TOM SESTAK
Defensive Tackle
No. 70
McNeese State
"Touted by coach Lou Saban as 'the finest defensive tackle in pro football,' Tom Sestak is the strong man of the Bills' defensive unit. At 6-4 and 270, he's one of the biggest players at his position in pro football. Fast and tough, he's a fierce pass rusher and is strong enough to pile up opposing runners.
Out of McNeese State, he was a small-college star before joining the Bills in 1962 and producing one of the most amazing rookie seasons in pro football history."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Drafted as a tight end in '62, Tom Sestak walked into Bills' camp and soon proved that nobody on the premises played better at defensive tackle.
Last year he demonstrated that nobody in the league was in his class for fury and meanness, and he was an All-AFL choice after a season in which every opponent constantly praised his strong position tactics, excellence of play reading and admirable power at holding his own when stacked up against two blockers. One of the few around who can harness a rusher without requiring assistance, he makes more unassisted tackles than any front line defender.
Born in Gonzales, Texas, he was a second-team All-AFL tackle as a '62 rookie."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Tom was voted the Top Rookie in the American Football League in many of the polls at the end of the 1962 season. So impressive was his play that he was voted to the second AFL All-Star team.
A big, bulky defensive tackler, Tom was a pleasant surprise for the Bills after he was a 17th round selection. Tom, who loves to rush the passer, averaged 17 tackles per game."
-1964 Topps No. 37
JIM DUNAWAY
Defensive Tackle
No. 78
Mississippi
"Another gigantic defensive tackle, Jim Dunaway hopes to improve in his second season with the Bills. Tough, aggressive, he was the team's No. 1 draft choice in 1962 when they outbid the NFL Vikings. According to coach Saban, his only fault was 'a tendency to be overly aggressive and thus vulnerable to the trap.'
Out of Ole Miss, where he was All-America, he looms as a solid star for years to come. He and Sestak form one of the strongest pairs of defensive tackles in the game."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"The best of the '61 collegiate linemen was Jimmy Dunaway, who won a starting berth at defensive tackle last year with more than just a reputation. He tried so hard that his aggressiveness proved to be his only defect when he discovered how easily he was being led into traps. Nobody doubts his desire and his additional experience must make him a better performer. A runner, often being assaulted by Dunaway, said, 'I hope he's told that he's made the team. He plays as if he expects to be released if his tackles don't make noise.'
Dunaway was born in Columbia, Mississippi."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Jim was a unanimous All-American choice from the University of Mississippi. He was a regular in college all-star games and he starred in both the Sugar and Cotton Bowl classics for Ole Miss.
This immense defensive tackle is extremely fast and agile for a man of his size. The 270-pound giant was voted 'most likely to make it as a pro' in the AFL."
-1964 Topps No. 27
SID YOUNGELMAN
Defensive End
No. 76
Alabama
"A real veteran of professional football, Sid is still one of the game's most feared defensive linemen. This massive player was acquired by the Bills from the New York Jets before the 1963 season began.
Sid was the captain of Alabama's Crimson Tide football eleven and an All-Southern Conference selection.
During the off-season, Sid is a professional wrestler."
1964 Topps No. 42
HARRISON ROSDAHL
Defensive End
Free Agent
Penn State
"Harrison Rosdahl, from Ridgefield Park, New Jersey, was an outstanding tackle on an outstanding Penn State line and he's expected to fit into the defensive plans of the Buffalo Bills. He's 6-3 and 230 and so he'll probably swing to an end position.
Moving about on the line isn't new to him. Rosdahl was both a tackle and a guard in college. He was considered an excellent blocker, college style, but has the beef and determination to make it in the pros. He came up with several 'big plays' while at Penn State, perhaps the most famous being the 1962 game in which he blocked a Syracuse field goal in the dying moments to preserve a Nittany Lion 20-19 victory. Very fast and agile, Rosdahl was the New Jersey state schoolboy champion in discus and shot-put."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
Sunday, July 6, 2014
1964 Profile: Elbert Dubenion
Flanker
No. 44
Bluffton
"Clever, consistent, regarded as perhaps the swiftest pass catcher in the AFL, Elbert Dubenion continues to improve his techniques. He caught 55 passes last season for 974 yards and nine touchdowns, not including a 93-yard touchdown pass play in the Eastern Division playoff game with the Patriots.
