Saturday Reading

Giants

Dunleavy NJ.com: 6 reasons Giants will miss playoffs again | Did GM Dave Gettleman actually make defense worse?
https://www.nj.com/giants/2019/07/6-reasons-giants-will-miss-playoffs-again-did-gm-dave-gettleman-actually-make-defense-worse.html

Dan Schneier (@DanSchneierNFL)
7/19/19, 7:46 PM
My pre training camp Giants depth chart predictions thread on how it shapes up for Week 1.
Remember the base defense is 5 d backs, with 2-of-3 IDL. Subpackage on 84% of snaps. & lt;— More on that on the podcast. Down to debate in the mentions

Dan Schneier (@DanSchneierNFL)
7/19/19, 7:51 PM
QUARTERBACKS:
1. Eli Manning
2. Daniel Jones
3. Kyle Lauletta

RUNNING BACKS:
1. Saquon Barkley
2a. Paul Perkins (will die on this hill)
2b. Wayne Gallman
4. Rod Smith

Dan Schneier (@DanSchneierNFL)
7/19/19, 7:58 PM
A and b situation so it’s close but I’m interested to see Paul in Shurmurs scheme especially as a receiver and route runner

WIDE RECEIVER:
1. S. Shepard
2. Tate
3. Coleman
4. Latimer
5. Fowler
6. Slayton
7. Shepard

TIGHT END:
1. Evan Engram
2a. Rhett Ellison
2b. CJ Conrad
4. Scott Simonson

OFFENSIVE TACKLE:
1. Nate Solder
2. Mike Remmers
3. Chad Wheeler

George Asafo-Adjei - G/T

OFFENSIVE GUARD:
1. Kevin Zeitler
2. Will Hernandez

CENTER:
1. Jon Halapio
2. Spencer Pulley

Dan Schneier (@DanSchneierNFL)
7/19/19, 9:12 PM
Love ohagans potential but I wonder if being a rookie and making a jump from a non Power 5 school could spell practice squad and more development for his first year

DEFENSIVE LINE:
1 . BJ Hill
2. Dexter Lawrence
3. Dalvin Tomlinson
4. RJ McIntosh
5. Olsen Pierre

INSIDE BACKERS:
1. Alec Ogletree
2. BJ Goodson
3. Ryan Connelly
4. Tae Davis

EDGE BACKERS:
1. Lorenzo Carter
2. Markus Golden
3. Oshane Ximiens
4. Kareem Martin

CORNERBACKS:
1. Janoris Jenkins
2. Deandre Baker
3. Sam Beal
4. Julian Love
5. Corey Ballentine
6. Tony Lippett (if healthy again)

Dan Schneier (@DanSchneierNFL)
7/19/19, 8:37 PM
I was iffy on Haley. Wasnt sure. After discussing it live with;Turchyn on our defensive backs episode of BigBlueBanter I’ve come to think it’s possible with the new d backs coaches and talent added at the position, it’s tough. He’s a pure slot at his size. Need versatility

SAFETIES:
1. Jabrill Peppers
2. Antoine Bethea
3. Sean Chandler
4. Michael Thomas

Salomone Giants.com: 30 Questions in 30 Days: Deepest position on team?
https://www.giants.com/news/30-questions-in-30-days-deepest-position-on-team

WR

Traina Football Maven: Training Camp Roster Preview: Golden Tate
https://footballmaven.io/nygiants/api/amp/nygiants/news/training-camp-roster-preview-golden-tate-Z47nAxs3gUuG5iWPvBg6MA/

Defense

Schneier/Turchyn Big Blue Banter Podcast:
Listen to The Secondary: An All-22 Breakdown of the Giants' Defensive Backs for the 2019 Season (Audio)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/secondary-all-22-breakdown-giants-defensive-backs-for/id1387339234?

CB

Schmeelk Giants.com: Rookie CB Love adds versatility to defense
https://www.giants.com/news/rookie-cb-love-adds-versatility-to-defense

Giants.com: Giants Insider: CB Julian Love on transitioning from college to pros
Rookie cornerback Julian Love talks about doing whatever he can on the field to help the team win (Video)
https://www.giants.com/video/giants-insider-cb-julian-love-on-transitioning-from-college-to-pros

NFL

Brooks NFL.com: 6 bounce-back candidates; top 'Madden' snubs
https://amp.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001036282/article/nfls-2019-bounceback-candidates-madden-ratings-debates?

Florio PFT: NFL gradually has softened its hard-line approach to player discipline
https://sports.yahoo.com/amphtml/nfl-gradually-softened-hard-line-152343447.html

Smith Fantasy Data: Advanced QB Metrics: The Best and Worst Quarterbacks Under Pressure
https://fantasydata.com/advanced-metrics-the-best-and-worst-qbs-under-pressure

BALTIMORE
Kasinitz Penn Live: Baltimore Ravens position previews: At least one competition and plenty of continuity along O-line
https://www.pennlive.com/baltimore-ravens/2019/07/baltimore-ravens-position-previews-at-least-one-competition-and-plenty-of-continuity-along-o-line.html

Kasinitz Penn Live: Baltimore Ravens position previews: Earl Thomas arrives as a leader — and playmaker — at safety
https://www.pennlive.com/baltimore-ravens/2019/07/baltimore-ravens-position-previews-earl-thomas-arrives-as-a-leader-and-playmaker-at-safety.html

