'84 Chronology-Divisional Playoffs

Event Date:  June 29th 1984

Event Description: USFL Divisional Playoffs

Source: PFW

Saturday Games

Memphis Showboats (11-7) at Philadelphia Stars (16-2)

1:05 p.m. (ABC-Regional-Jim Lamphley & Lee Corso)

Spread: Stars by -10

Outlook: The Stars are clearly the class of the league and are hungry to capture this years’ title after losing out to Chicago last season. 

The Showboats are one of the most exciting teams’ in the league led by flashy head coach Pepper Rodgers. Quarterback Walter Lewis closed out a fine rookie campaign and Reggie White has been the leader of the defense since the start of the season.

Prediction: Stars 28-14

Michigan Panthers (9-9) at Arizona Outlaws (12-6)

4:40 p.m. (ABC Regional-Bill Flemming & Ron Mix)

Spread: Outlaws -2

Outlook: The Outlaws will be without starting quarterback Doug Williams who was injured last week. The team will now turn to rookie Rick Neuheisel, while last years’ starter Alan Risher moves into a backup role. The Outlaws defense is ranked third best in the league.

The Panthers will again be led by quarterback Bobby Hebert and on the defensive side by hybrid John Corker. With Williams out, look for the Panthers defense to bring a number of different blitz packages as well as coverage schemes to try and rattle Neuheisel.

Prediction: Panthers 17-13

Sunday Games

Tampa Bay Bandits (11-7) at Birmingham Stallions (14-4)

1:30 p.m. (ABC National-Tim Brandt & Lee Grosscup)

Spread: Stallions -6

Outlook: The Stallions enter this contest as one of the hottest teams’ in the league. The offense has plenty of veteran experience led by Cliff Stoudt, Joe Cribbs and Jim Smith, while the defense ranked with Philadelphia as one of the leagues’ best.

The Bandits stumbled down the stretch as injuries racked the offense, especially quarterback John Reaves. Gary Anderson is the star attraction on offense and will be called upon to carry the work load.

Prediction: Stallions 27-20

Los Angeles Express (8-10) at Houston Gamblers (12-6)

4:50 p.m. (ABC National-Keith Jackson & Lynn Swann)

Spread: Gamblers -7

Outlook: Two of the leagues most exciting quarterbacks will go head to head in this one. Houston pivot Jim Kelly has put together an MVP type season, while Steve Young is the arguably the most exciting offensive weapon in the league. Look for a shoot out in this one.

Prediction: Gamblers 33-27