Out of Bluffton College, he's starting his fifth season. In 1962 he was top Bill pass catcher with 33 for 571 yards in an attack which relied mostly on the ground game."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Old 'Golden Wheels' Elbert Dubenion had his finest year as a flanker and set a personal high as a pass receiver by taking 55 passes for a club-leading total of 974 yards. His presence in the lineup relieved some of the season-long pressure on Cookie Gilchrist because no opponent could afford to draw in its defenses with Elbert spreading out to the side.
Born in Griffin, Georgia, he has enough speed to panic defenders and he's also rather effective as a blocker when plays are sent around his flank.
In college, he scored an incredible total of 57 touchdowns."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"A real speed-demon flanker, Elbert is one of professional football's fastest men. Many of Elbert's fans claim he is THE FASTEST.
The leading pass receiver of the Buffalo Bills for the second consecutive year in 1963, he snared 55 passes for 974 yards. Elbert also led the Bills with four touchdowns.
In 1962, The Human Flash had a 100-yard kickoff return."
1964 Topps No. 26
No. 44
Bluffton
"Clever, consistent, regarded as perhaps the swiftest pass catcher in the AFL, Elbert Dubenion continues to improve his techniques. He caught 55 passes last season for 974 yards and nine touchdowns, not including a 93-yard touchdown pass play in the Eastern Division playoff game with the Patriots.
Out of Bluffton College, he's starting his fifth season. In 1962 he was top Bill pass catcher with 33 for 571 yards in an attack which relied mostly on the ground game."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Old 'Golden Wheels' Elbert Dubenion had his finest year as a flanker and set a personal high as a pass receiver by taking 55 passes for a club-leading total of 974 yards. His presence in the lineup relieved some of the season-long pressure on Cookie Gilchrist because no opponent could afford to draw in its defenses with Elbert spreading out to the side.
Born in Griffin, Georgia, he has enough speed to panic defenders and he's also rather effective as a blocker when plays are sent around his flank.
In college, he scored an incredible total of 57 touchdowns."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"A real speed-demon flanker, Elbert is one of professional football's fastest men. Many of Elbert's fans claim he is THE FASTEST.
The leading pass receiver of the Buffalo Bills for the second consecutive year in 1963, he snared 55 passes for 974 yards. Elbert also led the Bills with four touchdowns.
In 1962, The Human Flash had a 100-yard kickoff return."
1964 Topps No. 26
1964 Profiles: Pete Gogolak and Paul Maguire
PETE GOLOLAK
Place Kicker
12th Round
Cornell
This well-spoken young man is an American success story. After leaving occupied Hungary with his family at the age of 14, Pete later achieved collegiate stardom as a kicker at Cornell. He set an Ivy League record of 44 consecutive points and a Cornell record with a 50-yard field goal.
Pete brings the new 'soccer-style' place kicking to pro football. The ball is kicked at a 45-degree angle with the instep of the foot. Coach Saban thinks Pete will add a new element of scoring to Buffalo's AFL title hopes.
PAUL MAGUIRE
Punter-Linebacker
No. 55
The Citadel
"Paul was among the outstanding college football players last year in the pass receiving department, leading the nation with 10 touchdown passes caught. He also was sixth in the nation for overall pass receptions.
Paul made the All-Southern Conference team and was voted the Most Valuable Player in the Southern Conference. He was also named as the outstanding athlete in South Carolina and picked for the Associated Press and Williamson's All-America teams."
-1960 Fleer No. 128
"One of the most refreshing 1960 rookie stars was Paul Maguire, 23, the end-linebacker-punter who hustled so hard to gain his all-league bid. The No. 1 punter with a 40.5 average, he was a vicious tackler in his linebacking position, one he was not slated for after a great collegiate career as a pass-catching end. The Youngstown, Ohio opportunist also intercepted three passes and blunted several others."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Few football fans knew about this splendid end, but the pros were very much aware of him and his record. Paul led the national statistics with 10 touchdown passes and was sixth in receptions with 32 for 549 yards. He proved an excellent punter, too, averaging 42.8 yards on 32 kicks. In college, Paul earned All-State, All-Conference and All-Southern honors ... and a contract with the Chargers."
