Category Archives: Weekly Wrap Ups

Weekly Wrap Ups

1985 Week 8 Wrap Up

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Week 8 of the USFL season kicked off on Saturday with three notable matchups. The Washington Federals secured a 26-12 victory over the Michigan Panthers, as their defense kept Michigan’s offense in check throughout the game. Meanwhile, the Birmingham Stallions held off the Philadelphia Stars in a thrilling 28-24 contest, with Cliff Stoudt leading the way with 247 passing yards and a touchdown. In a defensive showdown, the New Orleans Brass shut out the Denver Gold 15-0, despite Denver linebacker Mark Daum recording a single-game record of 17 tackles.

Sunday’s action saw the Tampa Bay Bandits cruise to a 41-16 win over the Boston Breakers, with standout performances from Eric Truvil and kicker Zenon Andryshyshyn, who contributed 11 points. The New Jersey Generals also continued their strong form, defeating the Chicago Blitz 19-7 behind a balanced offensive attack. In Oklahoma, the Outlaws pulled off a solid 24-12 victory over the Oakland Invaders, taking control in the second half with key plays on both sides of the ball.

The Memphis Showboats delivered one of the week’s biggest surprises by dismantling the Houston Gamblers 31-13, ending Houston’s hot streak. The Arizona Wranglers edged the Jacksonville Bulls 17-10 in a tightly contested affair, while the Pittsburgh Maulers secured a 26-10 win over the Las Vegas Ace thanks to a strong all-around team performance. Finally, the Los Angeles Express defeated the San Antonio Gunslingers 28-14, capping off a week filled with hard-fought games and standout individual performances.

Games

Saturday

Michigan Panthers 12, Washington Federals 26

Philadelphia Stars 24, Birmingham Stallions 28

Denver Gold 0, New Orleans 15

Sunday

Boston Breakers 16, Tampa Bay Bandits 41

Chicago Blitz 7, New Jersey Generals 19

Oakland Invaders 12, Oklahoma Outlaws 24

Memphis Showboats 31, Houston Gamblers 13

Jacksonville Bulls 10, Arizona Wranglers 17

Pittsburgh Maulers 26, Las Vegas Ace 10

San Antonio Gunslingers 14, Los Angeles Express 28

Standings

Players of the Week

Offense: Cliff Stoudt, QB, Birmingham Stallions. Cliff Stoudt had a stellar performance in his team’s 28-24 victory over the Philadelphia Stars, earning him Offensive Player of the Week honors for Week 8. Stoudt completed 17 of 26 passes for 247 yards and threw four touchdown passes, finishing with an impressive 119.7 passer rating. His leadership and accuracy were key in securing the close win, including a late drive that solidified his team’s triumph.

Defense: Mark Daum, LB, Denver Gold. Mark Daum, the Denver Gold linebacker, delivered an impressive performance in his team’s 15-0 loss to the New Orleans Brass. He set a single-game record with 17 tackles and also forced a fumble, showcasing his relentless presence on defense despite Denver’s struggles on offense. His performance was a standout in an otherwise difficult game for the Gold.

Special Teams: Zenon Andrushyshyn, K, Tampa Bay Bandits. Zenon Andryshyshyn repeated as Special Teams Player of the Week with a flawless performance in Tampa Bay’s 41-16 win over the Boston Breakers. He went 2-for-2 on field goals, including a long of 47 yards, and nailed all five of his extra point attempts, contributing 11 points to his team’s dominant showing.

Weekly Wrap Ups

1985 Week 7 Wrap Up

Week 7 featured a weekend packed with action, with several games showcasing dominant offensive performances. On Saturday, the Chicago Blitz steamrolled the Boston Breakers 49-14, with their offense firing on all cylinders. The Tampa Bay Bandits also had a strong showing, defeating the Las Vegas Ace 41-21, highlighted by Eric Truvil’s spectacular receiving display. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Brass edged out the Oakland Invaders in a thrilling 21-20 contest, pulling off a narrow victory in a game that came down to the wire.

Sunday’s matchups brought more drama and close finishes. The Jacksonville Bulls eked out a 17-14 win over the Philadelphia Stars, relying on their defense to hold strong in the closing moments. Pittsburgh delivered a major upset, as the Maulers beat the Birmingham Stallions 21-19, snapping Birmingham’s momentum. Meanwhile, the New Jersey Generals dominated the Oklahoma Outlaws 49-22, thanks to a potent offense led by Herschel Walker and Doug Flutie.

