after the Juice was sidelined for the year. There were also things to like about the limited play of Mike Collier and Curtis Brown. Jim Braxton, whose rushing totals were off last fall because of injury, is certainly a key to our ground game.'
In the opinion of some expert observers, Knox has already taken a head start toward resurrecting the Bills by making shrewd choices in the 1978 NFL college draft. In fact, Buffalo and New Orleans are regarded as this year's most successful drafters of rookie prospects. Knox & Company had five choices in the first three rounds and used them to select highly regarded collegians in positions that need help. Running backs Terry Miller (Oklahoma State) and Dennis Johnson (Mississippi State) provide some hope of offsetting O.J.'s departure. Defensive ends Dee Hardison (North Carolina) and Scott Hutchinson (Florida) give that lagging defensive unit a boost. Wide receiver Danny Fulton (Nebraska-Omaha) joins a pass-receiving unit that needs depth, even if doesn't need help."

-Herbert M. Furlow, The Pocket Book of Pro Football 1978

OFFENSE
"Quarterbacks: Interceptions kept Ferguson from being really effective last season. It's hard to believe he threw only one interception in 1976 (in 151 attempts) and 24 in 1977 (albeit on 457 throws). That, plus Buffalo's 20 lost fumbles and the 36 times Ferguson was sacked, contributed much to the 3-11 season.
Buffalo fans wanted rookie Ken Johnson to get a chance but he didn't. Besides Ferguson, the only other player to throw a pass for Buffalo last season was O.J. Simpson. He tossed the ball one time and it fell, like his career at this point, incomplete.
Running Backs: O.J. Simpson, as everybody knows, has switched teams if not rent-a-cars. Simpson watchers from Buffalo to Bombay will watch his San Francisco sojourn with an avid interest, at least.
Will he be missed by the Buffalo running game? Some say no, pointing to Braxton's smooth recovery from knee surgery and the present diversified rushing attack. Hooks showed good form his second year, but bigger developments may lie ahead.
The Bills chose two of college football's top running backs in the '78 NFL draft. No. 1 pick was Terry Miller, consensus All-American from Oklahoma State. Dennis Johnson of Mississippi State was chosen in the 3rd round. Johnson's rushing average was five-plus yards per carry. Concerning Terry Miller, Knox says, 'Comparison with O.J. Simpson at this point would be unfair to Terry, but he is also an explosive runner with the ability to make tacklers miss and he can run away from people.'
Receivers: Chandler's 60 receptions ranked second in the NFL, and Reuben Gant's 41 helped the passing attack considerably- so much so that Buffalo led the entire NFL in team passing offense (180.7 yards per game). A total of 221 pass receptions ranked an NFL third; running back Braxton caught 43 of these.
John Kimbrough is a speedy kick returner. There may be more to come. In the 3rd round the Bills chose Danny Fulton, fresh out of the University of Nebraska's Omaha campus and carrying a flock of impressive credentials.
Interior Linemen: Tackle Dave Foley retired after eight years and that leaves Joe Devlin, Joe DeLamielleure, Willie Parker and Reggie McKenzie as starters. Ken Jones, who played all 14 games, looms as Foley's possible replacement at left tackle although Winston Hill is on hand after an exchange with the Rams. This is the unit that did so well by O.J. Simpson, and also provided protection for the NFL's leading team passing attack in '77. It has that magic blend of talent, youth and experience.
Kickers: Marv Bateman does a good job with his 39.9 average. He may have some competition from Rusty Jackson who averaged 39.0 yards for the Rams in 1976.
Carson Long was an instant success his rookie year, with 13 of 14 PATs and seven of 11 field goals, some of them from beyond the 35-yard marker. Little wonder the Bills chose no shoe experts in the draft. But they did pick up one from the free agents- Tom Dempsey, lately of Houston."