-1961 Fleer No. 160
"Paul is considered the AFL's most valuable linebacker. Besides his deadly tackling, he led the loop in punting with a 40.5-yard average for 43 kicks. Paul won an All-Star berth."
-1961 Topps No. 169
"The best of AFL punters in 1960, Paul Maguire slipped to fourth in '61 with a 42.2 average of 62 efforts, one of which went for league high of 62 yards.
The 24-year-old Youngstown (O.) booter was a pass catching whiz at the Citadel in 1959 but didn't find it difficult to play linebacker in '60 as a Charger rookie. A knee injury late in the year sidelined him and might have affected him in '61 when he was able to intercept only one pass."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
Place Kicker
12th Round
Cornell
This well-spoken young man is an American success story. After leaving occupied Hungary with his family at the age of 14, Pete later achieved collegiate stardom as a kicker at Cornell. He set an Ivy League record of 44 consecutive points and a Cornell record with a 50-yard field goal.
Pete brings the new 'soccer-style' place kicking to pro football. The ball is kicked at a 45-degree angle with the instep of the foot. Coach Saban thinks Pete will add a new element of scoring to Buffalo's AFL title hopes.
PAUL MAGUIRE
Punter-Linebacker
No. 55
The Citadel
"Paul was among the outstanding college football players last year in the pass receiving department, leading the nation with 10 touchdown passes caught. He also was sixth in the nation for overall pass receptions.
Paul made the All-Southern Conference team and was voted the Most Valuable Player in the Southern Conference. He was also named as the outstanding athlete in South Carolina and picked for the Associated Press and Williamson's All-America teams."
-1960 Fleer No. 128
"One of the most refreshing 1960 rookie stars was Paul Maguire, 23, the end-linebacker-punter who hustled so hard to gain his all-league bid. The No. 1 punter with a 40.5 average, he was a vicious tackler in his linebacking position, one he was not slated for after a great collegiate career as a pass-catching end. The Youngstown, Ohio opportunist also intercepted three passes and blunted several others."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"Few football fans knew about this splendid end, but the pros were very much aware of him and his record. Paul led the national statistics with 10 touchdown passes and was sixth in receptions with 32 for 549 yards. He proved an excellent punter, too, averaging 42.8 yards on 32 kicks. In college, Paul earned All-State, All-Conference and All-Southern honors ... and a contract with the Chargers."
-1961 Fleer No. 160
"Paul is considered the AFL's most valuable linebacker. Besides his deadly tackling, he led the loop in punting with a 40.5-yard average for 43 kicks. Paul won an All-Star berth."
-1961 Topps No. 169
"The best of AFL punters in 1960, Paul Maguire slipped to fourth in '61 with a 42.2 average of 62 efforts, one of which went for league high of 62 yards.
The 24-year-old Youngstown (O.) booter was a pass catching whiz at the Citadel in 1959 but didn't find it difficult to play linebacker in '60 as a Charger rookie. A knee injury late in the year sidelined him and might have affected him in '61 when he was able to intercept only one pass."
-Don Schiffer, 1962 Pro Football Handbook
1964 Bills Offensive Line Profiles
AL BEMILLER
Center
No. 50
Syracuse
"Al won a regular job with the Bills in his rookie season. A durable center, Al is a top-notch blocker who excels on pass protection.
With Syracuse, the All-East collegian was voted 'the college center with the best potential.' Al was formerly his prep school's wrestling champion.
The center has put on 15 pounds since his rookie campaign in 1961."
-1964 Topps No. 25
WALT CUDZIK
Center
No. 53
Purdue
"The top AFL center in 1960 was Walt Cudzik, the 28-year-old Chicago charger who got off his mark more than any of the circuit's other snappers. Battle-wise Walt gave an offensive zing to the Patriots' ground game, breaking through defensive barriers with businesslike dispatch. He was the natural leader of an interior line that found ground yardage difficult to come by."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"A first-team all-league selection last year, Walt showed it's possible to come back. An All-Big Ten Center and All-American nominee in 1954, he played with the Washington Redskins and started the 1955 season with the Giants before leaving to coach a high school team in Chicago. Walt was an assistant coach at Purdue in 1959 before making his successful comeback with the Boston team last season."