Other games saw high-scoring affairs, with the Houston Gamblers outlasting the Memphis Showboats 44-38 in a thrilling shootout, while Denver Gold narrowly beat the San Antonio Gunslingers 38-33. Washington Federals clinched a 21-16 victory over the Arizona Wranglers, and the Michigan Panthers secured a convincing 30-13 win over the Los Angeles Express, rounding out a week of exciting matchups across the league.

USFL Stat Leaders After Week 7 (1985)

Games

Saturday

Chicago Blitz 49, Boston Breakers 14

Tampa Bay Bandits 41, Las Vegas Ace 21

New Orleans Brass 21, Oakland Invaders 20

Sunday

Jacksonville Bulls 17, Philadelphia Stars 14

Birmingham Stallions 19, Pittsburgh Maulers 21

New Jersey Generals 49, Oklahoma Outlaws 22

Houston Gamblers 44, Memphis Showboats 38

San Antonio Gunslingers 33, Denver Gold 38

Washington Federals 21, Arizona Wranglers 16

Michigan Panthers 30, Los Angeles Express 13

Standings

Players of the Week

Offense: Eric Truvillion, WR, Tampa Bay Bandits. In a dominant performance, Truvillion hauled in 9 receptions on 13 targets for 191 yards, averaging 21.2 yards per catch. He was instrumental in securing 9 first downs and 3 touchdowns, including a 41-yard score, leading the Tampa Bay Bandits to a 41-21 victory over the Las Vegas Ace.

Defense: Frank Minnifield, DB, Chicago Blitz. Minnifield delivered a stellar defensive performance with 3 tackles and 2 interceptions, returning them for 58 yards, including a touchdown that solidified his impact on the win over the Breakers.

Special Teams: Zenon Andrushyshyn, K/P, Tampa Bay Bandits. Andrushyshyn pulled double duty as kicker and punter in Tampa Bay’s win over the Las Vegas Ace. He kicked 2 field goals and 5 extra points wihtout a miss for 11 points on the day. He also punted 5 times for an average of 43.2 yards to help win the field position game.

Weekly Wrap Ups

1985 Week 6 Wrap Up

This week’s USFL action was packed with dramatic games and high-scoring affairs. The weekend kicked off with the New Jersey Generals securing a 24-18 victory over the Philadelphia Stars, thanks to a strong defensive effort. Meanwhile, Memphis dominated the Birmingham Stallions with a 28-14 win, showcasing a balanced offense. San Antonio outgunned Los Angeles in a thrilling 41-31 contest, where both teams traded big plays, but the Gunslingers pulled away late.

Sunday’s matchups brought more intensity, with the Boston Breakers edging out the Washington Federals 13-10 in a defensive battle, while the Tampa Bay Bandits crushed the New Orleans Brass 42-14, maintaining their dominance. In a high-scoring shootout, Jacksonville topped Pittsburgh 45-35, fueled by an explosive offensive display. Houston’s Jim Kelly led the Gamblers to a 56-35 victory over Oklahoma, throwing for five touchdowns as part of a stellar performance.

Elsewhere, the Chicago Blitz secured a 21-14 win over Michigan, and Arizona snatched a one-point victory over Denver, 24-23, in a nail-biting finish. Oakland’s offense was unstoppable in a 61-13 rout of Las Vegas, with Fred Besana’s five touchdown passes leading the charge. This week highlighted dynamic offenses and critical wins as teams fight to gain ground in the standings.

USFL Stat Leaders After Week 6 (1985)

Games

Saturday

Philadelphia Stars 18, New Jersey Generals 24

Birmingham Stallions 14, Memphis Showboats 28

San Antonio Gunslingers 41, Los Angeles Express 31

Sunday

Boston Breakers 13, Washington Federals 10

New Orleans Brass 14, Tampa Bay 42

Pittsburgh Maulers 35, Jacksonville Bulls 45

Oklahoma Outlaws35, Houston Gamblers 56

Chicago Blitz 21, Michigan Panthers 14

Arizona Wranglers 24, Denver Gold 23

Las Vegas Ace 13, Oakland Invaders 61

Standings

Players of the Week

Offense: 3 QBs shared (Brian Sipe from Pittsburgh, Jim Kelly from Houston, and Fred Besana from Oakland). In an extraordinary display of quarterback excellence, Brian Sipe of Pittsburgh, Jim Kelly of Houston, and Fred Besana of Oakland each threw for five touchdowns, earning them a shared Offensive Player of the Week honor for Week 6 in the 1985 USFL replay league. This rare triple-recognition highlights the remarkable talent in the league, with each quarterback not only putting up numbers but leading their teams with poise and confidence. Their shared achievement speaks to a week filled with electrifying offense and impressive quarterbacking.