BUFFALO
Brown Bills.com: Bills sign veteran safety Kurt Coleman; Rafael Bush decides to retire
https://www.buffalobills.com/news/bills-sign-veteran-safety-kurt-coleman-rafael-bush-decides-to-retire

CHICAGO
Mayer Bears.com: Training camp position preview: Offensive line
https://www.chicagobears.com/news/training-camp-position-preview-offensive-line

CINCINNATI
Judis CincyJungle: Zac Taylor’s training camp will emphasize keeping players fresh
https://www.cincyjungle.com/2019/7/20/20700730/bengals-head-coach-zac-taylors-training-camp-2019

Hobson Bengals.com: Countdown To Training Camp: Can Dalton Return To Form?
https://www.bengals.com/news/countdown-to-training-camp-can-dalton-return-to-form

CLEVELAND
Patsko Cleveland Plain Dealer: Can the Browns slow down opposing tight ends in 2019? Cleveland Browns 19 questions
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2019/07/can-the-browns-slow-down-opposing-tight-ends-in-2019-cleveland-browns-19-questions.html

Burns Cleveland Plain Dealer: Where do Denzel Ward and the Cleveland Browns' defensive backs rank in the AFC North? -- 2019 Position Rankings
https://expo.cleveland.com/sports/g66l-2019/07/228b264dd42714/where-do-denzel-ward-and-the-cleveland-browns-defensive-backs-rank-in-the-afc-north-2019-position-rankings.html

Gribble Browns.com: Browns 2019 training camp preview: Analyzing the safeties
https://www.clevelandbrowns.com/news/browns-2019-training-camp-preview-analyzing-the-safeties

DALLAS
Jason OTC: Thoughts on the Cowboys and Ezekiel Elliott
https://overthecap.com/thoughts-on-the-cowboys-and-ezekiel-elliott/

Hairopolous Dallas Morning News: Cowboys position preview: It's Ezekiel Elliott's world at RB, but is Tony Pollard a lock at No. 2?
https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/dallas-cowboys/cowboys/2019/07/19/cowboys-position-preview-zekes-world-rb-will-tony-pollard-mike-weber-jr-no-2

DENVER
Mike Klis (@MikeKlis)
7/19/19, 3:36 PM
Fangio on Lock: “His college offense had no carryover to pro offenses. He was under duress a lot ... I don’t think he’s as far along being an NFL-ready QB as he could have been. … He’s not a QB yet. He’s a hard-throwing pitcher who doesn’t know how to pitch yet.’’

Dan Schneier (@DanSchneierNFL)
7/19/19, 8:24 PM
One sign the Giants know the clock is ticking and they need an upgrade at QB is the fact that they preferred Jones to Lock.
Lock had the athleticism they like, the arm talent they like, but they also might have felt similar to Fangio.
Something to consider.

O’Halloran Denver Post: Minus Todd Davis, Broncos begin looking at fill-in inside linebackers
https://www.denverpost.com/2019/07/19/broncos-todd-davis-inside-linebackers/amp/

GREEN BAY
Schwab Yahoo Sports: 2019 NFL preview: Aaron Rodgers, your revenge tour with the Packers begins
https://sports.yahoo.com/amphtml/2019-nfl-preview-aaron-rodgers-your-revenge-tour-with-the-packers-begins-123159927.html

Wilde State Journal: Packers by position: Experience everywhere on Packers’ offensive line — except with the guy coaching it
https://madison.com/sports/football/professional/packers-by-position-experience-everywhere-on-packers-offensive-line-except/article_baec972f-74eb-5daa-90a2-0b4ae662d99d.amp.html

Spofford Packers.com: Countdown to Camp: Linebacker groups have different makeups
https://www.packers.com/news/countdown-to-camp-linebacker-groups-have-different-makeups

HOUSTON
Wilson Houston Chronicle: Texans training camp: 10 questions
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/texas-sports-nation/texans/amp/Texans-training-camp-10-questions-14108173.php

JACKSONVILLE
Reid Florida Times Union: Rookie Josh Oliver a big upgrade for Jaguars at tight end
https://www.jacksonville.com/sports/20190719/rookie-josh-oliver-big-upgrade-for-jaguars-at-tight-end?

KANSAS CITY
Mellinger KC Star: The NFL’s investigation into Tyreek Hill is over. His new reality is just beginning
https://amp.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/sam-mellinger/article232906522.html

McCann MMQB: Making Sense of the NFL’s Controversial Decision to Not Suspend Chiefs’ Tyreek Hill
https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/07/19/tyreek-hill-chiefs-no-nfl-suspension-roger-goodell

LOS ANGELES RAMS
Simmons Rams.com: Countdown to Camp: Donald, Brockers lead strong group of Rams defensive linemen 
https://www.therams.com/news/countdown-to-camp-donald-brockers-lead-strong-group-of-rams-defensive-linemen

MIAMI
Deen Sun Sentinel: Dolphins add receiver Saeed Blacknall to roster before training camp
https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-dolphins/fl-sp-dolphins-saeed-blacknall-20190719-dpi4t35tmjfqzovha3byms6vce-story.html

MINNESOTA
Tomasson Twincities.com: ‘Blue-collar guy’ Garrett Bradbury looks like the Vikings’ next long-term cente
https://www.twincities.com/2019/07/19/blue-collar-guy-garrett-bradbury-could-be-vikings-next-long-term-center/amp/

Young Vikings.com: Patterson Evaluates 2019 Vikings D-Line, Anticipates ‘Tough Decisions’ for Roster
https://www.vikings.com/news/patterson-evaluates-2019-vikings-d-line-anticipates-tough-decisions-for-roster

NEW YORK JETS
Cimini ESPN NY: How Jets' Adam Gase went from 'annoying' lackey to NFL head coach
https://www.espn.com/blog/new-york/jets/post/_/id/80314/how-jets-adam-gase-went-from-annoying-lackey-to-nfl-head-coach?

