Cribbs Powers Stallions Past Blitz in Nail-Biter

The Birmingham Stallions edged out the Chicago Blitz 20-17 in a thrilling Week 16 matchup at Soldier Field. With temperatures barely above freezing, both teams relied on their rushing attacks, and Birmingham’s Joe Cribbs emerged as the hero, scoring two pivotal touchdowns in a back-and-forth affair. The victory propelled Birmingham to an impressive 11-5 record, while Chicago dropped to 12-4 in a game that had the intensity of playoff football.

The first half saw a defensive stalemate, with Chicago clinging to a 10-6 lead at halftime. Birmingham’s kicker Dan Miller kept the Stallions within striking distance with two field goals, while Chicago found the end zone late in the second quarter through a one-yard plunge by Mack Boatner. Both teams struggled to sustain drives, trading turnovers and punts as the frigid conditions wreaked havoc on ball security. Despite the Blitz’s early lead, Birmingham’s defense, led by Bill Roe’s 12 tackles, kept the game close.

Joe Cribbs took over in the second half, scoring on a 3-yard run in the third quarter to give the Stallions their first lead. Chicago responded early in the fourth, as Kevin Long powered in from one yard out to reclaim the advantage. But Birmingham delivered the final blow with a gutsy 87-yard drive capped by Cribbs’ second touchdown with just over five minutes remaining. A late interception by Tommy Haynes sealed the win for the Stallions, who outgained Chicago 347 to 298 in total offense and proved their mettle as a championship contender.