"In three exciting seasons at Yankee Stadium, the New York Football Giants have won two National Football League Eastern Conference Championships and one World Championship. Late last December they came within seven seconds of adding a second World crown. No one who saw the Giants' heart-stopping come-from-behind finishes of the late-season '58 games will wish to miss any of the six big Giants football games which will be played in the Stadium this fall. In addition to old favorites, the Giants are bringing in some outstanding new rookies from the college ranks.
Do you remember the four sell-out crowds last season? A word to the wise- season tickets for the '59 season are on sale now at the Giants offices."
-The New York Yankees Official 1959 Yearbook
"Frank Gifford, long established as the most versatile star of pro football, will aim for the elite position of all- quarterback- when the Giants go to camp. The great halfback has the idea that he can qualify to run the game, as he did in high school and college, and Coach Jim Lee Howell is delighted to give Gifford a thorough trial. Peerless Charlie Conerly, the old pro who directed the Giant coup of last season, will return as No. 1 quarterback, but at 38 he cannot be expected to key the offense without adequate relief. The Gifford experiment is part of a comprehensive program by Howell to support Conerly with a strong 'bench.'
The talented Lee Grosscup of Utah, No. 1 draft pick of New York, may be the man of the future, but he will be late reporting, following his appearance in the All-Star Game, and will require much of the season to become indoctrinated in pro play. Don Heinrich, who contributed to both Giant titles in the past three years, remains the ranking No. 2 quarterback. Then there is Jack Kemp, who broke into the active list in '58.
The feature, though, will be Gifford's effort, after having done so much, to do it all. Frank has the delicate sense of timing, the lightning-like judgment, to satisfy fundamental requirements. He would, too, as Howell points out, be the most dangerous running quarterback in the game- and the most exciting. The decision will depend on whether Gifford can pass consistently well- long, short, soft, hard- and in the varying situations the top pro T-man must face.
Howell and his new offense coach, Allie Sherman, also will focus attention on a celebrated rookie end who made almost everybody's All-American team- Buddy Dial of Rice. It is hoped that this six-one, 185-pounder will exhibit the speed and finesse to be the deep pass receiver so long desired by Howell to develop the long-scoring punch of the attack.
On defense, Tom Landry will concentrate on finding a halfback to replace Ed Hughes, who has retired. The leading candidate is Joe Morrison of Cincinnati. The defense coach also needs an extra linebacker to balance out the retirement of Bill Svoboda. Otherwise, the defense platoon is sound.
In the offense line there is a lack of depth in the middle which must be corrected. A reserve center is needed behind Ray Wietecha, and the guards must be strengthened because only two veterans, Al Barry and Buzz Guy, are available.
The main push in camp, however, will be on the 'battery' of passer and receiver that makes pro scoring possible, and easier. If success comes in that department, many new and exciting 'wrinkles' will be added to the offense playbook."
-Giant Touchdown, May 1959
First, the strong points. The Giants are basically a young team, especially the great defensive unit, which averages 26 years of age. There is no reason to suspect that the younger players will not continue to improve on last year's performance.
This group includes Sam (The Man) Huff, 24; Jim Katcavage, 24; Rosey Grier, 26; Cliff Livingston, 28; Harland Svare, 28; Dick Modzelewski, 27; and Andy Robustelli, 31, the granddaddy of the defensive line.
Offensively, age presents a problem only at quarterback, where veteran Charlie Conerly, 38, may be asked to carry the lead again until Howell can come up with a capable replacement.
Halfbacks Frank Gifford and Alex Webster, 29 and 28 respectively, are at the peaks of their games. Fullback Mel Triplett, 27, seems to have 'arrived' as a fine runner after earning his initial reputation as a blocker.
To this group can be added 23-year-old Phil King, last year's prize rookie from Vanderbilt who, at one time or another, played every position in the backfield except quarterback. And rookie backs Joe Morrison of Cincinnati and Fred Carson of Tampa rate highly. Although Conerly seems firmly entrenched at the signal-calling spot momentarily, there is apt to be some juggling of quarterbacks before the Giants move on to Los Angeles for their opening game.
No. 2 Don Heinrich rates behind Chuck, as does little [6-1] Jackie Kemp, the Pittsburgh castoff who spent the last half of 1958 working out with New York. Jackie could be a real 'sleeper.'
Rookie whiz Lee Grosscup of Utah, the Giants' No. 1 draft pick, looms as Conerly's logical successor, but that day may be some time off and, until he's learned the ropes, Lee figures to 'be seen and not heard,' as the saying goes.
Which brings us back to Gifford, the All-Pro halfback with eight brilliant NFL campaigns behind him. Frank has asked Howell for a shot at quarterback. This is not a new request by any means; Gifford has harbored this ambition for several years. But this marks the first time he's officially been entered in the quarterback derby. If Frank should impress Howell sufficiently, then second-year man King probably will be tabbed for heavy duty at left half. Rival coaches shudder when they think of the pass-run threat Gifford would pose as a quarterback.
Other rookies from whom much is expected are Buddy Dial, the Rice All-American end; Ellison Kelly, Michigan State guard; Dick Day, Washington tackle; and Bob Schmidt, burly Minnesota line product.
Howell has problems at offensive guard, where his only two reliables, now that Jack Stroud has been shifted to tackle, are Al Barry and Buzz Guy. But the Giant coach expects to come up with some help from among the newcomers. Defensive coach Tom Landry also has a spot or two to fill. Halfback Ed Hughes has retired and veteran safetyman Em Tunnell is a question mark at best. That leaves only Jim Patton, Lindon Crow and Carl Karilivacz as the defensive secondary nucleus."
-Don Smith, Pro Football Handbook 1959
"A hard-nosed defense, the best around, could be capable of keeping the Giants on top. Just to be different, though, we do not think the offense packs enough ammunition to carry New York higher than third."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football Handbook 1959
"Pro football became defense-conscious with the stirring late-season rise of the New Yorkers- yet they've still got to score, which is a problem.
Last fall the New York Giants took the teeth out of the old saw that professional football is just basketball disguised in shoulder pads. The made the entire nation defense-conscious with their stirring trio of victories over the supposedly unstoppable Browns and a sensational stand against the Baltimore Colts that came within seven seconds of bringing them the NFL title.
