Category Archives: Playoff Preview

Playoff Preview

1986 USFL Championship Game Preview

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How We Got Here

East Conference Championship: 1986 USFL East Conference Championship

West Conference Championshp: 1986 USFL West Conference Championship

Denver Gold

Denver went 12-6 in the regular season, losing a tie breaker to Houston. Nevertheless, they secured the second seed and a first round bye. They went all in on Mouse Davis’ run and shoot offense, scoring almost 40 points a game. Quarterback Bob Gagliano stepped up and threw for over 6000 yards, 54 touchdowns against only 18 interceptions. Running back Bill Johnson added almost 2200 yards and 21 touchdowns on the ground and over 700 yards and 6 touchdowns receiving. They bosted three 1000 yard receivers on offense.

Their bend but don’t break defense averaged 28.8 points a game. Led by linebacker John Nevens (118 tackles, 5 sacks, and 5 interceptions) and CB Curtis Stacy (103 tackles and 3 interceptions) and S Chris White (8 interceptions), they insured that the potent offense saw the field enough to outscore opponents.

They will need all of this offensive and defensive talent if they want to take down an undefeated Boston team that only looked somewhat mortal in two games during their unbeaten run.

Boston Breakers

In an anecdote all too familiar and sure to go down in USFL history as one of the great steals for the league, Boston’s fan ownership wooed CFL quarterback Matt Dunigan to the team in the offseason. The dual threat responded by throwing for just under 5000 yards and a league leading 60 touchdowns. He added almost 600 yards rushing and 9 touchdowns on the ground. This opened the field for RB Buford Jordan, who ran for over 1600 yards and 13 touchdowns. They, too, saw three recievers gain over 1000 yards, including leader Mike Sherrard with 1938 yards and 23 touchdowns.

Their own defense gave up 27.7 points per game on the year. Linebacker Marcus Marek (111 tackles, 4 sacks, 2 int) led a defefnse joined by three defensive backs who registered 90 tackles or more. That included the two Scotts; CB Byers with 10 interceptions and Thomas with 6.

In a league defined by high flying offenses, both teams bring a balanced gameplan that means that either has a chance to come away with the victory.

Our Take

Denver comes in with a strong resume and on a tear in the playoffs that’s almost unmatched. Defeating both Michigan and Houston by double digits is impressive. However, they will need all of that firepower and more to beat a historic Boston Breakers team. Matt Dunigan and the Breakers are on a mission this year and they will win next week to cap off an undefeated season and win their first USFL Championship.

Box Scores and Recaps, Playoff Preview, Stats, Weekly Wrap Ups

1986 USFL Divisional Round Wrap Up

Games

Saturday

1986 USFL Divisional Round: Philadelphia Stars at Birmingham Stallions

1986 USFL Divisional Playoffs: Michigan Panthers at Denver Gold

Sunday

1986 USFL Divisional Round: New Jersey Generals at Boston Breakers

1986 USFL Divisional Round: Los Angeles Express at Houston Gamblers

Recap

The conference semifinal round got off to a slow start with two blowouts. Philadelphia fell to Birmingham and Denver took care of Michigan and their young quarterback Jim Harbaugh. Neither game featured any drama with the home teams rushing out to leads and holding on with a stingy defense to finish off the visitors.

The Sunday games featured closer games. New Jersey ran into the buzz saw that are the Boston Breakers this year. The Generals just didn’t have enough offense or defense to compete. They added some late touchdowns to make the score more respectable. However, Boston remains on a mission this year. Houston required some last minute Kelly magic to defeat the surprising Express and host the Gold next week for a spot in this year’s championship game.

1986 Conference Finals Weekend Preview

Birmingham Stallions at Boston Breakers: An immovable object meets the unstoppable force when Boston’s offense squares up against Birmingham’s defense. This promises to be one of the toughest tests for the high flying Breakers. However, they look poised to march into the USFL Championship with their flawless record intact. Our Take: It may be a close game, but the Breakers firepower will bring them home.

Denver Gold at Houston Gamblers: The Gold figured out how to, not only match, but in some ways surpass the prolific Houston offense. Their own version of the run and shoot with Bob Gagliano and Bill Johnson have them again on the verge of a USFL Championship. With rumors of Jim Kelly possibly leaving for the NFL in a couple of years, this represents one of the last times for him to lift another title. Our take: Close game, but never bet against Kelly in a tight spot.

