Today In Patriots History May 9: Tom Yewcic

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Tom Yewcic​

In memory of Tom Yewcic, who would have turned 93 today
Born May 9, 1932 in Conemaugh, Pennsylvania
Died October 21, 2020 at the age of 88 in Arlington, Massachusetts
Patriot punter/quarterback/halfback/flanker, 1961-1966; uniform #14
Signed as a free agent on January 21, 1961
Pats résumé: six seasons, 377 punts for 14,553 yards; 87 completions for 1,374 yards (15.8 ypc), 12 TD; 72 carries, 424 yards, 4 TD; 7 receptions
Pats coaching résumé: assistant (1967); offensive backs (1968); special teams (1976-78); offensive backs (1979-80)


Tom Yewcic was a late (319th) draft pick by the Steelers in 1954, but chose instead to play baseball. He was the MVP of the 1954 college world series and signed with the Tigers. Yewcic was in Detroit's minor league system through 1959, only making it to the big leagues for three innings of one game in 1957 before switching to football.

Trivia #1: Tom Yewcic is the only person to appear in two professional sports at Fenway Park: his one MLB game against the Red Sox in 1957, and with the Pats from '63-'66.​

For six seasons Yewcic was a punter and backup QB for the Pats. He was also occasionally used at halfback, and at flanker in 1961. Over his career he ran (72 times for 424 yards, 4 TD, 5.9 ypc) almost as often as he passed (87 completions, 12 TD). His 377 punts ranks second in franchise history.

Trivia #2: Tom Yewcic is the only Patriot besides Tom Brady to have punted, caught a pass, thrown a touchdown pass and rushed for a touchdown.​

Yewcic had a 46 yard reception in a 46-17 1961 victory over Denver, and his 90 yards rushing helped down the New York Titans at BU Field in '62.

Trivia #3: Yewcic holds the franchise record for longest run by a punter, a 20-yard gain against the Raiders at Nickerson Field in 1962.​

Tom Yewcic is also a member of the Patriots All-Decade Team of the 1960s as their punter. After retiring he worked with the Patriots until 1981 as a coach and a scout. In between Tom was also head coach of the New England Colonials; in 1973 he was named coach of the year after winning the Atlantic Coast Football League championship with a 13-2 record. Yewcic then transitioned to commercial business, selling medical supplies to doctors and hospitals.


Tom Yewcic: Former Football and Baseball All-American -- MSU Athletics

Pittsburgh Steeler fans have the "Immaculate Reception."​

Boston College faithful remember Doug Flutie's "Hail Mary."​

In East Lansing, Michigan State followers revel in the thought of the "Transcontinental Pass."​

It was 1951; the Spartans were down 20-17 to Big Ten powerhouse Ohio State. In the closing minutes, legendary coach Biggie Munn called for their secret play.​

Michigan State broke the huddle and lined up in their familiar wing T formation. The ball was snapped directly to the fullback and pitched to the right halfback. The halfback, running as though the play would be a sweep pulled up and threw the ball clear across the field to the quarterback who was streaking down the sidelines.​

Touchdown! Spartans win! 24-20!​

That halfback was Tom Yewcic and that play will forever be known as the "Transcontinental Pass."​

Trivia #4: Tom Yewcic is not just the only player to ever win a Rose Bowl and also be named the College World Series Most Valuable Player - he accomplished that feat in the same year!


Tom Yewcic: 2013 Michigan State Baseball Distinguished Alumnus of the Year

One of the most decorated Spartans in school history, Yewcic was the starting quarterback in 1952 and 1953, leading the Spartans to an undefeated national championship in '52 and the program's first-ever Big Ten Championship and Rose Bowl victory during the '53 season. In the spring of 1954, the first-team All-American catcher helped the baseball team win its first Big Ten title and advance to the College World Series.​

Feb 4, 2008:

Catching Up with Tom Yewcic

He played six seasons for the Boston Patriots and is considered one of the greatest punters in the team's history. A versatile athlete, Tom Yewcic sits behind only Rich Camarillo on the New England Patriots all-time list in punts (378)...

www.masslive.com

He played six seasons for the Boston Patriots and is considered one of the greatest punters in the team's history.​

A versatile athlete, Tom Yewcic sits behind only Rich Camarillo on the New England Patriots all-time list in punts (378) and punt yardage (14,553). He held the league record for most yards kicked in one game. Yewcic played for the Patriots from 1961-1966, and he did much more than punting. He also played quarterback and threw for 1,374 yards and 12 touchdowns over his six-year career.​

"It was a little different then than it is today," said Yewcic. "Today you are talking about a 53-man roster and talking specialization as far as centers, punters and kickers. When I was playing it was only a 32-man roster.​

"With a 32-man roster, you had to play more than one position in order to make the team. I was really a halfback coming out of high school, but when I went to Michigan State they converted me over to quarterback. It wasn't a big adjustment."​

Oct 21, 2020:

Fomer Patriots punter, quarterback Tom Yewcic passes away

Yewcic played for the Boston Patriots as a punter and quarterback, and was a two sport athlete who also played in the major leagues.

www.wcvb.com

He signed with the Patriots in 1961 following a half a season with Toronto of the Canadian Football League.​

Yewcic was used chiefly as a punter in 1961 and the first half of 1962 before being pressed into service as a starting quarterback when Babe Parilli suffered an injury and sparked the Patriots to three straight wins.​

Excellent long-form article on Tom Yewcic here:

Obituary: Tom Yewcic (1932-2020)

RIP to Tom Yewcic, a quarterback and punter who played six seasons in the NFL for the Boston (now New England) Patriots. Before he did that, he played one game for the Detroit Tigers in 1957. Yewci…

ripbaseball.com

Yewcic decided to give pro sports one more try and signed with the Boston Patriots of the American Football League in 1961. He was asked in training camp about the differences between college and pro football and replied that that the mental game of football was much tougher in college. The physical game, however, was more difficult in pro football.