Coach Jim Lee Howell freely gave credit to the defensive platoon, the red-dogging, hard-tackling unit that provided the inspiration for the late season rally of the New Yorkers. The defense has remained virtually intact for the '59 campaign.
There was a tendency to overlook the contributions of the old pros- Charlie Conerly, Frank Gifford, Alex Webster, Kyle Rote- who carried the attack. The Giants have not been a flashy team in that direction. They've stressed soundness, and because of a lack of speed have punched out their yardage in short jolts instead of the long gainer.
There will be a change. Vince Lombardi, who tailored the offense, went to Green Bay and was succeeded by astute Allie Sherman, who must be reckoned more pass conscious. It's a cinch the Giants will open up their style of play, going to occasional slots and wider flankers.
They have problems. Conerly, at 38, is a vocational hazard. With that in mind, Gifford asked for and was promised a long training camp look at quarterback. Chances are he'll be needed at halfback too much to make that worth anything more than a few lines in the paper.
The Giants have searched several for swift receivers to complement Rote and Bob Schnelker. Don Maynard fizzed out last year, and Buddy Dial is the latest hope, although his speed is suspect.
The offensive guard spots can be troublesome, too, with the early retirement of Bob Mischak.
So, just because a team finishes on top of a division doesn't mean it can afford to sit back and wait for the rest of the clubs to make a run at them. Far from complacent, the Giants are not worried, either."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1959 Pro Football
OFFENSE
"Ends: It'll be the same old sure hands, slow feet unless rookie Buddy Dial cracks the veteran Rote-Schnelker combine. Still no breakaway.
Rating- Fair
Tackles: So-solid Giants could revive old notions of using Rosy Brown at guard. Don Stroud's sound again and Frank Youso might blossom as a soph.
Rating- Very Good
Guards: Bob Mischak's vow to retire hurt; he was catching on. This leaves only Al Barry. Trouble is brewing unless Ellison Kelly is great.
Rating- Poor
Centers: No worry as long as Ray Wietecha is healthy. He is.
Rating- Excellent
Quarterbacks: How long can Charlie Conerly last? Don Heinrich had a mediocre '58. Lee Grosscup has the arm but must prove it.
Rating- Fair
Halfbacks: As always, Frank Gifford and Alex Webster are the hub of the Giants, and Phil King is a solid pro. Billy Lott, too, can offer plenty of help.
Rating- Very Good
Fullbacks: Mel Triplett came back strong last year, but is still no Brown.
Rating- Fair
Losses: Bob Mischak (G); Strength: The Giants still rely on the power of their halfbacks. The big asset of the club is championship poise. Weakness: A lack of running speed plagues them. [There is] no real breakaway threat. Quarterback is also a potential trouble spot.
Rating- Fair"
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1959 Pro Football
DEFENSE
"Ends: When the chips are down, Andy Robustelli is there. Jim Katcavage is an aggressive operator. Not much gets around them. Youso could be relief.
Rating- Good
Tackles: Rosey Grier has shaken his Army rust and is ready to be All-Pro again. Dick Modzelewski gives consistency and steadiness. They're a Mutt'n Jeff duo.
Rating- Very Good
Middle Guards: Sam Huff's ready to stand with Schmidt or anyone else.
Rating- Excellent
Linebackers: Losing Bill Svoboda isn't a crusher, Cliff Livingston took his job in '58. He and Harland Svare have mobility; look out when they red-dog.
Rating- Fair
Halfbacks: By season's end, Lindon Crow had absorbed the Giant system and did a top job. Carl Karilivacz won't make many mistakes. Rookie Joe Morrison has a chance. Tom Landry likes the way in which Dick Lynch moves.
Rating- Good
Safeties: Jim Patton will stay with any end in football. Emlen Tunnell's supposed to be retired, but first somebody's got to take his place.
Rating- Good
Losses: Bill Svoboda (LB), Ed Hughes (HB); Strength: You don't go over or around that forward wall, and behind them Huff and Patton are All-Pro. Weakness: The Giants could use one more linebacker and a swiftie in the secondary.
Rating- Very Good"
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1959 Pro Football
MURRAY OLDERMAN'S GAME-BY-GAME FORECAST
Prediction - Third (to win 6 and lose 6)
"The Giants will lack the inspirational defense, which carried them through a rousing '58 climax, the very first night of the '59 season when they take on the dynamite-packed LA Rams in the Coliseum and an old 'friend,' Ollie Matson. They'll finally find out what Matson might have done to them all these years, had he had the support of men like Shofner and Arnett.
In the next month, the Giants will be bumped by the Steelers and Browns- not entirely a surprise. The offense is to have trouble moving the ball because of mediocrity at the vital guard spots. By mid-November, however, they will climb over the .500 mark, to 4-3, poised in perfect position for the final fighting dash- until the Steelers come to town. Then, the lack of a concerted attack betrays them. Conerly won't have time to get the ball off on his passing against the Steeler rush. Gifford and Webster, hobbled, cannot punch through them on the ground.
The letdown lasts another week, against the Cardinals, and thoroughly knocks the Giants out of contention. They have one last shot in their systems, though, when they play Cleveland December 6 in the Stadium. This is one game they can always get up for. Conerly will strike the final blow to the Browns' aspirations with clutch passes to Rote and Gifford. Sam Huff is a terror turning back Jimmy Brown on his forays into the middle of the line.
A so-what curtain-closer the final week in Washington will result in an upset."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1959 Pro Football
1959 GIANTS ROOKIES
"The Giants, looking to bolster their passing, picked up a battery of Utah's Lee Grosscup throwing to Buddy Dial of Rice, and a guard to block for them in Ellison Kelly of Michigan State."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1959 Pro Football
CHRIS SCHENKEL (Giants Broadcaster)
"Chris Schenkel has demonstrated amazing versatility as a sports TV personality. He's the fellow who follows the Giants for the New York Network during the NFL season but is also the man in the paddock once the horses start to run in earnest.
Chris first covered the Giants via radio from 1952 through 1954. He then went to the TV booth for the Giants, a move which displeased no one who likes to see and hear his NFL football with a minimum of frills and frenzy. But Chris's season doesn't end when the league schedule has run its course. He starts his winter tour of duty at the Florida racetracks and works up to the New York circuit, all for the CBS 'Thoroughbred Race of the Week.' He's been doing this for four seasons.