-1961 Fleer No. 182
"Walter left his job as assistant coach at Purdue to make a successful pro comeback last year. A rugged blocker, he played with very little relief."
-1961 Topps No. 179
"The former Big Ten center and All-America nominee continued his fine comeback last year when he was named alternate center on the All-AFL team. The year before he made the first all-league team.
A Chicago native, Walt began his pro career with the Washington Redskins. He started the 1955 season with the New York Giants but left to coach a high school in Chicago. The Patriots induced Walt to come back and all parties concerned are glad he did."
-1962 Fleer No. 7
BILLY SHAW
Guard
No. 66
Georgia Tech
"Another All-AFL selection, guard Billy Shaw is in only his fourth pro season. Considered one of the best players in football at pulling out of the line to lead a running play, he's a bodyguard for Gilchrist on many a play.
Out of Georgia Tech, he's big (at 6-3, 250) but fast and many AFL observers claim he's the equal of Jerry Kramer of the Packers, considered to be the NFL's best guard. He figures to be an anchorman of the Bills' offense for the next decade."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"King of all the AFL guards is Billy Shaw, the Natchez nugget who is the most pulverizing of pullers coming out of the line. Opposing tackles and ends are aware of his quick and explosive blocking techniques and admit that he doesn't stop after making just one block.
The Bill captain was one of the most feared at Georgia Tech as an all-time Engineer on defense and offense. A second All-AFL choice in '62, he was a unanimous selection last season, one in which he was considered to be approaching the vast potential his coaches claim he has in abundance."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Billy will be a welcome addition to the Buffalo Bills' offensive unit in 1964. During his playing days in college, he demonstrated his effectiveness by continually harassing opposing quarterbacks.
Fast and highly mobile, Billy has the agility to make him one of the real greats in the American Football League. This big guard is also a top blocker."
-1964 Topps No. 38
KEN RICE
Guard
No. 75
Auburn
"Following his brilliant collegiate career with Auburn, Ken Rice was the Buffalo Bills' No. 1 draft pick. In his rookie season in the American Football League, the defensive end won quite a reputation for himself with his strong, aggressive play. A knee injury hampered Ken during the 1962 campaign.
Because of Ken's exceptional speed, coaches may shift this dynamo to guard."
-1964 Topps No. 34
STEW BARBER
Offensive Tackle
No. 77
Penn State
"Now in his third AFL season, offensive tackle Stew Barber is recognized as one of the premier players at his position in pro football. He was selected All-AFL by both wire-service polls last season, a remarkable honor for a second-year man.
Big and fast, he provides excellent pass blocking protection for Bill quarterbacks. He's also a terror at clearing the way for Cookie Gilchrist and the other Bill runners.
Out of Penn State, he looms as a star for years and years to come."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"The most improved lineman of 1963 was the 248-pound captain, Stew Barber, who worked himself into an All-AFL berth with an exceptional performance at offensive tackle. Considered a better blocker on passes than runs, he was a linebacker in '61, moving to offense in '62.
Born in Bradford, Pennsylvania, he was a No. 4 draft pick as a 228-pound linebacker. During this fall's pre-season training drills he'll be asked to shoulder more pull-out blocking assignments in order to give the club more running speed to the outside.
An opposing tackle who spent a long afternoon tying to get by Stew said: 'I've never been knocked out of the play by so many different types of blocks. That man must have a warehouse full of 'em.'"
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Stew was drafted 4th in the American Football League draft, back in 1961. Though barely 24 years old, he is starting his fourth season with the Buffalo Bills. Multi-talented, Stew shifted to offensive tackle in 1962 and became an important cog in the Bills' offensive line that year.
Experts predict that Stew will have a long and successful career in the American Football League."
-1964 Topps No. 23
DAVE BEHRMAN
Offensive Tackle
No. 51
Michigan State
"Dave joined the Bills last season after rolling up a fantastic record as an All-American for Michigan State. The youngster was Buffalo's number one draft pick and he made all their fans happy when he signed with the Bills.
At Michigan State, Dave starred as a center and a tackle. In fact, the college star was the biggest lineman ever to play for the Michigan State Spartans."
-1964 Topps No. 24
Center
No. 50
Syracuse
"Al won a regular job with the Bills in his rookie season. A durable center, Al is a top-notch blocker who excels on pass protection.
