The Senator Posted June 5, 2011 Posted June 5, 2011 Best Bills RB, without question, was Cookie Gilchrist. Simpson couldn't carry Cookie's jock strap. (OK, that was a bit too harsh - yes, Simpson could carry Cookie's jock strap.)
BillsfaninFl Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 With out question the most prolific back in NFL history. You talking about his nine kids?
seq004 Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 More OJ plus my favorite uniforms. youtube.com/profile?user=BillCody1960#grid/uploads Your right those were some sweet uniforms, the best! I'm glad they're back.
ARTnSocal Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 More OJ plus my favorite uniforms. youtube.com/profile?user=BillCody1960#grid/uploads In that clip I noticed for a split-second the BILLS vs NYG MNF game at Rich with the GIANTS wearing their 1975 blue pants and that funny logo that they wore for that one season only. They were playing their home games at Shea that season. Channel 7 - ABC NYG in white w/ blue on the right NYG '75 helmet
tennesseeboy Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 gotta go with OJ since your said RUNNING back. There are three hall of fame quality running backs in our history, Gilchrist, Simpson and Thurman Thomas.
Mickey Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 I saw both of them play and as much as I value Thurman, OJ was in a class by himself. He wasn't the all around RB that Thurman was and he wasn't much of a receiver. But oh-man could he run.
SouthernMan Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 Take it from another who had the pleasure to see both in persone many times. It's a cliché to say it, but OJ was "poetry in motion". His running style was so fluid. He could make a cut and change direction like nobody, other than maybe Barry Sanders. All the more unusual because he wasn't as compact as Barry. He had the grace of ballet dancer. A previous poster described his running as like watching a thorobred racehorse run downhill - an apt description. Thurman on the other hand was a more complete back. He had the mind of a quarterback, would sacrifice his body on blitzes to give his QB more time in the pocket, could catch over the shoulder or with body extended as good as most wideouts, and as runner he was instinctive and knew when to make a cut. When it all comes down to it, Thurman was the right man at that time. With Smith, Kelly, etc., I don't know if the superbowl era Bills could have accomodated another ego as big OJs. The other thing younger readers/fans might not realize now, but OJ was a superstar before he ever put on a Bills uniform. Few players have come from the college ranks with as much star power as OJ. Before his pro career began, he already had commercial endorsements and a guest spot on a top rated network TV show. He had charisma like Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan, Joe Namath, etc. People were drawn to him. The combination of his charisma and incredible running style made him one of the greatest ever. Thuman was a great blue collar workhorse back that was a great team player, and the perfect fit for the Kelly/Levy teams. Best pure runner was OJ, without question. Had he played on better teams and not had knee injuries, he might be considered the best ever.
KD in CA Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 The other thing younger readers/fans might not realize now, but OJ was a superstar before he ever put on a Bills uniform. Few players have come from the college ranks with as much star power as OJ. Before his pro career began, he already had commercial endorsements and a guest spot on a top rated network TV show. He had charisma like Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan, Joe Namath, etc. People were drawn to him. The combination of his charisma and incredible running style made him one of the greatest ever. Thuman was a great blue collar workhorse back that was a great team player, and the perfect fit for the Kelly/Levy teams. Best pure runner was OJ, without question. Had he played on better teams and not had knee injuries, he might be considered the best ever. Yup -- he was absolutely in that class of athlete/celebrity, both on and off the field. Not to mention OJ was also the first black celebrity to become a mainstream advertising icon. Ali and others before OJ were famous, but no one was paying them to hold a razor or wear a sneaker. OJ broke the barrier that lead to guys like Jordan and Woods making tens of millions off the field. If OJ didn't kill two people, no one would ever question OJ's greatness or rank as Buffalo's all time greatest athlete.
yungmack Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 If OJ didn't kill two people, no one would ever question OJ's greatness or rank as Buffalo's all time greatest athlete. Under the American system of law (like that matters anymore), OJ did not kill two people. I followed the trial very, very closely, and did quite a bit of research for professional reasons. My conclusion: he did not kill those people (but he might very well know who did).
Dopey Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 O.J was considered the best player at any position during his prime. Thurman wasn't even considerd the best running back in the league during his prime, always in the shadow of Barry Sanders and Emmitt Smith. Not to take anything away from Thurman, as he was a big part of the team's success of course, but if O.J. was on the Bills in the early 90's the offense would have been impossible to defend and there is no question in my mind they would have won at least one Super Bowl, and probably more. I know this wasn't the topic, but Thurman was WAY better than Emmitt. Put Thurman on those Dallas teams and that oline and wow! My understanding is that Barry sat the bench behind Thurman 'till Thurman hurt his knee.
