Federals Grind Out Defensive Win Over Struggling Stars
In a defensive slugfest at RFK Memorial Stadium, the Washington Federals (1-0) edged the Philadelphia Stars (0-1) 13-6 in a game dominated by field position and missed opportunities. Washington quarterback Mike Hohensee, named MVP, overcame two interceptions to deliver the game-winning 10-yard touchdown pass to Steve Sewell early in the fourth quarter, capping a short 29-yard drive set up by a Kelvin Bryant fumble. The Federals’ defense held Philadelphia to just 183 total yards, with linebacker Greg Corivino (11 tackles) and defensive end Donald Chumley (1 sack, 2 hurries) leading a unit that forced two turnovers and limited the Stars to 2.8 yards per carry.
Philadelphia’s offense sputtered under veteran QB Chuck Fusina (13/18, 103 yards), managing only two David Trout field goals (46 and 42 yards) despite four trips into Washington territory. The Stars’ ground game—typically their strength—was bottled up, with Bryant (43 yards) and J.L. Williams (51 yards) combining for just 3.3 yards per carry. Philadelphia’s defense kept them in the game, highlighted by linebacker Duane Bickett’s 14-tackle performance and Jay Norvell’s 16-yard interception return that set up their first field goal. But two critical fumbles—including Bryant’s fourth-quarter miscue at his own 29-yard line—proved costly in the low-scoring affair.
Key Takeaways
- Red Zone Woes: Washington went 1-for-4 in the red zone but controlled the clock (32:49 TOP), while Philadelphia failed to reach the end zone in their lone red zone trip.
- Sewell’s Heroics: The Federals’ RB/WR hybrid Steve Sewell scored the game’s only TD and added 29 rushing yards on 17 carries.
- Injury Impact: Washington lost LB Patton in the second quarter, while Philly’s thin receiving corps (just 103 passing yards) missed injured TE Sean Sullivan.
With the win, Washington opens their playoff defense on a positive note, while Philadelphia’s offensive struggles raise questions about Fusina’s viability as the starter. The Stars host New Orleans next week, while the Federals travel to face Jacksonville in a battle of 1985 playoff teams.
