The Memphis Showboats asserted their dominance over the Houston Gamblers in Week 8 with a 31-13 victory at the Astrodome, improving their record to 7-1. Running back Harry Sydney was the star of the game, scoring three rushing touchdowns and helping Memphis control the pace with a ground attack that racked up 235 yards. Quarterback Walter Lewis added balance, completing 16 of 25 passes for 203 yards, including a 17-yard touchdown pass to Buster Rhymes. Memphis’ methodical offense owned the clock, holding possession for over 44 minutes, keeping the Gamblers’ high-powered offense at bay.
Houston, ending the contest with an identical 7-1 record, struggled to find their rhythm. Quarterback Jim Kelly, usually explosive, threw two interceptions, one of which was picked off by Don Bessillieu and returned 31 yards. The Gamblers managed to score early in the game, with Kelly connecting on a 21-yard touchdown pass to Richard Johnson, but they were shut down after that. Running back Todd Fowler was largely ineffective, and Houston was limited to just 18 yards rushing in the contest.
The Showboats sealed the game with a marathon 14-play, 84-yard drive in the fourth quarter, capped by Sydney’s third touchdown. Memphis’ defense stifled the Gamblers, holding them to just nine first downs and forcing two turnovers. The victory gave Memphis sole possession of first place, while Houston was left to regroup after suffering their second loss of the season.