Defense: Derek Batiste, Jacksonville Bulls. Batiste earned Defensive Player of the Week honors with a stellar performance, recording 7 tackles, 2 pass deflections, and a crucial interception returned for a 29-yard touchdown. His defensive prowess was instrumental in his team’s success, making a huge impact on both ends of the field. This standout performance solidifies his role as a key playmaker.

Special Teams: Ralph Giacomarro, the punter for Las Vegas, earned Special Teams Player of the Week honors thanks to his outstanding punting performance. He punted 8 times for 348 yards, averaging an impressive 43.5 yards per punt. He pinned 3 punts inside the 20-yard line and boomed a long of 49 yards, giving his team crucial field position throughout the game. Despite missing a field goal and only getting two chances to kick an extra point, his consistent punting was pivotal, making him the clear choice for the week’s top special teams player.

Weekly Wrap Ups

1985 Week 5 Wrap Up

USFL Week 5 Recap: Blowouts, Shutouts, and a Rare Tie Highlight the Weekend Action

Week 5 of the 1985 USFL season was marked by dominant performances, surprising upsets, and even a rare tie as teams across the league battled for early-season supremacy. On Saturday, the Michigan Panthers delivered a statement win, dismantling the Oakland Invaders 49-14 behind a balanced offensive attack and a stifling defense. The Chicago Blitz’s defense also shined, intercepting four passes and returning two for touchdowns in their 45-20 victory over the New Orleans Brass. Meanwhile, the Houston Gamblers continued to flex their offensive firepower, with Jim Kelly throwing for eight touchdowns, including five to Ricky Sanders, in a 58-24 rout of the Boston Breakers.

Sunday’s action saw a mix of shutouts, close contests, and one of the most competitive games of the season. The Washington Federals pitched a shutout against the Arizona Wranglers, winning 27-0, while the Jacksonville Bulls rolled over the Las Vegas Aces 31-10. In a low-scoring defensive battle, the Birmingham Stallions edged out the Philadelphia Stars 19-13. The Memphis Showboats, led by a high-octane offense, overwhelmed the Pittsburgh Maulers 54-14, while the Tampa Bay Bandits secured a 21-10 victory over the San Antonio Gunslingers with a balanced effort on both sides of the ball.

The week concluded with two thrilling matchups that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The New Jersey Generals and Denver Gold battled to a rare 24-24 tie, with both teams’ defenses holding firm in the final minutes. Finally, the Los Angeles Express edged out the Oklahoma Outlaws 30-27 in a closely contested game, capping off an exciting week of USFL football. As teams continue to jostle for position, Week 5’s results have set the stage for what promises to be an intense and unpredictable season ahead.

USFL Stat Leaders After Week 5 (1985)

Games

Saturday

Oakland Invaders 14, Michigan Panthers 49

New Orleans Brass 20, Chicago Blitz 45

Houston Gamblers 58, Boston Breakers 24

Sunday

Las Vegas Ace 10, Jacksonville Bulls 31

Arizona Wranglers 0, Washington Federals 27

Birmingham Stallions 19, Philadelphia Stars 13

Pittsburgh Maulers 14, Memphis Showboats 54

Tampa Bay Bandits 21, San Antonio Gunslingers 10

New Jersey Generals 24, Denver Gold 24

Oklahoma Outlaws 27, Los Angeles Express 30

Standings

Players of the Week

Offense – Jim Kelly, QB, Houston Gamblers. Houston Gamblers quarterback Jim Kelly delivered a performance for the ages in Week 5 of the fictional 1985 USFL replay league, earning him Player of the Week honors. Kelly was unstoppable, throwing for a staggering 497 yards and 8 touchdowns. Five of those scoring passes found their way to wide receiver Ricky Sanders, showcasing the lethal connection between the two. With a passer rating of 135.4, Kelly’s dominant display solidified his reputation as one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the league.

Defense: Chicago Blitz secondary. The Chicago Blitz defense put on a masterclass in their Week 5 showdown against the New Orleans Brass, leading the way to a commanding 45-20 victory. The Blitz secondary was relentless, intercepting four passes for 113 yards and returning two of them for touchdowns. This defensive dominance stifled the Brass’ offensive efforts and kept them from mounting any serious threat throughout the game. Chicago’s opportunistic and hard-hitting defense was the key to their victory, showcasing their ability to turn turnovers into game-changing plays.

In an otherwise forgettable 58-24 loss for the Boston Breakers against the Houston Gamblers, Louis Jackson emerged as the lone bright spot, earning Special Teams Player of the Week honors. Jackson was a workhorse on kick returns, fielding eight kicks for 187 yards, averaging 23.4 yards per return with a long of 28. Despite the lopsided score, Jackson’s efforts on special teams provided a glimmer of hope, consistently giving the Breakers favorable field position in an otherwise challenging game.