Baseball has also occupied Chris' attention. He covered the Milwaukee Braves on their trips through the East (before the departure of the Giants and Dodgers from the New York scene), and for the past two years has worked with Roy Campanella on his daily syndicated radio show Campy's Corner.
Chris, who doesn't look much older than a college junior, was graduated from Purdue University in 1943. Although he's a native Hoosier, he now lives in New York with his wife, Francesca Paige, and their two children- Tina, 3, and one-year-old Ted, who was named for Ted Husing, Chris' broadcasting idol."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football Handbook 1959
Last fall the New York Giants took the teeth out of the old saw that professional football is just basketball disguised in shoulder pads. The made the entire nation defense-conscious with their stirring trio of victories over the supposedly unstoppable Browns and a sensational stand against the Baltimore Colts that came within seven seconds of bringing them the NFL title.
Coach Jim Lee Howell freely gave credit to the defensive platoon, the red-dogging, hard-tackling unit that provided the inspiration for the late season rally of the New Yorkers. The defense has remained virtually intact for the '59 campaign.
There was a tendency to overlook the contributions of the old pros- Charlie Conerly, Frank Gifford, Alex Webster, Kyle Rote- who carried the attack. The Giants have not been a flashy team in that direction. They've stressed soundness, and because of a lack of speed have punched out their yardage in short jolts instead of the long gainer.
There will be a change. Vince Lombardi, who tailored the offense, went to Green Bay and was succeeded by astute Allie Sherman, who must be reckoned more pass conscious. It's a cinch the Giants will open up their style of play, going to occasional slots and wider flankers.
They have problems. Conerly, at 38, is a vocational hazard. With that in mind, Gifford asked for and was promised a long training camp look at quarterback. Chances are he'll be needed at halfback too much to make that worth anything more than a few lines in the paper.
The Giants have searched several for swift receivers to complement Rote and Bob Schnelker. Don Maynard fizzed out last year, and Buddy Dial is the latest hope, although his speed is suspect.
The offensive guard spots can be troublesome, too, with the early retirement of Bob Mischak.
So, just because a team finishes on top of a division doesn't mean it can afford to sit back and wait for the rest of the clubs to make a run at them. Far from complacent, the Giants are not worried, either."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1959 Pro Football
OFFENSE
"Ends: It'll be the same old sure hands, slow feet unless rookie Buddy Dial cracks the veteran Rote-Schnelker combine. Still no breakaway.
Rating- Fair
Tackles: So-solid Giants could revive old notions of using Rosy Brown at guard. Don Stroud's sound again and Frank Youso might blossom as a soph.
Rating- Very Good
Guards: Bob Mischak's vow to retire hurt; he was catching on. This leaves only Al Barry. Trouble is brewing unless Ellison Kelly is great.
Rating- Poor
Centers: No worry as long as Ray Wietecha is healthy. He is.
Rating- Excellent
Quarterbacks: How long can Charlie Conerly last? Don Heinrich had a mediocre '58. Lee Grosscup has the arm but must prove it.
Rating- Fair
Halfbacks: As always, Frank Gifford and Alex Webster are the hub of the Giants, and Phil King is a solid pro. Billy Lott, too, can offer plenty of help.
Rating- Very Good
Fullbacks: Mel Triplett came back strong last year, but is still no Brown.
Rating- Fair
Losses: Bob Mischak (G); Strength: The Giants still rely on the power of their halfbacks. The big asset of the club is championship poise. Weakness: A lack of running speed plagues them. [There is] no real breakaway threat. Quarterback is also a potential trouble spot.
Rating- Fair"
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1959 Pro Football
DEFENSE
"Ends: When the chips are down, Andy Robustelli is there. Jim Katcavage is an aggressive operator. Not much gets around them. Youso could be relief.
Rating- Good
Tackles: Rosey Grier has shaken his Army rust and is ready to be All-Pro again. Dick Modzelewski gives consistency and steadiness. They're a Mutt'n Jeff duo.
Rating- Very Good
Middle Guards: Sam Huff's ready to stand with Schmidt or anyone else.
Rating- Excellent
Linebackers: Losing Bill Svoboda isn't a crusher, Cliff Livingston took his job in '58. He and Harland Svare have mobility; look out when they red-dog.
Rating- Fair
Halfbacks: By season's end, Lindon Crow had absorbed the Giant system and did a top job. Carl Karilivacz won't make many mistakes. Rookie Joe Morrison has a chance. Tom Landry likes the way in which Dick Lynch moves.
Rating- Good
Safeties: Jim Patton will stay with any end in football. Emlen Tunnell's supposed to be retired, but first somebody's got to take his place.
Rating- Good
Losses: Bill Svoboda (LB), Ed Hughes (HB); Strength: You don't go over or around that forward wall, and behind them Huff and Patton are All-Pro. Weakness: The Giants could use one more linebacker and a swiftie in the secondary.
Rating- Very Good"
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1959 Pro Football
MURRAY OLDERMAN'S GAME-BY-GAME FORECAST
Prediction - Third (to win 6 and lose 6)
"The Giants will lack the inspirational defense, which carried them through a rousing '58 climax, the very first night of the '59 season when they take on the dynamite-packed LA Rams in the Coliseum and an old 'friend,' Ollie Matson. They'll finally find out what Matson might have done to them all these years, had he had the support of men like Shofner and Arnett.
In the next month, the Giants will be bumped by the Steelers and Browns- not entirely a surprise. The offense is to have trouble moving the ball because of mediocrity at the vital guard spots. By mid-November, however, they will climb over the .500 mark, to 4-3, poised in perfect position for the final fighting dash- until the Steelers come to town. Then, the lack of a concerted attack betrays them. Conerly won't have time to get the ball off on his passing against the Steeler rush. Gifford and Webster, hobbled, cannot punch through them on the ground.
The letdown lasts another week, against the Cardinals, and thoroughly knocks the Giants out of contention. They have one last shot in their systems, though, when they play Cleveland December 6 in the Stadium. This is one game they can always get up for. Conerly will strike the final blow to the Browns' aspirations with clutch passes to Rote and Gifford. Sam Huff is a terror turning back Jimmy Brown on his forays into the middle of the line.