Costello NYP: Jets have an important Leonard Williams call to make
https://nypost.com/2019/07/19/jets-have-an-important-leonard-williams-call-to-make/amp/

PHILADELPHIA
Bowen Phil.com: Eagles, Darren Sproles agree to one-year contract for next season
https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/eagles-darren-sproles-contract-extension-sign-running-back-depth-chart-20190719.html

Fierro Allentown Morning Call: Eagles potential victims of depth: Plenty of options at running back
https://www.mcall.com/sports/eagles/mc-spt-eagles-depth-victims-running-back-20190719-6oilc2zknbc2feeubmcvxl3tje-story.html

Field Yates (@FieldYates)
7/19/19, 5:28 PM
Eagles backfield now includes:
* Miles Sanders
* Jordan Howard
* Corey Clement
* Darren Sproles
* Wendell Smallwood
* Josh Adams
* Donnel Pumphrey
* Boston Scott

Kempski Phillyvoice: Eagles training camp preview: Specialists
https://www.phillyvoice.com/eagles-training-camp-preview-specialists-2019/amp/

PITTSBURGH
Zeise Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Steelers need more offensive balance if they want to make playoffs
https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/paul-zeise/2019/07/19/Steelers-offense-needs-more-balance-if-they-want-a-retuseahawks/ranking-the-seahawks-roster-rn-to-the-playoffs/stories/201907190080?

SEATTLE
Condotta Seattle Times: Ranking the Seahawks’ roster | Positions 45-31: A lot of rookies expected to play key roles
https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/positions-45-31-a-lot-of-rookies-expected-to-play-key-roles-show-up-on-the-list/?

Arthur Seattle PI: Seahawks' Wagner again recognized as one of NFL's best players -- and still no new contract
https://www.seattlepi.com/sports/seahawks/amp/Seahawks-Wagner-again-recognized-as-one-of-NFL-s-14108938.php

TAMPA BAY
Stroud TB Times: Bruce Arians comes aboard, but can he change the Bucs’ course?
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2019/07/19/bruce-arians-comes-aboard-but-can-he-change-the-bucs-course/?

TENNESSEE
Bacharach The Tennessean: How the Titans can reach double-digit wins for the first time since 2008
https://amp.tennessean.com/amp/1753762001

WASHINGTON
Bridges Redskins.com: 2019 Redskins in Richmond: Tight Ends
https://www.redskins.com/news/2019-redskins-in-richmond-tight-ends

Colleges/Draft

Miller B/R: Who Is the Top Senior Prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft Class?
https://syndication.bleacherreport.com/amp/2846124-who-is-the-top-senior-prospect-in-the-2020-nfl-draft-class.amp.html

RB
Potrykus Mil JS: NFL looms on the horizon but junior tailback Jonathan Taylor focused on leading UW to title
https://amp.jsonline.com/amp/1772042001

WR
Nystrom Rotoworld: Top-15 2020 NFL Draft WR Rankings
https://sports.yahoo.com/amphtml/top-15-2020-nfl-draft-004909339.html

History

Schwartz NYP: Saddened Giants remember fun-loving, intense Mitch Petrus
https://nypost.com/2019/07/19/saddened-giants-remember-fun-loving-intense-mitch-petrus/amp/#click=https://t.co/FtIRl0y8ew

Willis PFJ: The Top Quarterbacks—Pre-WWII

4)    Arnie Herber (1930-1940, 1944-1945) A stocky, powerful passer, the 5-11, 203-pound Herber played 13 NFL seasons with the Giants, but mostly with the Packers (11 years)…Because of short fingers and pudgy hands Herber gripped the ball with his thumb over the laces, helped him throw long passes without a wiggle. Mainly throwing out of a tailback spot in Lambeau’s Notre Dame box offense, Herber thrived in passing downfield. “Herber is the best long passer ever,” once said Curly Lambeau….threw 81 career TD passes, including 31 that were 30-yards or more…at one point held all the NFL career passing marks, until Baugh passed him; career stats: attempts (1,175), completions (481), yards (8.041) and TDs (81)…Helped the Packers win 2 NFL Championships, 1936, 1939…threw 4 TD passes in four career playoff games; including two in the 1936 game, a 21-6 victory over the Redskins…Named to NFL 1930s All-Decade Team…Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966…Named First-team All-Pro in 1932 by the NFL (HB) and UP; and in 1935 by Collyers…Second-team by NFL in 1935-1936; Collyers in 1932, 1936; and by GBPG in 1935…Honorable Mention by NFL in 1933 and 1937 and by the Football Writers in 1939…Elected to Packers Hall of Fame in 1972…durable player, played in 129 NFL games…Led the NFL in attempts, completions and TD passes 3 times, 1932, 1934 and 1936…finished in top 5 in TD passes 9 times…elected to 1 Pro Bowl, 1939….not an effective runner, only 3 rushing TDs.