With Syracuse, the All-East collegian was voted 'the college center with the best potential.' Al was formerly his prep school's wrestling champion.
The center has put on 15 pounds since his rookie campaign in 1961."
-1964 Topps No. 25
WALT CUDZIK
Center
No. 53
Purdue
"The top AFL center in 1960 was Walt Cudzik, the 28-year-old Chicago charger who got off his mark more than any of the circuit's other snappers. Battle-wise Walt gave an offensive zing to the Patriots' ground game, breaking through defensive barriers with businesslike dispatch. He was the natural leader of an interior line that found ground yardage difficult to come by."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"A first-team all-league selection last year, Walt showed it's possible to come back. An All-Big Ten Center and All-American nominee in 1954, he played with the Washington Redskins and started the 1955 season with the Giants before leaving to coach a high school team in Chicago. Walt was an assistant coach at Purdue in 1959 before making his successful comeback with the Boston team last season."
-1961 Fleer No. 182
"Walter left his job as assistant coach at Purdue to make a successful pro comeback last year. A rugged blocker, he played with very little relief."
-1961 Topps No. 179
"The former Big Ten center and All-America nominee continued his fine comeback last year when he was named alternate center on the All-AFL team. The year before he made the first all-league team.
A Chicago native, Walt began his pro career with the Washington Redskins. He started the 1955 season with the New York Giants but left to coach a high school in Chicago. The Patriots induced Walt to come back and all parties concerned are glad he did."
-1962 Fleer No. 7
BILLY SHAW
Guard
No. 66
Georgia Tech
"Another All-AFL selection, guard Billy Shaw is in only his fourth pro season. Considered one of the best players in football at pulling out of the line to lead a running play, he's a bodyguard for Gilchrist on many a play.
Out of Georgia Tech, he's big (at 6-3, 250) but fast and many AFL observers claim he's the equal of Jerry Kramer of the Packers, considered to be the NFL's best guard. He figures to be an anchorman of the Bills' offense for the next decade."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"King of all the AFL guards is Billy Shaw, the Natchez nugget who is the most pulverizing of pullers coming out of the line. Opposing tackles and ends are aware of his quick and explosive blocking techniques and admit that he doesn't stop after making just one block.
The Bill captain was one of the most feared at Georgia Tech as an all-time Engineer on defense and offense. A second All-AFL choice in '62, he was a unanimous selection last season, one in which he was considered to be approaching the vast potential his coaches claim he has in abundance."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Billy will be a welcome addition to the Buffalo Bills' offensive unit in 1964. During his playing days in college, he demonstrated his effectiveness by continually harassing opposing quarterbacks.
Fast and highly mobile, Billy has the agility to make him one of the real greats in the American Football League. This big guard is also a top blocker."
-1964 Topps No. 38
KEN RICE
Guard
No. 75
Auburn
"Following his brilliant collegiate career with Auburn, Ken Rice was the Buffalo Bills' No. 1 draft pick. In his rookie season in the American Football League, the defensive end won quite a reputation for himself with his strong, aggressive play. A knee injury hampered Ken during the 1962 campaign.
Because of Ken's exceptional speed, coaches may shift this dynamo to guard."
-1964 Topps No. 34
STEW BARBER
Offensive Tackle
No. 77
Penn State
"Now in his third AFL season, offensive tackle Stew Barber is recognized as one of the premier players at his position in pro football. He was selected All-AFL by both wire-service polls last season, a remarkable honor for a second-year man.
Big and fast, he provides excellent pass blocking protection for Bill quarterbacks. He's also a terror at clearing the way for Cookie Gilchrist and the other Bill runners.
Out of Penn State, he looms as a star for years and years to come."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"The most improved lineman of 1963 was the 248-pound captain, Stew Barber, who worked himself into an All-AFL berth with an exceptional performance at offensive tackle. Considered a better blocker on passes than runs, he was a linebacker in '61, moving to offense in '62.
Born in Bradford, Pennsylvania, he was a No. 4 draft pick as a 228-pound linebacker. During this fall's pre-season training drills he'll be asked to shoulder more pull-out blocking assignments in order to give the club more running speed to the outside.
An opposing tackle who spent a long afternoon tying to get by Stew said: 'I've never been knocked out of the play by so many different types of blocks. That man must have a warehouse full of 'em.'"
