OFFENSE
Quarterbacks
Steve Ramsey (North Texas State)
Jerry Goldsteyn (Northern Illinois)
Dennis Shaw (San Diego State)
Running Backs
Larry Csonka (Syracuse)
Doug Kotar (Kentucky)
Gordon Bell (Michigan)
Marsh White (Arkansas)
Larry Watkins (Alcorn State)
Bob Hammond (Morgan State)
Receivers
Ed Marshall (W) (Cameron State)
Ray Rhodes (W) (Tulsa)
Bob Tucker (T) (Bloomsburg)
Jimmy Robinson (W) (Georgia Tech)
Don Zimmerman (W) (Northeast Louisiana)
Gary Shirk (T) (Morehead State)
Walker Gillette (W) (Richmond)
(W)-Wide Receiver (T)-Tight End
Interior Linemen
Tom Mullen (T) (Southwest Missouri State)
Doug Van Horn (T) Ohio State)
Al Simpson (G) (Colorado State)
John Hicks (G) (Ohio State)
Karl Chandler (C) (Princeton)
Ralph Hill (C) (Florida A & M)
Ron Mikolajczyk (T) (Tampa)
Bill Ellenbogen (G) (Virginia Tech)
Mike Gibbons (T) (Southwest Oklahoma State)
(T)-Tackle (G)- Guard (C)-Center
Kickers
Joe Danelo (PK) (Washington State)
Dave Jennings (P) (St. Lawrence)
(PK)-Place Kicker (P)-Punter
DEFENSE
Front Linemen
Jack Gregory (E) (Delta State)
George Martin (E) (Oregon)
Troy Archer (T) (Colorado)
John Mendenhall (T) (Grambling)
Rick Dvorak (E) (Wichita State)
Jim Pietrzak (T) (Eastern Michigan)
Dave Gallagher (E-T) (Michigan)
(E)-End (T)-Tackle
Linebackers
Brad Van Pelt (O) (Michigan State)
Brian Kelley (O) (California Lutheran)
Harry Carson (M) (South Carolina State)
Dan Lloyd (M-O) (Washington)
Robert Giblin (O) (Houston)
Brad Cousino (O) (Miami-Ohio)
Bob Schmit (M-O) (Nebraska)
(O)-Outside Linebacker (M)-Middle Linebacker
Cornerbacks
Bill Bryant (Grambling)
Bobby Brooks (Bishop)
Charlie Ford (Houston)
Safeties
Clyde Powers (S) (Oklahoma)
Jim Steinke (W) (Southwest Texas State)
Rick Volk (W) (Michigan)
Larry Mallory (S) (Tennessee State)
(S)-Strong Side (W)-Weak Side or 'Free' Safety
-Pro Football 1977 published by Ballantine Books
OFFENSE
QB - Dennis Shaw, Jerry Goldsteyn, Steve Ramsey
RB - Larry Csonka, Marsh White, Larry Watkins
RB - Doug Kotar, Gordon Bell, Bob Hammond, Po James
WR - Ed Marshall, Jimmy Robinson, Roger Wallace, Walt Tullis, Johnny Perkins*
LT - Tom Mullen, Mike Gibbons, Dick Leavitt
LG - Al Simpson, Bill Ellenbogen
C - Karl Chandler, Ralph Hill
RG - John Hicks, Bill Ellenbogen
RT - Doug Van Horn, Ron Mikolajczyk
TE - Bob Tucker, Gary Shirk, Mike Fuhrman
WR - Ray Rhodes, Walker Gillette, Don Zimmerman, Ron Gardner
DEFENSE
LDE - George Martin, Rick Dvorak
LDT - John Mendenhall, Jim Pietrzak, Ezil Bibbs
RDT - Troy Archer, Dave Gallagher, Gary Jeter*
RDE - Jack Gregory, Rick Dvorak
LLB - Brad Van Pelt, Dan Lloyd, Eddie Sheets
MLB - Harry Carson, Brad Cousino
RLB - Brian Kelley, Robert Giblin, Bob Schmit
LCB - Bill Bryant, Rondy Colbert, Henry Stuckey
SS - Clyde Powers, Larry Mallory
FS - Jim Steinke, Rick Volk
RCB - Bobby Brooks, Charlie Ford, Pete Rome
KICKERS
K - Joe Danelo
P - Dave Jennings
* rookie
-The Pocket Book of Pro Football 1977, published by Pocket Books
Monday, December 23, 2019
Sunday, December 22, 2019
1977 New York Giants Free Agents
1977 New York Giants Free Agents
"Quarterbacks - A three-year starter for the Calgary Stampeders in the CFL, 6-3, 220-pound JOE PISARCIK hails from Pennsylvania and played his collegiate football at New Mexico State. He worked with the Giants during the Spring trip to Mexico City. From Syracuse University is BOB MITCH, a 6-3, 205-pounder, who played four seasons with the Orange as both a quarterback and safety and who was with the New England Patriots in 1976."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Running Backs - From Murray State University where he was team MVP for two seasons, 6-1, 205-pound DON CLAYTON was twice an All-Conference choice and set a college one-season rushing record with 1,403 yards in 1974. From Tulsa University is MEL MCGOWEN, a 6-1, 215-pounder who was an All-Missouri Conference choice and also played some at wide receiver and defensive back. Returning for another look is GEORGE PALMER, a 6-0, 215-pounder from Oklahoma State who impressed in last year's training camp."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Receivers - From Windsor University in Canada and 1976 with the Cleveland Browns is 6-3, 195-pound RON GARDNER. Tight end MIKE FUHRMAN, a 6-4, 230-pounder earned four letters at Memphis State University and was with the Baltimore Colts in 1976. Another wide receiver, who hails from Hartford, Connecticut, is 6-0, 180-pound WALTER TULLIS who won four letters at Delaware State and had a brief stint with the Redskins last year. An All-East selection at Temple who also had a trial with the Colts last year is 6-0, 185-pound PETE RIGHI who hails from Saddle Brook, New Jersey. From Duke University where he played football and ran track comes 6-1, 185-pound RANDY COBB, a native of Garden Grove, California. Another big tight end, 6-3, 235-pound LARRY CUNNINGHAM was an All-Conference choice while at Langston University in Oklahoma."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Linemen - A couple of big defensive linemen who had trials with other NFL clubs include 6-8, 265-pound DEAN GISSLER who began his college career at the Air Force Academy then concluded at Nebraska. He was with the Redskins in '76, while JERRY LAWRENCE, 6-6, 275, played his collegiate ball at South Dakota State and had looks with the Oakland Raiders and Dallas Cowboys after being in the World Football League in 1975.
From Princeton comes 6-6, 270-pound BILL KAHL-WINTER from Baldwin, New Jersey, an offensive tackle who was with both the Redskins and Browns. And a former WFL offensive tackle, 6-3, 265-pound JOHN JAQUOT who played at Bowling Green. Also listed as offensive tackles are 6-5, 240-pound JEFF STAPELTON, a three-year letterman at Purdue who was with the Vikings for a look last year, and DAN SMITH, 6-4, 260-pounder from Washington State who was in the Seattle Seahawks camp in '76.
A 6-4, 255-pound guard is Yale's GREG DUBINETZ who was with the Cincinnati Bengals for a trial in 1975, then played in both the WFL (Charlotte) and CFL (Toronto). From Milford, Conn., comes 6-4, 250-pound LOU PIETRINI who played three seasons at Ohio State as a tackle. And there's a couple of centers in LARRY LILJA, 6-2, 245 from Northwestern and a previous tryout with the Atlanta Falcons, and CHIP SALVESTRINI, a four-year letterman at Yankton College who is 6-3 and 250 and who had prior looks with the Chargers and with Hamilton in the CFL.
And finally, a brace of defensive ends in J.T. TURNER, 6-3, 250-pounder from Duke University who was previously with the Kansas City Chiefs and Charlotte Hornets (WFL), and 6-5, 250-pound STEVE ADIZMA from William Patterson College in New Jersey, who had a try with the Cowboys in '75; from the Canadian Football League and a former Giant draft choice is EZIL BIBBS, a 6-3, 255-pounder from Grambling, an All-Conference man three times; and an All-Big 10 choice at Michigan State, 6-3, 265-pound TONY BRUGGENTHIES makes a bid as does 6-4, 270-pound CHRIS CASIMOS from Fordham, a native of Greece."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Linebackers - A man who had previous looks from other clubs is 6-3, 225-pound EDDIE SHEATS who hails from Atlanta, played his college ball at Kansas University and was previously with the Florida Blazers (WFL), Washington Redkins and Chicago Bears. From Massachusetts University, 6-3, 225-pound NED DEANE was with Seattle and Toronto (CFL) in '76, while former Villanova letterman JERE BROWN, 6-2, 225, was in the WFL with both New York and Charlotte."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Defensive Backs - A draft pick of the Bengals, 6-0, 188-pound PETE ROME was with both Cincinnati and Tampa Bay last season after starring at Miami of Ohio. RON MEEKS, 5-9, 180-pounder from Arkansas State, was a four-year letterman there and doubled as a kick return specialist. And from North Carolina A & T comes 6-1, 195-pound SONNY HICKS who had trials with both the Rams and the Lions and who played with both Memphis and Charlotte in the WFL. Another erstwhile WFL player is LARRY ROBINSON, a 5-11, 180-pounder from Jersey City who played at Jersey City State and later with the Philadelphia Bell (WFL). Another local product is 5-10, 180-pound KEN SCARPA who hails from Clifton, New Jersey, played at Seaton Hall for four seasons and had a trial with the Jets. And from Westchester State comes 5-11, 180-pound DENNIS IANOVALE, an All-Conference player who hails from Philadelphia."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Kickers - Place kicker DAVE SCHMINKE, a 5-9, 180-pounder, played at California Western, had a trial with the Browns in 1975, and kicked for two seasons in minor league football. And from Mexico comes JOSE MARTINEZ, 5-11, 190-pounder who was a kicking specialist for three seasons for the Universidad Metropolitan."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Quarterbacks - A three-year starter for the Calgary Stampeders in the CFL, 6-3, 220-pound JOE PISARCIK hails from Pennsylvania and played his collegiate football at New Mexico State. He worked with the Giants during the Spring trip to Mexico City. From Syracuse University is BOB MITCH, a 6-3, 205-pounder, who played four seasons with the Orange as both a quarterback and safety and who was with the New England Patriots in 1976."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Running Backs - From Murray State University where he was team MVP for two seasons, 6-1, 205-pound DON CLAYTON was twice an All-Conference choice and set a college one-season rushing record with 1,403 yards in 1974. From Tulsa University is MEL MCGOWEN, a 6-1, 215-pounder who was an All-Missouri Conference choice and also played some at wide receiver and defensive back. Returning for another look is GEORGE PALMER, a 6-0, 215-pounder from Oklahoma State who impressed in last year's training camp."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Receivers - From Windsor University in Canada and 1976 with the Cleveland Browns is 6-3, 195-pound RON GARDNER. Tight end MIKE FUHRMAN, a 6-4, 230-pounder earned four letters at Memphis State University and was with the Baltimore Colts in 1976. Another wide receiver, who hails from Hartford, Connecticut, is 6-0, 180-pound WALTER TULLIS who won four letters at Delaware State and had a brief stint with the Redskins last year. An All-East selection at Temple who also had a trial with the Colts last year is 6-0, 185-pound PETE RIGHI who hails from Saddle Brook, New Jersey. From Duke University where he played football and ran track comes 6-1, 185-pound RANDY COBB, a native of Garden Grove, California. Another big tight end, 6-3, 235-pound LARRY CUNNINGHAM was an All-Conference choice while at Langston University in Oklahoma."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Linemen - A couple of big defensive linemen who had trials with other NFL clubs include 6-8, 265-pound DEAN GISSLER who began his college career at the Air Force Academy then concluded at Nebraska. He was with the Redskins in '76, while JERRY LAWRENCE, 6-6, 275, played his collegiate ball at South Dakota State and had looks with the Oakland Raiders and Dallas Cowboys after being in the World Football League in 1975.
