Los Angeles Express 1983 Season Recap
Overcoming Challenges and Building Foundations
By Bob Henderson, LA Express Reporter
As the sun sets on the 1983 USFL season, the Los Angeles Express finds itself reflecting on a journey marked by resilience, growth, and the forging of a foundation for future success. While the win-loss column may not be as favorable as fans hoped, the Express made strides that extend beyond mere numbers.
Offensive Prowess: Aerial Assault and Ground Grit
Led by the dynamic duo of quarterbacks Mike Rae and Tom Ramsey, the Express showcased an aerial attack that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Rae’s 56.4% completion rate and Ramsey’s gritty performances demonstrated the team’s versatility under center. The receiving corps, featuring standout players like Jojo Townsell and Kevin Williams, added flair to the Express offense.
On the ground, the running back committee, spearheaded by Mel Gray and Kevin Nelson, displayed determination. Despite challenges, the ground game laid the groundwork for strategic plays and showcased the team’s commitment to a balanced offensive approach.
Defensive Fortitude: Sacks, Stops, and Picks
Defensively, the Express faced adversity but rose to the occasion. The sack-happy defensive line, led by Danny Rich and Reggie Camp, applied consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The secondary, anchored by Dwight Drane and Wyomia Tyus, exhibited playmaking prowess with interceptions that shifted momentum.
The linebacker corps, featuring standout performances from Howard Carson and Danny Rich, showcased the team’s commitment to stopping the run and disrupting opponents’ passing schemes.
Special Teams Excellence: Boddie’s Explosiveness
In the realm of special teams, the Express witnessed explosive kick returns by Buford Jordan and the ever-reliable Dwayne Boddie. Boddie’s ability to flip the field and create scoring opportunities underscored the importance of special teams in the Express’ overall strategy.
Areas of Growth: Turnovers and Penalties
While the Express exhibited moments of brilliance, the season was not without challenges. Turnovers and penalties occasionally hindered progress, providing valuable lessons for the coaching staff and players alike. Addressing these areas will be crucial for future success.
Looking Ahead: Building a Championship Caliber Team
As we bid farewell to the 1983 season, optimism reigns supreme within the Express organization. The front office, led by the visionary David Dixon, remains steadfast in its commitment to building a championship-caliber team. With a strong core of players, dedicated coaching staff, and unwavering fan support, the Los Angeles Express looks ahead to the 1984 season with a renewed sense of purpose.
In the grand scheme of things, the 1983 season serves as a stepping stone—a foundational chapter in the story of the Los Angeles Express. The lessons learned, the challenges faced, and the triumphs celebrated set the stage for a promising future. As the team and its fans catch their breath and prepare for the next chapter, one thing is certain: the Express is on the track to greatness.
Bob Henderson, LA Express Reporter
1983 Los Angeles Express Roster
- Head Coach: Hugh Campbell
Quarterbacks:
- QB Mike Rae
- QB Tom Ramsey
- QB Russ Jensen
Skill Players:
- RB LaRue Harrington
- RB Tony Boddie
- RB John Barnett
- RB Wilbert Haslip
- RB Anthony Davis
- WR Kris Haines
- WR Anthony Allen
- WR Jo Jo Townsell
- WR Kevin Williams
- WR Vister Hayes
- WR Greg Moser
- WR Lonnie Turner
- WR Mark Tolbert
- WR Alvin Hooks
- WR Mike Harris
- TE Ricky Ellis
- TE Mike Sherrod
- TE Vic Rakhshani
Linemen:
- C Carl Allen
- G Charles Pitcock
- G Mike Durrette
- T Gus Coppens
- T Wayne Faalafua
- T Eric Moran
- C-G Wayne Jones
- G-T Mike Fields
- G-T Mike Wilson
- G-T Denver Johnson
- C-T Pat Cornelius
Defense:
- DT Eddie Weaver
- DT George Achica
- DT Junior Filiaga
- DT Phil Murphy
- DE Greg Fields
- DE Dennis Edwards
- DE Charles Philyaw
- DL Rich Dimler
- DL Clifton Alapa
- ILB Ron Seawell
- ILB Dann Lute
- OLB Eric Scoggins
- OLB Greg Williams
- OLB John Barefield
- LB Danny Rich
- LB David Aupiu
- LB Jerome Franey
- LB Rickey Orange
- CB Tyrone Justin
- CB Wymon Henderson
- CB David Croudip
- S Mike Fox
- S Al Burleson
- S Bobby Hosea
- S Scotty Byers
- DB Rodney Webber
- DB Robert Sparks
Special Teams:
- P Jeff Partridge
- K Vince Abbott
- P Glen Walker