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Stew was drafted 4th in the American Football League draft, back in 1961. Though barely 24 years old, he is starting his fourth season with the Buffalo Bills. Multi-talented, Stew shifted to offensive tackle in 1962 and became an important cog in the Bills' offensive line that year.
Experts predict that Stew will have a long and successful career in the American Football League."
-1964 Topps No. 23
DAVE BEHRMAN
Offensive Tackle
No. 51
Michigan State
"Dave joined the Bills last season after rolling up a fantastic record as an All-American for Michigan State. The youngster was Buffalo's number one draft pick and he made all their fans happy when he signed with the Bills.
At Michigan State, Dave starred as a center and a tackle. In fact, the college star was the biggest lineman ever to play for the Michigan State Spartans."
-1964 Topps No. 24
1964 Profile: Bill Miller
BILL MILLER
Split End
No. 81
Miami
"Holder of the Bills record for most pass receptions in a season, Bill Miller hopes to set a new mark in his second season. Until injured late last year, he was leading the league in pass catching but still finished a club record of 69, fourth in the AFL, for 860 yards and three touchdowns.
Out of the University of Miami (Fla.), Miller was an All-America selection as George Mira's favorite pass receiver. With good speed and good moves, he appears to have all the requirements necessary for stardom."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"An ankle injury in 1963 might have kept Bill Miller from leading the AFL in pass receiving. He was first in the reception tables when forced from the lineup but still managed to finish fourth in the loop with 69 catches, good for 860 yards.
Born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, he spent 1962 with the Dallas Texans as a flanker and didn't sparkle until moved to split end by Buffalo. An All-AFL linebacker says Miller's moves are 'out of this world for a guy with such limited experience. He fakes with all parts of his body and uses his speed so well by never showing just how quick he can really move."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Bill's a great man at catching a long pass. The exceptionally talented receiver was purchased from the Kansas City Chiefs just before the 1963 season began. Bill fitted right into the Bills' plans as he went on to catch 69 passes, tops for Buffalo receivers.
With Miami University, Bill was twice named an All-American. He played in the Copper Bowl and the Senior Bowl."
-1964 Topps No. 32
"Bill led Buffalo's ends with 69 catches. He picked up 860 yards for the Bills and was fourth in the American Football league in pass receiving."
-1964 Topps No. 43
Split End
No. 81
Miami
"Holder of the Bills record for most pass receptions in a season, Bill Miller hopes to set a new mark in his second season. Until injured late last year, he was leading the league in pass catching but still finished a club record of 69, fourth in the AFL, for 860 yards and three touchdowns.
Out of the University of Miami (Fla.), Miller was an All-America selection as George Mira's favorite pass receiver. With good speed and good moves, he appears to have all the requirements necessary for stardom."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"An ankle injury in 1963 might have kept Bill Miller from leading the AFL in pass receiving. He was first in the reception tables when forced from the lineup but still managed to finish fourth in the loop with 69 catches, good for 860 yards.
Born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, he spent 1962 with the Dallas Texans as a flanker and didn't sparkle until moved to split end by Buffalo. An All-AFL linebacker says Miller's moves are 'out of this world for a guy with such limited experience. He fakes with all parts of his body and uses his speed so well by never showing just how quick he can really move."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Bill's a great man at catching a long pass. The exceptionally talented receiver was purchased from the Kansas City Chiefs just before the 1963 season began. Bill fitted right into the Bills' plans as he went on to catch 69 passes, tops for Buffalo receivers.
With Miami University, Bill was twice named an All-American. He played in the Copper Bowl and the Senior Bowl."
-1964 Topps No. 32
"Bill led Buffalo's ends with 69 catches. He picked up 860 yards for the Bills and was fourth in the American Football league in pass receiving."
-1964 Topps No. 43
1964 Profiles: Wray Carlton and Leroy Jackson
WRAY CARLTON
Halfback
No. 30
Duke
"Sidelined by injuries virtually all of last season, Wray Carlton hopes to regain his running stride this year. He carried the ball only 29 times for 125 yards. His absence put pressure on Gilchrist, when Cookie was healthy, and put extra pressure on the passing attack since opposing teams could stack their defenses. Out of Duke, he's going into his fifth AFL season.
