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Box Scores and Recaps

Birmingham Stallions 21, New Jersey Generals 10

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.

Special Teams

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Box Scores and Recaps, Uncategorized

Chicago Blitz 34, Arizona Wranglers 27

USFL Playoffs Round 2 (1985)

Chicago Blitz Survive Arizona Wranglers’ Comeback Attempt, Advance to USFL Western Finals

Under the sweltering 99-degree heat of Sun Devil Stadium, the Chicago Blitz emerged victorious in a high-stakes playoff showdown, defeating the Arizona Wranglers 34-27. Chicago’s well-rounded performance was led by MVP Tim Spencer, who rushed for 177 yards and a touchdown on 33 carries, consistently keeping Arizona’s defense on its heels. The Blitz struck early with two first-quarter touchdowns, including an 8-yard run by Spencer and a 3-yard plunge by Mack Boatner, giving them a commanding 14-0 lead. Arizona responded with a 12-yard touchdown connection between Vince Evans and Allen Clark, but Chicago maintained control with a Cedric Anderson 41-yard touchdown reception and a field goal to hold a 24-13 halftime advantage.

The second half saw the Blitz continue their efficient offensive execution. Alan Risher connected with tight end Jeff Dennison on a 3-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter, extending the lead to 31-13. Arizona, however, refused to back down, as Reggie Brown’s hard-fought six-yard touchdown run brought the Wranglers back within striking distance at 31-20. Chicago’s defense, led by linebackers Jim Fanhorst and Ed Smith, held strong, stalling several Arizona drives. Kicker Coral added a 41-yard field goal in the fourth quarter, providing enough cushion to withstand a dramatic 66-yard fumble return by Selwyn Drane that cut the deficit to seven.

While Vince Evans and Arizona’s offense showed flashes of brilliance, including Evans’ 194 passing yards and Brown’s two rushing touchdowns, the Wranglers couldn’t overcome Chicago’s dominance in key moments. Chicago outgained Arizona with 480 total yards to 256 and maintained a balanced attack through both the air and ground. With this victory, the Blitz advance to the league finals, one step closer to USFL glory.

Team Stats

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Playoff Preview

USFL Playoffs Round 2 (1985)

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Playoff Showdown: Denver Gold vs. Houston Gamblers
Sunday, June 30, 1985 – 4:15 PM ET at the Astrodome, Houston, TX

The Denver Gold and Houston Gamblers are set to clash in the second round of the USFL playoffs, with both teams looking to extend their postseason runs. The game promises a battle of contrasting styles as the Gamblers’ high-octane passing attack faces a gritty, balanced Denver squad.

Houston Gamblers: Air Show in Full Effect

The Gamblers, led by the league’s Offensive Player of the Year candidate Jim Kelly, have been a force all season. Kelly’s prolific passing—5,219 yards and 44 touchdowns—has powered Houston to the top of the league’s offensive rankings. With receivers like Ricky Sanders (1,378 yards, 11 TDs) and Richard Johnson (1,455 yards, 15 TDs), Houston’s passing game is a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Complementing the aerial attack is a capable ground game spearheaded by Sam Harrell, who racked up 597 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. Combined with Kelly’s ability to run, the Gamblers averaged 5.5 yards per carry, making them an unpredictable threat.

Defensively, Houston brings pressure with sack leader Pete Catan (16 sacks) and an opportunistic secondary led by Will Lewis (8 interceptions). If they can stifle Denver’s offense early, the Gamblers will be in prime position to dictate the pace.

Denver Gold: Grit and Resilience

The Denver Gold punched their ticket to this game with a hard-fought victory over the Oakland Invaders. Bill Johnson, the league’s second-leading rusher with 1,261 yards and 15 touchdowns, remains the cornerstone of Denver’s offense. His power running sets up quarterback Bob Gagliano, who has struggled at times (13 TDs, 17 INTs) but is capable of delivering under pressure.

The receiving corps is led by Leonard Harris (1,432 yards, 8 TDs) and Marc Lewis (1,207 yards, 6 TDs), providing the Gold with big-play potential if Gagliano can find his rhythm.

Denver’s defense, while not flashy, is built on sound tackling and determination. Linebacker Mark Daum, who set a single-game record with 17 tackles earlier this season, will need to anchor the unit against Houston’s relentless attack.