“Make a mistake in college and you might get away with it. Make a mistake in pro football and you find yourself looking at a lot of large, angry, unfriendly beasts who want to do you a lot of damage.”

Yewcic made the Patriots as a punter and a backup quarterback — even though he had originally signed as a defensive end. He had a very good 6-year career with the Patriots, doing a little bit of everything.

Thomas Yewcic Obituary | Keefe Funeral Homes | Arlington, MA

View Thomas Yewcic's complete obituary, share memories, and explore 183 tribute posts from the community.

www.keefefuneralhome.com

Tom Yewcic, two-sport star for Michigan State, dies at 88

Tom Yewcic, who was starting quarterback for Michigan State's 1952 national title team and earned MVP honors for the Spartans in the '54 College World Series, died at age 88.

www.espn.com

Tom Yewcic Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Checkout the latest stats for Tom Yewcic. Get info about his position, age, height, weight, college, draft, and more on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Tom Yewcic Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Tom Yewcic Transactions

Pro Football Archives -- Tom Yewcic Coaching Record

Tom Yewcic Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

Check out the latest Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More of Tom Yewcic. Get info about his position, age, height, weight, draft status, bats, throws, school and more on Baseball-reference.com

www.baseball-reference.com

Tom Yewcic - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[Pape]

Today in Patriots History
Tom Yewcic

lol, i love that "running for my life" pic, an all time great Pats photo...

a few more of Tom Yewcic...

 

[Clonamery]

"Died October 21, 2020 at the age of 8 in Arlington, Massachusetts"

Man knew how to stay young through sports.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Another Boston Patriot​

In memory of John "Big Butch" Charles, who would have turned 81 today
Born May 9, 1944 in Newark; raised in Linden, New Jersey
Died June 16, 2019 at the age of 75 in Houston, Texas
Patriot cornerback/strong safety, 1967-1969; uniform #25
Pats 1st round (21st overall) selection of the 1967 NFL draft, from Purdue
Pats résumé: three seasons, 39 games (34 starts); six interceptions for 110 yards, with two pick-sixes

John James Charles played corner with the '67 Patriots before moving to safety for the next two seasons. He appeared in 39 games with 34 starts for the Pats with six interceptions and two fumble recoveries. Charles has two interceptions that were returned for touchdowns - both off Joe Namath and the Jets. The Patriots sent Charles to Minnesota on October 2, 1970 along with a 1972 first round draft pick as compensation for the ill-advised signing of "free" agent QB Joe Kapp - so he had that bit of trivia going for him.

After his three years with the Pats, Charles went on to play five more years in the NFL, mostly with the Houston Oilers. He finished his pro football career with 16 interceptions over eight seasons.

Intercollegiate Athletics Hall of Fame to Welcome New Members in April - Purdue Boilermakers

Jan. 21, 2015 WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Eight former student-athletes, an administrator and an honorary, all highly accomplished and wonderfully decorated, make...

purduesports.com

John Charles, a three-year letter winner (1964-66), played football for Hall of Fame head coach Jack Mollenkopf as a defensive back, garnering first team All-America honors his senior year and earning Most Valuable Player accolades at the 1967 Rose Bowl. Purdue went 22-7-1 during his three-year career. Charles was selected in the first round of the National Football League Draft (21st overall) by the Boston Patriots in 1967 and played for them for three years. He went on to play for the Minnesota Vikings (1970) and Houston Oilers (1971-74). Charles was known for his tenacity and aggressiveness on the field and was tabbed as "the best defensive back I've ever coached" by his Purdue position coach, Bernie Miller.​

John Charles, Purdue's Rose Bowl MVP, dies

Defensive back John Charles was named the MVP of the 1967 Rose Bowl after making 11 tackles against Southern California

www.jconline.com

On the field, Charles was a tenacious defender. RB Leroy Keyes said if Charles "had a chance to bring some heat, he would do it with no hesitation.” He suffered a separated shoulder in October of his senior season and underwent surgery a week later. Charles' first game back was the Rose Bowl.​

Charles played three seasons for the Boilermakers, capped by the appearance in the Rose Bowl, which was the first bowl game Purdue played in. Charles spent eight seasons in the NFL as a member of the Patriots, the Minnesota Vikings and the Houston Oilers.​

“John was the leader of the defensive side of the ball,” Keyes said. “He’s a ball hawk. He knew where to put everybody else in the secondary. He was a leader, but he led by example as opposed to leading by a loud voice.”​

Obituary information for John James "Big Butch" Charles, Jr.

View John James "Big Butch" Charles, Jr.'s obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

www.ggwoodyfuneralhome.com

John J. Charles, Jr. was born on May 9, 1944 in Newark, New Jersey to John J. Charles Sr. and Marilyn Charles (now known as Marilyn Carolina). He was raised by his grandparents, Murray & Geneva Charles, in Linden, New Jersey. John was nicknamed “Big Butch” by his grandmother to distinguish between him and his first cousin William Charles, Jr., known as “Little Butch”.​

John was educated in the Linden Public School System and was a stellar football player, starring as a running back and linebacker. He was known as a force to be reckoned with and during his three seasons on the varsity team, the Linden Tigers only lost three games. During his senior year in 1963 he was heavily recruited by universities nationwide. After visiting various universities, he accepted a football scholarship from Purdue University in Lafayette, Indiana. During his high school years John was known as a kind and gregarious teenager. All who knew him had glowing things to say about him. Also, during his senior year in 1963, John and his high school sweetheart, Charlotte Judy Wise, welcomed into the world a son, Kirk Anthony Charles.​

At Purdue University, John was a three-year football letter winner as a defensive back for the Purdue Boilermakers from 1964 to 1966. He was regarded for his tenacity and aggressiveness on the field and given the honors of All-American in 1966. Although John suffered a separated shoulder during the 1966 regular season, he returned for one last game in 1967. He and fellow future professional footballers, Bob Greise, Sam Longmire and Leroy Keyes, lead the Boilermakers to victory over the USC Trojans in the Rose Ball in Pasadena, California. John stood out with 11 tackles and won the Rose Bowl MVP award in 1967. That same year he was also selected to the 1967 Senior Bowl, Chicago College All-Star Games and Coaches All-American Game.​

