The USFL witnessed an action-packed Week 14, featuring intense battles and pivotal moments that left a mark on the league standings. Let’s dive into the highlights of this week’s matchups and see how the teams fared.
Atlantic Division
Philadelphia Stars (12-2) The Stars continued their impressive run, securing a 34-10 victory over the Michigan Panthers. With a dominant performance, Philadelphia showcased both offensive and defensive prowess, maintaining their top spot in the Atlantic Division.
New Jersey Generals (8-6) The Generals extended their winning streak to seven games with a convincing 35-21 triumph over the Chicago Blitz. Quarterback Brian Sipe and the Generals’ offense orchestrated a well-balanced attack, contributing to their climb in the division standings.
Washington Federals (6-9) Washington faced a setback in Week 15, succumbing to the Pittsburgh Maulers with a final score of 38-21. Despite the loss, the Federals remain in contention within the division.
Boston Breakers (5-9) and Pittsburgh Maulers (4-10) In a clash between the Breakers and Maulers, Pittsburgh emerged victorious with a 38-21 win. The Maulers’ triumph adds a twist to the division standings, with Boston facing challenges as they seek to rebound.
Southern Division
Birmingham Stallions (10-4) and Tampa Bay Bandits (10-4) Birmingham and Tampa Bay maintained their strong performances, each securing wins in Week 15. The Stallions triumphed over the Boston Breakers with a narrow 20-17 victory, while the Bandits edged past the Memphis Showboats with a 20-17 score. The Southern Division remains highly competitive with these two teams leading the way.
Memphis Showboats (6-8) and Jacksonville Bulls (4-10) Memphis faced a tough challenge against the Tampa Bay Bandits, resulting in a 20-17 loss. Meanwhile, Jacksonville put up a fight but fell short against the Houston Gamblers, concluding the week with a 38-41 defeat.
Central Division
Chicago Blitz (10-4) and Houston Gamblers (10-4) In a crucial showdown, the Chicago Blitz faced the New Jersey Generals and suffered a 35-21 defeat. This loss creates a tie for the top spot in the Central Division with the Houston Gamblers, who secured a 41-38 victory over the Jacksonville Bulls.
Michigan Panthers (7-7) and San Antonio Gunslingers (5-9) The Michigan Panthers faced a challenging matchup against the Philadelphia Stars, resulting in a 10-34 defeat. On the other hand, San Antonio Gunslingers battled the Denver Gold and secured a close 27-24 win, showcasing their resilience.
Oklahoma Outlaws (1-14): Oklahoma is in trouble and so is their coach. Look for him to maybe be the first fired.
Pacific Division
Los Angeles Express (10-4) and Oakland Invaders (10-4) In a noteworthy clash, the Los Angeles Express faced the Arizona Wranglers and secured a decisive 31-10 victory. Simultaneously, the Oakland Invaders triumphed over the Oklahoma Outlaws with a 35-16 score. The Pacific Division remains fiercely competitive with both Los Angeles and Oakland at the forefront.
Denver Gold (5-9) and Arizona Wranglers (4-10) Denver Gold’s 35-16 victory over the Oklahoma Outlaws contributed to their positive momentum, while the Arizona Wranglers faced a tough defeat against the Los Angeles Express.
As the regular season progresses, teams are jockeying for playoff positions, and every game becomes crucial in determining their fate. Stay tuned for more thrilling USFL action as the competition heats up in the coming weeks.
USFL Stat Leaders After Week 14 (1984)
Week 14 Games
Friday
Denver Gold 27, San Antonio Gunslingers 24
Houston Gamblers 41, Jacksonville Bulls 38
Tampa Bay Bandits 17, Memphis Showboats 20
Saturday
Arizona Wranglers 31, Los Angeles Express 10
Oakland Invaders 35, Oklahoma Outlaws 16
Sunday
Birmingham Stallions 20, Boston Breakers 17
Philadelphia Stars 34, Michigan Panthers 10
Washington Federals 21, Pittsburgh Maulers 38
Monday
New Jersey Generals 35, Chicago Blitz 21
Standings
Players of the Week
Offense: Ricky Sanders, WR, Houston Gamblers. Ricky Sanders has been named the Offensive Player of the Week for his exceptional performance in Week 14. The wide receiver’s outstanding skills were on full display as he secured 13 receptions for an impressive 189 yards, averaging 14.5 yards per catch. Sanders proved to be a reliable force in moving the chains, notching nine crucial first downs. His ability to turn receptions into explosive plays, including a 68-yard gain, underscored his playmaking prowess. With three touchdowns to his name, Sanders played a pivotal role in his team’s victory, solidifying his status as a standout performer in the league. Congratulations to Ricky Sanders on this well-deserved recognition!
Defense: Garcia Lane, CB, Philadelphia Stars. Garcia Lane, the talented cornerback from the Philadelphia Stars, has earned the title of Defensive Player of the Week for his stellar Week 14 performance. Lane showcased his playmaking abilities with a remarkable interception, covering an impressive 50 yards and culminating in a touchdown. His defensive impact extended beyond interceptions, contributing significantly with three tackles and a key pass defended. Lane’s ability to read the game, coupled with his knack for turning turnovers into scoring opportunities, makes him a standout player in the league. This recognition is a testament to Lane’s exceptional skills and his crucial role in the Philadelphia Stars’ defensive success. Congratulations to Garcia Lane on a well-deserved honor!
Special Teams:
In Week 14, the Birmingham Stallions’ punter, Bob Parsons, emerged as the Special Teams Player of the Week, playing a pivotal role in his team’s narrow 20-17 victory. Parsons showcased his precision and skill, delivering six punts with an impressive average of 42.3 yards per punt. His ability to consistently flip the field and contribute to favorable field position undoubtedly played a crucial part in the Stallions’ success. In a close contest, Parsons’ proficiency in the punting game demonstrated the valuable impact that special teams can have on the outcome of a match. Congratulations to Bob Parsons on a standout performance and his well-deserved recognition as the Special Teams Player of the Week.