From Princeton comes 6-6, 270-pound BILL KAHL-WINTER from Baldwin, New Jersey, an offensive tackle who was with both the Redskins and Browns. And a former WFL offensive tackle, 6-3, 265-pound JOHN JAQUOT who played at Bowling Green. Also listed as offensive tackles are 6-5, 240-pound JEFF STAPELTON, a three-year letterman at Purdue who was with the Vikings for a look last year, and DAN SMITH, 6-4, 260-pounder from Washington State who was in the Seattle Seahawks camp in '76.
A 6-4, 255-pound guard is Yale's GREG DUBINETZ who was with the Cincinnati Bengals for a trial in 1975, then played in both the WFL (Charlotte) and CFL (Toronto). From Milford, Conn., comes 6-4, 250-pound LOU PIETRINI who played three seasons at Ohio State as a tackle. And there's a couple of centers in LARRY LILJA, 6-2, 245 from Northwestern and a previous tryout with the Atlanta Falcons, and CHIP SALVESTRINI, a four-year letterman at Yankton College who is 6-3 and 250 and who had prior looks with the Chargers and with Hamilton in the CFL.
And finally, a brace of defensive ends in J.T. TURNER, 6-3, 250-pounder from Duke University who was previously with the Kansas City Chiefs and Charlotte Hornets (WFL), and 6-5, 250-pound STEVE ADIZMA from William Patterson College in New Jersey, who had a try with the Cowboys in '75; from the Canadian Football League and a former Giant draft choice is EZIL BIBBS, a 6-3, 255-pounder from Grambling, an All-Conference man three times; and an All-Big 10 choice at Michigan State, 6-3, 265-pound TONY BRUGGENTHIES makes a bid as does 6-4, 270-pound CHRIS CASIMOS from Fordham, a native of Greece."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Linebackers - A man who had previous looks from other clubs is 6-3, 225-pound EDDIE SHEATS who hails from Atlanta, played his college ball at Kansas University and was previously with the Florida Blazers (WFL), Washington Redkins and Chicago Bears. From Massachusetts University, 6-3, 225-pound NED DEANE was with Seattle and Toronto (CFL) in '76, while former Villanova letterman JERE BROWN, 6-2, 225, was in the WFL with both New York and Charlotte."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Defensive Backs - A draft pick of the Bengals, 6-0, 188-pound PETE ROME was with both Cincinnati and Tampa Bay last season after starring at Miami of Ohio. RON MEEKS, 5-9, 180-pounder from Arkansas State, was a four-year letterman there and doubled as a kick return specialist. And from North Carolina A & T comes 6-1, 195-pound SONNY HICKS who had trials with both the Rams and the Lions and who played with both Memphis and Charlotte in the WFL. Another erstwhile WFL player is LARRY ROBINSON, a 5-11, 180-pounder from Jersey City who played at Jersey City State and later with the Philadelphia Bell (WFL). Another local product is 5-10, 180-pound KEN SCARPA who hails from Clifton, New Jersey, played at Seaton Hall for four seasons and had a trial with the Jets. And from Westchester State comes 5-11, 180-pound DENNIS IANOVALE, an All-Conference player who hails from Philadelphia."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
"Kickers - Place kicker DAVE SCHMINKE, a 5-9, 180-pounder, played at California Western, had a trial with the Browns in 1975, and kicked for two seasons in minor league football. And from Mexico comes JOSE MARTINEZ, 5-11, 190-pounder who was a kicking specialist for three seasons for the Universidad Metropolitan."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Saturday, December 21, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Elmo Simmons
Running Back
12th Round
Texas-Arlington
"Assistant coach John Symank, a former head coach at Texas-Arlington, recommended Simmons as the Giants' final choice as the club was seeking help and depth not only in the running department but in the areas of kickoff and punt returns as well. He has 4.6 and 4.7 clockings in the 40.
Simmons was hampered somewhat by injuries which required knee surgery after his junior season, but had a complete recovery and contributed mightily to his club during his senior campaign. Going into that senior season, Elmo had rushed for 1,105 yards on 224 carries for an exceptional 4.9 rushing average, with touchdown bursts of 56, 56 and 51 yards included. His biggest day came against the College of the Pacific when he rushed for 143 yards.
A native of Lancaster, Texas, Elmo was a three-sport letterman in high school in football, track and basketball."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
12th Round
Texas-Arlington
"Assistant coach John Symank, a former head coach at Texas-Arlington, recommended Simmons as the Giants' final choice as the club was seeking help and depth not only in the running department but in the areas of kickoff and punt returns as well. He has 4.6 and 4.7 clockings in the 40.
Simmons was hampered somewhat by injuries which required knee surgery after his junior season, but had a complete recovery and contributed mightily to his club during his senior campaign. Going into that senior season, Elmo had rushed for 1,105 yards on 224 carries for an exceptional 4.9 rushing average, with touchdown bursts of 56, 56 and 51 yards included. His biggest day came against the College of the Pacific when he rushed for 143 yards.
A native of Lancaster, Texas, Elmo was a three-sport letterman in high school in football, track and basketball."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Thursday, December 19, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Bill Helms
Tight End
11th Round
San Diego State
"Scout Jerry Shay saw quite a bit of Helms during his collegiate career. Helms is a big, rangy guy who played tight end in a pro-style offense for the past two seasons.
He began his collegiate career at Grossmont College where he won honorable mention Little All-American honors and was a first-team All-Mission Conference choice. In his two seasons at San Diego State, he proved to be a clutch receiver and as a junior caught 20 passes for 275 yards, despite missing five games with injuries. The top days during his career at San Diego State were seven catches for 96 yards against New Mexico State and four catches for 62 yards against both North Texas State and Fresno State.
Bill was born in National City, California, and grew up in Mesa, CA, where he lettered in football, basketball and baseball."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
11th Round
San Diego State
"Scout Jerry Shay saw quite a bit of Helms during his collegiate career. Helms is a big, rangy guy who played tight end in a pro-style offense for the past two seasons.
He began his collegiate career at Grossmont College where he won honorable mention Little All-American honors and was a first-team All-Mission Conference choice. In his two seasons at San Diego State, he proved to be a clutch receiver and as a junior caught 20 passes for 275 yards, despite missing five games with injuries. The top days during his career at San Diego State were seven catches for 96 yards against New Mexico State and four catches for 62 yards against both North Texas State and Fresno State.
Bill was born in National City, California, and grew up in Mesa, CA, where he lettered in football, basketball and baseball."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Tuesday, December 17, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Mike Jones
Wide Receiver
10th Round
Minnesota
"Jones was nicknamed 'Mr. Butter' at Minnesota because he was considered to be part of the 'bread and butter' of the Gopher offense. He has fine size at 6-2 and 183 and his consistent clockings of 4.5 and 4.6 in the 40 are ample proof of his speed. Scouts particularly liked his easy motion and fluid style of running his pass routes.
He missed four games early in the 1976 season because of a damaged knee but came back in the next four games to make 12 catches for a 19.0 average-per-catch and a pair of touchdowns. As a junior, over a full season without injury, Mike had 29 receptions for 473 yards and two touchdowns and averaged 19.6 per catch. As a sophomore, he set an all-time Minnesota record by catching three touchdown passes in one game (vs. Northwestern) and also totaled 136 yards in that game. As an indication of his all-around ability, Mike was also a varsity letterman in basketball. He majored in communications.
Jones won seven letters at Central High School in his hometown of Detroit- in football, basketball and track- and was the No. 1 440-yard dash man in Michigan as a runner, winning a United States Youth Games 440-yard dash championship."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
10th Round
Minnesota
"Jones was nicknamed 'Mr. Butter' at Minnesota because he was considered to be part of the 'bread and butter' of the Gopher offense. He has fine size at 6-2 and 183 and his consistent clockings of 4.5 and 4.6 in the 40 are ample proof of his speed. Scouts particularly liked his easy motion and fluid style of running his pass routes.