A so-what curtain-closer the final week in Washington will result in an upset."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1959 Pro Football
1959 GIANTS ROOKIES
"The Giants, looking to bolster their passing, picked up a battery of Utah's Lee Grosscup throwing to Buddy Dial of Rice, and a guard to block for them in Ellison Kelly of Michigan State."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1959 Pro Football
CHRIS SCHENKEL (Giants Broadcaster)
"Chris Schenkel has demonstrated amazing versatility as a sports TV personality. He's the fellow who follows the Giants for the New York Network during the NFL season but is also the man in the paddock once the horses start to run in earnest.
Chris first covered the Giants via radio from 1952 through 1954. He then went to the TV booth for the Giants, a move which displeased no one who likes to see and hear his NFL football with a minimum of frills and frenzy. But Chris's season doesn't end when the league schedule has run its course. He starts his winter tour of duty at the Florida racetracks and works up to the New York circuit, all for the CBS 'Thoroughbred Race of the Week.' He's been doing this for four seasons.
Baseball has also occupied Chris' attention. He covered the Milwaukee Braves on their trips through the East (before the departure of the Giants and Dodgers from the New York scene), and for the past two years has worked with Roy Campanella on his daily syndicated radio show Campy's Corner.
Chris, who doesn't look much older than a college junior, was graduated from Purdue University in 1943. Although he's a native Hoosier, he now lives in New York with his wife, Francesca Paige, and their two children- Tina, 3, and one-year-old Ted, who was named for Ted Husing, Chris' broadcasting idol."
-Don Schiffer, Pro Football Handbook 1959
1959 NEW YORK GIANTS ROSTERS
1959 New York Giants Preseason Roster by Position
OFFENSE
Ends
Bob Schnelker (Bowling Green)
Kyle Rote (SMU)
Ken MacAfee (Alabama)
Buddy Dial (Rice)
Tackles
Roosevelt Brown (Morgan State)
Jack Stroud (Tennessee)
Frank Youso (Minnesota)
Bob Schmidt (Minnesota)
Guards
Al Barry (USC)
Buzz Guy (Duke)
Gerry Huth (Wake Forest)
Ellison Kelly (Michigan State)
Centers
Ray Wietecha (Northwestern)
M.L. Brackett (Auburn)
Quarterbacks
Charlie Conerly (Mississippi)
Don Heinrich (Washington)
Lee Grosscup (Utah)
Halfbacks
Frank Gifford (USC)
Alex Webster (North Carolina State)
Phil King (Vanderbilt)
Billy Lott (Mississippi)
Fullbacks
Mel Triplett (Toledo)
C.R. Roberts (USC)
DEFENSE
Ends
Andy Robustelli (Arnold)
Jim Katcavage (Dayton)
Pat Summerall (Arkansas)
Jon Jelacic (Minnesota)
Tackles
Rosey Grier (Penn State)
Dick Modzelewski (Maryland)
Ed Rayburn (Rice)
Norm Sixta (Minnesota)
Middle Guards
Sam Huff (West Virginia)
Al Ecuyer (Notre Dame)
Linebackers
Harland Svare (Washington State)
Cliff Livingston (UCLA)
Jack Delveaux (Illinois)
Fred Cason (Temple)
Halfbacks
Carl Karilivacz (Syracuse)
Lindon Crow (USC)
Joe Morrison (Cincinnati)
Don Chandler (Florida)
Dick Lynch (Notre Dame)
Safeties
Jim Patton (Mississippi)
Emlen Tunnell (Iowa)
Sid Williams (Wisconsin)
Harry Jefferson (Illinois)
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1959 Pro Football
1959 New York Giants Preseason Roster
Grover Aldrich (DB) Middlebury
Tom Avery (T) UCLA
Al Barry (G) USC
Joe Biscaha (E) Richmond
M.L. Brackett (T) Auburn
Roosevelt Brown (T) Morgan State
Fred Cason (B) Temple
Don Chandler (P) Florida
Charlie Conerly (QB) Mississippi
Thurlow Cooper (E) Maine
Al Crow (DT) William & Mary
Lindon Crow (DB) USC
Dick Day (G) Washington
Ben Dempsey (C) Alabama
Buddy Dial (E) Rice
Roger Ellis (C) Maine
Wayne Embry (T) Miami-Ohio
Ken Ford (QB) Hardin-Simmons
Gale Gibson (E) Iowa State
Frank Gifford (HB) USC
Howard Glenn (DE) Linfield
Rosey Grier (DT) Penn State
Lee Grosscup (QB) Utah
Melwood Guy (G-T) Duke
Don Heinrich (QB) Washington
Ted Horner (G) Kansas
Sam Huff (LB) West Virginia
Harry Jefferson (HB) Illinois
John Jelacic (DE) Minnesota
Carl Karilivacz (DB) Syracuse
Jim Katcavage (DE) (Dayton)
Ellison Kelly (G) Michigan State
Jack Kemp (QB) Occidental
Phil King (FB) Vanderbilt
John Kompara (DT) South Carolina
Frank Kremblas (QB) Ohio State
Cliff Livingston (LB) UCLA
Billy Lott (HB) Mississippi
Dick Lynch (HB) Notre Dame
Don Maynard (HB) Texas Western
Dick Modzelewski (DT) Maryland
Joe Morrison (HB) Cincinnati
Jim Patton (DB) Mississippi
Vic Prinzi (DB) Florida State
Ed Rayburn (DT) Rice
Bob Ripley (DB) Norwich
C.R. Roberts (HB) USC
Andy Robustelli (DE) Arnold
Kyle Rote (E) SMU
Robert Sawyer (B) Wyoming
Bob Schmidt (T) Minnesota
Bob Schnelker (E) Bowling Green
George Scott (B) Miami-Ohio
Tom Scott (E) Virginia
Mike Simmons (E) Auburn
Norm Sixta (T) Minnesota
Bob Soltis (DB) Minnesota
Jack Stroud (T) Tennessee
Pat Summerall (E) Arkansas
Don Sutherin (DB) Ohio State
Harland Svare (LB) Washington State
Mel Triplett (FB) (Toledo)
Alex Webster (HB) North Carolina State
Ray Wietecha (C) (Northwestern)
Dolphus Williams (DT) Morgan State
Sid Williams (B) Wisconsin
Frank Youso (T) Minnesota
- Pro Football Handbook 1959
1959 Giants Preseason Veteran Roster
Al Barry (G) USC
M.L. Brackett (C) Auburn
Roosevelt Brown (T) Morgan State
Don Chandler (HB) Florida
Charlie Conerly (QB) Mississippi
Lindon Crow (HB) USC
Frank Gifford (HB) USC
Roosevelt Grier (DT) Penn State
Mel Guy (G) Duke
Don Heinrich (QB) Washington
Sam Huff (LB) West Virginia
Jon Jelacic (E) Minnesota
Carl Karilivacz (HB) Syracuse
Jim Katcavage (E) (Dayton)
Phil King (HB) Vanderbilt
Cliff Livingston (LB) UCLA
Billy Lott (HB) Mississippi
Don Maynard (HB) Texas Western
Dick Modzelewski (T) Maryland
Jim Patton (HB) Mississippi
Andy Robustelli (E) Arnold
Kyle Rote (E) SMU
Bob Schnelker (E) Bowling Green
Jack Stroud (G) Tennessee
Pat Summerall (E) Arkansas
Harland Svare (LB) Washington State
Mel Triplett (FB) (Toledo)
Alex Webster (HB) North Carolina State
Ray Wietecha (C) (Northwestern)
Frank Youso (T) Minnesota
-1959 N.F.L. Pro-Football Yearbook (Jay Publishing)
