Charlie Tolar – The Houston Oilers Human Bowling Ball

I remember watching Tolar play against the Chargers in Balboa Stadium. Good article. I think I noted two errors in the article. In addition to the reference of Jim Otto playing for the Chargers, I think it was Al Davis who moved Billy Cannon to TE during the 1965 season while Billy played for the Raiders. Correct me if I am wrong. Thanks again.

Like Lin, I first saw Tolar play on television when the Oiler games at Jeppesen Stadium were televised back east on Sunday afternoons. Then in 1963, I saw the Oilers play Sonny Werblin’s “new” New York Jets in the Polo Grounds. On one particular play Tolar carried the ball into a hole that was quickly filled by giant Jet defensive tackle Charlie Janerette. Tolar lowered his shoulder and the collision’s impact produced a “thunder-clap” that carried distinctly into the upper deck of the cavernous stadium where we were sitting. (Only about 10,000 were in attendance and the ferocity of the hit actually left the stadium in silent awe for a moment.) Janerette staggered to his feet after making the tackle and Tolar walked back to the huddle like it was just another day at the office.
Aside from his punishing running style and pass-catching ability out of the backfield, Tolar was an exceptional pass-blocker. He would fell many a pass-rusher by cut blocking them at the knees. George Blanda referred to Tolar as the “little nut-buster!”
Two of the original Oilers related that Tolar often vomited from nerves prior to a game, but once he stepped onto the field he was absolutely fearless. Several Oiler teammates claimed that Tolar was the toughest man on the squad.