END OF THE ROAD
"Veteran halfback Frank Gifford ended one of the most brilliant careers in Giants history recently with the announcement that he is retiring from pro football to take a year-round position with WCBS Radio.
The Giants join fans everywhere in wishing Giff the best of luck in the years to come."
-The Official New York Giants Newsletter, February 1961
NO DELAY
"The Giants wasted no time signing most of their collegiate draft selections this year. Less than a month after the NFL draft meeting, the Maramen had 12 of their first 15 available players under contract for 1961."
-The Official New York Giants Newsletter, February 1961
HUFF, PATTON AND BROWN TOP POSTSEASON HONORS
"Although the Giants failed in their bid to repeat as Eastern Division champions of the National League last season, New York players were not left out in the cold when it came to winning individual laurels.
Led by middle linebacker Sam Huff, who garnered no less than eight honors for his achievements in 1960, the Giants were well represented in the postseason glory grabbing."
Here's a list of the Giants and the honors they earned last season:
SAM HUFF: Hearst All-Pro first team, New York News all-pro first team, NEA All-Pro first team, Sporting News All-Pro first team, Associated Press All-Pro second team, Pro Bowl first team, MVP Lineman in Pro Bowl, Columbus Touchdown Club Lineman of the Year.
JIMMY PATTON: first-team berths on the following teams: Hearst, New York News, NEA, Associated Press, Sporting News, Pro Bowl Game.
ROOSEVELT BROWN: Hearst All-Pro first team, New York News All-Pro first team, Sporting News first team, Pro Bowl first team, NEA All-Pro second team, Associated Press All-Pro second team.
ANDY ROBUSTELLI: Hearst All-Pro first team, Associated Press All-Pro first team, Pro Bowl first team, New York News All-Pro second team, NEA All-Pro second team.
JACK STROUD: NEA All-Pro first team, Pro Bowl first team, Associated Press All-Pro second team.
CHARLIE CONERLEY: Helms Athletic Award for 'notable achievement in professional football,' B'nai Brith Sports Lodge award as 'New York Pro Player of 1960.'
ROSEY GRIER: Sporting News All-Pro first team, Pro Bowl first team.
RAY WIETECHA: NEA All-Pro honorable mention, Pro Bowl first team.
KYLE ROTE: NEA All-Pro second team.
-The Official New York Giants Newsletter, February 1961
GIANTS PLAY 7 AT HOME
"For the first time since they moved from the Polo Grounds to the Yankee Stadium in 1956, the Football Giants will play SEVEN home games during the 1961 N.F.L. season.
-The Official New York Giants Newsletter, February 1961
WANNA SEAT ON THE FIFTY? BLEACHER SEATS NOW AVAILABLE
"In response to a great demand from Football Giant subscribers and prospective subscribers, sideline sections of the bleachers at Yankee Stadium will be available in 1961 on a season subscription basis.
The sections which will be open to subscriptions run from the goal line to midfield and offer some of the best football vantage points in the Stadium. The seats in these sections will be RESERVED and sold at the reserved seat scale of $4 per game.
As regular Yankee Stadium patrons know, these seats are bench-type without backs and are without cover. These disadvantages are more than offset, however, by the considerations of prime location and lack of obstruction.
For four years now, the Giant office has been building a backlog of requests from subscribers for additional seats or changes in location. The management hopes that the opening of the bleachers on a reserve basis to season subscribers will fill the needs of our loyal fans.
For this reason, we are anxious that our present season subscribers with such problems be given first choice in the new area. However, since it is expected that new applicants also will be desirous of obtaining seats in the bleacher section, we suggest that our regular ticket-holders waste no time in making applications for the new area.
Accordingly, it has been determined that until April 1, no new applicants will be assigned in the open stands. This means that our present subscribers' problems will receive primary attention.
The Giant ticket windows at 10 Columbus Circle are now and you are invited to visit in person or, if this is not convenient, write Ticket Department, N.Y. Football Giants, 10 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019. As an old subscriber, you will receive preference in this new area until April 1.
The Giants also wish to announce that the remaining sections of the Yankee Stadium bleachers will go on sale the morning of each home game."
-The Official New York Giants Newsletter, February 1961
HIGHLIGHT FILM NOW IN COLOR
"Something new has been added to the Giant Highlights of 1960!
The exciting half-hour film of New York's great victories and heartbreaking losses is brought to year this year in wonderful Eastman Color.
Narrated by veteran sportscaster Chris Schenkel, the 16 mm sound film recreates all the dramas and thrills- and disappointments- of the action-packed 1960 NFL campaign.
Although the Maramen failed in their bid to win a third straight Eastern Conference title, there were many bright spots for the club last year. Now you can see them again- in color!
The Giant Highlights of 1960, filmed by the Winiks, Dick and Barry, are available to all Giant fans. If your club, school or organization would like to borrow this exciting reel, simply write to Film Department N.Y. Football Giants, 10 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019."
-The Official New York Giants Newsletter, February 1961
GIANTS ADD KEY PLAYERS IN TRADES
"Off-season trades with the Los Angeles Rams, Green Bay Packers and the newly-admitted Minnesota Vikings have brought four new stars into the Giant fold for 1961.
From the Rams, the Giants obtained halfback Erich Barnes and guard John Guzik, while from Minnesota comes tackle Charlie Janerette. The Packers, in return for a high draft choice, gave New York the rights to halfback Joel Wells, a former Clemson star who has been playing in Canada for the past three years.
Wells, 26, was one of the nation's top backs in 1956, gaining 678 yards on 156 carries. He is fast and durable and is a welcome addition to the Giant backfield.
Barnes and Guzik were part of the deal that sent Giant veteran Lindon Crow to the Rams after the 1960 campaign. Also included was the Giants' No. 1 draft choice for next year.
Barnes, 6-3 and 198, spent four seasons with the Chicago Bears and established himself as the ideal defensive back- big, fast and smart. He was traded to Los Angeles this winter, and the Rams then included him in the Crow deal with New York.