John was selected in the first round of the 1967 National Football League draft by the Boston Patriots (No. 21 overall). He played three seasons for the Boston Patriots, one season for the Minnesota Vikings and four seasons for the Houston Oilers. During his years in Boston, John met Sandra Marie Fox in 1968. They nurtured a relationship and were married on December 31, 1971 in New York City. The two resided in Houston, Texas and welcomed into the world a son, Morgan Fox Charles (1974) and daughter, Cassandra Fox Charles (1976).​

After retiring from professional football, John resided in Houston for the remaining 45 years of his life. He had an entrepreneurial spirit and operated several businesses during that time. John was also an avid cyclist, enjoyed reading and loved watching movies. Additionally, he was passionate about the healthcare and compensation given to former footballers of his generation.​

The City of Linden recognized John’s High School and Collegiate athletic accomplishments by honoring him with a Testimonial Dinner on March 4, 1967. He was inducted into the Linden High School Hall of Fame in June 2007, and into the Purdue Intercollegiate Athletic Hall of Fame in April 2015.​

John Charles: 1944-2019 - Purdue Boilermakers

J ohn Charles, a member of the Purdue Intercollegiate Athletics Hall of Fame, has died at the age of 75 in Houston.

purduesports.com

Rose Bowl MVP John Charles dies at 75

Former Purdue University defensive back and 1967 Rose Bowl Game Most Valuable Player John Charles died last week in Houston at the age of 75, according to Purdue teammate Leroy

www.purdueexponent.org

John Charles Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Checkout the latest stats for John Charles. Get info about his position, age, height, weight, college, draft, and more on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- John Charles

John Charles (American football) - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[Pape]

Today in Patriots History
Another Boston Patriot​

In memory of John "Big Butch" Charles, who would have turned 81 today

Big Butch to the right, then Big Butch to the left...

 

[tuckeverlasting]

i remember john charles....he was a good player. as far as yewcic i remember him as a qb that punted. now i'm reading he was a punter that played qb.

 

[jmt57]

i remember john charles....he was a good player. as far as yewcic i remember him as a qb that punted. now i'm reading he was a punter that played qb.

If I recall correctly, it was common back in the day for the backup QB to also be a team's punter.
Steve Spurrier punted for the 49ers, RB Donnie Anderson w/Green Bay, Browns WR Gary Collins.

Kickers doubled as backup position players too, or a guy might handle both kicking and punting.
The Patriots of course had Tom Yewcic punting, and Gino Cappelletti as their WR/K.
Jim O'Brien, who kicked the game-winning field goal in super bowl 5, was a backup WR.

The change seemed to coincide with soccer-style kickers replacing straight-on kickers.

Rosters were so much smaller, coaches had no choice but to double up back then - no room for a ST specialist.


I was curious, so I looked up the historical roster size of NFL teams.
1960: raised from 36 to 38
1961-62: lowered back to 36
1963: raised to 37
1964: raised to 40
1974: raised to 47
1975: lowered to 43
1978: raised to 45
1982: raised to 49
1985: lowered to 45
1991: addition of 3rd emergency QB
2011: eliminated 'emergency QB'; 46
2020: 47
2023: 3rd emergency QB returns


I remeber some team had a "40 for 60" chant and signage, which was about all 40 players for all 60 minutes.

1974 was the big change, adding seven roster spots.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Willie Germany​

Happy 77th birthday to Willie Germany
Born May 9, 1948 in Columbus, Georgia; raised in Ellicott City, Maryland
Patriot safety, 1976; uniform #29
Acquired in a trade with the Oilers on September 24, 1976 for a sixth round draft pick
Pats résumé: one season, ten games


Willie James Germany Jr. was originally a seventh round draft pick out of Morgan State by Washington in 1971. A year later he was traded to Atlanta, who traded him to Detroit after one season, who then traded him to Philadelphia the following year. After the Eagles waived him in 1974, he went cross town and signed with the Philadelphia Bell of the WFL. The Houston Oilers signed him in the 1975 offseason before trading him the following year to the Patriots, in what would be the final stop of his pro football career.

This is allegedly Willie Germany - but to me it looks more like John 'Deac' Sanders, who wore #25 in 1976​

Willie Germany appeared in ten games for the Patriots in 1976 as a backup defensive back and special teamer. One year earlier he had started for Houston in the season opener at Foxboro. That game was played in a 16-punt torrential downpour, and Germany scored the only touchdown of the day, on a 48-yard fumble return as the Oilers defeated the Pats 7-0.

Patriots Lose on Fumble, 7‐0 (Published 1975)

www.nytimes.com

FOXBORO, Mass., Sept. 21 —The New England Patriots, who spent most of last week on strike, lost their opening game to the Houston Oilers, 7-0, today. But their walkout, which ended late Thursday afternoon, had less to do with the outcome of the game than rain, which first came down in volume at the start of the second quarter and continued to the end of the contest.​

By the time the rain began the Oilers had their winning touchdown, scored by Willie Germany in the fifth minute. Germany, the strong safety, recovered a fumble by Mack Herron that bounced into his hands while he was going full tilt, and he raced 48 yards into the New England end zone. “I was running for my life,” he said. But there were no Patriots around threatening his well being.​

This play was about all that happened. The two teams sloshed around in the water, which collected on the artificial turf, and the defenses were way ahead of the offenses.​

The strike action was in the background. One wet paper sign, attached to the wall at the base of the stands, read, “Go Pats. Beat the Scabs.” The reference was to the Oilers, who had voted, 43-0, not to strike after their owner, Bud Adams, had assured them they would be paid tomorrow even if there was no game today.​