Weekly Wrap Ups

1985 Week 4 Wrap Up

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Week 4 of the 1985 USFL season was packed with thrilling matchups and standout performances, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting race to the playoffs. The action kicked off on Saturday with the Pittsburgh Maulers falling just short against the Boston Breakers, who secured a 34-27 victory. Meanwhile, Jim Kelly led the Houston Gamblers to a dominant 49-24 win over the Michigan Panthers, earning Offensive MVP honors with a four-touchdown performance. In a nail-biter, the Memphis Showboats edged out the Tampa Bay Bandits 38-37, thanks to a clutch defensive effort by Don Bessilieu, whose interception return for a touchdown proved decisive.

Sunday’s slate featured several lopsided contests, with the Washington Federals pulling off an upset against the New Jersey Generals, winning 27-13. The Birmingham Stallions trounced the Jacksonville Bulls 38-7, while the Oklahoma Outlaws easily handled the New Orleans Brass with a 31-7 victory. In Arizona, the Wranglers held off the Philadelphia Stars in a close 14-11 battle, and the Los Angeles Express cruised to a 31-17 win over the Las Vegas Aces. The Denver Gold, despite a valiant effort, came up short against the Oakland Invaders, losing 34-31 in a high-scoring affair.

The week concluded on Monday night with a defensive showdown between the San Antonio Gunslingers and the Chicago Blitz. In a game that saw multiple turnovers and critical defensive stops, the Blitz emerged victorious with a narrow 17-14 win, thanks to a fourth-quarter touchdown run by Spencer. The win elevated Chicago to a 3-1 record, keeping them firmly in the playoff hunt, while San Antonio fell to 2-2 on the season. As Week 4 came to a close, the league standings tightened, with several teams emerging as early contenders in the race for the championship.

USFL Stat Leaders After Week 4 (1985)

Games

Saturday

Pittsburgh Maulers 27, Boston Breakers 34

Houston Gamblers 49, Michigan Panthers 24

Tampa Bay Bandits 37, Memphis Showboats 38

Sunday

New Jersey Generals 13, Washington Federals 27

Jacksonville Bulls 7, Birmingham Stallions 38

Oklahoma Outlaws 31, New Orleans Brass 7

Philadelphia Stars 11, Arizon Wranglers 14

Los Angeles Express 31, Las Vegas Ace 17

Denver Gold 31, Oakland Invaders 34

Monday

San Antonio Gunslingers 14, Chicago Blitz 17

Standings After Week 4

Players of the Week

Offense: Jim Kelly, QB, Houston Gamblers. Jim Kelly delivered a standout performance in Week 4, leading the Houston Gamblers to a commanding 49-24 victory over the Michigan Panthers. Kelly showcased his precision and deep-ball ability, completing 18 of 24 passes for 329 yards and four touchdowns, with an impressive passer rating of 138.9. His four touchdown passes, including four completions of over 25 yards, were instrumental in the Gamblers’ explosive offensive display. Despite being sacked twice and throwing one interception, Kelly’s poise and accuracy earned him Offensive MVP honors for the week.

Defense: Don Bessilieu, S, Memphis Showboats. Don Bessilieu played a pivotal role in the Memphis Showboats’ thrilling 38-37 victory over the Tampa Bay Bandits, showcasing his playmaking ability on defense. The veteran safety recorded four tackles, forced a crucial fumble, and delivered a game-changing 14-yard interception return for a touchdown. Bessilieu’s interception touchdown not only swung momentum in favor of the Showboats but also underscored his knack for being in the right place at the right time. His timely contributions were key in securing the narrow win and keeping Memphis in the hunt for a top spot in the league.

Special Teams: Clarence Verdin, KR, Houston Gamblers. Verdin turned in a performance for the ages, returning 4 kicks for a record 241 yards and another record 2 touchdowns. Both are records that may stand for a long time in this league.

Weekly Wrap Ups

1985 Week 3 Wrap Up

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Week 3 of the 1985 USFL season brought plenty of excitement and standout performances across the league. Saturday’s action kicked off with the Birmingham Stallions securing a 42-28 victory over the Boston Breakers, thanks to a balanced offensive attack and a strong second-half surge. Meanwhile, the Denver Gold made a statement with a dominant 44-21 win over the Los Angeles Express, fueled by Bob Gagliano’s four touchdown passes and a relentless offensive assault that left the Express reeling.