-Herbert M. Furlow, The Pocket Book of Pro Football 1978

DEFENSE
"Front Linemen: Was Buffalo's defense suspect last season? Opinion differs on this, but the opposition did score 313 points, the enemy quarterbacks got sacked only 17 times and the opposition attack gained 318.1 yards [per game], which placed the Bills 11th in AFC team defense.
Phil Dokes and Mike Kadish gave good accounts of themselves, but some re-sorting may be in order here. Dee Hardison, a 2nd round choice, was an All-American end last season and Scott Hutchinson, also a second-round pick, received regional plaudits.
Linebackers: Merv Krakau filled in for the injured John Skorupan. Dan Jilek and Shane Nelson play aggressively and hit hard. Lucius Sanford is a 4th round choice from Georgia Tech where he achieved honorable mention All-America.
Cornerbacks: Mario Clark is living up to his pre-rookie evaluation. He does the job well and had seven interceptions last season. Dwight Harrison is one of the better cornerbacks in the NFL. Ball-carriers find him hard to get by.
Moody returns punts at a 13.1-yard pace and kickoffs at 21.2 yards per carry.
Safeties: Tony Greene's nine interceptions placed him second in the NFL behind Bengal Lyle Blackwood's 10. And Greene did it coming back from injury. Often penalized, Doug Jones makes up in aggressiveness what he lacks in tact."

-Herbert M. Furlow, The Pocket Book of Pro Football 1978


"The O.J. Simpson era has ended in Buffalo, and a major rebuilding program has been initiated under the direction of former L.A. Ram head coach Chuck Knox. A glittering collegiate draft provided some optimism for the Bills' fans, who set a new all-time low in attendance last season when O.J. was sidelined with an injury. Knox, a run-oriented, ultra-conservative type, is expected to drastically revamp an offense that led the NFL in pass attempts (457) as well as a defense that recorded an NFL-low 17 sacks.
OFFENSE: Top draft pick Terry Miller of Oklahoma State is an all-purpose game-breaker with 1,000-yard potential, and should soften the blow of Simpson's departure. Power blocker Jim Braxton returns at fullback to lead the way for Miller. Highly regarded Dennis Johnson of Mississippi State packs speed and power and could be a factor at fullback, while Roland Hooks and Curtis Brown are reserve tailbacks.
Knox inherits a classy run-blocking line that features the play of All-Pro Joe DeLamielleure and veteran Reggie McKenzie at the guards. Willie Parker is the regular center, Joe Devlin is set at one tackle, but the other position is up for grabs among converted tight end Paul Seymour, Winston Hill and rookie Eric Smith (6'5"/275) of Southern Mississippi.
Quarterback Joe Ferguson has the tools and should prove to be less erratic (24 interceptions) under the conservative influence of Knox. Fred Besana has the edge over fellow soph Ken Johnson for the No. 2 passer role. Although plagued with constant double coverage, flanker Bob Chandler managed to rank second in the conference with 60 receptions. Prize draft pick Danny Fulton of Nebraska-Omaha should lighten the load by drawing attention on the opposite flank. John Holland, John Kimbrough and Lou Piccone are reserve wide receivers. Should Seymour be moved inside to tackle, talented Reuben Gant will take over tight end on a full-time basis, with young Ken Spaeth of Nebraska his backup.
Punter Marv Bateman posted a fine 39.9-yard average on his 81 punts last year and consistently ranks among the leaders in his specialty. Soph Carson Long and veteran Tom Dempsey battle for the placekicking job. The darting Miller will double as a key kick returner and should generate plenty of excitement with his breakaway ability.
DEFENSE: Knox will be starting from scratch in this disaster area and will rely on rookie talent to bring order to what has been a terribly disorganized unit. All-American Dee Hardison (6'4"/ 250) of North Carolina and top-rated Scott Hutchinson (6'4"/245) of Florida are expected to step into starting roles in the front line. Aggressive Mike Kadish should retain his regular status at tackle while Ben Williams, Sherman White and Bill Dunstan compete for the open slot.
The established linebacking trio is scheduled for revision due to the arrival of rookies Lucius Sanford of Georgia Tech and Mario Celotto of USC. John Skorupan and Dan Jilek appear relatively secure, but Merv Krakau and/or hustling Shane Nelson will have to scramble to retain their jobs. Bo Cornell and Tom Ruud figure to remain emergency reserves.
An especially cohesive secondary, one that has suffered from the lack of a pass rush, will remain intact with ball-hawking Mario Clark (seven interceptions) and Dwight Harrison working the corners while standout Tony Greene (nine interceptions) pairs with capable Doug Jones at the safety spots. Steve Freeman is the key reserve while Keith Moody and Charles Romes add depth.
PFI OUTLOOK: The Bills have plenty of individual talent on hand and could respond in surprising fashion to the fundamentalist approach of Knox. The new field boss faces a difficult adjustment, moving from a first place team to a cellar-dwelling club as well as from the defense-oriented NFC to the high scoring AFC. It could prove to be a painful transition this first year."
Prediction: 5th Place

-Pro Football Illustrated 1978, published by Complete Sports, Inc.