Apart from the sign, it was merely another football game and a dull one. Chuck Fairbanks, the Patriots' coach, was asked about the effect of the strike on his players' performance. “It's hard for me to say. They were mentally alert. They played hard. They were emotionally ready. Houston didn't do any better. Under the conditions it was tough to execute. The players had dishpan hands. It was hard to grip the ball.”​

Because Jim Plunkett, the Patriots' peerless passer, is out with a shoulder separation, Neil Graff played quarterback for New England. Graff, whose past record showed one pass attempt and one completion in regularseason play, did all right in the estimate of his coach. But he could not make the big play, which is the mark of Plunkett.​

Graff said that the short rehearsal period was not a handicap. “I was mentally prepared to play the game,” he said. “It's just that conditions were so bad.”​

He completed 10 of 18 pass attempts for 95 yards but none was for long yardage. Houston's Dan Pastorini, an established long passer, completed only 6 of 16 for 53 yards.​

STATISTICS OF THE GAME​

......................................................................Oilers...................................Patriots​

First downs...............................................7............................................17​

Rushing yardage....................................33-116................................52-179​

Passing yardage.....................................53.........................................100​

Passes.........................................................6-16.....................................12-24​

Interceptions by.....................................1............................................1​

Punts...........................................................9-39.....................................7-46​

Fumbles lost.............................................0...........................................2​

Yards penalized.......................................37.........................................28​

Houston Oilers........................................7....0....0....0....— 7​

New England Patriots...........................0....0....0....0....— 0​

Hou.—Germany, 48, fumble recovery (Butler, kick). Attendance—54,212.​

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS​

RUSHES—Hous.: Hardeman, 18 attempts for 96 yards; Willis, 5 for 15; Coleman, 3 for 6.​

N.E.: Cunningham, 16 for 60; McQuay 20 for 47; Herron, 8 for 34.​

PASSES—Hous.: Pastorini, 6 completions of 16 attempts for 54 yards.​

N.E. Graff, 10 of 18 for 95; Grogan, 2 of 6 for 21.​

RECEPTIONS—Hous.: Johnson, 3 for 32; Burrough, 1 for 13; Holmes, 1 for 5; Coleman, 1 for 3.​

N.E.: Cunningham, 7 for 55; Vataha, 2 for 27; Francis, 1 for 15; McQuay, 1 for 13; Herron, 1 for 6.​

Willie Germany also had a role in one of the most famous infamous games in Patriot franchise history. He teamed with **** Conn to successfully defend a desperation pass thrown by Ken Stabler that momentarily appeared to clinch a Pats victory over Oakland in the 1976 playoff game. While Patriot fans and players celebrated, Ben Dreith belatedly threw a flag on Ray Hamilton for a blatantly bogus roughing the passer penalty, and the rest is history...

​

Willie Germany Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Checkout the latest stats for Willie Germany. Get info about his position, age, height, weight, college, draft, and more on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Willie Germany Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Willie Germany Transactions

Willie Germany - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Facebook post about Willie Germany in high school and college

 

[Pape]

Today in Patriots History
Willie Germany​

Happy 77th birthday to Willie Germany
Born May 9, 1948 in Columbus, Georgia; raised in Ellicott City, Maryland
Patriot safety, 1976; uniform #29
Acquired in a trade with the Oilers on September 24, 1976 for a sixth round draft pick
Pats résumé: one season, ten games


Willie James Germany Jr. was originally a seventh round draft pick out of Morgan State by Washington in 1971. A year later he was traded to Atlanta, who traded him to Detroit after one season, who then traded him to Philadelphia the following year. After the Eagles waived him in 1974, he went cross town and signed with the Philadelphia Bell of the WFL. The Houston Oilers signed him in the 1975 offseason before trading him the following year to the Patriots, in what would be the final stop of his pro football career.

This is allegedly Willie Germany - but to me it looks more like John 'Deac' Sanders, who wore #25 in 1976​

Willie Germany appeared in ten games for the Patriots in 1976 as a backup defensive back and special teamer. One year earlier he had started for Houston in the season opener at Foxboro. That game was played in a 16-punt torrential downpour, and Germany scored the only touchdown of the day, on a 48-yard fumble return as the Oilers defeated the Pats 7-0.

Patriots Lose on Fumble, 7‐0 (Published 1975)

www.nytimes.com

FOXBORO, Mass., Sept. 21 —The New England Patriots, who spent most of last week on strike, lost their opening game to the Houston Oilers, 7-0, today. But their walkout, which ended late Thursday afternoon, had less to do with the outcome of the game than rain, which first came down in volume at the start of the second quarter and continued to the end of the contest.​

By the time the rain began the Oilers had their winning touchdown, scored by Willie Germany in the fifth minute. Germany, the strong safety, recovered a fumble by Mack Herron that bounced into his hands while he was going full tilt, and he raced 48 yards into the New England end zone. “I was running for my life,” he said. But there were no Patriots around threatening his well being.​

This play was about all that happened. The two teams sloshed around in the water, which collected on the artificial turf, and the defenses were way ahead of the offenses.​

The strike action was in the background. One wet paper sign, attached to the wall at the base of the stands, read, “Go Pats. Beat the Scabs.” The reference was to the Oilers, who had voted, 43-0, not to strike after their owner, Bud Adams, had assured them they would be paid tomorrow even if there was no game today.​

Apart from the sign, it was merely another football game and a dull one. Chuck Fairbanks, the Patriots' coach, was asked about the effect of the strike on his players' performance. “It's hard for me to say. They were mentally alert. They played hard. They were emotionally ready. Houston didn't do any better. Under the conditions it was tough to execute. The players had dishpan hands. It was hard to grip the ball.”​

Because Jim Plunkett, the Patriots' peerless passer, is out with a shoulder separation, Neil Graff played quarterback for New England. Graff, whose past record showed one pass attempt and one completion in regularseason play, did all right in the estimate of his coach. But he could not make the big play, which is the mark of Plunkett.​