“Herber’s touchdown passes can be as demoralizing as a Ruthian home run. He has the uncanny knack of arching a long pass so that the receiver simply races to the spot, makes the catch and speeds on without breaking stride.”—Clark Shaughnessy, on Herber

5) Benny Friedman (1927-1934) The first pure passing quarterback in the NFL. “No football team can be successful in these days without a good forward passer. The time when a ground attack could carry a team to successive victories has gone forever. To make a running attack successful a passing attack is needed to spread the defense,” wrote Friedman in his 1931 book “The Passing Game”…The 5-10, 183-pound Friedman played 8 seasons (81 games) with 4 different teams- Cleveland, Detroit, N.Y. Giants and Brooklyn Dodgers. Just a great passer…set NFL record with 20 TD passes in 1929 (broken in 1942 by Cecil Isbell with 24)…Led NFL in passing TDs four consecutive years, 1927-1930…his 66 career TD passes set an NFL record (broken by Herber)…First player to threw 5 TDs in a single game against Frankford in 1930 (Oct. 19)…could run when he wanted to, had 18 career TDs, including 6 in 1928…In 1928 Led the NFL in scoring with 55 points and XPs with 19…made 71 career XPs…only blemish on resume, did not win a NFL championship; came close in 1929 when he guided the Giants to a 13-1-1 record but lost out to the Packers (12-0-1) by one game…First-team All-Pros- Green Bay Press-Gazette: 4 times (1927-1930); NFL: 3 times (1928-1930); Chicago Tribune: 3 times (1927-1929);  twice by Collyers (1929-1930) and Roy Andrews (1927, 1929); once each in 1930 by the Milwaukee Sentinel, Red Grange, and Ernie Nevers…after decades was finally elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005.

“Friedman was the first of the great precision passers, the forerunner of the Sammy Baughs and Y.A. Tittles.”—Joe “Doc” Alexander, former All-Pro center, said in 1964.

“Until Friedman came along, the pass was used as a desperation weapon in long-yardage situations on third down- or when your team was hopelessly behind. Benny demonstrated that the pass could be mixed with running plays as an integral part of the offense.” – George Halas, former Bears end and Hall of Fame coach.

“They talk about great passers today, but remember that the football has been changed three times since the early 1930s, and each time it has been made narrower and the axis pulled in. Anybody could throw today’s football. You go back to Benny Friedman playing with the New York Giants in the late 1920s and early 1930s. He threw that old balloon. Now who’s to tell what Benny Friedman might do with this modern football. He’d probably be the greatest passer that ever lived.” – Red Grange, former Bears Hall of Fame halfback.

“Friedman was the first pro I was conscious of strictly as a passer. The pass in those days was a third down play. Friedman, who was probably ahead of his time, would throw on first down and was criticized for it.” – Wellington Mara, Giants Hall of Fame owner.

10)  Ed Danowski (1934-1939, 1941) Maybe not quite as gifted a passer as Baugh or Herber during his time, the 6-1, 198-pound Danowski made up for it with great leadership and accuracy. He played 7 NFL seasons (71 games), all with the New York Giants…Played 1940 season with the Jersey City Giants…Helped guide the Giants to two NFL Championships, 1934, 1938…1 Pro Bowl, 1938…threw 37 career TD passes; rushed for 4…had best statistical year in 1935, led NFL in attempts (113), completions (57), yards (794) and TDs (10)…also led NFL in passing completion percentage twice (1934-35)…highly accurate during his career, completed 48.5 % of passes (Herber at 40.9; Parker at 46.7; Isbell at 50.2, Luckman at 51.8; Baugh at 56.5)…Named First-team All-Pro in 1935 by UP, NFL (hb), GBPG, and Collyers; and in 1938 by NFL, UP, Collyers, Football Writers, NYDN and I.N.S….Named Second-team in 1937 by NFL and Collyers…Honorable Mention in 1936 by NFL and in 1937 by NFL and Collyers; coach Ray Flaherty named him Second-team in 1938…in 4 post-season games completed over 50 % of his passes and 4 TDs (team went 2-2)…big-time performer in two NFL Championship Games; in 1934 (Sneakers Game) against the Bears, Danowski had an interception on defense, then during 4th quarter rally, threw 1 TD and rushed for another in the 30-13 victory (had 59 rushing yards on 20 carries)…in the 1938 title game against the Packers, he went 7 of 11 for 74 yards and tossed 2 TDs, including the go-ahead score in the 3rd quarter to defeat Green Bay, 23-17…also threw a TD pass in the 1935 NFL Championship game against the Lions, although they lost (26-7)…During the 1930’s threw for 3,688 yards- only Herber threw for more (6,464, unofficial stats since started career in 1930).

“Ed Danowski was a great player. But he didn’t think he was a good player. He was timid. I loved playing with him. He could throw the football, it was like picking it off a table, right in your hands. Hit you right there. He could punt and he could run with the ball.” – Hank Soar, former Giants Pro Bowl back.

“Ed Danowski was one of the finest passers the Giants ever had, and one of the most accurate in football history…Danowski never paid any attention to a rusher. He never took his eyes off his receivers. He threw many a pass which he never saw completed, when rifled the ball he was hit and went down. ”- wrote Steve Owen in his book, My Kind of Football (1952).