"New coach Chuck Knox takes over a floundering club that no longer has O.J. Despite Knox's reputation as run-oriented and conservative, look for the Bills to emphasize the pass. Joe Ferguson has become a prolific passer, but if he goes down the Bills are left with dubious relief pitching.
Terry Miller was drafted No. 1 to replace O.J., with an assist from Roland Hooks. The offensive line is still formidable."

-Jimmy the Greek, Jimmy the Greek's 1978 Football Handbook


1978 Fleer Action: Buffalo Bills Daylight Breakers
"All a good NFL runner needs is 'a little daylight' and he's gone. The Bills provided their strong backs with room to run during the 1977 season. Buffalo's offensive linemen make sure that one of their backs 'sees the light.' "

-1978 Fleer No. 5

1978 Fleer Action: Buffalo Bills Swarming Defense
"One grabs him high, the other grabs him low- the Bills' defensive unit enjoys getting together to stop an offensive play.
The Bills' swarming defense enabled Buffalo to lead the AFC in fewest first downs given up in passing situations last season."

-1978 Fleer No. 6


1978 Buffalo Bills Preseason Rosters
Head Coach - Chuck Knox
Assistant Coaches: Tom Catlin, Jack Donaldson, Elijah Pitts, Ray Prochaska, Kay Stephenson, Jim Wagstaff, Willie Zapalac
60 Bill Adams (G) Holy Cross 
7  Marv Bateman (P) Utah 
34 Jim Braxton (FB) West Virginia 
47 Curtis Brown (RB) Missouri 
81 Bob Chandler (WR) USC 
29 Mario Clark (CB) Oregon 
35 Mike Collier (RB) Morgan State 
50 Greg Collins (LB) Notre Dame 
30 Bo Cornell (LB) Washington  
68 Joe DeLamielleure (G) Michigan State
70 Joe Devlin (T) Iowa 
85 Phil Dokes (DE) Oklahoma State
76 Bill Dunstan (DT) Utah State
12 Joe Ferguson (QB) Arkansas 
36 Mike Franckowiak (RB) Central Michigan 
22 Steve Freeman (CB-S) Mississippi State
88 Reuben Gant (TE) Oklahoma State
43 Tony Greene (S) Maryland  
28 Dwight Harrison (CB) Texas A&M-Kingsville 
80 John Holland (WR) Tennessee State
25 Roland Hooks (RB) North Carolina State
Tom Hull (LB) Penn State
51 Dan Jilek (LB) Michigan 
14 Ken Johnson (QB) Colorado
24 Doug Jones (S) Arizona State, Cal State-Northridge 
73 Ken Jones (T) Arkansas State 
71 Mike Kadish (DT) Notre Dame 
82 John Kimbrough (WR-PR) St. Cloud State 
52 Merv Krakau (LB) Iowa State 
72 John Little (DT) Oklahoma State 
5  Carson Long (K)  Pittsburgh 
John McCrumbly (Texas A&M)
67 Reggie McKenzie (G) 14 
46 Keith Moody (KR-CB) Syracuse 
79 Greg Morton (DE) Michigan 
59 Shane Nelson (LB) Baylor  
61 Willie Parker (C) North Texas State 
89 Lou Piccone (WR) West Liberty State
26 Charles Romes (S) North Carolina Central 
54 Tom Ruud (LB) Nebraska  
87 Paul Seymour (TE) Michigan  
55 John Skorupan (LB) Penn State
83 Sherman White (DE) California 
77 Ben Williams (DE) Mississippi 
86 Leonard Willis (WR) Ohio State
38 Stan Winfrey (RB) Arkansas State
Randy Young (T) Iowa State
53 Connie Zelencik (C) Purdue 

Top Five Draft Choices
 1 Terry Miller (RB) Oklahoma State
 2 Dee Hardison (DE) North Carolina
 2 Scott Hutchinson (DE) Florida
 3 Dennis Johnson (RB) Mississippi State
 3 Danny Fulton (WR) Nebraska-Omaha

-1978 Complete Handbook of Pro Football

OFFENSE
Quarterbacks
Fred Besana (California)
Joe Ferguson (Arkansas)
Ken Johnson (Colorado)