Graff said that the short rehearsal period was not a handicap. “I was mentally prepared to play the game,” he said. “It's just that conditions were so bad.”​

He completed 10 of 18 pass attempts for 95 yards but none was for long yardage. Houston's Dan Pastorini, an established long passer, completed only 6 of 16 for 53 yards.​

STATISTICS OF THE GAME​

......................................................................Oilers...................................Patriots​

First downs...............................................7............................................17​

Rushing yardage....................................33-116................................52-179​

Passing yardage.....................................53.........................................100​

Passes.........................................................6-16.....................................12-24​

Interceptions by.....................................1............................................1​

Punts...........................................................9-39.....................................7-46​

Fumbles lost.............................................0...........................................2​

Yards penalized.......................................37.........................................28​

Houston Oilers........................................7....0....0....0....— 7​

New England Patriots...........................0....0....0....0....— 0​

Hou.—Germany, 48, fumble recovery (Butler, kick). Attendance—54,212.​

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS​

RUSHES—Hous.: Hardeman, 18 attempts for 96 yards; Willis, 5 for 15; Coleman, 3 for 6.​

N.E.: Cunningham, 16 for 60; McQuay 20 for 47; Herron, 8 for 34.​

PASSES—Hous.: Pastorini, 6 completions of 16 attempts for 54 yards.​

N.E. Graff, 10 of 18 for 95; Grogan, 2 of 6 for 21.​

RECEPTIONS—Hous.: Johnson, 3 for 32; Burrough, 1 for 13; Holmes, 1 for 5; Coleman, 1 for 3.​

N.E.: Cunningham, 7 for 55; Vataha, 2 for 27; Francis, 1 for 15; McQuay, 1 for 13; Herron, 1 for 6.​

Willie Germany also had a role in one of the most famous infamous games in Patriot franchise history. He teamed with **** Conn to successfully defend a desperation pass thrown by Ken Stabler that momentarily appeared to clinch a Pats victory over Oakland in the 1976 playoff game. While Patriot fans and players celebrated, Ben Dreith belatedly threw a flag on Ray Hamilton for a blatantly bogus roughing the passer penalty, and the rest is history...

​

Willie Germany Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Checkout the latest stats for Willie Germany. Get info about his position, age, height, weight, college, draft, and more on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Willie Germany Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Willie Germany Transactions

Willie Germany - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Facebook post about Willie Germany in high school and college

that looks like deac sanders to me...

the only pats pic i have ever found for willie germany... hes in the back ground of this pic of grogan...

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Ras-I-R​

Happy 37th birthday to Ras-I-Dowling
Born May 9, 1988 in Chesapeake, Virginia
Patriot safety, 2011-2012; uniform #21
Pats 2nd round (33rd overall) selection of the 2011 draft, from Virginia
Pats résumé: two seasons, nine games (one start); two stints on injured reserve


Apologies in advance to inflicting any dormant PTSD to captain stone for this entry.


Many eyebrows were raised when the Patriots drafted Dowling so early, and in this case the armchair gm's were correct. Dowling injured his hip in week 2 of his rookie season and landed on injured reserve, and then was placed on IR again in October of 2012 with a torn thigh muscle. He was part of roster cuts in August of 2013; his final stat line with the Patriots reads 9 games with 2 starts, 1 pass defensed, 11 combined tackles (8 plus 3 assists). Dowling spent 23 games on injured reserve with the Pats, versus nine games on the field.

After that Ras-I was on the practice squads of the Jets (of course), Raiders and Panthers, but only played in three more games. His final NFL stat line reads 12 games (2 starts), 0 interceptions, 0 forced fumbles, 0 fumble recoveries, 1 pass defensed, 11 tackles (8 solo) and 1 tackle for a loss.


In 2017 Dowling began his college coaching career at Howard University as a defensive quality coach, and was promoted to secondary coach the following year. In 2019 he joined William & Mary in the same capacity, and since 2023 he also took on the responsibilty of co-defensive coordinator.

Ras-I Dowling - Co-Defensive Coordinator / Secondary Coach - Staff Directory - William & Mary Athletics

Ras-I Dowling enters his seventh season at William & Mary and his third as the co-defensive coordinator after earning the promotion in 2023. He also continues to

tribeathletics.com

Ras-I Dowling NFL Draft scouting report

Come fan with us. SB Nation is the largest independent sports media brand, consisting of SBNation.com, MMAFighting.com and over 300 fan-centric team communities.

www.sbnation.com

Strengths: Is a big, physical corner who has a lot of experience despite missing a majority of the 2010 season. Does a nice job of high-pointing the ball and has long arms to break up the pass. Has been used in zone and man. Is good in both, giving him some flexibility. Seems to understand complex route principles and typically isn't beat on double moves. Is decent supporting the run. Tackling is above-average for a cornerback. Could have a future at safety at some point in his career.​

Weaknesses: The biggest issue teams probably have with Dowling is his injury history. He played in just five games in 2010 (starting two). He was lost for the year in November due to a fractured ankle, but also had knee and hamstring issues. Doesn't tend to play up to his timed speed. Has trouble keeping up with shifty receivers, especially on quick routes. Likes to watch the quarterback too long instead of playing his man.​

Final word: Following the 2010 season, Dowling looked like a solid first-round pick. He was more regarded than Vikings second-round pick Chris Cook and budding Cavaliers star Chase Minniefield. Other than his injury history, Dowling has the look of a top-level cornerback. Staying healthy, though, has been such an issue that it's hard to think too highly of him.​

Five Biggest Patriots Draft Busts Of Bill Belichick Era

The Patriots have found many of their top players through the draft. But Bill Belichick's track record there is, of course, far from perfect.

nesn.com

From 2000 to 2020, no Patriots player drafted in the top 50 picks appeared in fewer NFL games than Dowling. He started the first two games of his pro career but wound up making just nine appearances for New England and 12 total. The Patriots placed him on injured reserve in each of his first two seasons and cut him midway through his third training camp.​

New Story Says Patriots Chose Ras-I Dowling Over Richard Sherman In 2011 NFL Draft

A new story about Richard Sherman revealed a rather fascinating debate that the Patriots apparently had during the 2011 draft.

www.cbsnews.com

Day 2 came in the same room with fewer people, but more optimism. Sherman expected to get drafted in the second or third rounds. His agent had told him that the New England Patriots were deciding between him and Ras-I Dowling, a cornerback from Virginia. With the first pick of the second round, the Patriots selected Dowling.​

Ras-I Dowling Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Get Ras-I Dowling Career game log for regular season and playoff games on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Ras-I-Dowling Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Ras-I-Dowling Transactions

Ras-I Dowling - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

that looks like deac sanders to me...

the only pats pic i have ever found for willie germany... hes in the back ground of this pic of grogan...