Giants Top Draft Choices
1. Lee Grosscup (QB) Utah
2. Buddy Dial (E) Rice
3. Joe Morrison (HB) Cincinnati
4. Choice traded to Detroit Lions.
5. Ellison Kelly (G) Michigan State
6. Choice traded to Cleveland Browns.
7. Choice traded to Green Bay Packers.
8. Choice traded to Chicago Bears.
9. Jack Delveaux (LB) Illinois.
10. Bob Pepe (E) North Carolina State. (a)
(a) Playing for Ottawa Rough Riders in 1959.
-1959 N.F.L. Pro-Football Yearbook (Jay Publishing)
Other Giants Newcomers for 1959
(a) Ken Ford (QB) Hardin-Simmons
(b) Tom Scott (E) Virginia
(c) Dick Lynch (HB) Notre Dame
(d) Darrell Dess (G) North Carolina State
(e) Wayne Embry (T) Miami-Ohio
(a) Played for Toronto Argonauts 1958.
(b) Obtained from Philadelphia Eagles in trade for Ken McAfee and Gerry Huth.
(c) Obtained from Washington Redskins.
(d) Obtained from Pittsburgh Steelers in trade for C.R. Roberts.
(e) Played pro basketball for Cincinnati Royals 1958-59.
-1959 N.F.L. Pro-Football Yearbook (Jay Publishing)
Missing from 1958 Giants Squad
Bob Mischak (G) retired.
Ken MacAfee (E) traded to Philadelphia Eagles.
Emlen Tunnell (HB) sold to Green Bay Packers.
Gerry Huth (G), in military service in 1958, traded to Philadelphia Eagles.
Bill Svoboda (LB) retired.
Ed Hughes (HB) retired.
-1959 N.F.L. Pro-Football Yearbook (Jay Publishing)
1959 New York Giants Preseason Roster by Position
OFFENSE
Ends
Bob Schnelker (Bowling Green)
Kyle Rote (SMU)
Ken MacAfee (Alabama)
Buddy Dial (Rice)
Tackles
Roosevelt Brown (Morgan State)
Jack Stroud (Tennessee)
Frank Youso (Minnesota)
Bob Schmidt (Minnesota)
Guards
Al Barry (USC)
Buzz Guy (Duke)
Gerry Huth (Wake Forest)
Ellison Kelly (Michigan State)
Centers
Ray Wietecha (Northwestern)
M.L. Brackett (Auburn)
Quarterbacks
Charlie Conerly (Mississippi)
Don Heinrich (Washington)
Lee Grosscup (Utah)
Halfbacks
Frank Gifford (USC)
Alex Webster (North Carolina State)
Phil King (Vanderbilt)
Billy Lott (Mississippi)
Fullbacks
Mel Triplett (Toledo)
C.R. Roberts (USC)
DEFENSE
Ends
Andy Robustelli (Arnold)
Jim Katcavage (Dayton)
Pat Summerall (Arkansas)
Jon Jelacic (Minnesota)
Tackles
Rosey Grier (Penn State)
Dick Modzelewski (Maryland)
Ed Rayburn (Rice)
Norm Sixta (Minnesota)
Middle Guards
Sam Huff (West Virginia)
Al Ecuyer (Notre Dame)
Linebackers
Harland Svare (Washington State)
Cliff Livingston (UCLA)
Jack Delveaux (Illinois)
Fred Cason (Temple)
Halfbacks
Carl Karilivacz (Syracuse)
Lindon Crow (USC)
Joe Morrison (Cincinnati)
Don Chandler (Florida)
Dick Lynch (Notre Dame)
Safeties
Jim Patton (Mississippi)
Emlen Tunnell (Iowa)
Sid Williams (Wisconsin)
Harry Jefferson (Illinois)
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1959 Pro Football
September 26, 1959 Giants Numerical Roster
11 Heinrich, QB
15 Shaw, QB
16 Gifford, HB
20 Patton, HB
22 Lynch, HB
24 King, HB
25 Nolan, HB
26 Sutherin, HB
29 Webster, HB
31 Scott, HB
33 Triplett, FB
34 Chandler, HB
40 Morrison, HB
41 Crow, HB
42 Conerly, QB
44 Rote, E
55 Wietecha, C
60 Guy, G
62 Dess, G
66 Stroud, G
68 Barry, G
70 Huff, LB
71 Kelly, G
72 Youso, T
75 Katcavage, E
76 Grier, T
77 Modzewlewski, T
78 Schmidt, T
79 Brown, T
80 Bischaha, E
81 Robustelli, E
82 Scott, LB
84 Svare, LB
85 Schnelker, E
88 Summerall, E
89 Livingston, LB
-Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Official Program
November 1, 1959 Giants Roster
No. Name
11 Don Heinrich (QB) Washington
15 George Shaw (QB) Oregon
16 Frank Gifford (HB) USC
20 Jim Patton (S) Mississippi
22 Dick Lynch (HB) Notre Dame
24 Phil King (HB) Vanderbilt
25 Dick Nolan (S) Maryland
26 Don Sutherin (HB) Ohio State
29 Alex Webster (HB) North Carolina State
31 George Scott (HB) Miami-Ohio
33 Mel Triplett (FB) Toledo
34 Don Chandler (P-HB) Florida
40 Joe Morrison (HB) Cincinnati
41 Lindon Crow (HB) USC
42 Charlie Conerly (QB) Mississippi
44 Kyle Rote (E) SMU
55 Ray Wietecha (C) Northwestern
60 Buzz Guy (G) Duke
62 Darrell Dess (G) North Carolina State
66 Jack Stroud (T) Tennessee
68 Al Barry (G) USC
70 Sam Huff (LB) West Virginia
71 Ellison Kelly (G) Michigan State
72 Frank Youso (T) Minnesota
75 Jim Katcavage (E) Dayton
76 Rosey Grier (T) Penn State
77 Dick Modzelewski (T) Maryland
78 Bob Schmidt (T) Minnesota