19)  Harry Newman (1933-1935) A protégé of Benny Friedman (both played at Michigan), the 5-8, 179-pound Newman played just 3 seasons in the NFL (32 games), all with the New York Giants. Key contributor to the Giants, playing in the NFL’s First Championship Game against the Bears. Had a great title game going 13 of 19 for 209 yards and 2 TDs (had 1 INT); also had 2 punt returns for 36-yards and 2 kickoff returns for 48-yards)…hurt back and missed the last four games of the regular season in 1934 and the NFL Champ. Game (Sneakers Game; Danowski starred)…as a rookie in 1933, dominated the QB position by leading the NFL in attempts (136), completions (53), yards (973) and TDs with 11—closest to him was Glenn Presnell with 6…Despite being a gifted passer, Newman set an NFL record for rushing attempts in a game against the Packers in 1934 (Nov. 11). He ran the ball a whopping 38 times—a mark that wouldn’t be equaled until Jim Nance of the Patriots did it in 1966 and surpassed by O.J. Simpson (39 carries) in 1973…In 1933 named First-team All-Pro by the NFL and Second-team by UP, GBPG and the Brooklyn Eagle…Second-team in 1934 by NFL, UP, and GBPG…scored 6 rushing TDs and 1 kickoff return TD…after a contract dispute with Tim Mara, left the Giants and played in the rival AFL for two seasons, 1936-37…did not play in the NFL again.

“Harry was a sort of Benny Friedman clone, he was short, stocky an indestructible (player) and a very smart quarterback, just like Friedman.”—Wellington Mara, former Giants owner, about Newman.

“I was very impressed by Newman. I thought he was a great quarterback. Good ball faker. I liked him, thought he was a good ballplayer.”—Charles “Ookie” Miller, former Bears All-Pro center.”

http://nflfootballjournal.blogspot.com/2019/07/the-top-quarterbackspre-wwii.html

Willis PFJ: The Best-ever Pre WW II Halfbacks

“5)      FB-HB- Tuffy Leemans (1936-1943) Rounding out the top 5 is the man they call “Tuffy.” The 6-0, 195-pound Leemans played 8 seasons (80 games) with the New York Giants. Was a 2nd round pick by the Giants (18th overall) in 1936 Draft (scouting by Wellington Mara). Could do everything really well, run, pass, catch and play defense; as well as return kicks…Had an uncanny ability to wiggle his hips, make sudden twist or cut back to avoid any big hits. Also played some fullback in Steve Owen’s offense…“He was not fast, but his change of pace was uncanny, and he always seemed to be running with a touchdown in prospect…Leemans is best remembered for his hips. Tacklers would bounce off those hips. He would roll and pivot with a tackler, shake him loose and come up running,” wrote Steve Owen in his book, My Kind of Football (1952).

Absolutely a workhorse from the start. Led NFL in rushing as a rookie in 1936 with 830 yards (league-high 206 carries). Was Giants single-season record until 1951 when Eddie Price ran for 971…would go on to have 100 or more carries in 6 straight seasons (1936-1941)…member of Giants team that won 3 division titles and the 1938 NFL Championship…led Giants in rushing 5 times (1936, 1938-1941)…was a team leader…finished career with 3,132 rushing yards and 17 TDs; added 3 receiving scores (20 total)…excelled as a passer, especially later in his career throwing for 2,318 yards and 25 TDs, including a career-high 7 in 1942 (6th best in NFL). Led Giants in passing 3 times, 1941-1943…mixed results in 4 post-season games. Had excellent performance in the 1938 NFL Championship Game, rushing 12 times for 43 yards and 1 TD in the victory against the Packers; but the other 3 games (all losses) carried 28 times for just 49 yards and 0 scores…NFL 1930s All-Decade Team…Pro Football Hall of Fame, 1978…his number 4 jersey retired by Giants…First-team All-Pro by NFL in 1936, 1939; by Collyers in 1936; by UP, NYDN and I.N.S. in 1939…Second-team by NFL in 1937, 1941; by UP in 1936, 1938; by Collyers in 1938-39; by NYDN in 1937-1938, 1941; by Football Writers in 1938-1939; by I.N.S. in 1940, 1942 and by AP in 1940-1942…Honorable mention by NFL in 1938, 1940…made two Pro Bowls, 1938, 1941…Member of Giants Ring of Honor.

“He wasn’t really fast, but he had everything else a good runner needed- balance, the ability to pick a hole, things like that. And he was tough. In those days, you weren’t really down until they held you down, so he’d always scratch and crawl and fight for a few extra yards.”—Jim Lee Howell, former Giants end and teammate.

“Tuffy Leemans had it all. He could run, pass and catch and he played truly outstanding defense. He was aggressive, dedicated and gave 100 percent at all times to a game he loved. In my opinion, he ranks among the all-time greats.”—Wayne Millner, former Redskins Hall of Fame end.

“He blocked and ran like a bull, tackled like a fool, and caught the ball beautifully. (But) Leemans was probably greater on defense than on offense. He was a bugger on defense, all over the field, always in on the action.”—Alex Wojciechowicz, former Lions-Eagles Hall of Fame center.