Sunday’s slate featured a thrilling shootout between the Pittsburgh Maulers and the New Jersey Generals, with Pittsburgh edging out a 35-31 win. Greg Anderson’s record-breaking 261-yard, four-touchdown performance, including a game-winning 73-yard score in the final minutes, was the highlight of the day. The Washington Federals stunned the Philadelphia Stars with a commanding 26-7 victory, showcasing their defensive prowess. In other action, the Tampa Bay Bandits outpaced the Jacksonville Bulls 30-17, while the Houston Gamblers held off the San Antonio Gunslingers 24-17 in a closely contested matchup.

Monday Night Football saw the Oakland Invaders cruise to a 37-13 victory over the Arizona Wranglers, capping off a week filled with intense competition. The Michigan Panthers dominated the Oklahoma Outlaws in a 25-0 shutout, while the Memphis Showboats overwhelmed the New Orleans Brass 44-24. The Chicago Blitz held off the Las Vegas Ace 27-20 in a tightly fought contest, rounding out a week that showcased both offensive fireworks and defensive standouts across the league.

USFL Stat Leaders After Week 3 (1985)

Games

Saturday

Boston Breakers 28, Birmingham Stallions 42

Denver Gold 44, Los Angeles Express 21

Sunday

New Jersey Generals 31, Pittsburgh Maulers 35

Philadelphia Stars 7, Washington Federals 26

Tampa Bay Bandits 30, Jacksonville Bulls 17

Houston Gamblers 24, San Antonio Gunslingers 17

Oklahoma Outlaws 0, Michigan Panthers 25

New Orlean Brass 24, Memphis Showboats 44

Las Vegas Ace 20, Chicago Blitz 27

Monday

Arizona Wranglers 13, Oakland Invaders 37

Standings After Week 3

Players of the Week

Offense: Bob Gagliano, QB, Denver Gold. Denver Gold quarterback Bob Gagliano was named the Week 3 Offensive MVP in the 1985 USFL, leading his team to a dominant 44-21 victory over the Los Angeles Express. Gagliano showcased his arm strength and precision, completing 26 of 45 passes for an impressive 384 yards, including three passes of 25+ yards. He threw for four touchdowns and added another on the ground, rushing for 22 yards and a score. Gagliano’s performance was pivotal in the Gold’s offensive explosion, making him a clear standout in Week 3.

Offense: Greg Anderson, WR, Pittsburgh Maulers. Pittsburgh Maulers wide receiver Greg Anderson delivered a historic performance in Week 3 of the 1985 USFL season, setting a league record with 261 receiving yards on 9 receptions, while scoring 4 touchdowns. Anderson’s chemistry with new quarterback Brian Sipe was undeniable, culminating in a game-winning 73-yard touchdown with less than two minutes remaining to secure a thrilling 35-31 victory over the New Jersey Generals. Anderson’s remarkable day not only showcased his playmaking ability but also solidified his place in USFL history with one of the greatest individual performances ever seen.

Defense: Kerry Justin, CB , New Jersey Generals. New Jersey Generals cornerback Kerry Justin stood out as the defensive MVP in Week 3 of the 1985 USFL season despite his team’s narrow 35-31 loss to the Pittsburgh Maulers. Justin was a force on the field, recording 7 tackles, forcing a fumble, and making a crucial interception that he returned 37 yards for a touchdown. His exceptional playmaking ability kept the Generals in the game, highlighting his versatility and impact as a defensive leader, even in a losing effort.

Special Teams: Lonnie Harris, KR, Arizona Wranglers. Despite the Arizona Wranglers’ 37-13 loss to the Denver Gold, Lonnie Harris emerged as a bright spot on special teams. Harris showcased his explosive return abilities, bringing back 8 kicks for a total of 163 yards, including a standout 35-yard return. His efforts provided the Wranglers with critical field position throughout the game, demonstrating his value and resilience even in a tough defeat.

Weekly Wrap Ups

1985 Week 2 Wrap Up

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In a compelling second week of USFL action, the Jacksonville Bulls asserted their dominance with a resounding 34-13 victory over the New Orleans Breakers. Shawn Jones led the charge for the Bulls, rushing for 132 yards and a touchdown, complemented by two receptions for 57 yards. Meanwhile, the New Jersey Generals continued their strong start, edging out the Boston Breakers 13-6. Herschel Walker was the star for the Generals, amassing 184 rushing yards and a touchdown on 36 carries. The Denver Gold also secured a significant win, defeating the Las Vegas Posse 38-28, thanks to an impressive performance from quarterback Bob Gagliano, who threw for 614 yards and four touchdowns.