Thanks for verifying, that makes sense.

The incorrectly labeled photo above is from NASL jerseys - and because it is the only readily available photo of Germany, it gets reposted (again, incorrectly) in other columns and websites.

The #25 vs #29 drew a red flag for me. Sanders was already on the team when Germany was signed, so it wouldn't make sense that Germany ever had Deac's jersey number.

There are multiple photos of Deac Sanders available, and the look matches up closely with the photo above.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Another habitually injured player​

Happy 31st birthday to Derek Rivers
Born May 9, 1994 in Kinston, North Carolina
Patriot defensive end, 2017-2020; uniform #95
Pats 3rd round (83rd overall) selection of the 2017 draft; from Youngstown State
Pats résumé: four seasons, 14 games (3½ games/year); 2½ sacks, 6 tackles; one playoff game; one super bowl ring


Right off the bat, the Patriots did not get much production from Derek Alexander Rivers. In his rookie training camp he tore his ACL, and spent all of 2017 rehabbing while on Injured Reserve. Rivers was a healthy scratch for ten games in 2018, accruing a stat line in just two regular season games. In the six games he was not inactive Rivers had two tackles, two quarterback hits, one tackle for a loss and one sack. He was on the field for just 78 defensive snaps and three special team snaps in 2018. Rivers did play in the divisional round game against the Chargers that season but did not see the field in the AFCCG versus the Chiefs, and was inactive for the Super Bowl versus the Rams.

Rivers suffered a knee injury in Week two of the 2019 preseason, and was ruled out for the rest of the season. He was placed on injured reserve on August 31, 2019. Oof.

Derek Rivers did make the 53-man roster coming out of 2020's shortened preseason. He was active in week 1 against Miami - where he recorded his first sack since 2018 on Ryan Fitzpatrick. On November 21 the Patriots had seen enough, and released Rivers to make room for Sony Michel (who was coming off IR himself). Akeem Spence was elevated from the practice squad a few days later to take Rivers' place on defense.


As bad as Ras-I Dowling's ratio of games played to injured reserve was, Derek Rivers' was far worse. Rivers spent far more time on IR than he did on the field, playing in a mere 14 regular-season games through nearly four seasons as a Patriot, making six tackles with 2½ sacks during 164 defensive snaps. Rivers also played in one postseason game, but was inactive for the Super Bowl versus the Rams. He later played in five games each for the Rams and Texans, and was on the practice squad for Houston and Indy briefly in 2023 - before landing on IR yet again. Rivers was on and off the Colts' practice squad in 2024, but his last NFL appearance on the field was in 2021.

Derek Rivers Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Get Derek Rivers Career game log for regular season and playoff games on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Derek Rivers Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Derek Rivers Transactions

Derek Rivers - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Short Time JAG​

Happy 48th birthday to Wilbert Brown
Born May 9, 1977 in Texarkana, Texas
Patriot guard, 2003; uniform #60
Claimed off waivers from Washington on September 22, 2023
Pats résumé: three games, one ring


The Patriots claimed the former Skin off waivers heading up to the Pats week 4 game at Washington, leading some to conclude it was for espionage. If that was indeed the purpose it certainly did not work - although the loss to Steve Spurrier's club was the final game the Patriots did not win that season, all the way through the playoffs.


Here is a bit of Patriots trivia to stump/impress your friends with.
Q: Who is the only player to appear in more playoff games for the Pats, than regular season games?
A: Wilbert Lemon Brown, with two and one respectively.


Brown was usually a game day inactive and only appeared in one game for the Pats in 2003. He was excused from the start of training camp in 2004 for personal reasons, and then placed on the Reserve/Did Not Report List on August 4. Brown was part of a group of players that was released in February 2005 just prior to the start of free agency, marking the last stop of his NFL career.

Wilbert Brown Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Get Wilbert Brown Career game log for regular season and playoff games on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Wilbert Brown Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Wilbert Brown Transactions

Wilbert Brown - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
A URI Ram​

Happy 66th birthday to Chy Davidson
Born May 9, 1959 in Queens Village, New York City
Patriot wide receiver, 1981 (off season); uniform #88
Pats 11th round (2nd overall) selection in the 1981 supplemental draft, from the University of Rhode Island
Pats résumé: one offseason and training camp


The Pats took a flyer on the former Rhode Island Ram, but he was cut at the end of training camp. Davidson later appeared in four games for his hometown Jets in '84-'85, and prior to that spent time with both the NFL and USFL teams in Washington. After leaving pro football, Chy became a high school teacher and football coach in New York City, working his way over the course of 23 years up to principal. In 2018 Davidson became the manager of the Public Consulting Group in Charlotte, NC, which develops strategic partnerships with both state agencies and school districts around the country.

Where Are They Now: Chy Davidson

Our Leadership

PCG helps primarily public sector health, education, and human services organizations make measurable improvements to their performance and processes. Learn more about PCG's Leadership here.

publicconsultinggroup.com

Chy Davidson Career Game Log | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Get Chy Davidson Career game log for regular season and playoff games on Pro-football-reference.com.

www.pro-football-reference.com

Pro Football Archives -- Chy Davidson Player Profile

Pro Football Archives -- Chy Davidson Transactions

Chy Davidson - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Other pro football players with New England area connections born on this date:
- Art Dorfman (May 9, 1908)
Everett High School, Boston University
Center for the 1929 Buffalo Bisons.