He missed four games early in the 1976 season because of a damaged knee but came back in the next four games to make 12 catches for a 19.0 average-per-catch and a pair of touchdowns. As a junior, over a full season without injury, Mike had 29 receptions for 473 yards and two touchdowns and averaged 19.6 per catch. As a sophomore, he set an all-time Minnesota record by catching three touchdown passes in one game (vs. Northwestern) and also totaled 136 yards in that game. As an indication of his all-around ability, Mike was also a varsity letterman in basketball. He majored in communications.
Jones won seven letters at Central High School in his hometown of Detroit- in football, basketball and track- and was the No. 1 440-yard dash man in Michigan as a runner, winning a United States Youth Games 440-yard dash championship."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Monday, December 16, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Ken Mullens
Linebacker
9th Round
Florida A & M
"Giant defensive coach Marty Schottenheimer personally scouted Mullens. Ken spent his career at Florida A & M as a defensive tackle and was rated the top defensive lineman of the Rattlers by his coaching staff. He racked up 138 solo tackles, 110 assists, seven fumble recoveries and 19 quarterback sacks for his three campaigns, and also produced a pair of blocked kicks.
Marty clocked Mullens in 4.8 for the 40, highly impressive for a 242-pounder, and other scouts who charted Ken's progress were high in their praise of his strength, speed, quickness, and most importantly, his toughness. All the reports were unanimous on his ability to react to the ball and deliver a powerful blow.
Mullens could well be the Harry Carson type- and the Giants would be fortunate to get another player like Carson. Harry was also a defensive lineman in college and successfully made the transition to linebacker.
Mullens hails from St. Petersburg, Fla., and earned letters in football and track at Gibbs High School in that city."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
9th Round
Florida A & M
"Giant defensive coach Marty Schottenheimer personally scouted Mullens. Ken spent his career at Florida A & M as a defensive tackle and was rated the top defensive lineman of the Rattlers by his coaching staff. He racked up 138 solo tackles, 110 assists, seven fumble recoveries and 19 quarterback sacks for his three campaigns, and also produced a pair of blocked kicks.
Marty clocked Mullens in 4.8 for the 40, highly impressive for a 242-pounder, and other scouts who charted Ken's progress were high in their praise of his strength, speed, quickness, and most importantly, his toughness. All the reports were unanimous on his ability to react to the ball and deliver a powerful blow.
Mullens could well be the Harry Carson type- and the Giants would be fortunate to get another player like Carson. Harry was also a defensive lineman in college and successfully made the transition to linebacker.
Mullens hails from St. Petersburg, Fla., and earned letters in football and track at Gibbs High School in that city."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Sunday, December 15, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Otis Rodgers
Linebacker
8th Round
Iowa State
"The Giants' second pick in this round, from San Francisco, was used to select Iowa State's Rodgers, a hitter with outstanding speed for an outside linebacker. He began his collegiate career at Tampa University, then made the transfer to Iowa State and became an instant starter for the Cyclones.
When coaches at Iowa State talked about the oft-used phrase 'physical tools,' Rodgers' name was the first name. Extremely muscular, he's been timed in 4.8 for the 40 and used that speed to excel in his pass coverage duties, the ability to read quickly and to get back into pass coverage.
Otis was an all-around star at Robinson High School where he lettered in football, track and basketball."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
8th Round
Iowa State
"The Giants' second pick in this round, from San Francisco, was used to select Iowa State's Rodgers, a hitter with outstanding speed for an outside linebacker. He began his collegiate career at Tampa University, then made the transfer to Iowa State and became an instant starter for the Cyclones.
When coaches at Iowa State talked about the oft-used phrase 'physical tools,' Rodgers' name was the first name. Extremely muscular, he's been timed in 4.8 for the 40 and used that speed to excel in his pass coverage duties, the ability to read quickly and to get back into pass coverage.
Otis was an all-around star at Robinson High School where he lettered in football, track and basketball."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Saturday, December 14, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Bill Rice
Defensive Tackle
8th Round
BYU
"Bill played for three seasons in a pro 4-3 defensive setup at BYU, and all of the reports on him were conclusive insofar as tenacity was concerned. 'Very tough and very aggressive,' said the reports, and that's an attribute that can't be taught.
Scout Jerry Shay is convinced that Rice has outstanding potential and that with solid work can develop into a fine player. Other reports on Rice indicate that he has exceptional strength at the point, that he reacts to the ball very well and has the ability to fight off the double-team block. He hustles all the time and tackles extremely well. The consensus is that he could be a pleasant addition.
Bill hails from Provo, Utah."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
8th Round
BYU
"Bill played for three seasons in a pro 4-3 defensive setup at BYU, and all of the reports on him were conclusive insofar as tenacity was concerned. 'Very tough and very aggressive,' said the reports, and that's an attribute that can't be taught.
Scout Jerry Shay is convinced that Rice has outstanding potential and that with solid work can develop into a fine player. Other reports on Rice indicate that he has exceptional strength at the point, that he reacts to the ball very well and has the ability to fight off the double-team block. He hustles all the time and tackles extremely well. The consensus is that he could be a pleasant addition.
Bill hails from Provo, Utah."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Sunday, December 8, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Al Dixon
Tight End
7th Round
Iowa State
"Dixon is the all-around athlete that coaches love to acquire. At 6-5 and 220 pounds, he has outstanding size and his 4.8 speed in the 40 is equally impressive for a big man. As a sophomore, Dixon worked at wide receiver, then switched over to tight end for his final two campaigns.
He was considered one of the Big Eight's stellar all-around performers after he added varsity basketball to his endeavors and promptly became a dominant force on the hoop unit. Al had an especially strong game against tough Kansas State with 14 points and 15 rebounds. Prior to making the varsity basketball squad, he spent one season on the jayvee unit and averaged 25.1 per game.
The 23-year-old Dixon became the first player at East St. Louis High School to win All-State first team honors in two sports- football and basketball- and his high school coach, Cornelius Perry, called Al 'the best all-around athlete we've ever had here.' "
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
7th Round
Iowa State
"Dixon is the all-around athlete that coaches love to acquire. At 6-5 and 220 pounds, he has outstanding size and his 4.8 speed in the 40 is equally impressive for a big man. As a sophomore, Dixon worked at wide receiver, then switched over to tight end for his final two campaigns.
He was considered one of the Big Eight's stellar all-around performers after he added varsity basketball to his endeavors and promptly became a dominant force on the hoop unit. Al had an especially strong game against tough Kansas State with 14 points and 15 rebounds. Prior to making the varsity basketball squad, he spent one season on the jayvee unit and averaged 25.1 per game.
The 23-year-old Dixon became the first player at East St. Louis High School to win All-State first team honors in two sports- football and basketball- and his high school coach, Cornelius Perry, called Al 'the best all-around athlete we've ever had here.' "
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Friday, December 6, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Emery Moorehead
Wide Receiver
6th Round
Colorado
"With outstanding versatility, Emery has 4.5 speed and was used as both a running back and flanker at Colorado while earning the title of 'most underrated player at Colorado.' He has sure hands and was rated as a top blocker as well. He's used on kickoff returns, too. The pro-style offense used at Colorado should have prepared him well for his transition to pro football.
Moorehead had 35 pass catches for 604 yards in his final two seasons and his rushing average was 4.1 in spot roles. An All-State football player at Evanston (IL) High School, he also starred in basketball and track.
A radio-TV major at Colorado, Emery worked for the campus TV station as an announcer-producer and has also interned at a Denver TV station during the summer."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
6th Round
Colorado
"With outstanding versatility, Emery has 4.5 speed and was used as both a running back and flanker at Colorado while earning the title of 'most underrated player at Colorado.' He has sure hands and was rated as a top blocker as well. He's used on kickoff returns, too. The pro-style offense used at Colorado should have prepared him well for his transition to pro football.
Moorehead had 35 pass catches for 604 yards in his final two seasons and his rushing average was 4.1 in spot roles. An All-State football player at Evanston (IL) High School, he also starred in basketball and track.
A radio-TV major at Colorado, Emery worked for the campus TV station as an announcer-producer and has also interned at a Denver TV station during the summer."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Tuesday, December 3, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Bob Jordan
Offensive Tackle
6th Round
Memphis State
"At the start of the fourth round of the draft, the Giants were looking for an offensive tackle and were undecided between Oklahoma's Mike Vaughan and Memphis State's Bob Jordan ... and eventually opted for Vaughan. When Jordan was still available in the sixth round, John McVay and his staff were quick to select the big and rugged pass-blocker who had been personally scouted by offensive line coach Jay Fry.
A three-year starter at Memphis State, Jordan received solid ratings from the scouting combines for his agility- the quick feet and 'skating' ability often mentioned when offensive tackle prospects are discussed. He also demonstrated fine leadership qualities throughout his career in college.
Bob lettered in both football and track at Antioch High School in his hometown of Antioch, Tennessee and won a state championship in the discus throw."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
6th Round
Memphis State
"At the start of the fourth round of the draft, the Giants were looking for an offensive tackle and were undecided between Oklahoma's Mike Vaughan and Memphis State's Bob Jordan ... and eventually opted for Vaughan. When Jordan was still available in the sixth round, John McVay and his staff were quick to select the big and rugged pass-blocker who had been personally scouted by offensive line coach Jay Fry.
A three-year starter at Memphis State, Jordan received solid ratings from the scouting combines for his agility- the quick feet and 'skating' ability often mentioned when offensive tackle prospects are discussed. He also demonstrated fine leadership qualities throughout his career in college.
