USFL Playoffs Round 2 (1985)

Stallions Ground Generals in Meadowlands, Advance to USFL Eastern Final

In a highly anticipated evening matchup at Giants Stadium, the Birmingham Stallions defeated the New Jersey Generals 21-10 to advance to the USFL championship game. Jim Smith was the MVP, turning in a spectacular performance with seven catches for 116 yards and two touchdowns. The Stallions’ defense complemented the offense’s efficiency, forcing four turnovers and limiting Doug Flutie to just 93 passing yards.

Birmingham struck first in the second quarter with Cliff Stoudt connecting on a 41-yard touchdown pass to Jim Smith. Stoudt followed up with a methodical drive just before halftime, capped by a Joel Coles 4-yard touchdown run, giving Birmingham a 14-0 lead at the break. The Generals responded early in the third quarter when Herschel Walker broke free for a 12-yard touchdown, and Roger Ruzek’s 38-yard field goal soon after narrowed the gap to 14-10. However, the Stallions delivered a decisive blow late in the third quarter, as Stoudt again found Smith in the end zone, this time from 8 yards out, to extend the lead to 21-10.

Despite Walker’s impressive effort, rushing for 139 yards on 22 carries, the Generals struggled to sustain drives, converting only 1 of 8 third downs. Birmingham’s defense, led by Bill Roe and Rodney Harding, ensured New Jersey never threatened in the fourth quarter. With this victory, the Stallions showcased their balanced attack and resiliency, positioning themselves as a formidable force heading into the championship game.