79 Roosevelt Brown (T) Morgan State
80 Joe Biscaha (E) Richmond
81 Andy Robustelli (E) Arnold
82 Tom Scott (LB) Virginia
84 Harland Svare (LB) Washington State
85 Bob Schnelker (E) Bowling Green
88 Pat Summerall (K-E) Arkansas
89 Cliff Livingston (LB) UCLA
-1959 New York Giants Official Program (Yankee Stadium)
1959 NFL Championship Game, Giants Roster
11 Heinrich, QB
15 Shaw, QB
16 Gifford, HB
20 Patton, HB
22 Lynch, HB
24 King, HB
25 Nolan, HB
29 Webster, HB
33 Triplett, FB
34 Chandler, HB
40 Morrison, HB
41 Crow, HB
42 Conerly, QB
44 Rote, E
48 Stits, HB
55 Wietecha, C
60 Guy, G
62 Dess, G
66 Stroud, G
68 Barry, G
70 Huff, LB
71 Kelly, G
72 Youso, T
74 Hauser, T
75 Katcavage, E
76 Grier, T
77 Modzewlewski, T
78 Schmidt, T
79 Brown, T
80 Bischaha, E
81 Robustelli, E
82 Scott, LB
84 Svare, LB
85 Schnelker, E
88 Summerall, E
89 Livingston, LB
-1959 Baltimore Colts Official Program (Memorial Stadium, NFL Championship Game)
1959 NEW YORK GIANTS DEPTH CHARTS
1959 New York Giants Preseason Depth Chart
Offense
QB Charlie Conerly (Mississippi) 42, Don Heinrich (Washington) 11, Lee Grosscup (Utah)*
HB Frank Gifford (USC) 16, Phil King (Vanderbilt) 24
HB Alex Webster (North Carolina State) 29, Joe Morrison (Cincinnati)*
FB Mel Triplett (Toledo) 33, Billy Lott (Mississippi) 23, Don Chandler (Florida) 34
E Kyle Rote (SMU) 44, Buddy Dial (Rice)*
T Roosevelt Brown (Morgan State) 79, Buzz Guy (Duke) 60
G Al Barry (USC) 68, Darrell Dess (North Carolina State) 62
C Ray Wietecha (Northwestern) 55, Bob Schmidt (Minnesota) 78
G Jack Stroud (Tennessee) 66, Ellison Kelly (Michigan State)*
T Frank Youso (Minnesota) 72, Bob Schmidt (Minnesota) 78
E Bob Schnelker (Bowling Green) 85
Defense
DE Jim Katcavage (Dayton) 75, Pat Summerall (Arkansas) 88
DT Dick Modzelewski (Maryland) 77, Dick Day (Washington)*
DT Rosey Grier (Penn State) 76
DE Andy Robustelli (Arnold) 81, M.L. Brackett (Auburn) 71
LB Cliff Livingston (UCLA) 89, Tom Scott (Virginia) 82
MLB Sam Huff (West Virginia) 70
LB Harland Svare (Washington State) 84
HB Lindon Crow (USC) 41, Carl Karilivacz (Syracuse) 21
S Dick Nolan (Maryland) 25
S Jim Patton (Mississippi) 20
HB Dick Lynch (Notre Dame) 22, Joe Morrison (Cincinnati)*
K Pat Summerall (Arkansas) 88
P Don Chandler (Florida) 34
KR Phil King (Vanderbilt) 24
PR Joe Morrison (Cincinnati)*
*rookie
Offense
QB Charlie Conerly (Mississippi) 42, Don Heinrich (Washington) 11, Lee Grosscup (Utah)*
HB Frank Gifford (USC) 16, Phil King (Vanderbilt) 24
HB Alex Webster (North Carolina State) 29, Joe Morrison (Cincinnati)*
FB Mel Triplett (Toledo) 33, Billy Lott (Mississippi) 23, Don Chandler (Florida) 34
E Kyle Rote (SMU) 44, Buddy Dial (Rice)*
T Roosevelt Brown (Morgan State) 79, Buzz Guy (Duke) 60
G Al Barry (USC) 68, Darrell Dess (North Carolina State) 62
C Ray Wietecha (Northwestern) 55, Bob Schmidt (Minnesota) 78
G Jack Stroud (Tennessee) 66, Ellison Kelly (Michigan State)*
T Frank Youso (Minnesota) 72, Bob Schmidt (Minnesota) 78
E Bob Schnelker (Bowling Green) 85
Defense
DE Jim Katcavage (Dayton) 75, Pat Summerall (Arkansas) 88
DT Dick Modzelewski (Maryland) 77, Dick Day (Washington)*
DT Rosey Grier (Penn State) 76
DE Andy Robustelli (Arnold) 81, M.L. Brackett (Auburn) 71
LB Cliff Livingston (UCLA) 89, Tom Scott (Virginia) 82
MLB Sam Huff (West Virginia) 70
LB Harland Svare (Washington State) 84
HB Lindon Crow (USC) 41, Carl Karilivacz (Syracuse) 21
S Dick Nolan (Maryland) 25
S Jim Patton (Mississippi) 20
HB Dick Lynch (Notre Dame) 22, Joe Morrison (Cincinnati)*
K Pat Summerall (Arkansas) 88
P Don Chandler (Florida) 34
KR Phil King (Vanderbilt) 24
PR Joe Morrison (Cincinnati)*
*rookie
September 26, 1959, Giants Probable OffensiveStarting Lineup
No. Name
44 Kyle Rote, LE
79 Rosey Brown, LT
68 Al Barry, LG
55 Ray Wietecha, C
66 Jack Stroud, RG
72 Frank Youso, RT
85 Bob Schnelker, RE
42 Charlie Conerly, QB
16 Frank Gifford, LH
29 Alex Webster, RH
33 Mel Triplett, FB
-Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Official Program
November 1, 1959
Giants on Offense
No. Name
44 Kyle Rote, LE
79 Rosey Brown, LT
68 Al Barry, LG
55 Ray Wietecha, C
66 Jack Stroud, RG
72 Frank Youso, RT
85 Bob Schnelker, RE