Mr_Blizzard Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 (edited) Which Bills running back would you rather have date your daughter? Jamie Mueller http://naia.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/011107aab.html Edited June 6, 2011 by Mr_Blizzard
SouthernMan Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 Yup -- he was absolutely in that class of athlete/celebrity, both on and off the field. Not to mention OJ was also the first black celebrity to become a mainstream advertising icon. Ali and others before OJ were famous, but no one was paying them to hold a razor or wear a sneaker. OJ broke the barrier that lead to guys like Jordan and Woods making tens of millions off the field. The timing was perfect for OJs mainstream celebrity, as the seeds planted during the civil rights movement of the early to mid 60s were coming to fruition in the late 60s and early 70s. Dr. King led the charge in the trenches fighting for social justice, and was assasinated just as the tide was beginning to turn. In the entertainment world, stars like Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte, Bill Cosby, Diahann Carroll, Ella Fitzgeral, Louis Armstrong, The Supremes, Nat King Cole, Ray Charles, et al were busting down the barriers that previously had kept them chained to second class citizen status. I remember being surprised (and happy)to see Sly & The Family Stone playing on a lat 60s TV broadcast and having a mix of white and black musicians. Not sure I've ever read anything regarding the famous Rat Pack's role, but during a time when Jim Crow laws were still enforced in the south, the Rat Pack brethren, all huge stars in their own right, treated Sammy Davis Jr as an equal, not just as an entertainer, but as a man. I have no doubt that the martini drinking white audience took note of respect given to Sammy. OJ was so blessed and lucky in so many ways, and even after having the good fortune(for him)of being aquitted of the double murder, continued to tempt fate. I think his is a classic case of someone who had a lot of trouble with the sudden fame and adulation that came to him at a very young age, thought of women as possessions, and thought he would be forever untouchable. How sad that the brightest star in Buffalo sports history has forever tainted the legacy.
Jauronimo Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 Jamie Mueller http://naia.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/011107aab.html Good choice. He'd get her home in one piece. Lets break down the best of the rest. Of course with OJ there is the chance he might murder the girl, but that was only one isolated incident and I think he's learned his lesson about double homocide. Plus he is a good provider and can ensure the grand kids get a USC education. Thurman is a stand up guy, but there is the risk that he might lose your daughter 10 minutes before the wedding and she may never be found. Travis Henry must know a thing or nine about women, and his matching number of kids means he must be a hell of a father. Travis has also demonstrated that he will do whatever it takes to provide for his family regardless of federal laws, which you have to respect. Shaud Williams is an outspoken heterosexual as seen in his interview on Da Ali G Show, which bodes well for grand kids. If she doesn't mind chain restaurants, getting hyphy and a little road rash, Marshawn could also be serious boyfriend material. Just hide your wallets girls.
San Jose Bills Fan Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 Jamie Mueller http://naia.cstv.com.../011107aab.html Well I don't doubt Jamie is a fine person but that article only mentioned his football exploits… except for pointing out he did graduate from college. But the article does not show that he leads an exemplary existence. I'd need more proof before approving a date with my daughter… regardless of what she chose to do. The timing was perfect for OJs mainstream celebrity, as the seeds planted during the civil rights movement of the early to mid 60s were coming to fruition in the late 60s and early 70s. Dr. King led the charge in the trenches fighting for social justice, and was assasinated just as the tide was beginning to turn. In the entertainment world, stars like Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte, Bill Cosby, Diahann Carroll, Ella Fitzgeral, Louis Armstrong, The Supremes, Nat King Cole, Ray Charles, et al were busting down the barriers that previously had kept them chained to second class citizen status. I remember being surprised (and happy)to see Sly & The Family Stone playing on a lat 60s TV broadcast and having a mix of white and black musicians. Not sure I've ever read anything regarding the famous Rat Pack's role, but during a time when Jim Crow laws were still enforced in the south, the Rat Pack brethren, all huge stars in their own right, treated Sammy Davis Jr as an equal, not just as an entertainer, but as a man. I have no doubt that the martini drinking white audience took note of respect given to Sammy. OJ was so blessed and lucky in so many ways, and even after having the good fortune(for him)of being aquitted of the double murder, continued to tempt fate. I think his is a classic case of someone who had a lot of trouble with the sudden fame and adulation that came to him at a very young age, thought of women as possessions, and thought he would be forever untouchable. How sad that the brightest star in Buffalo sports history has forever tainted the legacy. Great, great post. As KD pointed out, Juice paved quite a bit of the way for athletes that came after him but there were other entertainers on whose coattails he was fortunate enough to ride himself. I haven't deeply researched the Goldman killings but unlike yungmack, I do believe OJ committed those murders. As for DML's musings about OJ's downfall, I am not an OJ apologist nor do I think what I'm gonna say necessarily holds any water but I did want to put out there that there's been mention that OJ's irrational behavior since and after the Goldman killings (that bizarre "recovery of his memorabilia in Vegas) is somewhat consistent with the behavior of those who have/are suffering from CTE. As far as who is the better back, I've always felt that OJ Simpson was the best running back in the history of football and the most outstanding talent who ever played for the Buffalo Bills. JMO.
clearwater cadet Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 Thurman revolutionized the game. He wasn't a back, he was a weapon. Wasn't he like the first player to lead the league in yards from scrimmage like 4 years in a row ? Doesn't get enough credit because he played at the same time as E. Smith, and B. Sanders. Often surprized how everyone gushes over M. Faulk, but Thurman did it all first. If Norwood makes that kick, he's considered one of the best ever. If Marv would of let him loose in the second half of SB 25, we won't of needed Norwood to make that kick.