- Doc Haggerty (5/9/1895)
Nashua High School, Tufts
APFA guard, 1920-21.

- Rob Porter (5/9/1962)
Holy Cross
Giants safety during the '87 strike/replacement games.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
2014: Day Two of the latest NFL Draft Ever​

May 9, 2014:
The 79th Annual NFL Player Selection Meeting, aka
Day Two (Rounds 2-3) of the 2014 NFL Draft
Radio City Music Hall, New York City

On Day One the Patriots made a risky move that backfired - drafting Dominique Easley and his creaky knees with the 29th overall pick of the draft.


- 2nd round, 62nd overall -- QB Jimmy Garoppolo, Eastern Illinois

- Pats trade down, sending a third (3.93) to Jacksonville for a fourth (4.105) (Bryan Stork) and sixth (6.179) (Jon Halapio)



The selection of Jimmy G made sense at the time, given the reality that Tom Brady would soon turn 37. That whole process was of course botched, with the Patriots ending up with neither quarterback - and absolutely nothing of any value to show for it in return. Interestingly the selections immediately before and after Garoppolo were receivers - which as it turned out, the Pats could have really used - who both went on to become Pro Bowlers: Allen Robinson and Jarvis Landry.

May 9, 1998:
Former Patriot linebacker and director of player personnel Rommie Loudd passes away at the age of 64

LOUDD REMEMBERED AS A PIONEER, ROGUE

Those who have followed Central Florida sports for the past 25 years can’t help but remember Rommie Loudd or the Orlando Blazers World Football League team that Loudd brought to Orlando in 1973 as managing general partner. The team…

www.orlandosentinel.com

May 9, 2003:
Pats sign undrafted rookie S Scott Farley from Williams, and veteran free agent S Aric Morris

Farley was waived and re-signed multiple times, played for the Rhein Fire the following spring, and then spent part of 2004 on the practice squad. He later signed with Carolina, but suffered a career ending injury during training camp. He is now back at Williams as WR coach. As a player at Williams he played defensive back, receiver, punt and kick returner, punter and did place-kicking for the Ephs.

Scott Farley - Wide Receivers - Staff Directory - Williams College

Scott Farley is in his second year of coaching at Williams andwill be responsible for the Eph wide receivers after spending hisfirst year with the tight ends.Farley

ephsports.williams.edu

Patriots sign two safeties, Aric Morris and Scott Farley

Morris had a 33-yard fourth quarter pick off Donovan McNabb to help preserve a 31-10 victory in his debut for the Patriots. However he suffered a foot injury in week five and was waived with an injury settlement on October 7 - and never caught on with another team.

Pats re-sign McCrary; release Morris

May 9, 2008:

Patriots defensive back Andrews pleads to drug offense

LOWELL, Mass. - New England Patriots defensive back Willie Andrews entered a plea to a marijuana possession charge, but won't face any prison time. The 24-year-old Andrews admitted in court Friday …

www.seacoastonline.com

Pats cornerback Andrews pleads to drug offense

New England Patriots defensive back Willie Andrews entered a plea to a marijuana possession charge, but won't face any prison time.

www.espn.com

24-year-old Willie Andrews admitted in court Friday there was enough evidence to convict him at trial, but did not plead guilty.​

Lowell District Court Judge Neil Walker continued the case without a finding for a year. During that time, Andrews must speak to student athletes about the dangers of narcotics, pay a $1,000 fine and complete an NFL substance abuse program.​

Andrews was arrested in February after police pulled him over in Lowell. Prosecutors said he had $6,800 in cash on him, a half pound of marijuana and no means to smoke the marijuana.​

May 9, 2013:
The Patriots sign veteran free agent WR Lavelle Hawkins
Hawkins was a fourth round pick out of Cal by Tennessee in 2008. His best year came in 2011 when he had 47 catches for 470 yards with the Titans. Lavelle didn't last long in Foxboro: he was waived at the start of camp, on July 31. Similar to Farley, he is now back with his alma mater as a receivers coach.

Lavelle Hawkins - Football Coach - California Golden Bears Athletics

Lavelle Hawkins Hometown:Stockton High School:Edison Last College:San Francisco City College Height / Weight:5-11

calbears.com

Pats expect Lavelle Hawkins to pay off

The signing of wide receiver Lavelle Hawkins initially appeared to be a way for the Patriots to increase the level of competition for the bottom of the depth chart, but his contract suggests otherwise.Hawkins’ deal was finalized…

www.bostonherald.com

May 9, 2016:
Patriots sign DL Anthony Johnson, who had formerly been with Miami and Washington.
Johnson played in four games for the Pats with one start, and also spent some time on the practice squad.

Patriots trade LB Jonathan Bostic to Detroit; Sign DL Anthony Johnson

ILB/ST Jonathan Bostic is traded to Detroit for a seventh round draft pick.
Bostic had played in 11 games with one start for the Pats, logging 40 snaps on defense and 194 on special teams.

Patriots trade linebacker Jon Bostic to Lions for conditional draft pick

Lions acquire Patriots linebacker Jon Bostic for conditional draft pick

www.boston.com

May 9, 2019:
38-year old TE Ben Watson signs a one-year, $3 million contract.
After Hernandez went psycho, Gronk retired, and Dwayne Allen signed with Miami in free agency, the Pats suddenly went from a TE-rich roster to full desperation at the position. Watson turned 39 that season, and in his final year in the NFL had 17 receptions for 173 yards with no touchdowns. As meager as that production was, it was still the best of any tight end on the roster in 2019. Matt LaCosse (13-131-1), Ryan Izzo (6-114-1) and Eric Tomlinson (1-1-0) didn't do much of anything at the position, while Austin Seferian-Jenkins was released prior to training camp due to mental health issues. Stephen Anderson and Andrew Beck were waived at the end of training camp as well, all of which paved the way to the Pats wasting two 2020 third round draft picks on tight ends Devin Asiasi and Dalton Keene.