Bob lettered in both football and track at Antioch High School in his hometown of Antioch, Tennessee and won a state championship in the discus throw."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Sunday, December 1, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Randy Dean
Quarterback
5th Round
Northwestern
"Versatility is the trademark of Randy Dean, Northwestern's MVP in 1976 when he completed 87 of 177 for 1,384 yards and eight touchdowns and was named to play in the East-West Shrine Game. A 'walk on' player, Randy was an All-Academic Big 10 choice with a 3.89 average in industrial engineering. He also lettered in basketball and was a member of the 1976 U.S. Olympic handball team. For additional honors, Dean was named as one of the top five NCAA senior student-athletes of 1976.
He finished fifth in Northwestern total career offense with 2,860 yards in just two seasons of play. Dean's two-year passing stats were 188 completions in 374 attempts for 2,699 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also rushed for 177 yards in his senior season and as the Wildcat punter, averaged 42.5 as a junior to rank 13th in the country. In both of his seasons, he led Northwestern in minutes played, and in addition to his all-around play and punting ability, he also doubled as the holder for all conversion and field goal attempts.
Randy hails from Whitefish, Wisconsin and is from an athletic family- his twin brother Rob was a wide receiver at Northwestern and his father, Ross, was a Big 10 official for 29 years."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
5th Round
Northwestern
"Versatility is the trademark of Randy Dean, Northwestern's MVP in 1976 when he completed 87 of 177 for 1,384 yards and eight touchdowns and was named to play in the East-West Shrine Game. A 'walk on' player, Randy was an All-Academic Big 10 choice with a 3.89 average in industrial engineering. He also lettered in basketball and was a member of the 1976 U.S. Olympic handball team. For additional honors, Dean was named as one of the top five NCAA senior student-athletes of 1976.
He finished fifth in Northwestern total career offense with 2,860 yards in just two seasons of play. Dean's two-year passing stats were 188 completions in 374 attempts for 2,699 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also rushed for 177 yards in his senior season and as the Wildcat punter, averaged 42.5 as a junior to rank 13th in the country. In both of his seasons, he led Northwestern in minutes played, and in addition to his all-around play and punting ability, he also doubled as the holder for all conversion and field goal attempts.
Randy hails from Whitefish, Wisconsin and is from an athletic family- his twin brother Rob was a wide receiver at Northwestern and his father, Ross, was a Big 10 official for 29 years."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Sunday, November 24, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Mike Vaughan
Offensive Tackle
4th Round
Oklahoma
"The Giants filled a need for a big offensive lineman by getting Oklahoma's All-American Mike Vaughan. At 6-5 and 275, Vaughan was a powerhouse at blowing people off the ball and because of his dimensions (the biggest offensive tackle in Oklahoma history) earned the nickname 'U.S.S. Vaughan.'
He earned every honor possible as a junior, being a First-Team All-American by both AP and UPI as well as the Football Writers, Football News and Kodak. Much of the success of running back Joe Washington in 1975 was directly traced to Mike's tremendous power blocking straight ahead. Plagued by nagging injuries his senior season, he is fully recovered and now gives the Giants their biggest offensive line prospect in many years.
Since Oklahoma obviously has not been much of a passing team in recent years, Vaughan will need to work in the area of pass blocking, but as Giants' line coach Jay Fry observes, 'with his strength, power and quickness and the fact that he was a starter for three years in the Big 8, we feel we have a really outstanding prospect ... a player who can step right in and become a starter.'
Mike is from Ada, Oklahoma and starred there in high school in both football and track and has also wrestled."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
4th Round
Oklahoma
"The Giants filled a need for a big offensive lineman by getting Oklahoma's All-American Mike Vaughan. At 6-5 and 275, Vaughan was a powerhouse at blowing people off the ball and because of his dimensions (the biggest offensive tackle in Oklahoma history) earned the nickname 'U.S.S. Vaughan.'
He earned every honor possible as a junior, being a First-Team All-American by both AP and UPI as well as the Football Writers, Football News and Kodak. Much of the success of running back Joe Washington in 1975 was directly traced to Mike's tremendous power blocking straight ahead. Plagued by nagging injuries his senior season, he is fully recovered and now gives the Giants their biggest offensive line prospect in many years.
Since Oklahoma obviously has not been much of a passing team in recent years, Vaughan will need to work in the area of pass blocking, but as Giants' line coach Jay Fry observes, 'with his strength, power and quickness and the fact that he was a starter for three years in the Big 8, we feel we have a really outstanding prospect ... a player who can step right in and become a starter.'
Mike is from Ada, Oklahoma and starred there in high school in both football and track and has also wrestled."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Sunday, November 10, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Johnny Perkins
Wide Receiver
2nd Round
Abilene Christian
"The No. 2 pick, he is from Abilene Christian and was ranked No. 3 by one scout on a list of 1976's best college receivers."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1977
"At 6-2 and 208 pounds, Perkins also doubled as a track letterman at Abilene Christian, specializing in the 100- and 220-yard dashes and as a member of the 440-yard relay team. His prowess in the two sports was such that he was named an NAIA First-Team All-Star this past season, as well as gaining All-American honorable mention by the Associated Press. And his times in the dashes, 9.8 in the 100 and 22.3 in the 220, had him highly ranked in those departments. A native of Grandbury, Texas, Perkins was an All-State football star as well as a top trackman and began his collegiate career at Ranger Junior College in Texas.
For his two seasons at Abilene Christian after his transfer from the Jaycee ranks, Perkins made an auspicious debut by catching 50 passes for 1,195 yards and 12 touchdowns in his junior season, and that figure was the leading total among NAIA receivers. He was named to the NAIA All-American first team as a junior, Conference Lineman of the Year and Abilene Christian's Most Valuable Player. He additionally made All-Conference as a punter as well as a wide receiver. This past season, Perkins had 48 receptions for 995 yards, a 20.7 average, and had six touchdowns, the longest of which was an 84-yarder."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
2nd Round
Abilene Christian
"The No. 2 pick, he is from Abilene Christian and was ranked No. 3 by one scout on a list of 1976's best college receivers."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1977
"At 6-2 and 208 pounds, Perkins also doubled as a track letterman at Abilene Christian, specializing in the 100- and 220-yard dashes and as a member of the 440-yard relay team. His prowess in the two sports was such that he was named an NAIA First-Team All-Star this past season, as well as gaining All-American honorable mention by the Associated Press. And his times in the dashes, 9.8 in the 100 and 22.3 in the 220, had him highly ranked in those departments. A native of Grandbury, Texas, Perkins was an All-State football star as well as a top trackman and began his collegiate career at Ranger Junior College in Texas.
For his two seasons at Abilene Christian after his transfer from the Jaycee ranks, Perkins made an auspicious debut by catching 50 passes for 1,195 yards and 12 touchdowns in his junior season, and that figure was the leading total among NAIA receivers. He was named to the NAIA All-American first team as a junior, Conference Lineman of the Year and Abilene Christian's Most Valuable Player. He additionally made All-Conference as a punter as well as a wide receiver. This past season, Perkins had 48 receptions for 995 yards, a 20.7 average, and had six touchdowns, the longest of which was an 84-yarder."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Monday, October 28, 2019
1977 Rookie Profile: Gary Jeter
Defensive Tackle
1st Round
USC
"From USC, he was described by one scout as 'an up and down player, sometimes great, other times gets pushed around.' The Giants' No. 1 choice."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1977
"The All-American defensive star from USC was the top-rated player on the Giants' list at both defensive end and defensive tackle and at 6-4 and 255, he has the size, and his recorded times of 4.7 and 4.8 in the 40-yard dash is ample proof of his quickness and agility. 'His physical ability is awesome,' says USC coach John Robinson, and teammate Ricky Bell, the draft's No. 1 pick this year, calls Jeter, 'the best defensive player I've ever seen ... there was more than one game in which Gary kept us in the game by his sheer determination on defense.'
This past season as the Trojans again went to the Rose Bowl and a big triumph over Michigan, Jeter was selected to both the Football Writers Association and NEA All-American first team and to the Associated Press All-American second team.
He had 55 unassisted tackles on the season, including a half-dozen quarterback sacks, three pass deflections and three fumble recoveries. A starter since his freshman year when he took over at left tackle in the third game of the season, Jeter has accumulated remarkable totals in his defensive statistics, not only in solo tackles (235) and quarterback sacks (31), but in the area of deflected passes at the line of scrimmage and in fumble recoveries.
From Cleveland, Ohio, Gary was an all-around high school star at Cathedral Latin High School in that city, being named Ohio's Outstanding Lineman in 1972 and also being a consensus High School All-American."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
1st Round
USC
"From USC, he was described by one scout as 'an up and down player, sometimes great, other times gets pushed around.' The Giants' No. 1 choice."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1977
"The All-American defensive star from USC was the top-rated player on the Giants' list at both defensive end and defensive tackle and at 6-4 and 255, he has the size, and his recorded times of 4.7 and 4.8 in the 40-yard dash is ample proof of his quickness and agility. 'His physical ability is awesome,' says USC coach John Robinson, and teammate Ricky Bell, the draft's No. 1 pick this year, calls Jeter, 'the best defensive player I've ever seen ... there was more than one game in which Gary kept us in the game by his sheer determination on defense.'
This past season as the Trojans again went to the Rose Bowl and a big triumph over Michigan, Jeter was selected to both the Football Writers Association and NEA All-American first team and to the Associated Press All-American second team.
He had 55 unassisted tackles on the season, including a half-dozen quarterback sacks, three pass deflections and three fumble recoveries. A starter since his freshman year when he took over at left tackle in the third game of the season, Jeter has accumulated remarkable totals in his defensive statistics, not only in solo tackles (235) and quarterback sacks (31), but in the area of deflected passes at the line of scrimmage and in fumble recoveries.
From Cleveland, Ohio, Gary was an all-around high school star at Cathedral Latin High School in that city, being named Ohio's Outstanding Lineman in 1972 and also being a consensus High School All-American."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Sunday, October 20, 2019
1977 Profile: Don Zimmerman
Wide Receiver
No. 80
N.E. Louisiana
"Obtained via waivers from Green Bay during this past off-season, Zimmerman had spent three seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles prior to his brief stint at Green Bay where he appeared in but two games and had a pass catch for 13 yards.