With Gilchrist (240) and Carlton (230), the Bills own the biggest pair of running backs in all of pro football."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
LEROY JACKSON
Halfback
No. 22
Western Illinois
"Obtained in the off-season, halfback Leroy Jackson looms as a possible running threat to compliment inside blaster Cookie Gilchrist.
He's out of Western Illinois, where he played for Lou Saban. This was the reason Saban was so anxious to obtain him following his release by the Washington Redskins. Jackson was originally drafted by the NFL Browns but was traded, along with Bobby Mitchell, to the 'Skins in the deal for the late Ernie Davis.
Big and fast, he could be a big star."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
Halfback
No. 30
Duke
"Sidelined by injuries virtually all of last season, Wray Carlton hopes to regain his running stride this year. He carried the ball only 29 times for 125 yards. His absence put pressure on Gilchrist, when Cookie was healthy, and put extra pressure on the passing attack since opposing teams could stack their defenses. Out of Duke, he's going into his fifth AFL season.
With Gilchrist (240) and Carlton (230), the Bills own the biggest pair of running backs in all of pro football."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
LEROY JACKSON
Halfback
No. 22
Western Illinois
"Obtained in the off-season, halfback Leroy Jackson looms as a possible running threat to compliment inside blaster Cookie Gilchrist.
He's out of Western Illinois, where he played for Lou Saban. This was the reason Saban was so anxious to obtain him following his release by the Washington Redskins. Jackson was originally drafted by the NFL Browns but was traded, along with Bobby Mitchell, to the 'Skins in the deal for the late Ernie Davis.
Big and fast, he could be a big star."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
1964 Profile: Cookie Gilchrist
Fullback
No. 34
"Regarded as one of the best running backs in pro football, Cookie Gilchrist will be trying to regain the AFL ball-carrying title this season. Hobbled by injuries, he gained 979 yards - about 700 of them in the final six games, including a one-game pro record of 243. In 1962 he led the AFL with 1,096 yards. Since coming to the Bills from Canada, his two-season total is 2,063 - the best in the league.
One of the most colorful players in pro football, he has amazing speed for his 6-2, 240-pound size."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Cookie Gilchrist was not shy in telling of his disenchantment as a Bill prior to pre-season drills and he expressed a desire to be traded. Off his 19'63 figures, he had nothing to be ashamed of, particularly when it was known that he was working with an ankle injury most of the year and had little running help to relieve some of the rushing pressure.
Born in Brackenridge, Pennsylvania, he made his fabulous reputation in the Canadian League, then broke eight records as an AFL freshman in '62 when he was voted the circuit's most valuable player. Last year he set a one-game mark for rushing (243 yards) and tied the record for touchdowns (5) as he surged late in the year to compile 979 yards for the No. 3 running rating."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Carlton Chester (Cookie) Gilchrist of the Buffalo Bills has been eating up yardage as a pro football back since he was 19. Just out of Brackenridge (Pennsylvania) High School, the precocious Cookie received a trial and a bonus from the Cleveland Browns.
'I was awfully green and they sent me to Canada to gain more experience,' Cookie recalls. That was back in 1954; a few years later Cleveland came up with Jimmy Brown and decided to forget about the brawny youngster they had shipped to Canada.
Meanwhile, Cookie was moving from team to team and had gained the reputation of being a troublemaker.
'I enjoyed Canadian ball,' he explains, 'but I had to battle all the time for the money I felt my play rated. That's where the 'hard to handle' talk about me originated.'
Gilchrist moved from Kitchener to Hamilton to Regina and on to Toronto. On one occasion he took on the entire opposition bench. Another time he took a swing at a teammate while in a huddle.
The 6'2", 243-pound fullback signed with Buffalo in 1962. He was an unknown name to virtually all U.S. pro football fans but he didn't remain unknown for long. By the end of the season, he had gained 1,096 yards in 214 attempts, scored 15 touchdowns, kicked eight field goals and was named the most valuable player in the AFL by UPI and AP. Cookie was rewarded with a two-year contract calling for $30,000 per season.
Last year the 29-year-old Gilchrist dropped from first to third in rushing but still managed to gain 979 yards in 232 attempts and scored 14 touchdowns. It was quite a showing for a guy who played most of the season with an injured ankle and bruised ribs.