Guzik, 6-3 and 245, was an All-American guard at Pittsburgh and was drafted by Los Angeles as a 'future' in 1957. With the Rams for the past two years, John played mostly as a linebacker, where his alert pass coverage and vicious tackling earned him considerable respect.
Janerette, former Penn State All-American, was acquired from Minnesota in a straight player swap for tackle Ed Mazurek. He is a 6-3 250-pounder who will get a shot at offensive tackle, or maybe at defensive end."
-The Official New York Giants Newsletter, May 1961
ROOKIE ROUNDUP
"Among the newcomers bidding for Giant jobs in training camp this summer will be three local boys, Bill Draddy, Jr. from Mamaroneck, N.Y., Dick Perri of Yonkers and George Kandiloros of Forest Hills, L.I. Draddy is a Michigan State product, while Kandiloros played at Hofstra College. Perri played at Wisconsin State.
The Giants have added two really swift rookies in Bob Gaiters of New Mexico State and Glenfield Knight of little Shaw University. Gaiters has hit 9.7 for the 100-yard dash and Knight, an end, has been clocked in at 9.8. Gaiters, who looms large in the Giants' backfield plans, claims his biggest college thrill was scoring four touchdowns and rushing for 196 yards against Tulsa.
Allen Green, New York's sixth draft choice, played center at Mississippi, but head coach Al Sherman is more interested in the 6-2, 212-pounder as a punter and place kicker. Green is said to average close to 46 yards a punt but didn't kick much at Ole Miss because he was the team's best center.
Among the quarterback hopefuls this year are Jack Moynihan, an ex-Holy Cross star, and Francis (Bubba) Marriott, who played for little-known Troy State College in Alabama. Moynihan, incidentally, threw a 47-yard touchdown pass the first time he ever handled the ball in a varsity game for Holy Cross. Marriott once completed 30 passes in a game for 335 yards and four touchdowns.
Jerry Daniels, picked No. 3 in the draft, played in three postseason games for Ole Miss- the 1958 Gator Bowl and the 1960 and 1961 Sugar Bowls."
-The Official New York Giants Newsletter, May 1961
GIANTS, COLTS MATCHED IN YALE BOWL GAME ON SEPT. 10
"The Giants have another date in the Yale Bowl this year.
The Albie Booth Memorial Fund Game, staged for the first time last year, will be held again on Sunday, September 10, with the Maramen meeting the Baltimore Colts.
In the first invasion of the ancient Ivy League saucer by the gridiron professionals last year, the Giants and Detroit Lions battled to a 16-all tie.
In spite of a steady rain that day, some 50,000 fans watched New York and Detroit make history in The Bowl. More than $135,000 was realized towards a new boys' club to be built in New Haven as a memorial to the late Albie Booth, Yale backfield immortal.
'And this year's game should do even better,' states Dr. Frank Mongillo, chairman of the Booth Memorial Fund Committee and one of the driving forces behind the event.
'The Giants have always been big favorites around New Haven. And the appearance of the Colts and quarterback Johnny Unitas is stirring considerable interest among the fans.'
The September 10 date in the Yale Bowl will be the first meeting of the Giants and Colts since December of 1959 when Baltimore won the world championship from the Maramen, 31-16.
J. Ray Ryan, who has again been appointed Game Chairman by Dr. Mongillo, has announced that all seats (with the exception of a few patrons' seats) will be reserved at $5.50 and $3.50. They will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
Checks and money orders should be made payable to the Albie Booth Memorial Fund and should be mailed to the New Haven Boys' Club, 31 Jefferson St., New Haven, Connecticut."
-The Official New York Giants Newsletter, May 1961
EARLIEST OPENER FOR GIANTS
"The earliest opener in the club's history, an extra home game and a string of five straight Yankee Stadium dates in mid-season highlight the Football Giants 1961 schedule.
The Giants, who play SEVEN home games instead of six, launch the local professional grid season on Sunday, September 17, against the up-and-coming St. Louis Cardinals.
The meeting with St. Louis will mark the first time the Giants have ever played a league game at home as early as September.
Following this early-bird inaugural, the Maramen will hit the road for four consecutive weekends, playing in Pittsburgh (Sept. 24), Washington (Oct. 1), St. Louis (Oct. 8) and Dallas (Oct. 15).
The October 1 contest with the Redskins will officially open Washington's new football stadium.
Another feature of the Giants' 1961 schedule will be the appearance here on October 22 of the Los Angeles Rams, the first visit ever by the Rams to Yankee Stadium. They last played here in 1954 when they met the Giants at the old Polo Grounds across the Harlem River.
The Los Angeles contest kicks off a solid five-game home stand during which the Giants play Dallas (Oct. 29), Washington (Nov. 5), Philadelphia (Nov. 12) and Pittsburgh (Nov. 19).
Three games on the road- against Cleveland (Nov. 26), Green Bay (Dec. 3) and Philadelphia (Dec. 10)- will follow and then the Giants return home to close the campaign at Yankee Stadium in the traditional Cleveland game on December 17.
The meeting with the Packers will take place on December 3 will take place at Milwaukee's County Stadium, the first time the Giants have ever played in that ball park.
Dallas, which has been added to the NFL's Eastern Division, will be engaged on a home-and-home basis by the Giants and the rest of the Eastern clubs this year. The Maramen are not scheduled to play the Minnesota Vikings, who will operate in the Western sector.
As usual, the Giants' road games will be carried back to the New York metropolitan area by CBS-TV and WCBS Radio. Home games, of course, will be blacked out, although WCBS will air the play-by-play with Mel Allen at the mike."
-The Official New York Giants Newsletter, May 1961
Any discussion of the Giants is always centered around their 'solid nucleus' of veteran players. And solid are quarterback Conerly, pass-catching Kyle Rote, offensive tackle Rosey Brown, center Ray Wietecha, guard Jack Stroud, defensive end Andy Robustelli, linebacker Sam Huff and defensive halfback genius Jim Patton. But now all are one year older and, possibly, one step slower.