Saturday’s games saw the Houston Gamblers overpower the Chicago Blitz with a 48-21 victory, highlighted by Kelly’s 377-yard, three-touchdown performance. The Arizona Outlaws bounced back from their opening loss to top the Los Angeles Express 21-10, with Allen Clark rushing for 82 yards and a touchdown. On Sunday, the Tampa Bay Bandits held off the Birmingham Stallions 23-16, with a key interception and 16 tackles from Bill Roe. In a tight defensive contest, the San Antonio Gunslingers edged the Oklahoma Outlaws 14-12, thanks to Crane’s eight receptions for 93 yards and a touchdown.

In other Sunday matchups, the Pittsburgh Maulers continued their unbeaten run with a 27-13 victory over the Philadelphia Stars, with Kirk Pendleton catching 10 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns. The Memphis Showboats remained undefeated, beating the Michigan Panthers 38-27, powered by Harry Sydney’s three rushing touchdowns. Lastly, in a thrilling finish, the Oakland Invaders managed to fend off a fierce comeback from the Washington Federals, winning 37-31. This week’s games showcased the intense competition and standout individual performances that define the USFL, promising more exciting action in the weeks ahead.

USFL Stat Leaders After Week 2 (1985)

Games

Saturday

New Orleans Brass 14, Jacksonville Bulls 34

Chicago Blitz 21, Houston Gamblers 48

Arizona Wranglers 21, Los Angeles Express 10

Sunday

Philadelphia Stars 13, Pittsburgh Maulers 27

Boston Breakers 6, New Jersey Generals 13

Birmingham Stallions 16, Tampa Bay Bandits 23

Oklahoma Outlaws 12, San Antonio Gunslingers 14

Memphis Showboats 38, Michigan Panthers 27

Las Vegas Ace 28, Denver Gold 38

Washington Federals 31, Oakland Invaders 37

Standings

Players of the Week

Offense: Bob Gagliano, QB, Denver Gold. Gagliano eviscerated the expansion Las Vegas Ace defense to the tune of 45 for 80 passing with 614 yards and 4 touchdowns. His performance lifted the Gold to 1-1 with a 38-28 win over the Ace.

Defense: Bill Roe, LB, Birmingham Stallions. Roe racked up 16 tackles and an interception in the Stallions loss against the Tampa Bay Bandits.

Special Teams: Mark Tolbert, KR, Chicago Blitz. Houston kept Tolbert busy with 9 returns for 175 yards.

Weekly Wrap Ups

1985 Week 1 Wrap Up

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The opening week of the 1985 USFL season delivered an array of thrilling matchups, showcasing high-scoring affairs and standout individual performances across the league. Kicking off the action, the Tampa Bay Bandits secured a commanding 34-16 victory over the Washington Federals on Saturday. Eric Truvillion was the star for Tampa Bay, racking up 166 receiving yards and two touchdowns. The San Antonio Gunslingers also began their campaign with a 38-28 win against the New Orleans Breakers, with Jerry Parrish’s nine receptions for 155 yards and a touchdown making a significant impact.

Sunday’s games were highlighted by a dominating performance from the Philadelphia Stars, who cruised past the Las Vegas Outlaws 30-7. John Sutton’s interception return for a touchdown and five tackles spearheaded Philadelphia’s defensive dominance. In Jacksonville, the Bulls overwhelmed the Oklahoma Outlaws 44-28, thanks to Al Williams’ impressive 144 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Herschel Walker powered the New Jersey Generals to a 28-17 win over the Oakland Invaders, showcasing his dual-threat ability with 166 rushing yards and a touchdown.

Capping off the week, the Pittsburgh Maulers edged out the Michigan Panthers 27-20 in a Monday night thriller. Mike Rozier was instrumental in Pittsburgh’s victory, rushing for 103 yards and a touchdown while adding 75 receiving yards. Other notable performances included Walter Lewis leading the Memphis Showboats to a 37-21 win over the Denver Gold with 308 passing yards and three touchdowns, and Steve Young guiding the Los Angeles Express to a 28-21 victory over the Birmingham Stallions with three touchdown passes and a rushing score. The Houston Gamblers also made a statement with a 45-17 triumph over the Arizona Wranglers, highlighted by Fowler’s 148 rushing yards and two total touchdowns.

