Luther’s Precision Passing Leads Bulls to High-Scoring Win Over Brass
In a thrilling offensive showcase at the Superdome, the Jacksonville Bulls (1-1) outlasted the New Orleans Brass (0-1) 42-30 behind a near-flawless performance from quarterback Ed Luther. The veteran signal-caller completed 26 of 32 passes for 303 yards and three touchdowns, spreading the ball to ten different receivers while posting a stellar 137.4 passer rating. Luther’s efficiency was matched by Jacksonville’s dominant ground game, which racked up 255 rushing yards, including two touchdowns from Larry Mason (85 yards) and another from Cedric Jones (144 yards). The Bulls’ offense was nearly unstoppable, converting all six red zone trips into touchdowns and amassing 558 total yards.
New Orleans showed flashes of promise in their 1986 home debut, particularly from quarterback Rusty Hilger, who connected on two deep touchdowns—a 37-yard strike to Jamie Harris and a 9-yard score to Frank. Rookie running back Dalton Hilliard provided a spark with 65 yards and a touchdown on just five carries, including a 19-yard burst. But the Brass couldn’t keep pace with Jacksonville’s relentless attack, despite a 94-yard fumble return touchdown by defensive back Carr in the fourth quarter that briefly cut the deficit to 35-30. The Bulls responded immediately with a methodical 70-yard drive capped by Luther’s third TD pass to Gary Clark, sealing the win.
Key Takeaways
- Red Zone Perfection: Jacksonville went 6-for-6 in the red zone, while New Orleans settled for a field goal on their only trip inside the 20.
- Ground Control: The Bulls’ 255 rushing yards (6.1 avg) allowed them to dominate time of possession (37:56).
- Defensive Woes: New Orleans’ secondary struggled, allowing 11.7 yards per completion, while their pass rush generated just two sacks.
- Bright Spot: Hilliard’s explosive debut (13.0 ypc) gives the Brass hope for their rushing attack moving forward.
With the win, Jacksonville rebounds from a Week 1 loss, while New Orleans—despite showing offensive potential—must address defensive breakdowns before facing Oakland next week. Luther’s surgical performance reaffirms the Bulls as a playoff contender, while the Brass’ growing pains were evident in their inaugural outing this year.