42 Charlie Conerly, QB
40 Joe Morrison, LH
29 Alex Webster, RH
33 Mel Triplett, FB
Giants on Defense
75 Jim Katcavage, LE
77 Dick Modzelewski, LT
76 Rosey Grier, RT
81 Andy Robustelli, RE
89 Cliff Livingston, LLB
70 Sam Huff, MLB
84 Harland Svare, RLB
41 Lindon Crow, LDHB
22 Dick Lynch, RDHB
25 Dick Nolan, LS
20 Jim Patton, RS
Specialists
Punting - Don Chandler (34)
PAT, FG, Kickoffs - Pat Summerall (88), Don Chandler (34)
Holding for PAT and FG - Charlie Conerly (42)
Kick Returns - Joe Morrison (40), George Scott (31), Don Sutherin (26), Phil King (24), Jim Patton (20)
-1959 New York Giants Official Program (Yankee Stadium)
1959 NFL Championship Game, New York Giants Probable Starting Lineup
No. Name
44 Kyle Rote, LE
79 Rosey Brown, LT
68 Al Barry, LG
55 Ray Wietecha, C
66 Jack Stroud, RG
72 Frank Youso, RT
85 Bob Schnelker, RE
42 Charlie Conerly, QB
16 Frank Gifford, LH
29 Alex Webster, RH
33 Mel Triplett, FB
1959 New York Giants Topps Cards
Giants team card
Giants pennant card
Al Barry
Roosevelt Brown
Don Chandler
Charlie Conerly
Lindon Crow
Frank Gifford
Rosey Grier
Sam Huff
Jim Patton
Andy Robustelli
Kyle Rote
Bob Schnelker
Pat Summerall
Mel Triplett
Ray Wietecha
1959 New York Giants Profile Summary
Head Coach - Jim Lee Howell
CH Johnny Dell Isola
CH Ken Kavanaugh
CH Tom Landry
CH Allie Sherman
QB Charlie Conerly (Mississippi) 42
QB George Shaw (Oregon) 15
QB Don Heinrich (Washington) 11
QB Lee Grosscup (Utah) 17
HB Frank Gifford (USC) 16
HB Alex Webster (North Carolina State) 29
HB Phil King (Vanderbilt) 24
HB George Scott (Miami-Ohio) 31
FB Mel Triplett (Toledo) 33
FB Joe Morrison (Cincinnati) 40
E Kyle Rote (SMU) 44
E Bob Schnelker (Bowling Green) 85
C Ray Wietecha (Northwestern) 55
C Bob Schmidt (Minnesota) 78
G Jack Stroud (Tennessee) 66
G Al Barry (USC) 68
G Darrell Dess (North Carolina State) 62
G Buzz Guy (Duke) 60
T Roosevelt Brown (Morgan State) 79
T Frank Youso (Minnesota) 72
DT Dick Modzelewski (Maryland) 77
DT Rosey Grier (Penn State) 76
DE Andy Robustelli (Arnold) 81
DE Jim Katcavage (Dayton) 75
MLB Sam Huff (West Virginia) 70
LB Cliff Livingston (UCLA) 89
LB Harland Svare (Washington State) 84
LB Tom Scott (Virginia) 82
DHB Lindon Crow (USC) 41
DHB Dick Lynch (Notre Dame) 22
DHB Bill Stits (UCLA) 48
S Jim Patton (Mississippi) 20
S Dick Nolan (Maryland) 25
S Joe Morrison (Cincinnati) 40
K Pat Summerall (Arkansas) 88
P Don Chandler (Florida) 34
THE PLAY IS THE THING
"Watching the Giants win that squeaker from the Steelers last Sunday set wheels a-whirling. It emphasized afresh the conviction that in any game, particularly football, making the big play is of more importance than anything else.
You can make a big case of statistics- and this has been a good statistical year for the Giants, who showed at the top of the league standings in both offense and defense before they went to the Smoky City. But, unless they reflect on the scoreboard, statistics are just so much claptrap. If one wanted to be nasty about it, he could say that they merely indicate competent mediocrity.
The big thing is to put across touchdowns and keep the other side from putting them across. Ability to move the ball in non-scoring territory or resistance that collapses when it counts doesn't mean a thing.
Statistically, the Giants did not distinguish themselves in the slop and goo of Forbes Field. But they made the big play, offensively and defensively, though desperately pressed by pre-game and intra-game injuries that removed Kyle Rote, Frank Gifford, Mel Triplett, Jim Patton and other key players from the list of effectives.
If you tuned in early enough, you saw Charlie Conerly and Gifford collaborate on two of the greatest plays ever. The first two times the Giants handled the ball, Conerly fired scoring passes of 77 and 28 yards to Gifford. They were soft, fluffy strikes to a sure-handed receiver who tied the defense into knots with his artful faking.
Getting those two scores so easily and the subsequent attrition of injury put a damper on the Giants' offensive fire thereafter. But the defensive platoon, though sorely beleaguered by the passing of Bobby Layne to his five receivers, kept making the big play.