A No. 12 draft choice of the Eagles in 1972, Don spent that year on the Eagle taxi squad but became a starter in 1973 for 11 games, and then was a starter for all 14 games during the 1974 season. He had 22 catches for 220 yards and three touchdowns in 1973, 30 catches for 368 yards and two touchdowns in 1974 and made touchdown catches against the Giants in both '73 and '74. Zimmerman had a 64-yard touchdown against Dallas in '74, the longest scoring play of the year for Philadelphia.
Zimmerman was a two-year starter as a wide receiver at Northeast Louisiana after starting his college career at Arkansas A M & N, and also lettered in track where he clocked 21.7 in the 220-yard dash. He received in B.S. in education.
Don was born in Monroe, Louisiana, and was a football, basketball and track standout at Richwood High School in his hometown."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 80
N.E. Louisiana
"Obtained via waivers from Green Bay during this past off-season, Zimmerman had spent three seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles prior to his brief stint at Green Bay where he appeared in but two games and had a pass catch for 13 yards.
A No. 12 draft choice of the Eagles in 1972, Don spent that year on the Eagle taxi squad but became a starter in 1973 for 11 games, and then was a starter for all 14 games during the 1974 season. He had 22 catches for 220 yards and three touchdowns in 1973, 30 catches for 368 yards and two touchdowns in 1974 and made touchdown catches against the Giants in both '73 and '74. Zimmerman had a 64-yard touchdown against Dallas in '74, the longest scoring play of the year for Philadelphia.
Zimmerman was a two-year starter as a wide receiver at Northeast Louisiana after starting his college career at Arkansas A M & N, and also lettered in track where he clocked 21.7 in the 220-yard dash. He received in B.S. in education.
Don was born in Monroe, Louisiana, and was a football, basketball and track standout at Richwood High School in his hometown."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Sunday, September 29, 2019
1977 Profile: Marsh White
Running Back
No. 24
Arkansas
"White was a 12th round pick in 1975, going that late primarily because of a collegiate career marred by a series of nagging injuries. As a rookie he improved steadily throughout the season, getting into all 14 games and proving to be a fine hitter and performer on all of the special team duties. He also managed to see extensive duty in the backfield as a reserve and enjoyed a solid afternoon in the 26-23 win over San Francisco when he carried 12 times for 69 yards and scored a touchdown. All told, White had 90 yards on 17 carries for a team-leading 5.3 average and also caught three passes for 15 yards.
In '76, Marsh saw a lot of action in all 14 games as a reserve running back, getting 69 carries for 233 yards and a touchdown. He had a big preseason game with 100 yards rushing in a 17-0 win over the Steelers.
Hampered by injuries in each of his three seasons at Arkansas, Marsh nonetheless had some fine days as a collegian, including 64 yards in eight carries against USC and 78 in 11 carries against Texas Tech. He was an All-SWC choice as a soph when he rushed 80 times for 340 yards after a fine freshman season when he scored 10 touchdowns.
Marsh R. White was born in Bonham, Texas and starred at Bonham High School in his hometown. He is a cousin of Cincinnati Redleg Joe Morgan."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 24
Arkansas
"White was a 12th round pick in 1975, going that late primarily because of a collegiate career marred by a series of nagging injuries. As a rookie he improved steadily throughout the season, getting into all 14 games and proving to be a fine hitter and performer on all of the special team duties. He also managed to see extensive duty in the backfield as a reserve and enjoyed a solid afternoon in the 26-23 win over San Francisco when he carried 12 times for 69 yards and scored a touchdown. All told, White had 90 yards on 17 carries for a team-leading 5.3 average and also caught three passes for 15 yards.
In '76, Marsh saw a lot of action in all 14 games as a reserve running back, getting 69 carries for 233 yards and a touchdown. He had a big preseason game with 100 yards rushing in a 17-0 win over the Steelers.
Hampered by injuries in each of his three seasons at Arkansas, Marsh nonetheless had some fine days as a collegian, including 64 yards in eight carries against USC and 78 in 11 carries against Texas Tech. He was an All-SWC choice as a soph when he rushed 80 times for 340 yards after a fine freshman season when he scored 10 touchdowns.
Marsh R. White was born in Bonham, Texas and starred at Bonham High School in his hometown. He is a cousin of Cincinnati Redleg Joe Morgan."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Sunday, September 8, 2019
1977 Profile: Larry Watkins
Running Back
No. 36
Alcorn A & M
"The Giants obtained Watkins for a draft choice from the Buffalo Bills after the [1974] season. He became a valuable running back all through the 1975 season, finishing as the club's top per-average rusher with a 4.5 mark, with 303 yards on 68 carries. His best days were against the Cardinals and the Chargers, with 85 yards rushing against the former (all in one half) and 71 against the latter.
Originally signed as a free agent by Detroit in 1969, Larry played one season there and was traded to Philadelphia in 1970. After three seasons as a reserve, he was traded to Buffalo and became a starter with O.J. Simpson in 1973, carrying 98 times for 414 yards, a 4.2 average and two touchdowns. Larry had 105 yards rushing on 18 carries in the season opener against New England, then proved to be a fine blocker that year as O.J. had his 2,000-yard season. Last year, in 13 games, he saw only limited duty as a reserve behind Larry Csonka, but again proved to be a capable fullback with 96 yards on 26 carries [3.7 average] and a touchdown.
Watkins was a three-year letterman at Alcorn A & M and was named co-captain in his senior year. He also played in the Orange Bowl that year.
Lawrence Watkins was born in Bessemer, Alabama and played his high school sports at J.S. Abrams High in Bessemer. He now lives in Camden, New Jersey and has taught in the Camden school system during the off-seasons."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 36
Alcorn A & M
"The Giants obtained Watkins for a draft choice from the Buffalo Bills after the [1974] season. He became a valuable running back all through the 1975 season, finishing as the club's top per-average rusher with a 4.5 mark, with 303 yards on 68 carries. His best days were against the Cardinals and the Chargers, with 85 yards rushing against the former (all in one half) and 71 against the latter.
Originally signed as a free agent by Detroit in 1969, Larry played one season there and was traded to Philadelphia in 1970. After three seasons as a reserve, he was traded to Buffalo and became a starter with O.J. Simpson in 1973, carrying 98 times for 414 yards, a 4.2 average and two touchdowns. Larry had 105 yards rushing on 18 carries in the season opener against New England, then proved to be a fine blocker that year as O.J. had his 2,000-yard season. Last year, in 13 games, he saw only limited duty as a reserve behind Larry Csonka, but again proved to be a capable fullback with 96 yards on 26 carries [3.7 average] and a touchdown.
Watkins was a three-year letterman at Alcorn A & M and was named co-captain in his senior year. He also played in the Orange Bowl that year.
Lawrence Watkins was born in Bessemer, Alabama and played his high school sports at J.S. Abrams High in Bessemer. He now lives in Camden, New Jersey and has taught in the Camden school system during the off-seasons."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Sunday, August 18, 2019
1977 Profile: Roger Wallace
Wide Receiver
No. 88
Bowling Green
"Signed as a free agent late in the 1976 season after injuries had depleted the ranks of Giant wide receivers, Wallace appeared in three games on special teams and saw some action at wide receiver.
Originally drafted No. 12 by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1974, Wallace instead went to the World Football League where he started at wide receiver for two seasons with Memphis. His two-season stats with Memphis included 50 receptions for 840 yards and five touchdowns. He was also a return man with 40 punt returns for 285 yards and a 7.1 average. He went back to the Cardinals, but was released and then signed by the Giants last November.
Wallace was a three-year starter at Bowling Green and was named to the All-Mid-American Conference team in his senior year. He received a B.S. degree in education.
Roger Lee Wallace was born in Urbana, Ohio and played his high school sports at Urbana High School in his hometown. He still resides in Urbana in the off-season."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 88
Bowling Green
"Signed as a free agent late in the 1976 season after injuries had depleted the ranks of Giant wide receivers, Wallace appeared in three games on special teams and saw some action at wide receiver.
Originally drafted No. 12 by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1974, Wallace instead went to the World Football League where he started at wide receiver for two seasons with Memphis. His two-season stats with Memphis included 50 receptions for 840 yards and five touchdowns. He was also a return man with 40 punt returns for 285 yards and a 7.1 average. He went back to the Cardinals, but was released and then signed by the Giants last November.
Wallace was a three-year starter at Bowling Green and was named to the All-Mid-American Conference team in his senior year. He received a B.S. degree in education.
Roger Lee Wallace was born in Urbana, Ohio and played his high school sports at Urbana High School in his hometown. He still resides in Urbana in the off-season."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Friday, August 9, 2019
1977 Profile: Rick Volk
Free Safety
No. 23
Michigan
"Signed as a free agent by the Giants during the 1976 season after being released by the Denver Broncos, Rick moved into a starting safety role for the final eight games of the year when injuries hit the secondary and turned in an outstanding job. He had 59 tackles and came up with two pass interceptions, bringing his NFL career total to 33.
Originally a No. 2 draft choice of Baltimore in 1967, Rick spent nine seasons with the Colts and had 31 interceptions for 518 yards and a touchdown over that span, along with 11 fumbles recovered. He played in two Super Bowls and was selected to the Pro Bowl three times (1967, '69, '71), along with being selected to the All-AFC team in 1970 and the All-NFL squad in 1971. He was also a punt return man for the Colts, with 84 for 548 yards in his Colt career.
Rick went to Michigan as an All-State high school quarterback but was switched to defensive back there and ended up being Al--Big Ten. He played on Big Ten and Rose Bowl champion teams at Ann Arbor and was named an All-American in 1966.