Playoff Preview

1986 USFL Divisional Round Preview

Saturday

Philadelphia Stars at Birmingham Stallions

Philadelphia Stars: The Stars finished the season 10-8 and grabbed one of the wild card spots in the Atlantic. They never truly found their footing on offense, ranking in the middle or bottom in nearly every category. However, their defense kept them in games most of the year and were a primary reason that the Stars made the playoffs.

Birmingham Stallions: Birmingham put together another outstanding season, finishing at 14-4 and winning the South by a game over Jacksonville to take the number two spot in the conference. Their defense was even more impressive than Philadelphia. In addition, their offense ranked number 3 in total yards and 2 in rushing.

Quick Pick: The Stallions are just too much for the Stars. Plus they’re playing at home. Take Birmingham

Michigan Panthers at Denver Gold

Michigan Panthers: Michigan bounced back to 11-7 after two disappointing seasons. Their young and exciting quarterback Jim Harbaugh led the team to the tune of a fourth ranked scoring offense. Their defense had some bumps, ranking in the bottom quarter of the league in many categories.

Denver Gold: Denver finally found their footing under Mouse Davis and exploded on offense. They came in number two in scoring offense, number 1 in total yards, number 4 in rushing, and number two in passing. Never known for their defense, they held teams under 30 points per game to allow the explosive offense to steal some wins.

Quick Pick: Denver is just too powerful for Michigan and their young quarterback. The Panthers will be back, but take Denver this time.

Sunday

New Jersey Generals at Boston Breakers

New Jersey Generals: No surprise, but Jersey sported the number one rushing offense in the league. With Walker and Carthon, they averaged almost 200 yards rushing a game. But where they really shone was on defense, ranking in the top 5 in many categories.

Boston Breakers: By now, everyone knows the story of how the Breakers fan collective made a huge splash in the offseason by luring CFL quarterback Matt Dunigan to the team. It paid off in huge dividends with an 18-0 regular season and only one game where they sweated the outcome. Their defense can be some of an achilles heel, but the offense is just too powerful.

Quick Pick: Walker may have a big game, as he often does. But, Dunigan and the Breakers are on a mission. There’s no way they bow out this early.

Los Angeles Express at Houston Gamblers

Los Angeles Express: After last year’s disaster, they decided to go in a different direction and give their young quarterback Steve Young some time to develop. It paid off as they bounced back and made it to the playoffs, defeating the Ace in the wild card round.

Houston Gamblers: The Gamblers know nothing other than success in their time in the league. They’ve made the playoffs every year, winning the division and taking the number one seed each time. They won the Championship in their inaugural season and lost last year to Denver in the second round.

Quick Pick: Houston just wins at home. We don’t expect any less out of them this wekeend.

Be sure to return for full coverage of the games as they happen!

Playoff Preview

USFL Championship Game Preview (1985)

Here’s a preview for the championship game:

1985 USFL Championship Preview: Tampa Bay Bandits vs. Chicago Blitz
Sunday, July 13, 1985 – 6:30 PM ET at the Meadowlands, New Jersey

The stage is set for the 1985 USFL Championship as the Tampa Bay Bandits clash with the Chicago Blitz in what promises to be a thrilling battle at the Meadowlands. With both teams boasting explosive offenses and formidable defenses, fans can expect a high-stakes showdown under the lights.

Tampa Bay Bandits: A Dynamic Offensive Force

The Bandits, led by quarterback John Reaves, bring an aerial attack that has terrorized defenses all season. Reaves has thrown for a league-leading 4,193 yards, connecting on 25 touchdown passes. Despite 29 interceptions, his partnership with standout receivers Larry Brodsky (1,071 yards, 7 TDs) and Marvin Harvey (723 yards, 3 TDs) makes Tampa Bay a dangerous downfield threat.

Complementing the passing game is Gary Anderson, the league’s second-leading rusher. Anderson’s 1,207 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns underscore his dual-threat ability, further demonstrated by his 72 receptions for 678 yards. The Bandits’ offensive versatility is a cornerstone of their success.

On defense, linebacker Danny Wilson anchors the unit with an astounding 160 tackles, supported by Jim Nordgren’s 10 sacks and Marcus Quinn’s 7 interceptions. The Bandits’ ability to pressure quarterbacks and force turnovers will be pivotal against the Blitz.