8)      WB- Ward Cuff (1937-1947) A borderline Hall of Fame candidate, who could do everything (not a threat to pass from his wingback position). The 6-1, 192-pound Cuff played 11 years (110 games) for 3 teams (Cardinals, Packers) but mainly played his entire career with the New York Giants (9 years). Premiere kicker of his time. Converted 43 FGs and was 155 of 162 on XPs, a clip of 96%…Led the NFL in FGs made 4 times, 1938-1939, 1943, 1947. Finished in Top 5 of FGs made 8 times. Also was in Top 10 in scoring 8 times…helped the Giants win 4 divisional titles and the 1938 NFL Championship- where he kicked 2 XPs and 1 FG against the Packers, 23-17 victory…scored 21 career TDs (13 rec., 7 rush., 1 INT return)…on film always around the ball and always made plays- on both offense and defense. Had excellent ball skills and was very durable, playing in over 100 games…finished career with 3,410 yards from scrimmage (1,851 rush., 1,559 rec.). Averaged a robust 5.4 yard per carry…never the top dog in the Giants rushing game, but twice led NFL in rushing average per carry, in 1943 (80 carries) with a 6.5 avg. and in 1944 with a 5.6 avg. (tied with Steve Van Buren). His 80 rushing attempts in 1943 was a career-high…had great range as a def. back with 13 career INTs for 263 yards…In 1941 Led NFL in INT return yards with 152…in 1938 had a 96-yard INT return for a TD against the Redskins (won game 36-0) to set Giants team record. Broke by Erich Barnes in 1961 (102-yards)…solid kick returner…made 3 Pro Bowls, 1938-1939, 1941…First-team All-Pro by UP in 1941, 1943-1944. Pro Football Illustrated in 1944…Second-team in 1938 by I.N.S.; in 1939 by Football Writers and I.N.S.; in 1943 by NYDN…Honorable mention by NFL 4 times, 1937-1939, 1941 and by Football Writers in 1938…Giants retired his no. 14 jersey (briefly came out of retirement for Y.A. Tittle, then retired again for both players).

“Ward was outstanding as a runner, a receiver, and a defensive halfback. Above all, he was an Iron Man who could play with so many injuries that he often seemed to be taped from head to toe before he put on his uniform.”—wrote Steve Owen in his book My Kind of Football (1952).

15)  HB- Henry “Hinkey” Haines (1925-1929, 1931) A very shifty, elusive back, the 5-10, 170-pound Haines played 6 seasons (53 games) with 2 teams- New York Giants and Staten Island Stapletons…Also played for the Frankford Yellow Jackets before they joined the NFL…Outstanding athlete who played a few major league games with the New York Yankees in 1923. Wasn’t a good hitter, so he found more success on the gridiron…In 1925 scored the first TD in New York Giants history, a 5-yard run, against the Cleveland Bulldogs- which also was the team’s first ever victory, 19-0…member of the 1927 Giants team that won NFL Championship, he finished sixth in the league in scoring with 36 points (6 TDs)…excellent in open field, had speed to run away from defenders; had 3 career TDs of 70-or-more yards…”Haines specialized in speed running and was dangerous on passes and punts as well as from scrimmage,” wrote Steve Owen in his book My Kind of Football (1952)…scored 22 career TDs, had 14 rushing, 6 rec. and 2 on kick returns…never made a First-team All-Pro…Second-team in 1925 by Ohio State Journal; in 1926 by GBPG; in 1927 by GBPG and coach Leroy Andrews…Third-team in 1925 by Collyers.

16)  HB-FB Doug Wycoff (1926-1927, 1929-1932, 1934) After playing in the rival AFL in 1926, Wycoff played 6 seasons (68 games) in the NFL for 3 different teams- Staten Island, New York Giants and Boston. The 6-0, 206-pound Wycoff was an excellent player, doing everything well…with Staten Island, played in same backfield as Hall of Famer Ken Strong- would line up at fullback sometimes…could run and pass; had 8 career TD passes…won 1927 NFL Championship with Giants; that season scored 3 TDs, including an interception return to help beat Pottsville, 16-0; was part of defense that only surrender 20 points all year with 10 shutouts…was player-coach for the 1929-1930 Stapletons, had overall record of 8-9-5 and two 6th place finishes. Helped team win ballgames. In 1930 scored a 4th quarter TD to defeat the Brooklyn Dodgers, 6-0, then four days later on Thanksgiving, Wycoff scored another TD to beat the Giants, 7-6, to upset the Giants who finished in 2nd place behind the Packers…had a 77-yard INT return for a TD in 1931 with the Giants…scored 13 career TDs (11 rush., 2 INT returns)…Named First-team All-Pro by coach Leroy Andrews in 1929…Second-team by Collyers in 1929 and Honorable mention in 1930.

20)  HB- Kink Richards (1933-1939) Strong and quick runner, the 5-11, 195, Richards played 7 seasons (73 games), all with the New York Giants. Very durable and versatile, Richards helped the Giants win 2 NFL Championships, 1934, 1938…Very productive, scoring 19 total TDs (12 rushing, 7 receiving)…Led NFL in TDs in 1933 with 7 (also tied for lead in rec. TDs with 3)…Led NFL in rushing attempts in 1935 (135)…Led Giants in rushing in 1935 (449 yards)…in career had 2,412 yards from scrimmage…Second-team All-Pro in 1935 by UP…Honorable mention by NFL in 1933, 1935…overshadowed by backfield mates Ken Strong and Tuffy Leemans.

