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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!

Box Scores and Recaps

1985 London Game: Oakland Invaders vs. Michigan Panthers

Team Stats

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“Gridiron Symphony: Sunday’s Battle of Titans – July 28, 1986”

Greetings, gridiron enthusiasts! Nigel Somerset-Smith here, your guide through the captivating tapestry of American football. Today, we delve into the pages of history, specifically July 28, 1986, a day etched in the annals of gridiron glory.

In a clash that resonated with the echoes of determination and tactical prowess, the Oakland Invaders and the Michigan Panthers locked horns in a battle that transcended mere statistics. The sun hung high in the sky, casting its golden rays upon the field, setting the stage for a symphony of football prowess.

The scoreboard, a canvas for the unfolding drama, painted a tale of strategic brilliance and unwavering spirit. The Oakland Invaders, with quarterback Craig Sundberg at the helm, orchestrated a masterful opening act. Jess Atkinson’s accurate boot sent a 42-yard field goal sailing through the uprights, marking the commencement of a gridiron spectacle.

As the game unfolded, John Williams emerged as the maestro of the ground assault, carving through the Michigan defense with a 12-yard touchdown run. The Invaders were on a relentless march, their offensive prowess leaving fans in awe.

Tom Newton, adding his own chapter to the narrative, powered through for a 4-yard touchdown run, further solidifying Oakland’s dominance. Jess Atkinson’s reliable leg added to the spectacle with a 32-yard field goal, contributing to the Invaders’ commanding lead.

The Michigan Panthers, facing an uphill battle, found solace in Bobby Hebert’s 11-yard touchdown pass to Derek Holloway. The Panthers, despite the odds, showcased their resilience, refusing to let the Invaders dictate the entire script.

The tale of this gridiron symphony extended beyond touchdowns and field goals; it was a story of defensive tenacity and strategic battles. Oakland’s defense, led by Angelo Snipes and Tim Lucas, executed with precision, stifling Michigan’s attempts to turn the tide.

In the end, the final notes of this Sunday spectacle echoed with a resounding victory for the Oakland Invaders. The scoreboard read 20-8, a testament to their prowess on both ends of the field. Sundberg’s precision passing, Williams and Newton’s ground heroics, and a stalwart defense paved the way for triumph.

As the sun set on July 28, 1986, the echoes of this gridiron symphony lingered in the hearts of fans. Another chapter written, another tale told, and the magic of American football immortalized on the canvas of time.

Until our next journey into the realms of sporting splendor, this is Nigel Somerset-Smith, bidding you adieu with the resonant echoes of Sunday’s Battle of Titans still ringing in our ears.

Box Scores and Recaps

Michigan Panthers 24, Chicago Blitz 35

USFL Playoffs Round 1 (1985)

Blitz Outlast Panthers in Playoff Thriller, Advance to Semifinals

In a heated playoff clash at Soldier Field, the Chicago Blitz edged out their bitter rivals, the Michigan Panthers, 35-24, in a game filled with momentum swings and standout performances. Chicago quarterback Landry led the charge, throwing for 247 yards and five touchdowns, earning a 119.3 passer rating and the game’s MVP honors. Wide receiver Spencer was electric, hauling in two of Landry’s touchdowns, including a 62-yard strike that reignited the Blitz’s lead in the third quarter.

The game began with Chicago asserting dominance, building a 14-0 lead behind long, efficient drives. Michigan responded with quarterback Bobby Hebert, who orchestrated two touchdown drives to keep the Panthers within striking distance at halftime, trailing 21-14. Hebert’s connection with Derek Holloway for a 35-yard touchdown tied the game early in the third quarter, but Chicago answered swiftly with Spencer’s deep touchdown grab. The Blitz’s defense tightened in the fourth, highlighted by Bruce Laird’s late interception to seal the win.

While the Panthers fought valiantly, with Hebert passing for 341 yards and three touchdowns, their three turnovers and inability to stop Chicago’s balanced attack proved costly. The Blitz controlled the clock with 168 rushing yards, led by Spencer’s 130-yard performance on the ground. With the victory, Chicago advances to the semifinals, keeping their championship hopes alive while sending their rivals home in a thrilling playoff opener.

Special Teams

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Playoff Preview

USFL Playoffs Round 1 (1985)

Michigan Panthers at Chicago Blitz: USFL’s Premier Rivalry Renewed in the Playoffs

The USFL’s most thrilling rivalry is set to take center stage in the playoffs when the Michigan Panthers travel to face the Chicago Blitz in a Sunday night matinee on June 23, 1985, at 8:00 PM Eastern. Both teams bring a wealth of talent, history, and bad blood into what promises to be an unforgettable showdown.

Regular Season Recap

The Michigan Panthers (9-9) and Chicago Blitz (13-5) meet again after the Blitz swept the two regular seaon games including a victory in week 18. Chicago boasts a high-powered offense led by quarterback Greg Landry, while Michigan counters with the electric arm of Bobby Hebert and a balanced attack. The stakes couldn’t be higher, with a spot in the USFL semifinals on the line.