Running Backs
Jim Braxton (West Virginia)
Curtis Brown (Missouri) 
Mike Collier (Morgan State)
Mike Franckowiak (Central Michigan) 
Roland Hooks (North Carolina State)
Dennis Johnson (Mississippi State)
Terry Miller (Oklahoma State)
Stan Winfrey (Arkansas State)

Receivers
Bob Chandler (W) (USC)
Danny Fulton (W) (Nebraska-Omaha)
Reuben Gant (T) (Oklahoma State)
John Holland (W) (Tennessee State)
Jim Kimbrough (W) (St. Cloud State)
Lou Piccone (W) (West Liberty State)
Paul Seymour (T) (Michigan)
Len Willis (W) (Ohio State)
(W)-Wide Receiver  (T)-Tight End

Interior Linemen
Bill Adams (G) (Holy Cross)
Joe DeLamielleure (G) (Michigan State)
Joe Devlin (T) (Iowa)
Winston Hill (T) (Texas Southern)
Ken Jones (T) (Arkansas State)
Reggie McKenzie (G) (Michigan)
Willie Parker (C) (North Texas State)
Randy Young (T) (Iowa State)
Connie Zelencik (C) (Purdue)
(T)-Tackle  (G)-Guard  (C)-Center

Kickers
Marv Bateman (P) (Utah)
Tom Dempsey (PK) (Palomar JC)
Carson Long (PK) (Pittsburgh)
Rusty Jackson (P) (LSU)
(PK)-Place Kicker  (P)-Punter

DEFENSE
Front Linemen
Phil Dokes (E) (Oklahoma State)
Bill Dunstan (T) (Utah State)
Dee Hardison (E) (North Carolina)
Scott Hutchinson (E) (Florida)
Mike Kadish (T) (Notre Dame)
Pete Lazetich (T) (Stanford)
John Little (T) (Oklahoma State)
Greg Morton (E) (Michigan)
Phil Olsen (T) (Utah State)
Sherman White (E) (California)
Ben Williams (E) (Mississippi)
(E)-End  (T)-Tackle

Linebackers
Greg Collins (M) Notre Dame
Bo Cornell (O) (Washington)
Dan Jilek (O) (Michigan)
Merv Krakau (M) (Iowa State)
Shane Nelson (O) (Baylor)
Tom Ruud (O) (Nebraska)
Lucius Sanford (O) (Georgia Tech)
John Skorupan (O) (Penn State)
(O)-Outside Linebacker  (M)-Middle Linebacker

Cornerbacks
Mario Clark (Oregon)
Dwight Harrison (Texas A & I)
Keith Moody (Syracuse)

Safeties
Steve Freeman (Mississippi State)
Tony Greene (Maryland)
Doug Jones (San Fernando Valley State)
Charles Romes (North Carolina Central)

-The Pocket Book of Pro Football 1978, published by Pocket Books, New York

1978 Buffalo Bills Basic Roster
Offense
WR  Bob Chandler
WR  John Holland
WR  John Kimbrough
TE  Reuben Gant
TE  Paul Seymour
T   Joe Devlin
T   Ken Jones
G   Reggie McKenzie
G   Joe DeLamielleure
C   Willie Parker
QB  Joe Ferguson
RB  Roland Hooks
RB  Jim Braxton
RB  Curtis Brown
RB  Mike Collier

Defense
DE  Ben Williams
DE  Sherman White
DE  Phil Dokes
DT  Mike Kadish
DT  Bill Dunstan
LB  John Skorupan
LB  Dan Jilek
LB  Shane Nelson
LB  Tom Ruud
DB  Mario Clark
DB  Dwight Harrison
DB  Tony Greene
DB  Doug Jones
DB  Keith Moody

-Jimmy the Greek's 1978 Football Handbook

1978 Bills Preseason Depth Charts
OFFENSE
QB Joe Ferguson (Arkansas), Ken Johnson (Colorado), Fred Besana (California)
RB Roland Hooks (North Carolina State), Mike Franckowiack (Central Michigan), Terry Miller (Oklahoma State)*, Dennis Johnson(Mississippi State)*
RB Jim Braxton (West Virginia), Mike Collier (Morgan State), Curtis Brown (Missouri), Stan Winfrey (Arkansas State)
WR John Holland (Tennessee State), Lou Piccone (West Liberty State), John Kimbrough (St. Cloud State)
LT Ken Jones (Arkansas State), Winston Hill (Texas Southern)
LG Reggie McKenzie (Michigan), Bill Adams (Holy Cross)
C Willie Parker (North Texas State), Connie Zelencik (Purdue)
RG Joe DeLamielleure (Michigan State), Bill Adams (Holy Cross)
RT Joe Devlin (Iowa), Ken Jones (Arkansas State), Randy Young (Iowa State)
TE Reuben Gant (Oklahoma State), Paul Seymour (Michigan)
WR Bob Chandler (USC), Len Willis (Ohio State), Danny Fulton (Nebraska-Omaha)*

