By Bob Henderson, Contributing Editor, Los Angeles Sports Chronicle (Retired)

Well, well, well, folks. Buckle up, because the LA Express just added another chapter to their storied history, clinching a playoff berth with a vintage victory over the Arizona Wranglers in Week 18 of the 1984 USFL season.

Old-School Dominance

The Express, led by a seasoned quarterback in Steve Young, put on a clinic that had the Arizona Wranglers scrambling for answers. Young orchestrated an offense that harkened back to the days of gritty, hard-nosed football. It wasn’t flashy, but it got the job done.

In the first half, the Express set the tone with methodical drives, showcasing a balanced attack that kept the Wranglers on their heels. From Gray’s powerful runs to Young’s strategic passes, the Express executed plays that paid homage to the fundamentals of the game.

Zendejas’ Reliable Boot

Let’s talk about Max Zendejas, the man with the golden leg. The veteran kicker played a pivotal role in securing this victory. Zendejas, with the precision of a surgeon, nailed crucial field goals, demonstrating that when the game is on the line, you can count on him to deliver. His three field goals, including a 38-yard beauty, showcased the reliability that only comes with experience.

Defensive Grit

A key ingredient in the Express’ recipe for success has always been their tenacious defense. In this game, the defensive unit proved once again that they are a force to be reckoned with. The likes of Howard, Carson, and Justin held the line, applying pressure and shutting down the Wranglers’ attempts to gain momentum.

The interception by Weaver showcased the veteran savvy of the Express defense. They didn’t just stop the Wranglers; they made them pay for every inch, reminding everyone that defense wins championships.

Playoff-Bound Express

With this victory, the LA Express secured their spot in the playoffs. The culmination of a season filled with highs and lows, injuries, and hard-fought battles, this win sends a message to the league: the Express are ready for whatever challenges lie ahead.

As a seasoned observer of the game, I can’t help but appreciate the way the Express have embraced their roots. In an era where high-flying offenses dominate headlines, the Express have shown that there’s still room for old-school football – where every yard is earned, and every point matters.

So, Express fans, dust off those playoff hats, because your team is on a journey to etch another chapter in the annals of football history. The LA Express may be old-school, but in a league filled with new faces, they prove that experience and tradition still have a place on the gridiron. Here’s to the Express – may the playoffs be as historic as the games that got them there.