Richard Robert Volk was born in Toledo, Ohio and starred at Wauseon High School in Ohio before enrolling at Michigan. His uncle is Bob Chappuis, former Michigan and pro star, and he's a brother-in-law of Bill Laskey, ex-NFL linebacker."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 23
Michigan
"Signed as a free agent by the Giants during the 1976 season after being released by the Denver Broncos, Rick moved into a starting safety role for the final eight games of the year when injuries hit the secondary and turned in an outstanding job. He had 59 tackles and came up with two pass interceptions, bringing his NFL career total to 33.
Originally a No. 2 draft choice of Baltimore in 1967, Rick spent nine seasons with the Colts and had 31 interceptions for 518 yards and a touchdown over that span, along with 11 fumbles recovered. He played in two Super Bowls and was selected to the Pro Bowl three times (1967, '69, '71), along with being selected to the All-AFC team in 1970 and the All-NFL squad in 1971. He was also a punt return man for the Colts, with 84 for 548 yards in his Colt career.
Rick went to Michigan as an All-State high school quarterback but was switched to defensive back there and ended up being Al--Big Ten. He played on Big Ten and Rose Bowl champion teams at Ann Arbor and was named an All-American in 1966.
Richard Robert Volk was born in Toledo, Ohio and starred at Wauseon High School in Ohio before enrolling at Michigan. His uncle is Bob Chappuis, former Michigan and pro star, and he's a brother-in-law of Bill Laskey, ex-NFL linebacker."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Thursday, July 11, 2019
1977 Profile: Brad Van Pelt
Linebacker
No. 10
Michigan State
"A safety at Michigan State where he was an All-America in 1972, he was a No. 2 choice of the Giants in the 1972 draft. The Giants had to lure him away from a big-league baseball career.
At 26, he seems to have finally become the defensive terror that had long been predicted for him, winning Pro Bowl and All-NFC honors."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1977
"The picture athlete, a throwback to the old-time, three-sport college hero. Van Pelt played football, basketball and baseball at Michigan State and turned down a big bonus offer to pitch for baseball's St. Louis Cardinals.
Van Pelt is an outside linebacker good enough to make the Pro Bowl and be voted All-NFC last year. He's versatile enough to play several positions. He could be All-Pro in 1977, and for years afterward.
Born in Owosso, Michigan, he raises St. Bernard puppies and plays cribbage. He seems domestic until you meet him in the open field."
-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1977 Edition
"The No. 2 draft choice of the Giants in 1973, Van Pelt had his finest season ever in 1976, winning All-NFC first team honors from both the Associated Press and the New York Daily News, being selected to the Pro Bowl where he was a starter for the NFC, and winning team MVP honors in the NEA team poll. He had 148 tackles during the season (95 solo, 53 assists), intercepted two passes, had four quarterback sacks, blocked a punt and two field goals, and had a fumble recovery. Playing all 14 games, his best game came in the 24-10 win over Detroit when he had 10 solo tackles, two quarterback sacks and two interceptions and was named NFL Player of the Week.
As a rookie in 1973, Brad was plagued by nagging injuries and several position shifts and played only five games, and in 1974 played weakside linebacker and had a pair of interceptions. He was moved to the strong side in 1975 and had a solid season with three interceptions and a couple of blocked field goals, and in 1976 reached his full potential with that outstanding season.
Brad was a unanimous All-American at Michigan State where he played safety or 'monster back' and also won the Maxwell Trophy his senior year. He was MVP his senior year, played in both the East-West Shrine Game and the Hula Bowl and had 14 interceptions, returning two for touchdowns. Brad also lettered in basketball and baseball and received major league offers as a pitcher after setting an all-time Michigan State strikeout record.
Brad Alan Van Pelt was born in Owosso, Michigan and played all sports at Owosso High School. He still lives in Owosso."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 10
Michigan State
"A safety at Michigan State where he was an All-America in 1972, he was a No. 2 choice of the Giants in the 1972 draft. The Giants had to lure him away from a big-league baseball career.
At 26, he seems to have finally become the defensive terror that had long been predicted for him, winning Pro Bowl and All-NFC honors."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1977
"The picture athlete, a throwback to the old-time, three-sport college hero. Van Pelt played football, basketball and baseball at Michigan State and turned down a big bonus offer to pitch for baseball's St. Louis Cardinals.
Van Pelt is an outside linebacker good enough to make the Pro Bowl and be voted All-NFC last year. He's versatile enough to play several positions. He could be All-Pro in 1977, and for years afterward.
Born in Owosso, Michigan, he raises St. Bernard puppies and plays cribbage. He seems domestic until you meet him in the open field."
-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1977 Edition
"The No. 2 draft choice of the Giants in 1973, Van Pelt had his finest season ever in 1976, winning All-NFC first team honors from both the Associated Press and the New York Daily News, being selected to the Pro Bowl where he was a starter for the NFC, and winning team MVP honors in the NEA team poll. He had 148 tackles during the season (95 solo, 53 assists), intercepted two passes, had four quarterback sacks, blocked a punt and two field goals, and had a fumble recovery. Playing all 14 games, his best game came in the 24-10 win over Detroit when he had 10 solo tackles, two quarterback sacks and two interceptions and was named NFL Player of the Week.
As a rookie in 1973, Brad was plagued by nagging injuries and several position shifts and played only five games, and in 1974 played weakside linebacker and had a pair of interceptions. He was moved to the strong side in 1975 and had a solid season with three interceptions and a couple of blocked field goals, and in 1976 reached his full potential with that outstanding season.
Brad was a unanimous All-American at Michigan State where he played safety or 'monster back' and also won the Maxwell Trophy his senior year. He was MVP his senior year, played in both the East-West Shrine Game and the Hula Bowl and had 14 interceptions, returning two for touchdowns. Brad also lettered in basketball and baseball and received major league offers as a pitcher after setting an all-time Michigan State strikeout record.
Brad Alan Van Pelt was born in Owosso, Michigan and played all sports at Owosso High School. He still lives in Owosso."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Sunday, June 2, 2019
1977 Profile: Doug Van Horn
Guard
No. 63
Ohio State
"Van Horn was the No. 4 draft choice of the Detroit Lions in 1966, went into the Army the following year and rejoined the Lions in 1968, only to be released in training camp. He came to the Giants as a free agent and played that season in the Atlantic Coast League. He returned the following year to win a starting job at guard and has been a first-stringer ever since.
Nicknamed 'Reggie,' he had a stellar season in 1972 when the Giants led the NFL in total offense and allowed the fewest quarterback sacks in the league as well. After five years as the starting right guard, Van Horn moved to right tackle in 1974 and had another solid campaign.
Reggie continued as the starting right tackle in 1975, again going all 14 games, and continued to be a leader on the field. Doug was particularly effective in the big win over Buffalo, not only in his pass blocking and on the run, but by the way he fired up the club in the final winning drive. In '76, he was again the starting right tackle all season long, appearing in all 14 games, and again contributed well with his leadership and ability.
Van Horn was one of Woody Hayes' top players in the 1960s, earning three letters with the Buckeyes as an offensive lineman and winning All-Big 10 honors twice as well as being named to the AP, UPI and Coaches' All-American teams in 1965.
Douglas Van Horn, a redhead, was born in Sedalia, Ohio and majored in marketing at Ohio State. He works as a stockbroker in the off-season with Stone-Webster in Columbus."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 63
Ohio State
"Van Horn was the No. 4 draft choice of the Detroit Lions in 1966, went into the Army the following year and rejoined the Lions in 1968, only to be released in training camp. He came to the Giants as a free agent and played that season in the Atlantic Coast League. He returned the following year to win a starting job at guard and has been a first-stringer ever since.
Nicknamed 'Reggie,' he had a stellar season in 1972 when the Giants led the NFL in total offense and allowed the fewest quarterback sacks in the league as well. After five years as the starting right guard, Van Horn moved to right tackle in 1974 and had another solid campaign.
Reggie continued as the starting right tackle in 1975, again going all 14 games, and continued to be a leader on the field. Doug was particularly effective in the big win over Buffalo, not only in his pass blocking and on the run, but by the way he fired up the club in the final winning drive. In '76, he was again the starting right tackle all season long, appearing in all 14 games, and again contributed well with his leadership and ability.
Van Horn was one of Woody Hayes' top players in the 1960s, earning three letters with the Buckeyes as an offensive lineman and winning All-Big 10 honors twice as well as being named to the AP, UPI and Coaches' All-American teams in 1965.
Douglas Van Horn, a redhead, was born in Sedalia, Ohio and majored in marketing at Ohio State. He works as a stockbroker in the off-season with Stone-Webster in Columbus."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Tuesday, May 7, 2019
1977 Profile: Bob Tucker
Tight End
No. 38
Bloomsburg State
"He caught 42 passes to lead the Giants. He caught 59 in 1971 to become the first tight end to lead the NFL in receiving.
He came to pro football the hard way, having played in places like Lowell, Mass. and Pottstown, PA in the Atlantic Coast Football League after graduating from Bloomsburg State in 1967. He latched on with the Giants as a free agent in 1970."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1977
"The pride of Bloomsburg State. And the only pass receiver the Giants have. Tucker led the club last year with 42 receptions and remains one of the best- if not the best- blocking tight ends.
Tucker set NAIA records at dear old Bloomsburg but went undrafted by the pros. The Giants got lucky when they signed him. His 59 receptions in 1971 were high in the NFC and made him the first tight end ever to win the receiving title.
Born in Hazelton, PA, Tucker played semipro ball with Lowell, Mass. and Pottstown, PA before making the NFL on his third try after being let go by the Eagles and Patriots. Now in his eighth year, he no longer has to look back. Gladly."
-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1977 Edition
"The Giants signed Tucker as a free agent in 1970 and he immediately beat out Aaron Thomas as the starting tight end. Bob caught 40 passes for 571 yards and five touchdowns that year and came very close to winning the NFL's Rookie of the Year award. In 1971, he became the first tight end in NFL history to take a receiving title when he caught 59 for 791 [yards] and four touchdowns. Additionally, he was the first Giant end to earn an individual [receiving] title since 1935, when Tod Goodwin led the league.