Chicago Blitz: A Defensive Juggernaut

The Blitz have built their season on a dominant defense, led by linebacker Ed Smith, who was recently named Defensive Player of the Week in the playoffs. Chicago’s front seven has been relentless, with Nordgren and Gary Thorp combining for 17 sacks and a host of hurries. The secondary, spearheaded by safety Alvin Bailey’s 5 interceptions, thrives on stifling opposing passers.

Offensively, Chicago leans on a balanced attack with steady quarterback play and a consistent ground game. While the Blitz offense hasn’t produced the gaudy numbers of their Tampa Bay counterparts, their efficiency and ability to control the clock have been key to their postseason success.

Keys to Victory

Tampa Bay:

  • Reaves must limit turnovers to capitalize on the Bandits’ offensive firepower.
  • Anderson needs to exploit gaps in Chicago’s front to establish the run and open play-action opportunities.
  • The defense must contain Chicago’s methodical offense and create short fields for the Bandits’ attack.

Chicago:

  • The Blitz defense must pressure Reaves into mistakes while limiting Anderson’s impact in both phases of the game.
  • Establishing a steady ground game will help control possession and keep Tampa Bay’s offense off the field.
  • Capitalizing on red-zone opportunities will be crucial against a Tampa Bay defense that thrives on big plays.

Prediction

With the league’s top passer facing one of its most formidable defenses, this game comes down to execution in critical moments. If Tampa Bay can overcome their turnover struggles, their explosive playmakers give them the edge. However, Chicago’s disciplined defense and ball control offense make them a tough out.

Final Score Prediction: Tampa Bay 27, Chicago 24

Who will hoist the championship trophy? Tune in Sunday night to witness the culmination of the 1985 USFL season!

Let me know if you’d like to adjust or emphasize any details!

Playoff Preview

USFL Playoffs Eastern Championship (1985)

Eastern Championship Preview: Birmingham Stallions vs. Tampa Bay Bandits

On Sunday, July 7, 1985, the Eastern Championship kicks off under the lights in Tampa at 8:30 PM ET. The hometown Tampa Bay Bandits and the visiting Birmingham Stallions will battle for a spot in the USFL Championship game.

Both teams come into this showdown riding the momentum of playoff victories. Birmingham dispatched New Jersey in a commanding fashion, while Tampa Bay outlasted Memphis in a high-octane affair. Here’s how these teams stack up heading into this critical matchup.

Tampa Bay Bandits (12-4 Regular Season)

The Bandits are a team built for fireworks, boasting one of the most explosive offenses in the league. Quarterback John Reaves leads the way, throwing for a staggering 4,193 yards and 25 touchdowns during the regular season. Despite his efficiency waning at times, Reaves can make game-changing plays with a deep corps of receivers.

Eric Truvillion and Larry Brodsky headline the Bandits’ aerial attack. Truvillion is a red-zone weapon with six touchdown grabs, while Brodsky’s big-play ability led him to over 1,000 yards receiving and seven scores.

On the ground, Gary Anderson is the Bandits’ workhorse, rushing for 1,207 yards and 16 touchdowns. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield makes him a dual threat and a key to Tampa Bay’s success.

Defensively, the Bandits excel at forcing turnovers, highlighted by Marcus Quinn’s seven interceptions. Their front seven, led by Nordgren and Thorp, will need to pressure Birmingham QB Cliff Stoudt to disrupt his rhythm.

Birmingham Stallions (11-5 Regular Season)

The Stallions bring a balanced attack that can dominate both through the air and on the ground. Quarterback Cliff Stoudt has been the heartbeat of Birmingham’s offense, passing for 3,358 yards and 34 touchdowns. His efficiency, coupled with his ability to extend plays with his legs, makes him a dual threat that Tampa Bay’s defense must account for.

Stoudt’s favorite target is Jim Smith, who leads the team with 1,322 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns. Smith’s ability to find the end zone has been unmatched this season, making him a nightmare for opposing secondaries.

The ground game is anchored by Joe Cribbs, who rushed for over 1,000 yards and added 287 receiving yards. His versatility complements the Stallions’ passing game, creating a well-rounded offensive attack.

On defense, Birmingham relies on the leadership of Benny Perrin and Herb Spencer in the secondary and the pass-rushing prowess of Leto Mitchell and Earl Gant. They’ll need a strong showing to contain Tampa Bay’s explosive offense.