The Patriots sign veteran tight end Ben Watson

Watson, who is said to be also considering the Chiefs, Bills, and 49ers, was a first-round pick of the Patriots in 2004.

www.boston.com

May 9, 2022:
Pats sign UDFA DL DaMarcus Mitchell, Purdue.
Mitchell played in all but one game in 2022 as a core special teamer, on the field for 310 ST snaps.

Ex-Patriots Player Lands With Seahawks After Surprising Release

The Seattle Seahawks have signed a second-year player who was released last week by the New England Patriots.

nesn.com

May 9, 2023:
Patriots sign CB Tae Hayes.

What re-signing cornerback Tae Hayes means for the Patriots

After being waived by the Patriots in February, the veteran has now made his way back to the team.

www.patspulpit.com

May 9, 2025:
First day of 2025 rookie minicamp

Thread '2025 Rookie Minicamp'

May 9, 2025

Let's kick things off with a Vrabel presser:

TRANSCRIPT: Mike Vrabel's Press Conference 5/9

Here's what head coach Mike Vrabel had to say during his pre-mini camp press conference on Friday

www.patsfans.com

• Ross12
• Replies: 196
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Coinciding with the first day of rookie minicamp, the Patriots reveal uniform numbers for the 2025 undrafted rookies:






Patriots formally announce the signings of their initial undrafted rookie class, as well as announcing 14 who are in for tryouts.

DT Wilfried Pene had previously been reported as a signing; apparently that information was premature.

Isiah Iton and Mekhi Butler would be signed to contracts two days later.

Patriots sign eight 2025 draft picks, 16 undrafted free agents, host 14 tryouts

The Patriots signed 24 players to their rookie contracts on Friday.

www.bostonherald.com

The Patriots signed WR Kyle Williams, C Jared Wilson, DT Joshua Farmer, LB Bradyn Swinson, K Andy Borregales, T Marcus Bryant, LS Julian Ashby and DB Kobee Minor to their four-year rookie contracts. They also announced the signings of the following rookie free agents: T Cole Birdow, WR Demeer Blankumsee, WR Efton Chism III, G Jack Conley, CB Brandon Crossley, TE C.J. Dippre, FB Brock Lampe, RB Lan Larison, S Josh Minkins, CB Jordan Polk, LB Elijah Ponder, LB Cam Riley, DT Jahvaree Ritzie, TE Gee Scott Jr., WR Jeremiah Webb and QB Ben Wooldridge.​

All 16 of the UDFAs had previously been reported as intending to sign with the Patriots.​

The Patriots also had the following players in for rookie minicamp tryouts on Friday: G Mekhi Butler, LB Nchabanu Fortaboh, DT Bryce Ganious, T Devonte Gordon, DT Isaiah Iton, LB Hector Johnson, S Sal Lupoli, WR Phil Lutz, CB Chris Mills, LB R.J. Moten, DT Wilfried Pene, S Myles Redding, C Tuli Teuhema and QB Jake Wilcox.​

 

[jmt57]

And just for fun, some old threads that began on a May 9:


May 9, 2024:

Thread 'Will the Patriots carry 4 QBs on the roster to start the season?'

May 9, 2024

I've made the argument over on the Rourke thread that they WILL, but I'm interested in hearing counter-arguments.

Here's a summary of my position: with the question marks surrounding the OL and the absolute necessity to protect Maye's body and confidence, and the team's probable desire to keep Milton off the PS given his potential, they have no choice but to keep Zappe or another veteran backup on the 53-man roster. That gives us 4 QBs. There's no problem with that: this team isn't going on a championship run and keeping Drake healthy and confident is far, far more important.

• Force Zero Boomer
• Replies: 28
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

May 9, 2023:

Thread 'CBS QB rankings- Mac Jones dissed'

May 9, 2023

2023 NFL QB Power Rankings: Lamar Jackson, Aaron Rodgers both crack top 10 in first rundown of all 32 starters

Assessing every team's starting QB for 2023, including three rookies

www.cbssports.com

MJ is 29. Even I would not rank him that low.
I know…who cares its CBS but probably does reflect national perception of Jones.

• Grogan14
• Replies: 132
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Thread 'O’Brien is going to demand accountability of the receivers'

May 9, 2023

I think this is big. For all the talk last year about the o-line and Jones last year, the receiving corp was awful last year. Bad route running. Not looking back for the ball. Not finishing routes. Poor sideline management.

From Giardi’s report, looks like there was no accountability for receivers last year and that is going to change.

• Rob0729
• Replies: 224
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Thread 'Make your rookie projections!'

May 9, 2023

Good Afternoon fellow Patsfans. I had a fun argument with myself, and thought it would be fun to see where everyone else stands.

During and after minicamp, who are your picks for the following:

1. Most overhyped rookie.
2. Most dogged on rookie.
3. Most overlooked rookie.
4. Most surprising rookie performer.

I tried really hard to pinpoint my own thoughts on this but found it a bit difficult due to so many if, ands or buts in my reasoning behind each one.

However, I think I’ve settled in on the following:

1. Dynamite Douglas. He may be small, but he’s a hard worker, shifty as hell...

• PWRxWLF
• Replies: 46
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

 

[Clonamery]

that looks like deac sanders to me...

the only pats pic i have ever found for willie germany... hes in the back ground of this pic of grogan...

This was on instagram:

 

[Pape]

This was on instagram:

yeah, i looked at that... its from the 1972 Atlanta Falcons team photo... compare that to photos of Deac Sanders and its a no brainer its Sanders on that Frito-Lay trading card... I did try to find that particular card to see the reverse, but was unable to locate it