Much, of course, depends on Conerly. Starting his 14th season, he can lift the club back to the top if he side-steps the injury jinx. Behind him, Sherman is counting on second-year man Lee Grosscup, the rifle-throwing ex-Utah star; Pete Hall from Marquette; and Jack Moynihan, one-time Holy Cross aerial ace.
The Giants are fairly well stocked in offensive backs. From the 1960 club are Joe Morrison, Ed Sutton, Phil King and Jim Podoley. Added to this crew is the much-heralded rookie speedster from New Mexico, Bob Gaiters, who is expected to fill the void left by the retirement of Frank Gifford.
Rote is back at left end - and that helps. Kyle caught 42 for 750 last season and Sherman sees no reason why he shouldn't do even better this year. Also in the picture are Joe Walton; Bob Simms, a rookie in 1960; and rookie prospects Jerry Daniels, Mississippi; Glenfield Knight, Shaw U.; and Don Erickson, a former batterymate of Grosscup's at Utah. Sherman, however, has made no secret of the fact that he would like to deal for another pass-catcher with downhill speed.
The interior offensive line could be the club's strong point. Veteran guards Darrell Dess and Stroud are backed by second-year man Lou Cordileone, a revelation last season; Bruce Tarbox, Syracuse rookie, and John Guzik, acquired from the Rams. Brown, the All-Pro, is back at tackle and should get strong support from Charlie Janerette, another ex-Ram; Dale Rems, Purdue; and Ben Davidson, Washington. All-Pro center Wietecha will have a lot of company this year with rookie Greg Larson, Minnesota, vying for his job in the middle of the line.
The Giants' front-line defense, which held rivals to 3.2 yards per rush last year (best in the NFL), once again is staffed by seasoned pros. Robustelli and Jim Katcavage hold down the ends, Dick Modzelewski and Rosey Grier the tackles, and Huff, Cliff Livingston and Jim Leo the linebacking slots. Leo is starting his second pro season as Harland Svare's replacement, but he is rated a real comer. Tom Scott also figures in the linebacking picture.
In the secondary, the addition of former Chicago Bear star Erich Barnes helps considerably to offset the loss of Lindon Crow, now with the Rams. Barnes is big (6-3, 198) and fast, and Sherman feels he is just what the doctor ordered for the New York secondary. Barnes will be working with a veteran unit that also includes All-Pro Jim Patton, Dick Nolan, Dick Lynch, Bill Stits and Lee Riley. Stits, in fact, may give Barnes a real tussle for one of the starting jobs. Bill was coming on strong at the end of 1960.
The Giants' kicking will once again be entrusted to place-kicker Pat Summerall and punter Don Chandler, and these are among the best at their specialties."
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
"The Giants, starting a new regime under Allie Sherman, will try to gain altitude with bailing wire. The old machine is sputtering: Charlie Conerly is older than his coach; Frank Gifford is in a broadcaster's booth; Kyle Rote is only a season away from it. The lift has to come from young quarterback Lee Grosscup and a rookie back named Bob Gaiters."
-Murray Olderman, Sports All-Stars 1961 Pro Football
"The star performer, Gifford, and the coach, Howell, are gone; the old gang is disintegrating. A touch of the past remains with Conerly, but how much longer can he last?
For the 1961 season, the Giants are making their second coaching change in 30 years as Allie Sherman moves into the spot vacated by Jim Lee Howell. The 38-year-old, who brought verve and sparkle to the previous stolid offense, is two years younger than his star quarterback, Charlie Conerly.
Another epoch came to an end when Frank Gifford announced his retirement to become a New York broadcaster, for the handsome Californian was the most exciting figure of the past decade and a key man in the team's push to three divisional titles. Swede Svare, one of the agile members of the defense and its brainy leader, also retired, but he remains as the defensive coach.
There's a clue to the kind of show Sherman will put on for the packed stands (season ticket sales are at an all-time high) in the offensive wrinkles he unveiled as the offense strategist under Howell, who frankly admitted there was a basic difference of philosophy with the little left-hander on how to move the ball. Jim Lee favored the dependability of the run; Allie was an exponent of the pass. Both, of course, recognized the need for balance and didn't go hog wild in either direction. But Jim Lee also believed in giving his assistants their head, and so the Giants became a wide-open attacking unit the last couple of years, within the limits of their personnel. They haven't, within recent memory, had the speed burners to introduce an aerial circus. But now that Allie has to answer only to himself (and the front office), look for the Giants to stress stuff like flankers in motion toward the inside.
Sherman was trained in the Greasy Neale school of using new angles and is a graduate of Canadian football, so he appreciates the idea of using the whole field as a maneuvering area. All he needs are the guys to execute, and that could be the rub. The Giants have ridden the coattails of Charlie Conerly, aged 40, the last 13 years, but in 1960 injuries limited his play to half the season.
If he's too old, Lee Grosscup, the other charge in the battery, may be too young. He's got the arm, he's bright, he's got confidence in himself, but he hasn't played enough to furnish conclusive proof of his ability to lead. Yet coach Sherman is willing to stake his inaugural season on this pair.
Nor are the terminals of the battery getting any younger. Bob Schnelker is 31, Kyle Rote is 33. The old Mustang of SMU had his greatest season, though, in 1960, and Sherman appreciates Kyle's ability to trick a defender. The only logical challenger to break up this pair is Bob Simms, a young tight end type who was hobbled last year to the extent of catching only one pass, in the opener against San Francisco.