DEFENSE
LE Ben Williams (Mississippi), Greg Morton (Michigan), Dee Hardison (North Carolina)*
LT Mike Kadish (Notre Dame), John Little (Oklahoma State), Pete Lazetich (Stanford)
RT Bill Dunstan (Utah State), John Little (Oklahoma State), Phil Olsen (Utah State)
RE Sherman White (California), Phil Dokes (Oklahoma State), Scott Hutchinson (Florida)*
LLB John Skorupan (Penn State), Shane Nelson (Baylor), Tom Ruud (Nebraska)
MLB Merv Krakau (Iowa State), Greg Collins (Notre Dame)
RLB Dan Jilek (Michigan), Bo Cornell (Washington), Lucius Sanford (Georgia Tech)*
LCB Mario Clark (Oregon), Keith Moody (Syracuse)
SS Doug Jones (San Fernando Valley), Steve Freeman (Mississippi State)
FS Tony Greene (Maryland), Charles Romes (North Carolina Central)
RCB Dwight Harrison (Texas A & I), Keith Moody (Syracuse)

KICKERS
K Carson Long (Pittsburgh), Tom Dempsey (Palomar JC)
P Marv Bateman (Utah), Rusty Jackson (LSU)

* rookie

-The Pocket Book of Pro Football 1978, published by Pocket Books, New York


1978 BUFFALO BILLS TOPPS CARDS
Marv Bateman 
Jim Braxton
Bob Chandler (1977 Bills Receiving Leader,  745 yards)
Mario Clark
Joe DeLamielleure
Joe Ferguson
Reuben Gant
Tony Greene (1977 Bills Interceptions Leader, 9) 
Dwight Harrison 
Roland Hooks 
Mike Kadish 
Merv Krakau 
Reggie McKenzie
Willie Parker
Lou Piccone 
Paul Seymour 
Sherman White (1977 Bills Quarterback Sacks Leader, 4) (no 1978 Topps card)

-Topps No. 503


1978 Buffalo Bills Profile Summary
Head Coach - Chuck Knox
Defensive Coordinator - Tom Caitlin

QB Joe Ferguson (Arkansas) 12
QB Bill Munson (Utah State) 9
RB Roland Hooks (North Carolina State) 25
RB  Terry Miller (Oklahoma State 40
FB Jim Braxton (West Virginia) 34
WR Bob Chandler (USC) 81
WR Frank Lewis (Grambling) 82
WR Lou Piccone (West Liberty State) 89
WR Larry Walton (Arizona State) 49
TE Reuben Gant (Oklahoma State) 88
TE Paul Seymour (Michigan) 87
C Willie Parker (North Texas State) 61
G Reggie McKenzie (Michigan) 67
G Joe DeLamielleure (Michigan State) 68
T Joe Devlin (Iowa) 70
T Ken Jones (Arkansas State) 72
T Winston Hill (Texas Southern) 76
T Elbert Drungo (Tennessee State) 79
 
DT Mike Kadish (Notre Dame) 71
DT Phil Dokes (Oklahoma State) 85
DE Sherman White (California) 83
DE Dennis L. Johnson (Delaware) 75
MLB Tom Graham (Oregon) 58
MLB Merv Krakau (Iowa State) 52
LB John Skorupan (Penn State) 55
LB Dan Jilek (Michigan) 51
LB Tom Ruud (Nebraska) 54
CB Mario Clark (Oregon) 29
CB Dwight Harrison (Texas A & I) 28
CB Eddie McMillan (Florida State) 41
SS Doug Jones (San Fernando Valley) 24
FS Tony Greene (Maryland) 43

K Tom Dempsey (Palomar JC) 6
K Carson Long (Pittsburgh) 5
P Marv Bateman (Utah) 7
KR Lou Piccone (West Liberty State) 89
PR Lou Piccone (West Liberty State) 89