Tucker came back with another great season in 1972, winning All-NFL honors for the first time, grabbing 55 passes for 764 yards. In 1973, he again led the club with 50 catches to move past the 200 mark and added five more touchdowns, and in 1974 finished second on the club with 41 grabs.
He was again second in that department in 1975, grabbing 34 for 484 yards despite missing one game with an injury. Bob's big day was against the Saints when he had seven for 80 yards before being kayoed in the fourth period. His long gainer of the year was a dazzling 47-yard touchdown run with a screen pass against San Diego.
In 1976, playing 14 games, Bob again led the club in receiving with 42 for 498 yards and a touchdown (against the Rams) and his career total of 321 grabs moved him ahead of Kyle Rote into the third spot on the club's all-time list.
He holds the club record of catching passes in 45 straight games. Big, strong and a great runner, Bob had trials with the Eagles and Patriots and spent two seasons in the minor leagues with Lowell, Mass. and Pottstown, PA.
Bob set three NAIA records with Bloomsburg State in 1967- most receptions, highest single-game yardage and most yardage in a season. As a two-way end, he was named to the Little All-America team in 1967 but, strangely, no pro club took him in the draft.
Robert Tucker was born in Hazelton, Pennsylvania and is of Tyrolean-Polish descent. His father is a construction foreman in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Bob was a top student in college and earned a degree in biology. He represents Walsh & Walsh Insurance Co. in between football seasons."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 38
Bloomsburg State
"He caught 42 passes to lead the Giants. He caught 59 in 1971 to become the first tight end to lead the NFL in receiving.
He came to pro football the hard way, having played in places like Lowell, Mass. and Pottstown, PA in the Atlantic Coast Football League after graduating from Bloomsburg State in 1967. He latched on with the Giants as a free agent in 1970."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1977
"The pride of Bloomsburg State. And the only pass receiver the Giants have. Tucker led the club last year with 42 receptions and remains one of the best- if not the best- blocking tight ends.
Tucker set NAIA records at dear old Bloomsburg but went undrafted by the pros. The Giants got lucky when they signed him. His 59 receptions in 1971 were high in the NFC and made him the first tight end ever to win the receiving title.
Born in Hazelton, PA, Tucker played semipro ball with Lowell, Mass. and Pottstown, PA before making the NFL on his third try after being let go by the Eagles and Patriots. Now in his eighth year, he no longer has to look back. Gladly."
-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1977 Edition
"The Giants signed Tucker as a free agent in 1970 and he immediately beat out Aaron Thomas as the starting tight end. Bob caught 40 passes for 571 yards and five touchdowns that year and came very close to winning the NFL's Rookie of the Year award. In 1971, he became the first tight end in NFL history to take a receiving title when he caught 59 for 791 [yards] and four touchdowns. Additionally, he was the first Giant end to earn an individual [receiving] title since 1935, when Tod Goodwin led the league.
Tucker came back with another great season in 1972, winning All-NFL honors for the first time, grabbing 55 passes for 764 yards. In 1973, he again led the club with 50 catches to move past the 200 mark and added five more touchdowns, and in 1974 finished second on the club with 41 grabs.
He was again second in that department in 1975, grabbing 34 for 484 yards despite missing one game with an injury. Bob's big day was against the Saints when he had seven for 80 yards before being kayoed in the fourth period. His long gainer of the year was a dazzling 47-yard touchdown run with a screen pass against San Diego.
In 1976, playing 14 games, Bob again led the club in receiving with 42 for 498 yards and a touchdown (against the Rams) and his career total of 321 grabs moved him ahead of Kyle Rote into the third spot on the club's all-time list.
He holds the club record of catching passes in 45 straight games. Big, strong and a great runner, Bob had trials with the Eagles and Patriots and spent two seasons in the minor leagues with Lowell, Mass. and Pottstown, PA.
Bob set three NAIA records with Bloomsburg State in 1967- most receptions, highest single-game yardage and most yardage in a season. As a two-way end, he was named to the Little All-America team in 1967 but, strangely, no pro club took him in the draft.
Robert Tucker was born in Hazelton, Pennsylvania and is of Tyrolean-Polish descent. His father is a construction foreman in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Bob was a top student in college and earned a degree in biology. He represents Walsh & Walsh Insurance Co. in between football seasons."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Saturday, May 4, 2019
1977 Profile: Jim Steinke
Free Safety
No. 20
Southwest Texas State
"Steinke came to the Giants on waivers from the Cleveland Browns in 1974 just prior to the opening of the regular season and appeared in 13 games for the Giants as a cornerback and special team player. He started at right corner throughout the second half of the season and proved he was capable of getting the job done. On special teams, he was in on two blocked field goals during the season, including one against the Jets in the final seconds which sent that game into overtime.
In 1975, Jim got into 14 games as a starter at either the corner or free safety and performed extremely well. In one game he had two interceptions on Roger Staubach and the Cowboys for 41 yards returned and was again a special team leader, getting two blocked punts on the year- against St. Louis and New Orleans.
In 1976, playing 13 games, Jim had his best season. He had two pass interceptions, and one in the final seconds against the Redskins clinched a 12-9 upset victory. He also blocked a punt against Dallas and scored a touchdown against Denver by covering a blocked punt in the end zone. Jim had 86 tackles for the season and was a solid player at both the corner and free safety.
Jim won three letters as a cornerback in college, winning All-Conference honors twice as well as Little All-American honors his senior year. He played in the Senior Bowl and the Coaches' All-American Game, and also won two letters in track as a sprinter.
James L. Steinke was born in Houston, Texas and grew up in Johnson City where his father, Harold, was the communications director at the LBJ Ranch for President Johnson. Jim starred at Lyndon B. Johnson High School there. His uncle, Gil Steinke, coached at Texas A & I."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 20
Southwest Texas State
"Steinke came to the Giants on waivers from the Cleveland Browns in 1974 just prior to the opening of the regular season and appeared in 13 games for the Giants as a cornerback and special team player. He started at right corner throughout the second half of the season and proved he was capable of getting the job done. On special teams, he was in on two blocked field goals during the season, including one against the Jets in the final seconds which sent that game into overtime.
In 1975, Jim got into 14 games as a starter at either the corner or free safety and performed extremely well. In one game he had two interceptions on Roger Staubach and the Cowboys for 41 yards returned and was again a special team leader, getting two blocked punts on the year- against St. Louis and New Orleans.
In 1976, playing 13 games, Jim had his best season. He had two pass interceptions, and one in the final seconds against the Redskins clinched a 12-9 upset victory. He also blocked a punt against Dallas and scored a touchdown against Denver by covering a blocked punt in the end zone. Jim had 86 tackles for the season and was a solid player at both the corner and free safety.
Jim won three letters as a cornerback in college, winning All-Conference honors twice as well as Little All-American honors his senior year. He played in the Senior Bowl and the Coaches' All-American Game, and also won two letters in track as a sprinter.
James L. Steinke was born in Houston, Texas and grew up in Johnson City where his father, Harold, was the communications director at the LBJ Ranch for President Johnson. Jim starred at Lyndon B. Johnson High School there. His uncle, Gil Steinke, coached at Texas A & I."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Tuesday, April 16, 2019
1977 Profile: Al Simpson
Offensive Tackle
No. 79
Colorado State
"Big Al was the Giants' No. 2 draft selection in 1975 and saw extensive duty during his rookie campaign, mostly with special teams units. He did get into action frequently throughout the year at left offensive tackle and also played some at guard when injuries depleted the offensive unit. Simpson was a hard worker all year long, as attested to by his slicing his collegiate weight of 270 down to 250 for his initial NFL season.
In the past two years, he has worked at both left tackle and left guard and has continued to show solid progress. He was a starter at guard for eight games, appearing in 10, in 1976 and has to be regarded as a contender for a starting job in '77 at either guard or tackle.
Simpson began his collegiate career at McCook Junior College in Nebraska before moving to Colorado State, initially as a defensive tackle, then as an offensive tackle. His prowess there earned him second-team NEA All-American honors as well as MVP, Offense, at Colorado State his senior year. That year Colorado State ranked No. 1 in the country in passing offense, a tribute to the pass blocking on that team. Simpson also won a spot in the East-West Shrine Game his senior season.
Allen Ralph Simpson, Jr. was born in Pittsburgh. He played high school football and was a shot-putter at both Westinghouse High School and Wilkinsburg High School in Pittsburgh."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 79
Colorado State
"Big Al was the Giants' No. 2 draft selection in 1975 and saw extensive duty during his rookie campaign, mostly with special teams units. He did get into action frequently throughout the year at left offensive tackle and also played some at guard when injuries depleted the offensive unit. Simpson was a hard worker all year long, as attested to by his slicing his collegiate weight of 270 down to 250 for his initial NFL season.
In the past two years, he has worked at both left tackle and left guard and has continued to show solid progress. He was a starter at guard for eight games, appearing in 10, in 1976 and has to be regarded as a contender for a starting job in '77 at either guard or tackle.
Simpson began his collegiate career at McCook Junior College in Nebraska before moving to Colorado State, initially as a defensive tackle, then as an offensive tackle. His prowess there earned him second-team NEA All-American honors as well as MVP, Offense, at Colorado State his senior year. That year Colorado State ranked No. 1 in the country in passing offense, a tribute to the pass blocking on that team. Simpson also won a spot in the East-West Shrine Game his senior season.
Allen Ralph Simpson, Jr. was born in Pittsburgh. He played high school football and was a shot-putter at both Westinghouse High School and Wilkinsburg High School in Pittsburgh."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Sunday, March 31, 2019
1977 Profile: Gary Shirk
Tight End
No. 87
Morehead State
"Signed as a free agent in 1976 after spending two seasons with Memphis in the World Football League, Shirk made the club as the reserve tight end and also contributed as a special teams performer as well. All told, he had four catches for 52 yards, and a touchdown grab in the win over Seattle. As one of the deep blockers on the kickoff return units, he additionally came up with six kickoff returns for 109 yards and an 18.2 average. Shirk played in 14 games in 1976. His two-year stats at Memphis showed 49 catches for 936 yards and eight touchdowns.