The irony of Gifford's retirement from the running and receiving corps is that he may not even be missed. The Giants know they can get competent ball carrying from Joe Morrison, an incipient star, and Mel Triplett. Ed Sutton has had time to get acquainted with the attack and runs as fast as Frank, though he's not as tricky. The real equalizer, however, should be supplied by Joel Wells and Bob Gaiters. Wells is a Gifford type- big and quick- who was up in Canada a couple of seasons. Peahead Walker, who coached him at Montreal and now scouts for the Giants, asserts that Wells will plug the left halfback gap. Gaiters was merely the nation's leading rusher at New Mexico State, a barrel-chested 205-pounder once clocked in 9.7 for the 100.
There's nothing wrong with the forward line from tackle to tackle. Rosey Brown, Jack Stroud and Ray Wietecha aren't spring chickens, yet at their positions there are no better linemen in football. Darrell Dess has been an acceptable guard. A year of seasoning has Lou Cordileone ready for full-time action, and he's going to be an All-Pro in the near future. Rookie Bruce Tarbox of Syracuse and Chuck Janerette, secured from the Vikings, ensure depth.
There's nothing wrong with the defense, either. When the Giants stumbled in the late going last fall, some professed to see chinks in the unit that has been the most admired platoon in pro football since 1956. They don't show up in the figures. The Giants were stingiest against the rush, giving up 3.2 yards per carry over the season, and tied the 49ers in fewest enemy completions- 47.8 per cent.
The cast, if anything, has been augmented except at Svare's right corner spot. Lindon Crow's desire to resettle in California was granted, but in his stead the Giants get Erich Barnes from the Bears in a complicated three-way trade. And Barnes is all-league class. The burden of coaching and playing limited Svare's effectiveness last season, so Jim Leo may be an improvement: he's younger and bigger and he has veteran Tom Scott to support him. John Guzik, a frustrated Ram, can realize his potential as a defensive end or linebacker.
The rest- Katcavage, Robustelli, Grier, Modzelewski, Livingston, Huff, Lynch, Patton, Nolan- are the best in the game as a unit, and in some cases individually. Some things just don't change."
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1961 Football
OFFENSE
"Ends: Age is a problem and if Kyle Rote or Bob Schnelker (who had a bad season) gets injured, there's no adequate help in sight. Pat Summerall's the place kicker.
Rating: Fair
Tackles: Roosevelt Brown's still the best downfield blocker in the game. With Frank Youso gone, Don Stroud could move from guard if Bob Schmidt doesn't cash in his opportunity.
Rating: Very Good
Guards: Look for Lou Cordelione to head for stardom. Bruce Tarbox might give Darrell Dess a run for his job. And don't count out Stroud, the vet, who is in the All-Pro class.
Rating: Good
Centers: While age hasn't lessened Ray Wietecha's finesse, it may have lessened his stamina.
Rating: Very Good
Quarterbacks: Charlie Conerly's mighty old, Lee Grosscup's mighty young, but they hold the key.
Rating: Fair
Halfbacks: With Frank Gifford's retirement and Alex Webster's slowdown, these jobs are up for grabs. Joe Morrison is in line for one spot, Bob Gaiters is the rookie hope; Joel Wells comes well recommended from Canada.
Rating: Fair
Fullbacks: On occasion, Mel Triplett can blast and block with any fullback around.
Rating: Good
Losses: Frank Gifford (HB), George Shaw (QB), Frank Youso (T), Don Boll (T). Strength: The line from tackle to tackle remains as strong as in the title days, and the years don't seem to disagree with Rote. Conerly's a good guy to have in the clutch. Weakness: The old gang is breaking up without reinforcements of comparable class. The Giants still need the fast end and the fast halfback.
Rating: Fair"
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1961 Football
DEFENSE
"Ends: Jim Katcavage is now on a par with Andy Robustelli, which means two All-Pro types; if they need any assistance, John Guzik can be a real help (he's also a linebacker hope).
Rating: Excellent
Tackles: Dick Modzelewski and Rosey Grier still keep the middle jammed up with the strength they've displayed for the last six years. Proverb Jacobs did well in spots last fall.
Rating: Very Good
Linebackers: With Harland Svare definitely retired, there's a gaping hole at the right corner, but the Giants feel a year's experience has prepared Jim Leo to take his place alongside Cliff Livingston and Sam Huff. They can also go back to seasoned Tom Scott in a pinch.
Rating: Good
Halfbacks: The acquisition of the taller and younger Erich Barnes, one of the best in the NFL, makes up for the loss of Lindon Crow.
Rating: Very Good
Safeties: Jim Patton and Dick Nolan don't look as if they could stand the gaff, but at nearly 30 they're always back for more. Lee Riley is an experienced relief hand.
Rating: Good
Losses: Lindon Crow (HB), Harland Svare (LB). Strength: The line is still the best in the business; Sam Huff is an inspirational middle linebacker and Jim Patton provides important leadership in the secondary. Weakness: The Giants must come up with another linebacker and they may need an assist at the safety spots.
Rating: Very Good"
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1961 Football
"There is a feeling of gradual erosion of the great Giant teams of the last few years. First, they lost offense coach Vince Lombardi to Green Bay; then, they lost defense coach Tom Landry to Dallas; now they've lost head coach Jim Lee Howell to the pastures of a front office job. Al Sherman, the offensive assistant who moved up into Howell's job, has much the same personnel that was so important to the Giants of 1958 and 1959- only now it is older and injury-riddled.
Unable to land Sam Etcheverry from the Canadian league (he went to the St. Louis Cardinals instead), the Giants turn again to 40-year-old Charlie Conerly, a shrewd old head who must by now be feeling the aches of advancing age. He led the league in passing in 195 but dropped to 12th place in 1960. The reason: injuries which kept him out of the lineup for much of the season. In the past, the Giants could back him up with such men as Don Heinrich or George Shaw (who worked more than Conerly last year). But Heinrich was passed over to Dallas a year ago and Shaw has been traded to the Minnesota Vikings. That leaves only young Lee Grosscup (only a 41.7 per cent completion rate last year on 25 passes) to spell Conerly.
