Eastern Championship Preview: Birmingham Stallions vs. Tampa Bay Bandits
On Sunday, July 7, 1985, the Eastern Championship kicks off under the lights in Tampa at 8:30 PM ET. The hometown Tampa Bay Bandits and the visiting Birmingham Stallions will battle for a spot in the USFL Championship game.
Both teams come into this showdown riding the momentum of playoff victories. Birmingham dispatched New Jersey in a commanding fashion, while Tampa Bay outlasted Memphis in a high-octane affair. Here’s how these teams stack up heading into this critical matchup.
Tampa Bay Bandits (12-4 Regular Season)
The Bandits are a team built for fireworks, boasting one of the most explosive offenses in the league. Quarterback John Reaves leads the way, throwing for a staggering 4,193 yards and 25 touchdowns during the regular season. Despite his efficiency waning at times, Reaves can make game-changing plays with a deep corps of receivers.
Eric Truvillion and Larry Brodsky headline the Bandits’ aerial attack. Truvillion is a red-zone weapon with six touchdown grabs, while Brodsky’s big-play ability led him to over 1,000 yards receiving and seven scores.
On the ground, Gary Anderson is the Bandits’ workhorse, rushing for 1,207 yards and 16 touchdowns. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield makes him a dual threat and a key to Tampa Bay’s success.
Defensively, the Bandits excel at forcing turnovers, highlighted by Marcus Quinn’s seven interceptions. Their front seven, led by Nordgren and Thorp, will need to pressure Birmingham QB Cliff Stoudt to disrupt his rhythm.
Birmingham Stallions (11-5 Regular Season)
The Stallions bring a balanced attack that can dominate both through the air and on the ground. Quarterback Cliff Stoudt has been the heartbeat of Birmingham’s offense, passing for 3,358 yards and 34 touchdowns. His efficiency, coupled with his ability to extend plays with his legs, makes him a dual threat that Tampa Bay’s defense must account for.
Stoudt’s favorite target is Jim Smith, who leads the team with 1,322 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns. Smith’s ability to find the end zone has been unmatched this season, making him a nightmare for opposing secondaries.
The ground game is anchored by Joe Cribbs, who rushed for over 1,000 yards and added 287 receiving yards. His versatility complements the Stallions’ passing game, creating a well-rounded offensive attack.
On defense, Birmingham relies on the leadership of Benny Perrin and Herb Spencer in the secondary and the pass-rushing prowess of Leto Mitchell and Earl Gant. They’ll need a strong showing to contain Tampa Bay’s explosive offense.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Cliff Stoudt vs. Tampa Bay’s Secondary: Stoudt’s ability to exploit defenses has been pivotal for Birmingham. Tampa Bay’s opportunistic secondary, led by Marcus Quinn, will need to capitalize on any mistakes.
- Gary Anderson vs. Birmingham’s Front Seven: Anderson’s rushing and receiving skills could tilt the game in Tampa Bay’s favor. Birmingham’s run defense must step up to limit his impact.
- Special Teams Battle: In tight playoff games, field position is crucial. Both teams will look to their return units and kickers—especially Tampa Bay’s Zenon Andryshyshyn, who has been reliable all year.
Prediction
This matchup pits Tampa Bay’s high-powered offense against Birmingham’s balanced attack. If the Bandits can protect Reaves and get Anderson going, they’ll have the edge at home. However, Birmingham’s playoff experience and well-rounded roster could prove too much for Tampa Bay to handle.
Final Score Prediction: Birmingham Stallions 31, Tampa Bay Bandits 27.
Expect a thrilling, back-and-forth contest as these two Eastern Conference heavyweights leave it all on the field for a shot at USFL glory.