Key Matchups to Watch

  • Cliff Stoudt vs. Tampa Bay’s Secondary: Stoudt’s ability to exploit defenses has been pivotal for Birmingham. Tampa Bay’s opportunistic secondary, led by Marcus Quinn, will need to capitalize on any mistakes.
  • Gary Anderson vs. Birmingham’s Front Seven: Anderson’s rushing and receiving skills could tilt the game in Tampa Bay’s favor. Birmingham’s run defense must step up to limit his impact.
  • Special Teams Battle: In tight playoff games, field position is crucial. Both teams will look to their return units and kickers—especially Tampa Bay’s Zenon Andryshyshyn, who has been reliable all year.

Prediction

This matchup pits Tampa Bay’s high-powered offense against Birmingham’s balanced attack. If the Bandits can protect Reaves and get Anderson going, they’ll have the edge at home. However, Birmingham’s playoff experience and well-rounded roster could prove too much for Tampa Bay to handle.

Final Score Prediction: Birmingham Stallions 31, Tampa Bay Bandits 27.

Expect a thrilling, back-and-forth contest as these two Eastern Conference heavyweights leave it all on the field for a shot at USFL glory.

Playoff Preview

USFL Playoffs Western Championship (1985)

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Western Conference Championship Preview: Denver Gold vs. Chicago Blitz

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as the Denver Gold travel to Chicago to take on the Blitz in the Western Conference Championship. The game kicks off on Sunday, July 7, 1985, at 4:15 PM ET, with a spot in the USFL Championship game on the line.

Both teams enter the game riding high after impressive playoff performances. Denver pulled off a stunning upset over the Houston Gamblers, toppling the league’s most explosive offense in a 31-28 victory. Meanwhile, Chicago solidified its dominance with a convincing 34-21 win over the Arizona Wranglers.

Chicago Blitz: Balanced and Battle-Tested

The Chicago Blitz, led by veteran quarterback Landon Landry, boast one of the league’s most balanced offensive attacks. Landry has been a model of consistency, completing 63% of his passes this season for 3,534 yards and 26 touchdowns. His ability to spread the ball around makes Chicago’s passing attack particularly lethal.

Running back Tim Spencer is the workhorse for the Blitz, rushing for 1,212 yards and 17 touchdowns. Spencer’s punishing style and knack for breaking off big plays (long of 81 yards this season) make him a constant threat.

On defense, Chicago features a fearsome pass rush led by Lee (20 sacks) and a secondary anchored by ball-hawking corner Frank Minnifield, who leads the team with four interceptions. The Blitz defense thrives on creating turnovers and limiting big plays, making them a nightmare matchup for any offense.

Denver Gold: Underdogs on the Rise

Denver’s playoff success has been fueled by a mix of grit and star power. Running back Bill Johnson is the heart of the Gold offense, leading the league with 1,261 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. His ability to control the tempo will be critical against a Chicago defense that thrives in chaotic situations.

Quarterback Bob Gagliano has had an up-and-down season, throwing for 2,695 yards and 13 touchdowns. While he’s struggled with turnovers (17 interceptions), his connection with star wideout Leonard Harris (1,432 receiving yards, 8 TDs) gives Denver a dynamic big-play threat.

Defensively, Denver will need to replicate its performance against Houston, where it forced critical turnovers and held the Gamblers to under 30 points for just the second time this season. Linebacker Mark Daum, who recorded a league-record 17 tackles earlier this year, will be a key figure in slowing down Spencer and the Chicago rushing attack.

Key Matchups to Watch

  • Bill Johnson vs. Chicago Front Seven: Johnson’s ability to churn out tough yards will be crucial to keeping Denver in the game. If Chicago’s defensive line, led by Lee and Lorch, can shut down the run, it could be a long day for the Gold.
  • Landon Landry vs. Denver Secondary: Landry’s precision passing will test Denver’s defensive backfield, which must find ways to limit explosive plays from Cedric Anderson and Nate Willis.
  • Special Teams Battle: Field position could play a critical role, and both teams will rely on their kick return units to provide a spark. Chicago’s Joe Kraus (47-yard long return) and Denver’s Lonnie Turner (464 return yards) are both capable of game-changing plays.

Prediction

The Denver Gold have proven they can overcome the odds, but the Chicago Blitz’s combination of offensive firepower and defensive discipline makes them the favorites. Expect a close, hard-fought game, but Chicago’s ability to control the clock and capitalize on mistakes should carry them to victory.

