Generals Close Out Regular Season with Victory Over Stars, 22-10

The New Jersey Generals wrapped up their regular season with a gritty 22-10 road victory over the Philadelphia Stars at Veterans Stadium. The Generals leaned on their star running back, Herschel Walker, who carried the offense with 31 rushes for 132 yards and a key third-quarter touchdown. Despite chilly conditions and a scoreless first quarter, New Jersey’s defense forced four Philadelphia turnovers and controlled the clock with over 38 minutes of possession. Walker’s performance earned him MVP honors as the Generals improved to 11-6-1 on the year, securing their playoff berth in style.

The game turned in the second quarter when New Jersey kicker Roger Ruzek drilled three consecutive field goals, including a 49-yarder, to give the Generals a 9-3 halftime lead. Philadelphia briefly snatched momentum in the third quarter with a 21-yard touchdown run by Bryan Thornton, but the Generals responded with a methodical 12-play, 77-yard drive, capped by Walker’s 14-yard scoring run. Quarterback Danny Bradley added insurance in the fourth quarter with a 3-yard touchdown pass to Clarence Collins. The Generals’ defense, led by Kerry Justin’s interception and Jerry Holmes’ consistent coverage, smothered the Stars’ offense, holding them to 255 total yards.

For Philadelphia, the loss marked the end of a disappointing 5-13 season. While running back Kelvin Bryant showed flashes with 67 rushing yards on nine carries, the Stars were plagued by costly turnovers and missed opportunities. Quarterback Chuck Fusina struggled, completing just 17 of 32 passes for 114 yards and two interceptions. Despite the defeat, the Stars displayed resilience on defense, highlighted by Don Fielder’s sack and George Cooper’s strong tackling efforts. As the Generals head into the postseason, they will look to build on this balanced team performance, while the Stars turn their focus toward rebuilding for 1986.