Frank Gifford, the best halfback, has retired and Alex Webster, Mel Triplett and end Kyle Rote are all in their early 30's now. Joe Morrison and Phil King are behind them, and Morrison in particular is showing continued great promise, but there appears to be a gap between the present and the more glorious past.
There are some more old, though able, men in both the offensive and defensive lines. On offense, center Ray Wietecha and guard Jack Stroud- both All-Pro selections last year- are 33. On defense, end Andy Robustelli is 32 and tackle Dick Modzelewski is 30. The Giants showed a desire to draft linemen last year. Eight of their first ten choices were ends or linemen. Young or old, the Giants never seem to lose their genius for defense.
'The Giant defense is as tough as Japanese arithmetic,' says Norm Van Brocklin, the Philadelphia quarterback turned Minnesota coach.
The defensive secondary could be even tougher than it was a year ago due to an unusual trade which saw All-Pro halfback Lindon Crow go to the Rams in exchange for another All-Pro back, Erich Barnes.
The question of whether the club is mature or merely old must bother the Giants, particularly if hit by injuries. Gifford and defensive end Jim Katcavage were injured in the climactic battles with Philadelphia late last season and their absence probably contributed to the Giants' futility after that (one win in the last five games). While their rivals are improving, it seems that the Giants have merely stood still. This will be the year in which to determine whether the race has passed them by."
-Pro Football Stars, 1961 Edition
1961 New York Giants Preseason Roster
Erich Barnes (DB) Purdue
79 Roosevelt Brown (T) Morgan State
34 Don Chandler (HB-K) Florida
42 Charlie Conerly (QB) Mississippi
Sylvester Cooper (DT) Bakersfield JC
74 Lou Cordileone (G) Clemson
Bill Crawford (G) British Columbia
Ben Davidson (T) Washington
62 Darrell Dess (G) North Carolina State
Bill Draddy (LB) Michigan State
Don Erickson (E) Utah
Jerry Fields (HB) Ohio State
Bob Gaiters (HB) New Mexico State
76 Rosey Grier (DT) Penn State
11 Lee Grosscup (QB) Utah
John Guzik (G) Pittsburgh
Pete Hall (CB) Marquette
Larry Hayes (LB) Vanderbilt
70 Sam Huff (LB) West Virginia
73 Proverb Jacobs (T) California
Charlie Janerette (G) Penn State
George Kandiloros (HB) Hofstra
75 Jim Katcavage (DE) Dayton
24 Phil King (FB) Vanderbilt
Glenfield Knight (E) Shaw
Harry Kohl (G) Lehigh
Greg Larson (C) Minnesota
30 Jim Leo (LB) Cincinnati
89 Cliff Livingston (LB) UCLA
22 Dick Lynch (CB) Notre Dame
Francis Marriott (QB) Troy State
77 Dick Modzelewski (DT) Maryland
40 Joe Morrison (HB) Cincinnati
Jack Moynihan (QB) Holy Cross
25 Dick Nolan (S) Maryland
20 Jim Patton (S) Mississippi
Dick Perri (E) Superior State (Wisconsin)
Jim Podoley (HB) Central Michigan
Dale Rems (T) Purdue
Bob Reublin (FB) Bowling Green
21 Lee Riley (DB) Detroit
81 Andy Robustelli (DE) Arnold
44 Kyle Rote (E) SMU
82 Tom Scott (LB) Virginia
83 Bob Simms (E) Rutgers
Don Smith (HB) Missouri
Zeke Smith (LB) Auburn
48 Bill Stits (DB) UCLA
66 Jack Stroud (G) Tennessee
88 Pat Summerall (K-E) Arkansas
26 Ed Sutton (HB) North Carolina
Bruce Tarbox (G) Syracuse
Bernie Vishneski (E) VPI
Mickey Walker (LB) Michigan State
Joe Walton (E) Pittsburgh
Bob Watters (E) Lincoln
Allan Webb (HB) Arnold
29 Alex Webster (HB) North Carolina State
55 Ray Wietecha (C) (Northwestern)
-1961 Pro Football Handbook
1961 New York Giants Preseason Depth Charts
OFFENSE
Ends
Kyle Rote (SMU)
Bob Schnelker (Bowling Green)
Bob Simms (Rutgers)
Pat Summerall (Arkansas)
Tackles
Roosevelt Brown (Morgan State)
Bob Schmidt (Minnesota)
Jack Stroud (Tennessee)
Chuck Janerette (Penn State)
Guards
Darrell Dess (North Carolina State)
Lou Cordileone (Clemson)
Bruce Tarbox (Syracuse)
Bill Crawford (British Columbia)
Centers
Ray Wietecha (Northwestern)
Greg Larson (Minnesota)
Quarterbacks
Charlie Conerly (Mississippi)
Lee Grosscup (Utah)
Halfbacks
Joe Morrison (Cincinnati)
Ed Sutton (North Carolina)
Alex Webster (North Carolina State)
Joel Wells (Clemson)
Bob Gaiters (New Mexico State)
Fullbacks
Mel Triplett (Toledo)
Phil King (Vanderbilt)
DEFENSE
Ends
Jim Katcavage (Dayton)
Andy Robustelli (Arnold)
Ben Davidson (Washington)
John Guzik (Pittsburgh)
Tackles
Dick Modzelewski (Maryland)
Rosey Grier (Penn State)
Proverb Jacobs (California)
Boxcar Cooper (Bakersfield JC)
Linebackers
Sam Huff (West Virginia)
Allen Green (Mississippi)
Cliff Livingston (UCLA)
Tom Scott (Virginia)
Jim Leo (Cincinnati)
Larry Hayes (Vanderbilt)
Halfbacks
Erich Barnes (Purdue)
Dick Lynch (Notre Dame)
Bill Stits (UCLA)
Pete Hall (Marquette)
Safeties
Jim Patton (Mississippi)
Dick Nolan (Maryland)
Lee Riley (Detroit)
Don Chandler (Florida)
-Murray Olderman, All-Pro 1961 Football
Offense
QB Y.A. Tittle (LSU) 14, Charlie Conerly (Mississippi) 42, Lee Grosscup (Utah) 11
HB Kyle Rote (SMU) 44, Bob Gaiters (New Mexico State)*
HB Joe Morrison (Cincinnati) 40, Ed Sutton (North Carolina) 26, Joel Wells (Clemson) 28