“Richards came unheralded from a small school, Simpson College, to break the game wide open with his dazzling running. He was cute. He had speed. He could cut. He could shake tackles. He was big enough to drive, too.”—wrote Steve Owen in his book My Kind of Football (1952).

22)  WB- Hap Moran (1926-1933) The tall and athletic Moran (6-1, 190) played 8 years (99 games) in the NFL with 4 different teams (Frankford, Cardinals, Pottsville), but played his best football with the New York Giants (6 years)…Member of the 1926 Frankford Yellow Jackets that won the NFL championship. Excellent all-round back who could do everything, include kicking (made 22 career XPs)…threw 7 career TD passes and scored 22 career TDs…also played some wingback…later in career showed the skill to score long TDs with a 71-yard run in 1932 (vs Brooklyn) and a 70-yard catch in 1933 (vs Philadelphia)…in 1930 had the longest run in Giants history with a 91-yard run against the Packers (wasn’t a TD), this record was later broken 75-years later in 2005 by Tiki Barber, 95-yards vs Oakland…Collyers named Moran honorable mention in 1930 and Second-team in 1931.

4)  WB- Dale Burnett (1930-1939) A durable, steady player for a decade, the lanky 6-1, 187-pound Burnett played 10 seasons (115 games) for the New York Giants…played for Steve Owen, who used him as a pass receiving weapon. “Dale Burnett was my most effective pass receiver,” wrote Owen in his book My Kind of Football (1952)…played in same backfield with Benny Friedman, then Ken Strong, Harry Newman-Ed Danowski; then with Tuffy Leemans…helped the Giants win 5 division titles and 2 NFL Championships, 1934, 1938…could block and really catch the football…finished career with 19 receiving TDs (27 total TDs)…5 straight years he finished in the Top 10 in receptions (1932-1936)…tied for NFL lead in TD catches in 1933 with 3…had a TD catch in 9 of his 10 seasons…led Giants in receiving 3 times, 1933, 1936, 1938; finished career with 92 catches for 1,310 yards. Also led Giants team in scoring in 1935 (36 points)…in 1933 NFL Championship game had 5 receptions for 94 yards (nearly scored game-winner with lateral but was tackled by Red Grange)…made 1 Pro Bowl, 1938…played solid defense, in 1933 ran back an interception for 84-yards to help defeat the Packers, 17-6…Named Honorable mention 3 times by the NFL, 1932, 1935, 1937.

29)  HB- Hank Soar (1937-1944, 1946) Underrated, the rather burly 6-2, 205-pound Soar played 9 seasons (82 games) as a super-sub for the New York Giants. Played for Steve Owen, Soar usually came in to give Leemans, Cuff and the other Giants backs a break. But was a highly serviceable back….was part of 5 division championships (1938-39, 1941, 1944, 1946) and 1 NFL Championship, 1938…made one of the biggest plays in Giants post-season history, by catching the game-winning TD from Ed Danowski in the 3rd quarter of the 1938 NFL Championship Game to give the Packers a 23-17 victory- that game he had 20 carries for 68 yards and 3 catches for 41…had 10 career TDs (6 rush., 2 rec., 2 INTs returns). In those games the Giants went 10-0…made 1 Pro Bowl, 1938…led Giants in rushing in 1937 with 442 yards (beating out Leemans) and led team in receiving twice, 1938-39…after playing career was over became a longtime major league baseball umpire, was on field for Dodgers’ Dan Larsen perfect game in the 1956 World Series.

41)  HB-WB John “Shipwreck” Kelly (1932-1934, 1937) The athletic, flamboyant Kelly played 4 seasons (26 games) with Brooklyn and the New York Giants. Tall and versatile, the 6-2, 190-pound Kelly could run and catch. Not as good a passer as some on this list, throwing 0 TDs and 11 INTs…scored 8 career TDs (26 games)…Led NFL in receptions (22) and receiving TDs (3) in 1933…Second-team All-Pro in 1933 by UP, Chicago Daily News, and Brooklyn Eagle; while named Honorable Mention by NFL…was co-owner of the Brooklyn Dodgers with Dan Topping.

“One of our most colorful players in the early years was Shipwreck Kelly…He was truly colorful, a man about town. Still he was a fine football player when he wanted to be.” – Mel Hein, former Giants All-Pro center and teammate.

44)  Tony Plansky (1928-1930) Built like a building, the 6-2 215-pound Plansky played just 3 NFL seasons (18 games) with the New York Giants and one game with Boston. Plansky was a 3-time National Decathlon Champion from 1925-1927. A clerical mix-up kept him off the 1928 Olympic team. He then decided to play pro football. In 1928 was a old rookie at 28-years old. He makes the list off one monster year that helped the Giants go 13-1-1 and almost win the NFL Championship…teamed with QB Benny Friedman to score a league-high 312 points…scored 9 TDs that season (8 rush., 1 rec.), his 62 points was 3rd in the NFL (Nevers, 85, Len Sedbrook, 66)…Named First-team All-Pro in 1929 by Collyers, GBPG, Chicago Tribune and coach Leroy Andrews…couldn’t duplicate his success in 1929, retired after the 1930 season after playing one game with Boston. Might’ve had a better career if he joined the pro ranks earlier.”