Final Score Prediction: Chicago 27, Denver 20.

Playoff Preview

USFL Playoffs Round 2 (1985)

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Playoff Showdown: Denver Gold vs. Houston Gamblers
Sunday, June 30, 1985 – 4:15 PM ET at the Astrodome, Houston, TX

The Denver Gold and Houston Gamblers are set to clash in the second round of the USFL playoffs, with both teams looking to extend their postseason runs. The game promises a battle of contrasting styles as the Gamblers’ high-octane passing attack faces a gritty, balanced Denver squad.

Houston Gamblers: Air Show in Full Effect

The Gamblers, led by the league’s Offensive Player of the Year candidate Jim Kelly, have been a force all season. Kelly’s prolific passing—5,219 yards and 44 touchdowns—has powered Houston to the top of the league’s offensive rankings. With receivers like Ricky Sanders (1,378 yards, 11 TDs) and Richard Johnson (1,455 yards, 15 TDs), Houston’s passing game is a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Complementing the aerial attack is a capable ground game spearheaded by Sam Harrell, who racked up 597 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. Combined with Kelly’s ability to run, the Gamblers averaged 5.5 yards per carry, making them an unpredictable threat.

Defensively, Houston brings pressure with sack leader Pete Catan (16 sacks) and an opportunistic secondary led by Will Lewis (8 interceptions). If they can stifle Denver’s offense early, the Gamblers will be in prime position to dictate the pace.

Denver Gold: Grit and Resilience

The Denver Gold punched their ticket to this game with a hard-fought victory over the Oakland Invaders. Bill Johnson, the league’s second-leading rusher with 1,261 yards and 15 touchdowns, remains the cornerstone of Denver’s offense. His power running sets up quarterback Bob Gagliano, who has struggled at times (13 TDs, 17 INTs) but is capable of delivering under pressure.

The receiving corps is led by Leonard Harris (1,432 yards, 8 TDs) and Marc Lewis (1,207 yards, 6 TDs), providing the Gold with big-play potential if Gagliano can find his rhythm.

Denver’s defense, while not flashy, is built on sound tackling and determination. Linebacker Mark Daum, who set a single-game record with 17 tackles earlier this season, will need to anchor the unit against Houston’s relentless attack.

Keys to the Game

  • For Houston: The Gamblers need to establish their tempo early. Quick scores will force Denver into an uncomfortable shootout and negate the Gold’s ball-control strategy.
  • For Denver: Ball control is critical. A steady dose of Bill Johnson and a few timely completions from Gagliano could keep Houston’s offense on the sideline and the game within reach.

Prediction

The Gold bring heart and determination, but the Gamblers’ explosive offense at home may be too much to handle. Expect Jim Kelly and his arsenal of weapons to light up the scoreboard and punch Houston’s ticket to the next round.

Prediction: Houston Gamblers 38, Denver Gold 24

Playoff Preview

USFL Playoffs Round 2 (1985)

Bandits vs. Showboats: Round 2 Playoff Showdown in Tampa Bay

On Sunday, June 30, 1985, at 12:30 PM local time, the Tampa Bay Bandits will host the Memphis Showboats in a high-stakes Round 2 playoff clash at Tampa Stadium. With the Bandits enjoying home-field advantage and the Showboats riding the momentum of a decisive victory over the Washington Federals, fans can expect an intense battle between two dynamic teams.

Bandits Overview

The Bandits come into this game as one of the most explosive offensive teams in the league. Quarterback John Reaves has been a gunslinger all season, amassing 4,193 passing yards and 25 touchdowns. While his 56% completion rate and 40 interceptions have raised questions about consistency, Reaves remains capable of taking over games with his big-play ability.

Tampa Bay’s offense is bolstered by a strong supporting cast. Gary Anderson is a dual-threat star, leading the team with 1,207 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns while adding 678 receiving yards and 4 more scores. Larry Brodsky and Marvin Harvey provide deep threats, combining for over 1,700 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns.

Defensively, the Bandits rely on linebacker Danny Wilson’s tackling prowess (160 total tackles) and a pass rush led by Todd Nordgren (10 sacks). Their secondary has been opportunistic, with Marcus Quinn and Alvin Bailey combining for 12 interceptions.