FB Alex Webster (North Carolina State) 29, Phil King (Vanderbilt) 24
SE Del Shofner (Baylor) 85, Jerry Daniels (Mississippi)*
T Roosevelt Brown (Morgan State) 79
G Darrell Dess (North Carolina State) 62, Bruce Tarbox (Syracuse)*
C Ray Wietecha (Northwestern) 55, Greg Larson (Minnesota)*
G Jack Stroud (Tennessee) 66, Zeke Smith (Auburn) 61
T Chuck Janerette (Penn State) 72, Bob Schmidt (Minnesota) 78
TE Joe Walton (Pittsburgh) 80, Bob Simms (Rutgers) 83, Jim Collier (Arkansas)*
Defense
DE Jim Katcavage (Dayton) 75, John Guzik (Pittsburgh) 71
DT Dick Modzelewski (Maryland) 77
DT Rosey Grier (Penn State) 76, Sylvester Cooper (Bakersfield JC)*
DE Andy Robustelli (Arnold) 81
LB Cliff Livingston (UCLA) 89, Mickey Walker (Michigan State)*
MLB Sam Huff (West Virginia) 70, Larry Hayes (Vanderbilt)*
LB Tom Scott (Virginia) 82
CB Erich Barnes (Purdue) 49, Pete Hall (Marquette) 12
S Dick Nolan (Maryland) 25, Allan Webb (Arnold)*
S Jim Patton (Mississippi) 20
CB Dick Lynch (Notre Dame) 22, Bill Stitts (UCLA) 48
K Pat Summerall (Arkansas) 88
P Don Chandler (Florida) 34
KR Joel Wells (Clemson) 28
PR Bill Stitts (UCLA) 48
*rookie
New York Giants Profiles, Pro Football Handbook 1961
Allie Sherman (coach)
Roosevelt Brown
Don Chandler
Charlie Conerly
Lou Cordileone
Bob Gaiters
Frank Gifford
Lee Grosscup
Sam Huff
Jim Katcavage
Jim Patton
Andy Robustelli
Kyle Rote
Jack Stroud
Pat Summerall
1961 New York Giants Fleer Cards
Erich Barnes
Roosevelt Brown
Charlie Conerly
Roosevelt Grier
Sam Huff
Dick Modzelewski
Jim Patton
Andy Robustelli
Kyle Rote
Jack Stroud
1961 New York Giants Fleer Wallet Pictures
Charlie Conerly
Kyle Rote
Joe Walton
1961 New York Giants Jay Publishing Cards
Allie Sherman (head coach)
Roosevelt Brown
Don Chandler
Charlie Conerly
Rosey Grier
Sam Huff
Dick Modzelewski
Jim Patton
Jim Podoley
Andy Robustelli
Del Shofner
Y.A. Tittle
1961 New York Giants Topps Cards
Giants team card
Roosevelt Brown
Charlie Conerly
Conerly highlight
Sam Huff
Jim Patton
Andy Robustelli
Kyle Rote
Mel Triplett
Ray Wietecha
FOOTBALL GIANTS RETURN TO YANKEE STADIUM FOR 6TH SEASON
"New faces ... a new schedule ... and a new ticket plan.
These are a few of the innovations which await pro football fans next fall when the New York Giants begin their sixth season at Yankee Stadium.
First and foremost among the new faces, of course, is Al Sherman. Actually, Sherman is no stranger to Giant followers but this year he returns to the Stadium in a new role- as head coach of the Maramen, succeeding the retired Jim Lee Howell.
With him, Sherman will bring most of the regular Giant stars of recent years plus a host of promising newcomers whose job it will be to help guide New York back to the top of the National Football League's Eastern Conference heap.
The brilliant array of rookie hopefuls includes such as Bob Gaiters, the nation's leading ground-gainer and scorer from New Mexico State; Bruce Tarbox, Syracuse's great guard; Jerry Daniels, Mississippi end, and Greg Larson, captain of Minnesota's Rose Bowl eleven.
Back, too, will be such Stadium favorites as Kyle Rote, Charlie Conerly, Sam Huff, Andy Robustelli, Rosey Brown, Jim Patton, Ray Wietecha, Jim Katcavage and Jack Stroud.
Giant fans also will be treated to SEVEN games next season instead of the usual six. The extra home game results from the recent expansion movement which brought the Minnesota Vikings into the picture as the 14th NFL franchise.
The seven-game Stadium schedule will bring in the customary Eastern rivals- Cleveland, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, St. Louis and Washington- and also one long-time Giant foe from the Western Division. Either Minnesota or the Dallas Cowboys will appear in the extra game.
Because of the heavy demand for season tickets, the management has decided to sell many of the Stadium's choice bleacher locations on a reserved seat basis next Fall.
The sections available run from mid-field to the goal-line and offer some of the best football vantage points in the Stadium. The seats in these sections will be RESERVED and will be sold at the reserved price of $4 per game.
The pre-season ticket sale is now moving along in high gear. Don't be shut out! Get your order in now for what promises to be one of the most exciting football seasons in Giants history."
-The New York Yankees Official 1961 Yearbook
PRESENTING... The 1961 Giants!
"Your Giants today begin their thirty-seventh National Football League campaign with an eye-catching new look. They have a new coach- Allie Sherman; a new attack and more new personnel than has been introduced in any one season since the wholesale restocking of the years immediately after World War II.
Thirteen newcomers were on the thirty-eight-man roster (a final two-man cut was still to be made) the Giants carried into pre-season training. Included were six rookies and seven players obtained from other NFL clubs in offseason trades engineered by the front office.