New York's resilient defenders made scads of them. Harland Svare set up the second Giant touchdown with a fumble recovery. Svare and his fellow right-siders foiled Bobby Luna's fourth-down fake-kick sweep shortly afterward. Jimmy Patton spectacularly picked off a Layne pass when Pittsburgh threatened late in the second period and intercepted again deep in Giant territory at the start of the third quarter.
Lindon Crow latched on a Layne pass in the end zone later in the third period. Sam Huff, a johnny-on-the-spot linebacker throughout, was there at the start of the fourth quarter to convert a Steeler fumble forced by the hard-hitting Giant line into the touchdown that won the game, as it turned out. Dick Nolan intercepted Layne soon afterward to squelch another Pittsburgh threat.
The classic defensive play, though, was that great stand in the last two minutes. The staunch Giant middle, augmented by Rosy Brown, held fast against two power thrusts when the Steelers, who had a third-down-and-one opportunity on the Giant 6, were pressing for a game-winning score.
It's nice to see a team move and hold the ball and clamp down on defense so the other side can't do a thing. But the scoreboard flashes- or doesn't- only as the result of the big plays.
Let's hope the Giants keep making them, against the Packers today and the rest of the slate in this hopeful season. As long as his boys do that, Coach Jim Lee Howell will be content to let the statistical advantage fall where it may."
-1959 New York Giants Official Program (Yankee Stadium, November 1)
SO FAR, SO GOOD
"With the race half won, our Giants lead the Eastern Conference pack with five victories and one defeat. Offhand, we can't recall when they ever had such a fine record at this stage of the campaign. In last year's title-winning campaign, for example, they stood at 4-2 after six games.
In the highly competitive company of the National Football League, being out in front has disadvantages, as well as advantages. From here on in, every rival will be pegging at the Giants. Knocking off the favorite is a game that everyone likes to play in the rough, tough pro league.
The second-half schedule is filled chock-a-block with pratfalls. Take this game with the Cardinals today. Here's a definitely improved team that began the season with high hopes but, for one reason or another, couldn't get untracked. The pieces fell in place against the Steelers last Sunday, though. From now on, the Cardinals will be hard to shake.
Running through the list of remaining Giant games, that goes for the rest of the opponents, too. The Giants will tell you that their first game with the Steelers was the toughest contest they have played all season. There's another game with the Cardinals, in the Redbirds' new second home of Minneapolis, after next Sunday's return engagement with the Steelers at the Stadium.
Winding up, the Giants will play successive Stadium games against the Redskins and Browns, then go to Washington to meet the Redskins in the finale.
The Redskins will carry a lot of pent-up frustration into their contest with the Giants. Just about everything has gone awry with Washington to date. But any team that has Eddie LeBarron and Ralph Guglielmi throwing, Don Bosseler, Jim Podoley and Ed Sutton running and Sam Baker kicking rates high respect.
As for the Browns, our team's arch-rival from Cleveland are shadowing the Giants closely. Along with the Eagles, they have a 4-2 record, embellished by last Sunday's smashing victory over the champion Baltimore Colts.
'It's never altogether a happy day when the Browns win, too,' said a Giant spokesman last Sunday. 'But nevertheless, I had to feel proud of the way the Browns handled Baltimore. Too many people are inclined to hold our division lightly. The Browns struck a big blow in our behalf.'
In that respect, it should be noted, also proudly, that the Giants have posted a perfect score in East-West competition. In their two inter-divisional contests, they beat the Rams and the Packers.
Jim Lee Howell and his coaching aides, Al Sherman, Tom Landry, John Dell Isola, Ken Kavanaugh and Walt Yowarsky, are well pleased with the way things have gone to date. But like the old pros that they all are, they know that there's still a big, harder job to be done- a job that can't and won't be done by resting on laurels. So, not that they need any urging, but just to put our two cents in, let's keep telling our Giants for the rest of the season to ... Go! Go! Go!"
-1959 New York Giants Official Program (Yankee Stadium, November 8)
HAIL TO OUR DEFENSE!
"Pro football is an attacking game. Every club in the league has 50 per cent passers; fleet and shifty pass receivers; backs who can finesse or power into the open and run like deer when they get there and placekickers who can range the uprights from midfield.
The pro rules favor offense. The posts are on the line. The ball is brought in 20 yards from the sidelines after wide plays to give the attack more latitude. A player who falls may get up and run if he wasn't knocked down as the result of contact with an opponent.
Because of these factors, defense paradoxically is the more important phase of the play-for-pay game. If you are skeptical about this, look at the recent record and check which teams have won the league title.
In the last ten years, the big prize has been taken by the Eagles, Browns (three times), Rams, Lions (three times), Giants and Colts. Of these winners, only the Rams did not qualify as a rock-ribbed defensive unit. Over this decade, a flock of equally or better endowed attacking teams failed to make the title grade for lack of sound defense.
Defensive strength has been a Giant tradition. In a more static era, Steve Owen's teams 'pitch more shutouts' than any club in the league. In today's higher-scoring wide-open game, the Giants are maintaining that tradition under Jim Lee Howell and his brilliant defensive tactician, Tom Landry.
In fact, the basic pro defense of a four-man rushline of tackle-type players, three close-up linebackers and a four-man umbrella secondary is a Giant original. It stems from the 6-1-4 defense Owen devised for use against the Browns when Cleveland first came into the league. Landry, who played in that set-up under Steve, refined it to its present form on joining Howell's staff and has received the flattery of imitation by all eleven other National League clubs.
It's great to have an effective plan. It's even greater to have personnel capable of executing it. The Giants have been fortunate in both respects. Their rushliners- Jim Katcavage, Dick Modzelewski, Rosey Grier and Andy Robustelli, from left to right on the field- have been stoutly resistant to frontal assault and have relentlessly kept the heat on rival passers and kickers.
The linebackers, Cliff Livingston, Sam Huff and Harland Svare, from left to right- have provided highly effective flexible close support: plugging holes, joining the rush or reinforcing the back line against passes, as predetermined by signal.
Their umbrella men- Lindon Crow, Dick Nolan, Jim Patton and Dick Lynch- have been vigilantly far-ranging against passes and tigerish in coming up to meet running plays.
Rugged individuals all, these Giant defenders- also a closely-knit team. Hail to the Giant defense!"
-1959 New York Giants Official Program (Yankee Stadium, November 8)
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