Keys to the Game

  • For Houston: The Gamblers need to establish their tempo early. Quick scores will force Denver into an uncomfortable shootout and negate the Gold’s ball-control strategy.
  • For Denver: Ball control is critical. A steady dose of Bill Johnson and a few timely completions from Gagliano could keep Houston’s offense on the sideline and the game within reach.

Prediction

The Gold bring heart and determination, but the Gamblers’ explosive offense at home may be too much to handle. Expect Jim Kelly and his arsenal of weapons to light up the scoreboard and punch Houston’s ticket to the next round.

Prediction: Houston Gamblers 38, Denver Gold 24

Playoff Preview

USFL Playoffs Round 2 (1985)

Bandits vs. Showboats: Round 2 Playoff Showdown in Tampa Bay

On Sunday, June 30, 1985, at 12:30 PM local time, the Tampa Bay Bandits will host the Memphis Showboats in a high-stakes Round 2 playoff clash at Tampa Stadium. With the Bandits enjoying home-field advantage and the Showboats riding the momentum of a decisive victory over the Washington Federals, fans can expect an intense battle between two dynamic teams.

Bandits Overview

The Bandits come into this game as one of the most explosive offensive teams in the league. Quarterback John Reaves has been a gunslinger all season, amassing 4,193 passing yards and 25 touchdowns. While his 56% completion rate and 40 interceptions have raised questions about consistency, Reaves remains capable of taking over games with his big-play ability.

Tampa Bay’s offense is bolstered by a strong supporting cast. Gary Anderson is a dual-threat star, leading the team with 1,207 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns while adding 678 receiving yards and 4 more scores. Larry Brodsky and Marvin Harvey provide deep threats, combining for over 1,700 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns.

Defensively, the Bandits rely on linebacker Danny Wilson’s tackling prowess (160 total tackles) and a pass rush led by Todd Nordgren (10 sacks). Their secondary has been opportunistic, with Marcus Quinn and Alvin Bailey combining for 12 interceptions.

Showboats Overview

The Memphis Showboats are the league’s dark horse, blending a gritty rushing attack with explosive plays in the passing game. Walter Lewis has been a revelation under center, posting a 99.8 passer rating and leading the team with 16 passing touchdowns. He’s also a threat on the ground, rushing for 591 yards and 4 scores.

The Showboats’ ground game is anchored by Tim Spencer, who churned out 789 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns, while Anthony Parker added 285 yards and 8 scores in short-yardage situations. In the air, Greg Moser has been nearly unstoppable, racking up 1,145 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns, complemented by Derek Crawford’s 1,057 yards and 9 scores.

Memphis’s special teams could be an X-factor. Derek Crawford returned a punt 60 yards for a touchdown during the regular season and averages an impressive 23 yards per return.

Defensively, the Showboats are opportunistic, with a deep rotation in the trenches and a knack for forcing turnovers. Linebacker Leonard Williams and safety Gary Shirk lead a disciplined unit capable of bending without breaking.

Keys to Victory

For Tampa Bay

  • Protect the Ball: Reaves must limit turnovers against a Showboats defense that thrives on takeaways.
  • Establish Anderson Early: Getting Gary Anderson involved both on the ground and through the air will keep the Memphis defense off balance.
  • Pressure Lewis: The Bandits’ front seven needs to disrupt Walter Lewis’s rhythm and prevent him from creating plays with his legs.

For Memphis

  • Control the Clock: A heavy dose of Spencer and Parker could help Memphis keep the Bandits’ offense off the field.
  • Big Plays: The Showboats must capitalize on their big-play potential, especially with Moser and Crawford stretching the defense.
  • Special Teams Impact: Explosive returns or key field position swings could tilt the game in Memphis’s favor.

Prediction

This matchup has all the ingredients for a classic playoff duel. The Bandits’ explosive offense and home crowd provide a significant edge, but Memphis has the tools to pull off an upset with disciplined defense and clutch playmaking.

Final Score Prediction: Tampa Bay Bandits 31, Memphis Showboats 27.

Playoff Preview

USFL Playoffs Round 2 (1985)

Playoff Showdown: Birmingham Stallions vs. New Jersey Generals at the Meadowlands

Date: Saturday, June 2,9 1985
Time: 8:30 PM ET
Location: The Meadowlands, East Rutherford, NJ

The stage is set for an electrifying USFL playoff clash as the Birmingham Stallions travel to the Meadowlands to face the New Jersey Generals in a Round 2 showdown. Both teams have displayed offensive firepower and defensive resilience throughout the season, and Saturday night promises to be a high-stakes battle under the lights.