USFL Stat Leaders After Week 1 (1985)

Games

Saturday

Washington Federals 16, Tampa Bay Bandits 34

New Orleans Brass 28, San Antonio Gunslingers 38

Memphis Showboats 37, Denver Gold 21

Sunday

Chicago Blitz 35, Boston Breakers 10

Las Vegas Ace 7, Philadelphia Stars 30

Jacksonville Bulls 44, Oklahoma Outlaws 28

Arizona Wranglers 17, Houston Gamblers 45

Birmingham Stallions 21, Los Angeles Express 28

New Jersey Generals 28, Oakland Invaders 17

Monday

Michigan Panthers 20, Pittsburgh Maulers 27

Standings

Players of the Week

Offense: Jim Kelly, QB, Houston Gamblers. In a week of dynamic offensive performance, the reigning offensive MVP picked up where he left off last year. Kelly went 19 for 27 for 343 yards and 5 touchdowns in a 45-17 beatdown of the Arizona Gamblers.

Defense: John Sutton, CB, Philadelphia Stars. The entire Stars defense helped the team get off on a winning start. Sutton recorded 5 tackles and returned an interception 32 yards for a touchdown to help welcome the expansion Ace into the USFL.

Special Teams: Dennis Gentry, RB/Ret, Jacksonville Bulls. The Bulls performed an absolute theft in the offseason, grabbing former Chicago Bear Dennis Gentry. He rewarded them immediately with a touchdown run and also returning a kickoff 93 yards for a touchdown.

Weekly Wrap Ups

1984 Week 17 Wrap Up

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In an action-packed weekend of USFL football, the Chicago Blitz dominated the Arizona Wranglers with a convincing 37-10 victory, while the Boston Breakers secured a 29-16 win over the Jacksonville Bulls. The Oakland Invaders held off the Los Angeles Express in a closely contested matchup, claiming a 21-17 triumph. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Stars showcased their dominance with a 40-28 victory over the Washington Federals.

On Saturday, the Birmingham Stallions exhibited a strong performance, defeating the Memphis Showboats by a score of 36-16. The New Jersey Generals managed to edge past the Denver Gold with a 24-20 win, and the Tampa Bay Bandits secured a 17-6 victory against the Pittsburgh Maulers. Monday’s matchups saw the Michigan Panthers emerging victorious against the Oklahoma Outlaws with a 17-7 score, while the Houston Gamblers showcased their offensive prowess, cruising to a 66-35 win over the San Antonio Gunslingers.

As the regular season nears its conclusion, the playoff picture is coming into focus. In the Eastern division, the Philadelphia Stars have clinched their spot with an impressive 15-2 record, while the New Jersey Generals, standing at 10-7, have also secured a playoff berth. In the Southern division, both the Tampa Bay Bandits (13-4) and the Birmingham Stallions (12-5) have secured playoff spots, with the division championship yet to be decided. The Central division sees the Houston Gamblers (13-4) as the clear division champions, while the Chicago Blitz (11-6) and the Michigan Panthers (10-5) are vying for the second playoff spot. Out West, both the Oakland Invaders and the Los Angeles Express have secured playoff berths with identical 12-5 records, setting the stage for an exciting final week that will determine seeding in the postseason.

USFL Stat Leaders After Week 17 (1984)

Games

Friday

Arizona Wranglers 10, Chicago Blitz 37

Jacksonville Bulls 16, Boston Breakers 29

Oakland Invaders 21, Los Angeles Express 17

Washington Federals 28, Philadelphia Stars 40

Saturday

Birmingham Stallions 36, Memphis Showboats 16

Denver Gold 20, New Jersey Generals 24

Tampa Bay Bandits 17, Pittsburgh Maulers 6

Monday

Oklahoma Outlaws 7, Michigan Panthers 17

San Antonio Gunslingers 35, Houston Gamblers 66

Standings

Players of the Week

Offense: Jim Kelly, QB, Houston Gamblers. In Week 17 of the USFL season, quarterback Jim Kelly of the Houston Gamblers showcased an extraordinary performance that earned him the prestigious Offensive Player of the Week honors. Leading his team to a decisive 66-35 victory against the San Antonio Gunslingers, Kelly exhibited precision and dominance in his passing game. He completed 36 out of 45 attempts, accumulating an impressive 561 yards through the air and tossing an exceptional 7 touchdown passes. Notably, Kelly’s efficiency extended beyond passing, as he also contributed to the ground game with 28 rushing yards on four carries. His standout display underscored his prowess as a playmaker, solidifying his well-deserved recognition as the Offensive Player of the Week.

Defense: Chuck Clanton, DB, Birmingham Stallions. In a stellar Week 17 performance, Chuck Clanton, the defensive standout for the Birmingham Stallions, emerged as the Defensive Player of the Week. Playing a pivotal role in his team’s triumphant 36-16 victory over the Washington Federals, Clanton exhibited defensive prowess with a remarkable stat line. He recorded six tackles, showcasing his proficiency in stopping opposing plays. Clanton’s impact was further highlighted by his ability to disrupt the Washington offense, forcing two crucial fumbles that swung the momentum in Birmingham’s favor. The pièce de résistance came in the form of a spectacular 33-yard interception return for a touchdown, a game-changing play that not only secured the win but also earned Clanton well-deserved recognition as the Defensive Player of the Week. His exceptional contributions on the field underscored his importance in the Stallions’ success that week.