Team Analysis

Michigan Panthers

  • Offense: Bobby Hebert has been the driving force for Michigan’s offense, throwing for 3,811 yards and 30 touchdowns on the season. Wide receiver Anthony Carter has been Hebert’s favorite target, recording 1,323 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. Running back Albert Bentley complements the passing attack with 1,020 rushing yards and 441 receiving yards, proving to be a dual threat.
  • Defense: The Panthers’ defense is anchored by lineman Doug Bethea, who tallied 11 sacks, and linebacker John Corker, with 84 tackles on the year. Michigan’s secondary, led by Clarence Davis (5 interceptions), will be crucial in slowing down Chicago’s aerial assault.

Chicago Blitz

  • Offense: Quarterback Greg Landry led the league with a 63% completion rate, amassing 3,534 passing yards and 26 touchdowns. Running back Tim Spencer is the Blitz’s offensive engine, rushing for 1,212 yards and 17 touchdowns while adding 589 receiving yards. The deep receiving corps, including wideout Jackie Willis (814 yards, 7 TDs), gives Landry plenty of weapons.
  • Defense: Chicago’s defense is highlighted by an aggressive front seven and a versatile secondary. Linebacker Tom Thayer and defensive back Cedric Anderson (3 interceptions) will play key roles in containing Michigan’s big-play potential.

Key Matchups

  • Hebert vs. Blitz Secondary: Hebert will need to exploit mismatches downfield, particularly with Carter and Derek Holloway, but must avoid Chicago’s opportunistic defensive backs.
  • Spencer vs. Michigan Run Defense: Containing Spencer will be a top priority for Michigan’s defense, as the star back has a knack for wearing down opposing defenses and breaking big plays.
  • Special Teams Battle: Field position could be pivotal. Michigan kicker Novo Bojovic has been reliable, hitting 69.2% of his field goals, while Chicago punter David Coral leads in pinning opponents deep.

X-Factors

  • Anthony Carter (Michigan): Carter’s ability to stretch the field and turn routine catches into game-changing plays could tip the scales in Michigan’s favor.
  • Tim Spencer (Chicago): Spencer’s versatility as a runner and receiver makes him a constant threat to swing the momentum.

Prediction

The combination of Chicago’s home-field advantage and balanced attack gives the Blitz a slight edge. However, Michigan’s explosive offense and Hebert’s playoff experience mean the Panthers won’t go down without a fight. Expect a close, high-scoring affair with the outcome possibly coming down to the final possession.

Projected Score: Chicago Blitz 31, Michigan Panthers 27

Football fans, buckle up—this one is destined to be a classic.

Box Scores and Recaps, Stats

Chicago Blitz 21, Michigan Panthers 17

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1983 USFL Playoffs, Round 1

Chicago and Michigan played another exciting playoff game on Sunday evening. Chicago finally beat their division rival, a team that went 18-0 in the regular season and looked destined to finish the job. Chicago rode their defense in the game, sacking quarterback Bobby Hebert 11 times. Their patented two back offense proved enough with both running backs scoring a touchdown in the game.

For their part, Michigan’s defense and special teams kept them in the game. They sacked Chicago QB Greg Landry 9 times, and intercepted him twice. Robert Penny well returned one for a touchdown. Michigan scored their other touchdown on a blocked punt return. But Landry tossed a touchdown with 4 and a half minutes left in the game to pull ahead. Michigan got 3 more chances to take the lead, but Chicago never let them beyond their own 38 yard line. The win matches the Blitz up with the Invaders in next week’s championship in Denver.

Team Stats

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Playoff Preview

1983 USFL Playoffs Round 1 Preview

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Saturday – Oakland Invaders at Boston Breakers

While Boston boasts the better record in the match up, Oakland comes in as one of the hottest teams in the league. They won 9 in a row including a win over the Breakers in the second to last game of the season. That win came as revenge for a 29-9 loss against the Breakers in week 6.

The game promises offensive fireworks. Both quarterbacks threw for close to 4000 yards, with Boston passer Jonny Walton surpassing the total. Both teams boast 1000 yard rushers and Boston has a reciever with over 1000 yards. To counter, Oakland brings three receivers with over 800 yards for a slightly more balanced attack.

Prediction: Boston Breakers 24, Oakland Invaders 18

Sunday – Chicago Blitz at Michigan Panthers

The two best teams in the league record wise and stats wise collide again on Sunday in the other playoff game. Michigan finished the regular season undefeated, including two close wins over Chicago. Quarterback Bobby Hebert and running back Ken Lacy led the Michigan offense. Defensive MVP candidate John Corker terrorized quarterbacks to the tune of 27 sacks, likely a record that will stand for some time.

On the other sideline, quarterback Greg Landry managed the offense enough to allow two of the Blitz running backs to gain over 1000 yards rushing on the season. They added 18 touchdowns to the mix. And, the Chicago defense played well, too, holding teams to a league low 235 points. This game promises to be one of the most exciting of the year.

Prediction: Michigan Panthers 16, Chicago Blitz 13.