ARTnSocal Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 Best pure runner was OJ, without question. Had he played on better teams and not had knee injuries, he might be considered the best ever. Agree 1000% .... OJ was the best player to ever wear a BILLS uniform. We had a great OL in the 'Electric Company', the problem was that the defense wasn't containing our opponents which effected time of possession. It's scary to imagine what he/we could have done if we did had such a defense and the offense had spent more time on the field. Majority of the fans who post on here are young, never having seen him play, it's just too bad they never got to see him play or this thread would have never been initiated. Here's a rare photo from the '69 preseason .... OJ wore number 36 ... didn't get his number 32 until after the final preseason game when Gary McDermott got cut. OJ - rookie in preseason 1969
San Jose Bills Fan Posted June 6, 2011 Posted June 6, 2011 Thurman revolutionized the game. He wasn't a back, he was a weapon. Wasn't he like the first player to lead the league in yards from scrimmage like 4 years in a row ? Doesn't get enough credit because he played at the same time as E. Smith, and B. Sanders. Often surprized how everyone gushes over M. Faulk, but Thurman did it all first. If Norwood makes that kick, he's considered one of the best ever. If Marv would of let him loose in the second half of SB 25, we won't of needed Norwood to make that kick. I voted OJ but Thurman is still "one of the best ever." That's why he's in the Hall of Fame. This is almost like a Montana vs Young argument in SF. While the majority voted for Simpson, it's still a matter of opinion and there's no absolute right or wrong answer. They're both all-time greats.
ARTnSocal Posted June 7, 2011 Posted June 7, 2011 Not trying to be argumentative here but ......... we're not talking who's 'one' of the best ever ... we're talking 'the best' period. That would be OJ Usually in chat, I'll say 'IMO' ......... that isn't possible on this one .... it's OJ hands-down .... If you think it's 'almost' like a Montana v Young argument in SF you're right .... Montana was their best ever and they shouldn't even be debating that up there in the Bay Area ...... SF's only debate should be between Steve Young and John Brodie for 2nd best 49er QB Both OJ and Thurman are in the HOF yes, but there's clearly a right answer here, and OJ is the best player and RB to ever wear a BILLS uniform.
Bufcomments Posted June 7, 2011 Posted June 7, 2011 The timing was perfect for OJs mainstream celebrity, as the seeds planted during the civil rights movement of the early to mid 60s were coming to fruition in the late 60s and early 70s. Dr. King led the charge in the trenches fighting for social justice, and was assasinated just as the tide was beginning to turn. In the entertainment world, stars like Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte, Bill Cosby, Diahann Carroll, Ella Fitzgeral, Louis Armstrong, The Supremes, Nat King Cole, Ray Charles, et al were busting down the barriers that previously had kept them chained to second class citizen status. I remember being surprised (and happy)to see Sly & The Family Stone playing on a lat 60s TV broadcast and having a mix of white and black musicians. Not sure I've ever read anything regarding the famous Rat Pack's role, but during a time when Jim Crow laws were still enforced in the south, the Rat Pack brethren, all huge stars in their own right, treated Sammy Davis Jr as an equal, not just as an entertainer, but as a man. I have no doubt that the martini drinking white audience took note of respect given to Sammy. OJ was so blessed and lucky in so many ways, and even after having the good fortune(for him)of being aquitted of the double murder, continued to tempt fate. I think his is a classic case of someone who had a lot of trouble with the sudden fame and adulation that came to him at a very young age, thought of women as possessions, and thought he would be forever untouchable. How sad that the brightest star in Buffalo sports history has forever tainted the legacy. I really enjoyed your post and would like to add to it. Timing is everything and the Juice came out at the perfect time. But can you really call OJ's fame sudden?? He was a major star at USC, the man on Campus, he all the woman he could handle so he was already "pro" when he hit WNY. He was VERY lucky when Lou Saban came back to coach. He got OJ premium lineman he let him do his thang. OJ owes alot to Saban and Jim Ringo ( OL coach). But to bad his brain wasn't very big dispite the size of his head. OJ's problem was heavy cocaine use. That white powder has ruined many a person. It caused him to not think clearly after his career ended. He fell into the Hollywood trap and could not will himself out of it. Its a shame because he had it made. Monday night Football, Avis and the deals he got paved the way for more black players to get the Mega deals they have now. As for the murders .... I loved OJ back in the day but for sure he did it. It was a crime of passion and I bet he was lined up that night and said if I cant have Nicole ...nobody will. Still feel sorry for the families effected, they will never get true justice . If the question was who is the better man then Thurman wins THAT hands down. But you cant take away what Juice did on the field.
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