A three-year letterman at Morehead State, Shirk won all-conference honors there and in 1973 was named MVP for his team. He majored in physical education.
Gary Lee Shirk was born in Marysville, Ohio, where he still lives, and played his high school football at Marysville High School."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 87
Morehead State
"Signed as a free agent in 1976 after spending two seasons with Memphis in the World Football League, Shirk made the club as the reserve tight end and also contributed as a special teams performer as well. All told, he had four catches for 52 yards, and a touchdown grab in the win over Seattle. As one of the deep blockers on the kickoff return units, he additionally came up with six kickoff returns for 109 yards and an 18.2 average. Shirk played in 14 games in 1976. His two-year stats at Memphis showed 49 catches for 936 yards and eight touchdowns.
A three-year letterman at Morehead State, Shirk won all-conference honors there and in 1973 was named MVP for his team. He majored in physical education.
Gary Lee Shirk was born in Marysville, Ohio, where he still lives, and played his high school football at Marysville High School."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Thursday, March 7, 2019
Monday, February 25, 2019
1977 Profile: Dennis Shaw
Quarterback
No. 11
San Diego State
"Shaw was signed as a free agent by the Giants late last season and was on the roster for the final five games but did not appear.
Originally a No. 2 draft choice of the Buffalo Bills, he became an instant starter there in 1970 and was named the AFC Rookie of the Year, completing 178 passes in 321 attempts for 2,507 yards and a 55.5% accuracy. He set a Bills record that year with 24 completions in one game.
Shaw was the Bills' starting quarterback for three seasons until he was sidelined by an injury in 1973 and lost the job to Joe Ferguson. He was traded to St. Louis for wide receiver Ahmad Rashad in 1974 but sat out that entire season, and after reserve duty in 1975 was released and was briefly with the Green Bay Packers in 1976 before signing on with the Giants. He spent this past off-season working out at Giants Stadium.
Shaw began his collegiate career at Mt. San Antonio Junior College, then moved on to San Diego State where he was a dynamic quarterback setting all kinds of passing records there, including 39 career touchdown receptions. In 1969, he set still another record by throwing nine touchdown passes in one game. Dennis played in the Senior Bowl, Pasadena Bowl, East-West Shrine Game, Coaches' All-America Game and College All-Star Game. He received a degree in physical education.
Dennis Wendell Shaw was born in Los Angeles and starred at Pomona Boys' Catholic High School in LaVerne, California. Skiing, tennis, fishing, golf and camping all rank high on his list of hobbies."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 11
San Diego State
"Shaw was signed as a free agent by the Giants late last season and was on the roster for the final five games but did not appear.
Originally a No. 2 draft choice of the Buffalo Bills, he became an instant starter there in 1970 and was named the AFC Rookie of the Year, completing 178 passes in 321 attempts for 2,507 yards and a 55.5% accuracy. He set a Bills record that year with 24 completions in one game.
Shaw was the Bills' starting quarterback for three seasons until he was sidelined by an injury in 1973 and lost the job to Joe Ferguson. He was traded to St. Louis for wide receiver Ahmad Rashad in 1974 but sat out that entire season, and after reserve duty in 1975 was released and was briefly with the Green Bay Packers in 1976 before signing on with the Giants. He spent this past off-season working out at Giants Stadium.
Shaw began his collegiate career at Mt. San Antonio Junior College, then moved on to San Diego State where he was a dynamic quarterback setting all kinds of passing records there, including 39 career touchdown receptions. In 1969, he set still another record by throwing nine touchdown passes in one game. Dennis played in the Senior Bowl, Pasadena Bowl, East-West Shrine Game, Coaches' All-America Game and College All-Star Game. He received a degree in physical education.
Dennis Wendell Shaw was born in Los Angeles and starred at Pomona Boys' Catholic High School in LaVerne, California. Skiing, tennis, fishing, golf and camping all rank high on his list of hobbies."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Sunday, February 3, 2019
1977 Profile: Jimmy Robinson
Wide Receiver
No. 85
Georgia Tech
"Signed by the Giants as a free agent prior to the 1976 training camp, Robinson won himself a berth by gritty performances in the preseason games and became a starting wide receiver early in the season, playing 12 games.. He finished the year with 18 receptions for 249 yards and put himself in the Giant record book by scoring the first Giant touchdown at brand new Giants Stadium, a 30-yard dazzler against the Dallas Cowboys. This tough little guy also doubled as a return man and had 20 kickoff returns for a 22.2 average and 24 punt returns for a 4.4 average.
He was the No. 15 draft choice of the Atlanta Falcons in 1975, but was released on the final and subsequently signed by the Giants.
Robinson was an outstanding wide receiver at Georgia Tech, winning three letters as a starter there and making any number of outstanding catches. He finished his college career with 101 receptions for 1,633 yards and 13 touchdowns.
James Peter Robinson was born in New York City but attended high school in Georgia where he was an all-around standout at Ridgeview High School in Atlanta. Jimmy's parents reside in Westchester County, N.Y., but Jimmy and his wife spend the off-seasons in Marietta, Ga."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 85
Georgia Tech
"Signed by the Giants as a free agent prior to the 1976 training camp, Robinson won himself a berth by gritty performances in the preseason games and became a starting wide receiver early in the season, playing 12 games.. He finished the year with 18 receptions for 249 yards and put himself in the Giant record book by scoring the first Giant touchdown at brand new Giants Stadium, a 30-yard dazzler against the Dallas Cowboys. This tough little guy also doubled as a return man and had 20 kickoff returns for a 22.2 average and 24 punt returns for a 4.4 average.
He was the No. 15 draft choice of the Atlanta Falcons in 1975, but was released on the final and subsequently signed by the Giants.
Robinson was an outstanding wide receiver at Georgia Tech, winning three letters as a starter there and making any number of outstanding catches. He finished his college career with 101 receptions for 1,633 yards and 13 touchdowns.
James Peter Robinson was born in New York City but attended high school in Georgia where he was an all-around standout at Ridgeview High School in Atlanta. Jimmy's parents reside in Westchester County, N.Y., but Jimmy and his wife spend the off-seasons in Marietta, Ga."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
Thursday, January 10, 2019
1977 Profile: Steve Ramsey
Quarterback
No. 17
North Texas State
"Has Sonny Jurgensen's build but not his arm. He's as uncertain as this country's water supply; some games he looks like Sam Baugh, other games he looks like Sam Ervin. Denver dumped him, although it was called a trade for Craig Morton. Ramsey threw 11 touchdown passes but also 13 interceptions.
Born in Dallas, Ramsey attended North Texas State where he was a passing fool. He was groomed to replace Charley Johnson in the Mile High City, and the project proved to be a mile over Ramsey's head. Now he is tossed in against reject Dennis Shaw and someone named Jerry Goldsteyn- Ramsey could become the No. 1 quarterback by default."
-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1977 Edition
"The Giants obtained Ramsey from the Denver Broncos in an off-season trade that sent Craig Morton to the Broncos. Ramsey was the starting quarterback for the Broncos in 1975 and 1976, showing 256 completions in 503 attempts for 3,493 yards and 25 touchdowns in those two years. His Bronco career marks were 919 attempts, 456 completions for 6,437 yards and 35 touchdowns. Originally a No. 5 draft choice of New Orleans, Steve had a brief stint there in 1970 before being traded to Denver in 1971.
Last season, in a 14-13 squeaker over the Giants, Steve was 8-for-14 for 104 yards and touchdown passes to Riley Odoms and Haven Moses before being kayoed on a sack by Jack Gregory.
Steve was a three-time All-Missouri Valley Conference choice at North Texas State and held NCAA career records at that time with 491 completions for 7,076 yards and 69 touchdown passes. He earned a B.B.A. degree in college.
Stephen Wayne Ramsey was born in Dallas, Texas and was a stellar all-around athlete at W.W. Samuel High School in Big D. Steve is in the custom home construction business in Dallas in the off-season. He lists fishing and hunting as his favorite hobbies."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
No. 17
North Texas State
"Has Sonny Jurgensen's build but not his arm. He's as uncertain as this country's water supply; some games he looks like Sam Baugh, other games he looks like Sam Ervin. Denver dumped him, although it was called a trade for Craig Morton. Ramsey threw 11 touchdown passes but also 13 interceptions.
Born in Dallas, Ramsey attended North Texas State where he was a passing fool. He was groomed to replace Charley Johnson in the Mile High City, and the project proved to be a mile over Ramsey's head. Now he is tossed in against reject Dennis Shaw and someone named Jerry Goldsteyn- Ramsey could become the No. 1 quarterback by default."
-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1977 Edition
"The Giants obtained Ramsey from the Denver Broncos in an off-season trade that sent Craig Morton to the Broncos. Ramsey was the starting quarterback for the Broncos in 1975 and 1976, showing 256 completions in 503 attempts for 3,493 yards and 25 touchdowns in those two years. His Bronco career marks were 919 attempts, 456 completions for 6,437 yards and 35 touchdowns. Originally a No. 5 draft choice of New Orleans, Steve had a brief stint there in 1970 before being traded to Denver in 1971.
Last season, in a 14-13 squeaker over the Giants, Steve was 8-for-14 for 104 yards and touchdown passes to Riley Odoms and Haven Moses before being kayoed on a sack by Jack Gregory.
Steve was a three-time All-Missouri Valley Conference choice at North Texas State and held NCAA career records at that time with 491 completions for 7,076 yards and 69 touchdown passes. He earned a B.B.A. degree in college.
Stephen Wayne Ramsey was born in Dallas, Texas and was a stellar all-around athlete at W.W. Samuel High School in Big D. Steve is in the custom home construction business in Dallas in the off-season. He lists fishing and hunting as his favorite hobbies."
-1977 New York Giants Media Guide
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