http://nflfootballjournal.blogspot.com/2019/07/the-best-ever-pre-ww-ii-halfbacks.html

Turney PFJ: Elvin Bethea and Deacon Jones—Washouts at Left Offensive Tackle
https://nflfootballjournal.blogspot.com/2018/05/elvin-bethea-and-deacon-joneswashouts.html

Giants Birthdays 7-20

Brittan Golden WR FA-AZ 2019 7-20-1988

Dave Hatchcock DB TR-GB 1967 NYG 1967 NYG IR 1968 7-20-1943

“David Gary Hathcock was born on July 20, 1943 in Memphis, Tennessee.  In high school, Hathcock won state championships in the high hurdles and the decathlon and won a full scholarship to his hometown Memphis State University in 1961. He starred at track there for four years, while thinking about training to try out for the 1968 Olympics in the decathlon. Still needing one class to graduate and having used up his track eligibility in 1965, Dave wrangled a one-year football scholarship. By game four, Dave was the team’s starting “Monster Man” (a hybrid safety/linebacker) at six-foot 195-pounds, and Memphis went on a five-game winning streak. Still, in November when he got a telegram from the Packers saying they had drafted him in the 17th round, he thought it was a joke.
With veteran defensive back Hank Gremminger having been traded in late June, Hathcock took advantage of the open slot and made the team. His primary duty was on kick coverage and return teams. The only game in which Dave got to play much on defense was week seven against the expansion Falcons. Green Bay beat Atlanta 56-3 that day, and Hathcock played about half the game at safety. That week, the Milwaukee Journal noted, “Hathcock has impressed the coaches with his quickness and hitting power.”
As part of the 1966 Packers, Hathcock earned an additional $15,000 by being on the winning team in Super Bowl I against the Kansas City Chiefs. Dave made a couple of tackles on returns in that game, but it also signaled the end of his time in Green Bay. Covering a punt in the closing minutes of the game, he was hit in the knee and suffered cartilage damage. Still not fully recovered, he reported to training camp in 1967 but was beaten out for the sixth defensive back slot by third round draft pick John Rowser.  On September 11, 1967, a week before the start of the season, Hathcock was traded to the Giants for a 10th round draft pick.
Hathcock led the Giants in kickoff returns in 1967, but played less than half the season. In week six, ironically against the Packers, Dave aggravated his bad knee on the opening kickoff and never played in the NFL again. Dave spent 36 years teaching drafting and woodworking in a number of primarily black Tennessee high schools, while also coaching several state track champions and serving as an assistant football coach.”

https://packerspastperfect.wordpress.com/2017/07/20/dave-hathcock-turns-74/amp/

Ron Stone RG RFA-DAL 1996 NYG 1996-2001 7-20-1971

Freeman NYT: PRO FOOTBALL: NOTEBOOK; Salary Cap Could Cost Giants a Star (4-08-2001)

“Last week, the Giants began their exhaustive meetings and preparations for the college draft. Traditionally few teams in the National Football League have put more effort into the April ritual. But even as he prepares for the draft, General Manager Ernie Accorsi has a few other things on his mind, and one of them is the future of the Pro Bowl guard Ron Stone.
For the past few seasons, Stone has been one of the more steady and respected players not just in the Giants' locker room, but also in the entire league. A quiet leader on the offensive line, Stone was a key reason the Giants had one of the N.F.L.'s best rushing attacks last season. As a result, Stone earned his first Pro Bowl berth.
Two weeks ago, Stone's agent, Brad Blank, hoping to extend the player's contract, presented the Giants a financial proposal that basically mirrored the contract of another Pro Bowl guard, Kansas City's Will Shields. Shields recently signed a six-year, $26 million deal that included a $7 million bonus.
That is market value, or close to it, for a player of Stone's caliber.
The Giants' reply to the proposal? Thanks but no thanks.
The team has its reasons. The Giants have a number of players who are potential free-agents or could soon have their contracts restructured, including defensive end Michael Strahan, quarterback Kerry Collins and safety Shaun Williams. The Giants do not believe they can commit to Stone the kind of money he is asking for with so many ther important contracts pending.

Basically, the Giants have put Stone on their back burner.
Such an approach is a great risk for the team. The Giants will have time to try to persuade Stone to lower his asking price, but don't count on his doing that. Why should he? Pro Bowl guards are not easy to come by, and some team will pay Stone the money he is looking for should he become a free agent after next season.
Stone's case is a perfect example of how the salary cap does keep player salaries from escalating out of control, but it also shows how it forces teams to make tough personnel decisions, and in the process anger some of their key players, like Stone.
Stone will most likely not hold out this season to get a contract extension, but according to a person close to the player, Stone plans to play out his current deal with the team, which ends after next season. Then, Stone would enter the free agent market, where he would command big bucks as one of the premier guards in the game.
''We want to keep Ron, but I have to keep the big picture in mind as best as I can,'' Accorsi said. ''This is a tough situation. Unfortunately, you can't make everybody happy. The salary cap won't allow it.''
Indeed, a lot of people are irritated over this situation, most of all Stone, and it is possible next season will be his last with the Giants.”

https://www.nytimes.com/2001/04/08/sports/pro-football-notebook-salary-cap-could-cost-giants-a-star.html

Jacquain Williams OLB D6-South Florida 2011 NYG 2011-2014 7-20-1988