Showboats Overview

The Memphis Showboats are the league’s dark horse, blending a gritty rushing attack with explosive plays in the passing game. Walter Lewis has been a revelation under center, posting a 99.8 passer rating and leading the team with 16 passing touchdowns. He’s also a threat on the ground, rushing for 591 yards and 4 scores.

The Showboats’ ground game is anchored by Tim Spencer, who churned out 789 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns, while Anthony Parker added 285 yards and 8 scores in short-yardage situations. In the air, Greg Moser has been nearly unstoppable, racking up 1,145 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns, complemented by Derek Crawford’s 1,057 yards and 9 scores.

Memphis’s special teams could be an X-factor. Derek Crawford returned a punt 60 yards for a touchdown during the regular season and averages an impressive 23 yards per return.

Defensively, the Showboats are opportunistic, with a deep rotation in the trenches and a knack for forcing turnovers. Linebacker Leonard Williams and safety Gary Shirk lead a disciplined unit capable of bending without breaking.

Keys to Victory

For Tampa Bay

  • Protect the Ball: Reaves must limit turnovers against a Showboats defense that thrives on takeaways.
  • Establish Anderson Early: Getting Gary Anderson involved both on the ground and through the air will keep the Memphis defense off balance.
  • Pressure Lewis: The Bandits’ front seven needs to disrupt Walter Lewis’s rhythm and prevent him from creating plays with his legs.

For Memphis

  • Control the Clock: A heavy dose of Spencer and Parker could help Memphis keep the Bandits’ offense off the field.
  • Big Plays: The Showboats must capitalize on their big-play potential, especially with Moser and Crawford stretching the defense.
  • Special Teams Impact: Explosive returns or key field position swings could tilt the game in Memphis’s favor.

Prediction

This matchup has all the ingredients for a classic playoff duel. The Bandits’ explosive offense and home crowd provide a significant edge, but Memphis has the tools to pull off an upset with disciplined defense and clutch playmaking.

Final Score Prediction: Tampa Bay Bandits 31, Memphis Showboats 27.

Playoff Preview

USFL Playoffs Round 2 (1985)

Playoff Showdown: Birmingham Stallions vs. New Jersey Generals at the Meadowlands

Date: Saturday, June 2,9 1985
Time: 8:30 PM ET
Location: The Meadowlands, East Rutherford, NJ

The stage is set for an electrifying USFL playoff clash as the Birmingham Stallions travel to the Meadowlands to face the New Jersey Generals in a Round 2 showdown. Both teams have displayed offensive firepower and defensive resilience throughout the season, and Saturday night promises to be a high-stakes battle under the lights.

Season Recap

The New Jersey Generals enter the playoffs after a dominant regular season, largely powered by their prolific rushing attack and an opportunistic defense. Herschel Walker, the league’s rushing champion, has been nothing short of spectacular, racking up 2,411 yards on the ground with 21 touchdowns. Walker’s consistency and explosiveness have made the Generals a formidable opponent, particularly at home.

On the other side, the Birmingham Stallions advanced to Round 2 after a hard-fought victory over the Pittsburgh Maulers in the opening round. Led by quarterback Cliff Stoudt, Birmingham’s balanced offense and opportunistic defense have proven effective all season. Stoudt’s precision passing and his ability to make plays with his legs have kept opposing defenses on their heels.

Key Matchups to Watch

Generals’ Ground Game vs. Stallions’ Front Seven

The Generals’ offense runs through Herschel Walker. His ability to break long runs and consistently move the chains has been a hallmark of New Jersey’s success. Birmingham’s front seven, led by linebacker Mike Kolen and a stout defensive line, will need to be at their best to contain Walker and force the Generals to rely on their passing game.

Cliff Stoudt vs. Generals’ Secondary

Stoudt has enjoyed a stellar season, completing nearly 60% of his passes for 3,613 yards and 35 touchdowns. His primary target, Jim Smith, leads the league in receiving touchdowns with 20. The Generals’ secondary, anchored by safety Kerry Justin and cornerback Mike Holmes, will need to step up to slow down Birmingham’s high-flying aerial attack.

Special Teams Battle

In a game likely to be decided by field position and critical moments, special teams could play a pivotal role. Birmingham’s kick returner Dennis Hall has averaged 22.7 yards per return, providing excellent starting field position for the Stallions’ offense. Meanwhile, the Generals’ kicker Roger Ruzek has been reliable, converting 68% of his field goal attempts, including a long of 50 yards.

