Maulers Hold Off Generals to Stay in Playoff Hunt

The Pittsburgh Maulers delivered a pivotal victory over the New Jersey Generals at Giants Stadium, outlasting their rivals 28-21 to keep their postseason aspirations alive. Quarterback Brian Sipe was in vintage form, earning MVP honors with 251 passing yards and three touchdowns, including two to Kirk Pendleton. The Maulers raced out to a 21-0 halftime lead, highlighted by an 80-yard strike from Sipe to Pendleton, and never relinquished their grip despite a valiant comeback effort by New Jersey.

New Jersey quarterback Danny Bradley struggled early but found his rhythm in the second half, connecting with Maurice Carthon and Kelvin Epps for touchdowns before adding an 11-yard rushing score late in the fourth quarter. Herschel Walker was a bright spot for the Generals, rushing for 84 yards on just 14 carries, but costly turnovers and missed opportunities ultimately derailed their chances. The Maulers’ defense forced three turnovers, including key recoveries by Mark Harper and Mike McKibb, to stifle New Jersey’s momentum.

Pittsburgh’s efficient offense controlled the tempo, converting 13 of 16 third downs and dominating possession for over 33 minutes. Pendleton was unstoppable, racking up 143 receiving yards, while Mike Rozier chipped in 62 rushing yards and a touchdown. Despite their late surge, the Generals’ mistakes proved too costly, dropping them to 8-6-1 as they cling to their playoff hopes. Meanwhile, the Maulers improved to 8-7, setting up a thrilling final week in the race for the postseason.