In a thrilling Week 8 matchup at Legion Field, the Birmingham Stallions edged out the Philadelphia Stars 28-24, improving to 4-4 on the season. Birmingham quarterback Cliff Stoudt had an outstanding performance, completing 17 of 26 passes for 247 yards and four touchdowns, earning MVP honors. Stoudt connected twice with wide receiver Joey Jones, including the game-winning 5-yard touchdown pass with just over a minute remaining in the fourth quarter. Birmingham’s ground attack was led by Joe Cribbs, who racked up 143 rushing yards on 23 carries, adding balance to the Stallions’ offense.
Philadelphia, now 1-7, fought valiantly and kept pace throughout the contest. Quarterback Chuck Fusina threw for 191 yards and a touchdown, but he also struggled with turnovers, tossing two interceptions. Kelvin Bryant was a dual threat for the Stars, rushing for 75 yards and a touchdown, while also catching a 15-yard touchdown pass. Despite leading twice in the second half, the Stars couldn’t hold off Birmingham’s late-game surge, with Stoudt’s final touchdown sealing Philadelphia’s fate.
The Stallions’ defense stepped up when it mattered most, forcing three turnovers and limiting Philadelphia to just 24 points despite multiple red-zone opportunities. Bill Roe and Herbie Spencer led the Birmingham defense, with Roe intercepting a key pass and Spencer forcing a fumble. Although David Trout added a field goal for the Stars, Philadelphia couldn’t capitalize on their chances, falling short in a game that came down to the final minutes.