X-Factors

  • Doug Flutie (Generals): While Walker dominates the headlines, quarterback Doug Flutie’s dual-threat ability adds a dynamic element to New Jersey’s offense. If Birmingham focuses too heavily on stopping Walker, Flutie’s scrambling and passing could tilt the game in the Generals’ favor.
  • Joe Cribbs (Stallions): Birmingham’s workhorse back Joe Cribbs has quietly put together a solid season, rushing for over 1,000 yards. His ability to control the clock and keep the Generals’ offense off the field will be critical.

What to Expect

This game pits the league’s top rusher against one of its most balanced teams. Expect New Jersey to lean heavily on Walker early, looking to wear down Birmingham’s defense and open up play-action opportunities for Flutie. Birmingham, meanwhile, will likely look to establish an early lead through Stoudt and Smith, forcing the Generals to play from behind.

The Stallions have shown they can win in a variety of ways, but they’ll need to play mistake-free football against a Generals team that thrives on turnovers. With both teams evenly matched, this game could come down to the final possession.

Prediction

In a hard-fought contest, the Generals’ home-field advantage and Herschel Walker’s game-breaking ability could be the difference. However, if Birmingham’s defense rises to the occasion and Stoudt delivers another strong performance, the Stallions have the tools to pull off the upset.

Final Score Prediction: New Jersey Generals 27, Birmingham Stallions 24

Playoff Preview

USFL Playoffs Round 2 (1985)

Blitz vs. Wranglers: A Second-Round Showdown in the Desert

The stage is set for a thrilling second-round playoff clash between the Chicago Blitz and the Arizona Wranglers on Saturday, June 29, 1985. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:15 PM ET at the sun-soaked Arizona Stadium in Tucson. Both teams bring contrasting styles and key playmakers to this much-anticipated matchup, promising fans an unforgettable battle.

Chicago Blitz: A Balanced Powerhouse

The Blitz rolled into the second round after dispatching the Michigan Panthers in an impressive first-round performance. Led by veteran quarterback Greg Landry, Chicago’s offense has been among the most balanced and dynamic in the league. Landry’s precision passing (3,534 yards, 26 touchdowns, and a 92.8 passer rating) is complemented by the explosive rushing of Tim Spencer, who racked up 1,212 yards and 17 touchdowns during the regular season.

The Blitz’s passing attack has plenty of depth, with Lenny Willis (814 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns) and Cedric Anderson (524 yards and 3 touchdowns) as top targets. Meanwhile, their defense, anchored by Junior Ah You and sack leader Eddie Lee (20 sacks), excels at pressuring quarterbacks and forcing mistakes.

Arizona Wranglers: Ground-and-Pound Specialists

Arizona leaned on their bruising ground game and opportunistic defense to clinch a playoff berth. The Wranglers are powered by star running back Reggie Brown, who surpassed the 1,000-yard mark with 1,031 yards and 12 touchdowns. While the passing game, led by Vince Evans, has struggled with consistency (48.3% completion and 12 TDs against 16 INTs), Brown’s ability to control the clock has been their offensive backbone.

Defensively, Arizona is spearheaded by Jim Tipton (14 sacks) and linebacker David Clark, who has been a disruptive force with 6 interceptions and multiple deflected passes. Special teams also provide a spark, with Lonnie Harris showcasing his skills in both kick and punt returns.

Keys to Victory

For Chicago:
The Blitz need to establish their passing game early to exploit Arizona’s defensive secondary, which has allowed some big plays despite forcing turnovers. Limiting mistakes and maintaining their high offensive efficiency will be crucial.

For Arizona:
The Wranglers must control the tempo with their ground game and keep the ball out of Landry’s hands. Defensively, pressuring Landry and containing Tim Spencer are critical. Look for Arizona to rely on the clutch kicking of Luis Zendejas, who has been reliable from long range.

Prediction

The Blitz’s balanced attack and ability to score in bunches give them the edge on paper. However, the Wranglers’ rugged defense and home-field advantage could be X-factors. Expect a hard-fought game that hinges on turnovers and red-zone execution.

Final Score Prediction: Chicago Blitz 27, Arizona Wranglers 20.

Will the Blitz continue their march to a championship, or can the Wranglers pull off an upset in the desert? All eyes will be on Arizona this Saturday for what promises to be a playoff classic.