The new Giants are an exciting group that should make this an exceptionally exciting Giant team.
Among the new additions are-
Y.A. Tittle, a daredevil first-string quarterback for ten seasons at Baltimore and San Francisco, who will give gallant Charlie Conerly the most experienced support he has ever had.
Del Shofner, one of the NFL's most feared 'deep ends' who last week at New Haven unofficially broke the Giant club record for pass reception yardage by gaining 220 yards on JUST FOUR catches.
Bob Gaiters, a rookie speedster from New Mexico State who looks as though he has what it takes to become one of pro football's finest breakaway runners.
Erich Barnes, a model defensive halfback who played regularly for three seasons with the Bears.
Jim Podoley, a big, fast wingback who runs hard and catches deep passes. He was a Redskin regular for four years.
Joe Walton, another four-year Redskin regular, blocks hard at end and has an uncanny knack of getting loose in the short and medium passing zones.
Other Giants of whom you'll be hearing and seeing plenty are second-year pros Chuck Janerette and Zeke Smith, scheduled for line duty; versatile Pete Hall, off the 1960 practice squad, who will be used at end; Joel Wells, a hard-running halfback with Canadian League experience; Greg Larson of Minnesota, an offensive lineman of great potential; Mickey Walker of Michigan State, a nimble running guard, and Larry Hayes, a rugged linebacker who played in Canada.
This baker's dozen of new players will support the tried-and-true veterans who made and have kept the Giants one of the NFL's top powers since 1954.
Football's big league is too ruggedly competitive to make any rash predictions, but this Giant team appears capable of giving a good account of itself.
Unfortunately, you won't see it at its best today. After weathering early training in the best shape ever, the Giants fell victim to a rash of injuries in the last few weeks. Conerly, Tittle, Podoley, Barnes, Phil King and Kyle Rote have ailments that may well keep them from being at their best, even if they play.
This recital of mishaps is not intended as an advanced alibi if all does not go well today. We just don't want anyone to make a snap judgment. Over the long haul, this is a Giant team of which you will be proud.
So, welcome back to the Stadium for another rousing season of NFL football. There's no football like pro football, the way they play it in football's big league."
-Yankee Stadium Official Program, September 17, 1961
GIANT JOTTINGS
"Mark October 29 on your calendar.
That's Kyle Rote Day and Night. That's when everyone's favorite Giant will be honored by friends, fans, and teammates at the Stadium in conjunction with the Giants-Cowboys game. The festivities will continue long into the night at the Section Five dinner-dance at the Hotel Biltmore.
True-blue Giant fans will want to participate in this gesture of appreciation to an all-around wonderful guy who just happens to be a marvelous football player.
The Giants- and the Yankees- apologize that the bleacher screen still is in place for today's football game. There's the small matter of finishing the American League baseball season and, we all fervently hope, another World Series before the Home of Champions can be readied for football. The screen will be down and everything will be in better order for the second Giant home game with the Rams on October 22.
Play-by-play broadcasts of all 1961 Giant games will be broadcast over station WNEW, with Joe Hasel at the microphone, and Al DeRogatis, the great Giant tackle of a few years back, in support. As in past years, Giant road games will be televised back to New York by CBS (Channel 2) with Chris Schenkel and Johnny Lujack handling the commentary.
Four Giant rookies- halfback Bob Gaiters, center Greg Larson, tackle Ben Davidson and guard Bruce Tarbox- played with distinction against the Eagles in the College All-Star Game in Chicago. By way of underlying how hard it is to make the grade in football's big league, Davidson and Tarbox, gifted as they are, could not survive the final roster cuts."
-Yankee Stadium Official Program, September 17, 1961
GIANT BLACKBOARD: NEW FORMATION
"Among other innovations, your Giants this year will introduce a new attacking formation. Coach Allie Sherman, its contriver, has designated it as the 'inside' formation because its flanker back is posted inside the end.
In pro football, you don't just scratch eleven O's and eleven V's on a piece of paper and say, 'This is how we're going to do it this year.' Every formation has a special underlying philosophy, inherent strengths and weaknesses and innumerable wrinkles that have to be smoothed out before it can be put into full service.
So, starting out, the Giants still will lean heavily on their 1960 repertoire. But, as the season progresses, you'll see more and more of the 'inside' formation.
Since nothing is completely new in football, Sherman has borrowed liberally in setting up his new alignment. It combines elements of the standard and split-T formations; the T-with-flanker, the Wing T, the slot T and the open T formations and, even, the single-wing formation.
Here are some points to note: 1. The fullback slot is left open and the two running backs are stationed behind the guards (this provides quick striking power to both sides and straight ahead); 2. The flanker back is in a slot or wing position, between tackle and end where he can break out fast on passes but is close enough to be a lead blocker or carrier on running plays; 3. both ends are split (which spreads the defense); 4. the backs are in a single wing-type stagger, with the halfback deepest and the nominal fullback up a step on the wingback side.
The Giants will run the 'inside' formation to both left and right. Going either way, the same back will be on the wing, the same back at halfback, the same back at fullback.
Basic 'inside' formation plays will be diagrammed here and other technical points of interest will be covered in this space as the season progresses."