Season Recap

The New Jersey Generals enter the playoffs after a dominant regular season, largely powered by their prolific rushing attack and an opportunistic defense. Herschel Walker, the league’s rushing champion, has been nothing short of spectacular, racking up 2,411 yards on the ground with 21 touchdowns. Walker’s consistency and explosiveness have made the Generals a formidable opponent, particularly at home.

On the other side, the Birmingham Stallions advanced to Round 2 after a hard-fought victory over the Pittsburgh Maulers in the opening round. Led by quarterback Cliff Stoudt, Birmingham’s balanced offense and opportunistic defense have proven effective all season. Stoudt’s precision passing and his ability to make plays with his legs have kept opposing defenses on their heels.

Key Matchups to Watch

Generals’ Ground Game vs. Stallions’ Front Seven

The Generals’ offense runs through Herschel Walker. His ability to break long runs and consistently move the chains has been a hallmark of New Jersey’s success. Birmingham’s front seven, led by linebacker Mike Kolen and a stout defensive line, will need to be at their best to contain Walker and force the Generals to rely on their passing game.

Cliff Stoudt vs. Generals’ Secondary

Stoudt has enjoyed a stellar season, completing nearly 60% of his passes for 3,613 yards and 35 touchdowns. His primary target, Jim Smith, leads the league in receiving touchdowns with 20. The Generals’ secondary, anchored by safety Kerry Justin and cornerback Mike Holmes, will need to step up to slow down Birmingham’s high-flying aerial attack.

Special Teams Battle

In a game likely to be decided by field position and critical moments, special teams could play a pivotal role. Birmingham’s kick returner Dennis Hall has averaged 22.7 yards per return, providing excellent starting field position for the Stallions’ offense. Meanwhile, the Generals’ kicker Roger Ruzek has been reliable, converting 68% of his field goal attempts, including a long of 50 yards.

X-Factors

  • Doug Flutie (Generals): While Walker dominates the headlines, quarterback Doug Flutie’s dual-threat ability adds a dynamic element to New Jersey’s offense. If Birmingham focuses too heavily on stopping Walker, Flutie’s scrambling and passing could tilt the game in the Generals’ favor.
  • Joe Cribbs (Stallions): Birmingham’s workhorse back Joe Cribbs has quietly put together a solid season, rushing for over 1,000 yards. His ability to control the clock and keep the Generals’ offense off the field will be critical.

What to Expect

This game pits the league’s top rusher against one of its most balanced teams. Expect New Jersey to lean heavily on Walker early, looking to wear down Birmingham’s defense and open up play-action opportunities for Flutie. Birmingham, meanwhile, will likely look to establish an early lead through Stoudt and Smith, forcing the Generals to play from behind.

The Stallions have shown they can win in a variety of ways, but they’ll need to play mistake-free football against a Generals team that thrives on turnovers. With both teams evenly matched, this game could come down to the final possession.

Prediction

In a hard-fought contest, the Generals’ home-field advantage and Herschel Walker’s game-breaking ability could be the difference. However, if Birmingham’s defense rises to the occasion and Stoudt delivers another strong performance, the Stallions have the tools to pull off the upset.

Final Score Prediction: New Jersey Generals 27, Birmingham Stallions 24

Playoff Preview

USFL Playoffs Round 2 (1985)

Blitz vs. Wranglers: A Second-Round Showdown in the Desert

The stage is set for a thrilling second-round playoff clash between the Chicago Blitz and the Arizona Wranglers on Saturday, June 29, 1985. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:15 PM ET at the sun-soaked Arizona Stadium in Tucson. Both teams bring contrasting styles and key playmakers to this much-anticipated matchup, promising fans an unforgettable battle.

Chicago Blitz: A Balanced Powerhouse

The Blitz rolled into the second round after dispatching the Michigan Panthers in an impressive first-round performance. Led by veteran quarterback Greg Landry, Chicago’s offense has been among the most balanced and dynamic in the league. Landry’s precision passing (3,534 yards, 26 touchdowns, and a 92.8 passer rating) is complemented by the explosive rushing of Tim Spencer, who racked up 1,212 yards and 17 touchdowns during the regular season.

