Week 17 Recap: Playoff Race Heats Up as Teams Push for Final Standings
USFL Week 17 Recap: Playoff Race Heats Up Heading into the Final Week
Week 17 in the 1985 USFL season delivered a mix of decisive victories and nail-biting finishes, keeping fans on the edge of their seats as the playoff picture came into sharper focus. The New Jersey Generals secured a pivotal 31-17 win over the Houston Gamblers on Saturday, with a stout defense stifling Jim Kelly and the Gamblers’ high-powered offense. Meanwhile, the Birmingham Stallions edged the Chicago Blitz 31-24, keeping their postseason hopes alive. Denver’s dominant 31-13 triumph over the San Antonio Gunslingers was highlighted by an all-around team effort that left no doubt about their superiority.
Sunday saw plenty of drama and meaningful implications for the final week. The Tampa Bay Bandits prevailed 34-28 over the Oakland Invaders in a thrilling offensive showcase, while the Memphis Showboats kept their momentum rolling with a 38-28 win over the Pittsburgh Maulers, courtesy of their balanced attack. Jacksonville’s defense shone in a 16-3 victory over the Philadelphia Stars, keeping the Bulls in the playoff hunt. Michigan delivered a statement 35-13 victory over Arizona, showcasing their dominance as they steamroll into Week 18. In a battle of pride, the Oklahoma Outlaws edged the New Orleans Brass 20-17, and Las Vegas pulled off a heart-stopping 21-20 win over Boston.
The Washington Federals capped the week with a surprising 21-17 victory over the Los Angeles Express, showing resilience in a hard-fought contest. As the league barrels toward Week 18, several teams find themselves in do-or-die situations, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the regular season. With playoff spots on the line, the final week promises to deliver more unforgettable action in this gripping USFL saga.
USFL Stat Leaders after Week 17 (1985)
Games
Saturday
Houston Gamblers 17, New Jersey Generals 31
Chicago Blitz 24, Birmingham Stallions 31
Denver Gold 31, San Antonio Gunslingers 13
Sunday
Oakland Invaders 28, Tampa Bay Bandits 34
Memphis Showboats 38, Pittsburgh Maulers 28
Philadelphia Stars 3, Jacksonville Bulls 16
Arizona Wranglers 13, Michigan Panthers 35
New Orleans Brass 17, Oklahoma Outlaws 20
Boston Breakers 20, Las Vegas Ace 21
Los Angeles Express 17, Washington Federals 21
Standings
USFL Playoff Picture After Week 17
Players of the Week
Offense: Herschel Walker had another one of his games for the ages, catching 7 passes for 190 yards and 2 touchdowns. He also rushed 32 times for 186 yards and another two touchdowns. The win helped keep the Generals alive for the division lead.
Defense: Ken Graeber, DT, Denver Gold. Graeber recorded 10 tackles, a forced fumble, and 3 sacks to help the Gold win and remain only a half ggame back of Oakland and Michigan in the race for the final wild card spots.
Special Teams: Bob Harris, KR, Birmingham Stallions. Harris returned 3 kicks for 113 yards, including a 90 yard touchdown that proved to be the difference in the game.