-Yankee Stadium Official Program, September 17, 1961
September 17, 1961
Giants on Offense
No. Name
42 Charlie Conerly, QB
40 Joe Morrison, LH
29 Alex Webster, RH
35 Bob Gaiters, FB
85 Del Shofner, LE
79 Roosevelt Brown, LT
62 Darrell Dess, LG
55 Ray Wietecha, C
66 Jack Stroud, RG
61 Greg Larson, RT
80 Joe Walton REdone
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
82 Tom Scott, RLB
49 Erich Barnes, LDHB
22 Dick Lynch, RDHB
25 Dick Nolan, LS
20 Jim Patton, RSDone
Specialists
Punting - Don Chandler (34), Del Shofner (85)
PAT, FG, Kickoffs - Pat Summerall (88), Don Chandler (34)
Holding for PAT and FG - Charlie Conerly (42), Lee Grosscup (11)
Kick Returns - Bill Stits (48), Bob Gaiters (35)
-1961 New York Giants Official Program (Yankee Stadium)
September 17, 1961 Giants Roster
No. Name
11 Lee Grosscup (QB) Utah
12 Pete Hall (E) Marquette
14 Y.A. Tittle (QB) LSU
20 Jim Patton (S) Mississippi
22 Dick Lynch (DHB) Notre Dame
24 Phil King (HB) Vanderbilt
25 Dick Nolan (S) Maryland
28 Joel Wells (HB) Clemson
29 Alex Webster (HB) North Carolina State
34 Don Chandler (P-HB) Florida
35 Bob Gaiters (HB) New Mexico State
40 Joe Morrison (HB) Cincinnati
42 Charlie Conerly (QB) Mississippi
44 Kyle Rote (E) SMU
48 Bill Stits (DHB-OHB) UCLA
49 Erich Barnes (DHB) Purdue
52 Larry Hayes (LB) Vanderbilt
53 Greg Larson (C) Minnesota
55 Ray Wietecha (C) Northwestern
61 Zeke Smith (G-LB) Auburn
62 Darrell Dess (G) North Carolina State
64 Mickey Walker (G) Michigan State
66 Jack Stroud (G) Tennessee
70 Sam Huff (LB) West Virginia
72 Charlie Janerette (T) Penn State
75 Jim Katcavage (DE) Dayton
76 Rosey Grier (DT) Penn State
77 Dick Modzelewski (DT) Maryland
79 Roosevelt Brown (T) Morgan State
80 Joe Walton (E) Pittsburgh
81 Andy Robustelli (DE) Arnold
82 Tom Scott (LB) Virginia
83 Bob Simms (LB) Rutgers
85 Del Shofner (E) Baylor
88 Pat Summerall (K-E) Arkansas
89 Cliff Livingston (LB) UCLA
-1961 New York Giants Official Program (Yankee Stadium)
1961 Yankee Stadium Program Advertisements (September 17)
-'62 Fords: The Ford In Your Future Will Be Here September 29
-American Tobacco Company: Quality Products. Herberg Tareyton-Lucky Strike-Pall Mall-Tareyton. Tobacco is our middle name.
-Ballantine Beer: Ask the man for Ballantine Beer.
-Calvert: When It's Calvert, Whiskey is Delicious.
-Camel: Have a REAL Cigarette- CAMEL!
-Canada Dry Ginger Ale: Spectating is more Sparkling ... with Canada Dry Ginger Ale
-Chemical Bank Trust Company: The New York Bank with the Hometown Touch
-Chevron: Fill your tank with Chevron Supreme.
-Coming GiantAttractions at Yankee Stadium: October 22, Los Angeles Rams; October 29, Dallas Cowboys; November 5, Washington Redskins; November 12, Philadelphia Eagles; November 19, Pittsburgh Steelers; December 17, Cleveland Browns. Tickets on sale now at the Advance Sale Window in the main lobby of the Stadium.
-Hotel Manhattan: Headquarters for Professional Teams in New York City
-Kodel: Score With Kodel
-L & M Filters
-Madison Square Garden 6-day World Championship Bike Race
-Madison Square Garden Basketball
-Madison Square Garden Hockey: Fastest Game on Earth
-Marlboro: Do you recognize these Marlboro Men? (Sam Huff, Dick Modzelewski, Jim Patton, Don Chandler, Ken Strong, Charlie Conerly)
-Melrose: Enjoy Melrose. Whiskey Born Great!
-Mrs. Wagner's Pies: Enjoy 'em at the Game and at Home.
-PAL Injector Blades: Sponsor National League Pro Football, Every Sunday, CBS-TV
-Palmolive: More men use Palmolive than any other shaving cream.
-Ruppert: Ruppert people have a thirst for living!
-Sam Huff's Mister Defense: Sensational New Football Game, on Sale at All Leading Retail Outlets
-Schenley: After the game, enjoy Schenley, the only whiskey with whipped-in smoothness.
-Seagram's 7 Crown
-Stahl-Meyer: These Frankfurters are Hickory-Smoked!
-Viceroy: Don't smoke another cigarette until you learn what Viceroy's Deep-Weave Filter can do for your taste!
-White Rock: Season after Season ... She's New York's Best Girl
1961 New York Giants Profile Summary
Head Coach - Allie Sherman
Coach - Don Heinrich
QB Y.A. Tittle (LSU) 14
QB Charlie Conerly (Mississippi) 42
QB Lee Grosscup (Utah) 11
HB Phil King (Vanderbilt) 24
HB Bob Gaiters (New Mexico State) 35
HB Jim Podoley (Central Michigan) 23
FB Alex Webster (North Carolina State) 29
RB Joe Morrison (Cincinnati) 40
SE Del Shofner (Baylor) 85
TE Joe Walton (Pittsburgh) 80
E Kyle Rote (SMU) 44
E Don Chandler (Florida) 34
E Pete Hall (Marquette) 12
C Ray Wietecha (Northwestern) 55
G Jack Stroud (Tennessee) 66
G Darrell Dess (North Carolina State) 62
G Mickey Walker (Michigan State) 65
T Roosevelt Brown (Morgan State) 79
T Lou Cordileone (Clemson) 74
T Chuck Janerette (Penn State) 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 Tom Scott (Virginia) 82
CB Dick Lynch (Notre Dame) 22
CB Erich Barnes (Purdue) 49
S Jim Patton (Mississippi) 20
S Dick Nolan (Maryland) 25
S Gene Johnson (Cincinnati) 41
S Lee Riley (Detroit) 21
K Pat Summerall (Arkansas) 88
P Don Chandler (Florida) 34
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