The Blitz’s passing attack has plenty of depth, with Lenny Willis (814 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns) and Cedric Anderson (524 yards and 3 touchdowns) as top targets. Meanwhile, their defense, anchored by Junior Ah You and sack leader Eddie Lee (20 sacks), excels at pressuring quarterbacks and forcing mistakes.

Arizona Wranglers: Ground-and-Pound Specialists

Arizona leaned on their bruising ground game and opportunistic defense to clinch a playoff berth. The Wranglers are powered by star running back Reggie Brown, who surpassed the 1,000-yard mark with 1,031 yards and 12 touchdowns. While the passing game, led by Vince Evans, has struggled with consistency (48.3% completion and 12 TDs against 16 INTs), Brown’s ability to control the clock has been their offensive backbone.

Defensively, Arizona is spearheaded by Jim Tipton (14 sacks) and linebacker David Clark, who has been a disruptive force with 6 interceptions and multiple deflected passes. Special teams also provide a spark, with Lonnie Harris showcasing his skills in both kick and punt returns.

Keys to Victory

For Chicago:
The Blitz need to establish their passing game early to exploit Arizona’s defensive secondary, which has allowed some big plays despite forcing turnovers. Limiting mistakes and maintaining their high offensive efficiency will be crucial.

For Arizona:
The Wranglers must control the tempo with their ground game and keep the ball out of Landry’s hands. Defensively, pressuring Landry and containing Tim Spencer are critical. Look for Arizona to rely on the clutch kicking of Luis Zendejas, who has been reliable from long range.

Prediction

The Blitz’s balanced attack and ability to score in bunches give them the edge on paper. However, the Wranglers’ rugged defense and home-field advantage could be X-factors. Expect a hard-fought game that hinges on turnovers and red-zone execution.

Final Score Prediction: Chicago Blitz 27, Arizona Wranglers 20.

Will the Blitz continue their march to a championship, or can the Wranglers pull off an upset in the desert? All eyes will be on Arizona this Saturday for what promises to be a playoff classic.

Box Scores and Recaps

Michigan Panthers 24, Chicago Blitz 35

USFL Playoffs Round 1 (1985)

Blitz Outlast Panthers in Playoff Thriller, Advance to Semifinals

In a heated playoff clash at Soldier Field, the Chicago Blitz edged out their bitter rivals, the Michigan Panthers, 35-24, in a game filled with momentum swings and standout performances. Chicago quarterback Landry led the charge, throwing for 247 yards and five touchdowns, earning a 119.3 passer rating and the game’s MVP honors. Wide receiver Spencer was electric, hauling in two of Landry’s touchdowns, including a 62-yard strike that reignited the Blitz’s lead in the third quarter.

The game began with Chicago asserting dominance, building a 14-0 lead behind long, efficient drives. Michigan responded with quarterback Bobby Hebert, who orchestrated two touchdown drives to keep the Panthers within striking distance at halftime, trailing 21-14. Hebert’s connection with Derek Holloway for a 35-yard touchdown tied the game early in the third quarter, but Chicago answered swiftly with Spencer’s deep touchdown grab. The Blitz’s defense tightened in the fourth, highlighted by Bruce Laird’s late interception to seal the win.

While the Panthers fought valiantly, with Hebert passing for 341 yards and three touchdowns, their three turnovers and inability to stop Chicago’s balanced attack proved costly. The Blitz controlled the clock with 168 rushing yards, led by Spencer’s 130-yard performance on the ground. With the victory, Chicago advances to the semifinals, keeping their championship hopes alive while sending their rivals home in a thrilling playoff opener.

Special Teams

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Box Scores and Recaps

Pittsburgh Maulers 17, Birmingham Stallions 24

USFL Playoffs Round 1 (1985)

Stallions Outpace Maulers in Thrilling Playoff Opener

The Birmingham Stallions rode the stellar performance of running back Joe Cribbs to a dramatic 24-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Maulers in the opening round of the playoffs at Legion Field. Cribbs, named MVP of the game, accounted for two rushing touchdowns, including a pair of five-yard scores in the first half that set the tone for Birmingham’s offense. Quarterback Cliff Stoudt sealed the win with a late fourth-quarter touchdown pass to Ken Toler, capping a 69-yard drive that reclaimed the lead with just over a minute remaining.