Special Teams: In a Week 17 showdown against the Houston Gamblers, San Antonio Gunslingers’ kick returner, Marcus Bonner, etched his name in the spotlight with a sensational performance. Bonner’s dynamic skills were on full display as he returned four kicks for an impressive total of 146 yards. The highlight of his electrifying performance was a jaw-dropping 91-yard touchdown return that not only showcased his remarkable speed but also proved to be a game-changer. This spectacular touchdown not only tied the game early but injected a surge of energy into the Gunslingers’ efforts against the Gamblers. Bonner’s standout performance in kick returns added an exciting dimension to the game, earning him recognition as a key playmaker for the San Antonio squad in Week 17.

Weekly Wrap Ups

1984 Week 16 Wrap Up

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Week 16 in the USFL showcased intense matchups and pivotal moments as teams battled for divisional supremacy and playoff contention. In the Atlantic Division, the Philadelphia Stars continued their dominant run, securing a convincing 31-18 victory over the Denver Gold. Philadelphia’s high-powered offense, led by their star quarterback, displayed remarkable efficiency, while their defense made crucial stops to maintain their commanding position atop the division. Meanwhile, the New Jersey Generals secured a narrow 23-21 win over the Boston Breakers, bolstering their playoff aspirations and adding another layer of competitiveness to the Atlantic Division.

In the Central Division, the Houston Gamblers continued their stellar season with a resounding 50-28 triumph over the Chicago Blitz. The Gamblers’ dynamic offense, spearheaded by their prolific quarterback, propelled them to a 12-4 record, securing the top spot in the division. Additionally, the San Antonio Gunslingers notched a 26-7 victory over the Pittsburgh Maulers, showcasing a strong defensive performance and providing a glimpse of their potential in the late stages of the season. As the playoff picture begins to take shape, the upcoming weeks promise even more thrilling matchups and intense competition across the USFL.

USFL Stat Leaders After Week 16 (1984)

Games

Friday

Jacksonville Bulls 24, Arizona Wranglers 34

Philadelphia Stars 31, Denver Gold 18

Saturday

Memphis Showboats 10, Tampa Bay Bandits 36

Michigan Panthers 42, Oakland Invaders 20

Sunday

Chicago Blitz 28, Houston Gamblers 50

Los Angeles Express 30, Oklahoma Outlaws 14

Boston Breakers 21, New Jersey Generals 23

Washington Federals 18, Birmingham Stallions 17

Monday

San Antonio Gunslingers 26, Pittsburgh Maulers 7

Standings

Players of the Week

Offense: Gordon Banks, WR, Oakland Invaders. In a standout performance during Week 16 of the USFL replay, Gordon Banks emerged as the Offensive Player of the Week, leaving an indelible mark with his exceptional contributions. The talented wide receiver showcased his prowess with an impressive 11 receptions, amassing a staggering 203 yards and averaging an outstanding 18.5 yards per catch. Banks’s remarkable display of skill and agility was instrumental in securing two crucial touchdowns for his team, making him a pivotal force in their offensive strategy. As the regular season heads towards its climax, players like Gordon Banks continue to elevate their game, setting the stage for an exciting and highly competitive playoff run in the USFL.

Defense: In a defensive showcase during Week 16 of the USFL replay, Mike Mitchell stood out as the Defensive Player of the Week, leaving a lasting impact on the game with his exceptional performance. The seasoned defender displayed his prowess with an impressive 12 tackles, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Mitchell not only demonstrated his tackling prowess but also proved to be a force to be reckoned with by forcing two crucial fumbles, creating turnovers that undoubtedly swung the momentum in favor of his team. Additionally, Mitchell showcased his ball-hawking skills with two interceptions, further solidifying his role as a defensive standout. As the USFL replay heads into its final stretch, players like Mike Mitchell continue to play a pivotal role, setting the stage for intense playoff battles and memorable moments on the defensive end.

Special Teams: In Week 16 of the USFL replay, Lonnie Harris emerged as the Special Teams Player of the Week, leaving a significant impact with his stellar contributions in the return game. Harris showcased his explosiveness and playmaking ability on special teams, returning six kickoffs for an impressive 142 yards. His ability to navigate through opposing coverage teams not only provided valuable field position for his squad but also injected a dynamic element into the game.