Gilchrist, who is bigger than most men who try to tackle him, admits he enjoys the rough and tumble world of pro football.
'But maybe,' he muses, 'I should learn how to juke (fake) those defenders.'"
-Bill Wise, 1964 Official Pro Football Almanac
"Cookie was named the American Football League's Most Valuable Player for 1962. The hard-driving fullback set a league record when he gained 1,096 yards on the ground. This also made Cookie the first man in the AFL to pass the 1,000-yard mark. He then led the Bills with 12 touchdowns in 1963.
A superstar, Cookie is one of the few to make good in pro football without any college experience."
-1964 Topps No. 29
"The Most Valuable in the AFL for 1962! Cookie was third in the league in rushing as he picked up 979 yards on 232 carries last year."
-1964 Topps No. 43
No. 34
"Regarded as one of the best running backs in pro football, Cookie Gilchrist will be trying to regain the AFL ball-carrying title this season. Hobbled by injuries, he gained 979 yards - about 700 of them in the final six games, including a one-game pro record of 243. In 1962 he led the AFL with 1,096 yards. Since coming to the Bills from Canada, his two-season total is 2,063 - the best in the league.
One of the most colorful players in pro football, he has amazing speed for his 6-2, 240-pound size."
-Dave Anderson, Pro Football Handbook 1964
"Cookie Gilchrist was not shy in telling of his disenchantment as a Bill prior to pre-season drills and he expressed a desire to be traded. Off his 19'63 figures, he had nothing to be ashamed of, particularly when it was known that he was working with an ankle injury most of the year and had little running help to relieve some of the rushing pressure.
Born in Brackenridge, Pennsylvania, he made his fabulous reputation in the Canadian League, then broke eight records as an AFL freshman in '62 when he was voted the circuit's most valuable player. Last year he set a one-game mark for rushing (243 yards) and tied the record for touchdowns (5) as he surged late in the year to compile 979 yards for the No. 3 running rating."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football 1964
"Carlton Chester (Cookie) Gilchrist of the Buffalo Bills has been eating up yardage as a pro football back since he was 19. Just out of Brackenridge (Pennsylvania) High School, the precocious Cookie received a trial and a bonus from the Cleveland Browns.
'I was awfully green and they sent me to Canada to gain more experience,' Cookie recalls. That was back in 1954; a few years later Cleveland came up with Jimmy Brown and decided to forget about the brawny youngster they had shipped to Canada.
Meanwhile, Cookie was moving from team to team and had gained the reputation of being a troublemaker.
'I enjoyed Canadian ball,' he explains, 'but I had to battle all the time for the money I felt my play rated. That's where the 'hard to handle' talk about me originated.'
Gilchrist moved from Kitchener to Hamilton to Regina and on to Toronto. On one occasion he took on the entire opposition bench. Another time he took a swing at a teammate while in a huddle.
The 6'2", 243-pound fullback signed with Buffalo in 1962. He was an unknown name to virtually all U.S. pro football fans but he didn't remain unknown for long. By the end of the season, he had gained 1,096 yards in 214 attempts, scored 15 touchdowns, kicked eight field goals and was named the most valuable player in the AFL by UPI and AP. Cookie was rewarded with a two-year contract calling for $30,000 per season.
Last year the 29-year-old Gilchrist dropped from first to third in rushing but still managed to gain 979 yards in 232 attempts and scored 14 touchdowns. It was quite a showing for a guy who played most of the season with an injured ankle and bruised ribs.
Gilchrist, who is bigger than most men who try to tackle him, admits he enjoys the rough and tumble world of pro football.
'But maybe,' he muses, 'I should learn how to juke (fake) those defenders.'"
-Bill Wise, 1964 Official Pro Football Almanac
"Cookie was named the American Football League's Most Valuable Player for 1962. The hard-driving fullback set a league record when he gained 1,096 yards on the ground. This also made Cookie the first man in the AFL to pass the 1,000-yard mark. He then led the Bills with 12 touchdowns in 1963.
A superstar, Cookie is one of the few to make good in pro football without any college experience."
-1964 Topps No. 29
"The Most Valuable in the AFL for 1962! Cookie was third in the league in rushing as he picked up 979 yards on 232 carries last year."
-1964 Topps No. 43
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