Pittsburgh, trailing 17-3 at halftime, came alive in the second half with a more balanced offensive attack. Quarterback Brian Sipe connected with Flowers for a 15-yard touchdown in the third quarter and orchestrated a grueling 15-play, 80-yard drive that culminated in a one-yard scoring plunge by Miller to tie the game at 17 late in the fourth. However, the Maulers were unable to capitalize on their momentum as Stoudt and the Stallions engineered a methodical response, exploiting Pittsburgh’s defense with key completions to Jim Smith and Joey Jones before Toler’s decisive catch in the end zone.

The Maulers’ defense fought valiantly, with Mike McKibben and Freeman combining for 16 tackles and two sacks, but they couldn’t contain Cribbs in critical moments. Meanwhile, the Stallions’ defense held strong when it mattered most, with Herbie Spencer leading the way with 11 tackles and a crucial fourth-quarter interception by Tommy Haynes. Birmingham advances to the next round, while Pittsburgh’s playoff hopes end in heartbreak despite a commendable second-half rally.

Team Stats

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Box Scores and Recaps

Denver Gold 49, Oakland Invaders 17

USFL Playoffs Round 1 (1985)

Denver Gold Crush Oakland Invaders in Playoff Opener, 49-17

The Denver Gold rode a near-perfect performance from quarterback Bob Gagliano to an emphatic 49-17 victory over the Oakland Invaders in the opening round of the playoffs at Oakland-Alameda Coliseum. Gagliano dazzled with pinpoint accuracy, completing 26 of 27 passes for 429 yards and six touchdowns, earning him MVP honors. Vince White was his primary weapon, hauling in 14 passes for 210 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing score. Denver’s offensive onslaught began early and never relented, as they built a commanding 35-3 halftime lead.

Oakland’s offense struggled to find its rhythm in the first half, with turnovers and stalled drives sealing their fate. Quarterback Craig Sundberg threw three interceptions and finished with a pedestrian 235 yards passing. The Invaders briefly rallied in the third quarter behind running back Eric Jordan, who scored twice on short runs to cut the deficit to 35-17. However, Denver immediately responded with Gagliano’s fourth-quarter touchdown pass to Leonard Harris, extinguishing any hopes of a comeback.

Defensively, the Gold stymied the Invaders with timely turnovers and pressure. Stan Blinka led the charge with eight tackles and two interceptions, while Mark Daum added eight tackles and an interception of his own. Oakland’s defense had no answers for Gagliano’s brilliance or Denver’s balanced attack, as the Gold outgained the Invaders 480-317 in total yards. The victory propels Denver into the next round, where they look to maintain their momentum in pursuit of a championship.

Team Statws

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Box Scores and Recaps

Washington Federals 21, Memphis Showboats 45

USFL Playoffs Round 1 (1985)

Showboats Sail Past Federals in Dominant Playoff Victory

The Memphis Showboats showcased their offensive firepower in a 45-21 triumph over the Washington Federals at Liberty Stadium in the first round of the 1985 USFL playoffs. Quarterback Walter Lewis delivered a masterclass, throwing for 315 yards and five touchdowns while earning MVP honors. Memphis seized control early, with Lewis connecting twice with Derek Crawford for first-quarter touchdowns, including a 46-yard bomb on their opening drive. The Federals struggled to find a rhythm, punting three times in the first half while Memphis built a 21-7 halftime lead.

Washington showed signs of life in the third quarter when Darryl Robinson electrified the crowd with a 102-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, briefly cutting the deficit to 35-14. However, Memphis answered with a balanced offensive attack and a stifling defensive effort, highlighted by Rod Brown’s 54-yard interception return for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter. Buster Rhymes also shined, hauling in two touchdowns among his four catches for 89 yards, while Derek Crawford tallied 93 yards and two scores.

The Federals fought valiantly, with quarterback Ron Honensee throwing for 275 yards, including a 44-yard touchdown strike to Steve Sewell in the game’s final moments. However, missed opportunities, including two failed field goal attempts and a costly interception, sealed their fate. Memphis’ defense, led by Mike Brewin’s 11 tackles and Don Bessillieu’s critical pick, held firm against a persistent Washington offense. The Showboats now advance to the conference championship, where they will look to carry their momentum deeper into the postseason.

Team Stats

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