Virtual United States Football League

'92 Chronology-Week Five Roundup

2012-01-29T12:38:00.003-05:00

Event Date: April 19th, 1992

Event Description: Panthers Outlast Oakland!

Source: Detroit Free Press

Steve Pelluer's 33-yard touchdown pass with 2:56 left in the fourth quarter pushed Michigan past Oakland, 39-36, in a Week 5 clash at the Silver Dome.

Pelluer threw for 319 yards, with four touchdowns and one interception on 18-of-24 passing for the Panthers, who recovered from an 12-point deficit to record their second win of the season.

Carl Aikens had five receptions for 74 yards and a touchdown, while Gerald Wilcox added four catches for 70 yards with three scores. John Williams rushed for 54 yards and Jamie Morris added another 53 yards on 20 attempts.

Bob Gagliano completed 24-of-39 passes for 309 yards, four scores and three picks for the Invaders, who have lost for the second time in three weeks.

Gordon Hudson added eight receptions for 84 yards and two touchdown's while Wes Howell compiled 98 yards on four catches and also had two touchdown grabs. Blaise Bryant gained 56 yards on 16 carries.

Oakland took the opening lead in the first quarter after embarking on a twelve-play, 90-yard drive culminating with Gordon Hudson's four-yard reception to make it 7-0.

The Panthers countered early in the second quarter with a 12-play, 77-yard drive of their own ending with a four-yard touchdown pass from Steve Pelluer to Gerald Wilcox. Wilcox would end up scoring three touchdowns on the day.

Michigan tacked on ten more in the second quarter on Pelluer's fifty-yard bomb to Wilcox, then a Novo Bojovic a 22-yard field goal set the score at 17-14 heading into the break.

A 39-yard field goal by Jim Gallery, a safety by Scott Davis and Gagliano's 14-yard touchdown pass to Wes Howell moved the Invaders out to a 26-17 lead at the end of three quarters of play.

Gerald Wilcox's 58-yard punt return midway through the fourth quarter proved to be the momentum-changer, pushing the Panthers out to a three-point lead at 32-29.

Oakland's Terrence Flagler then went 65 yards on the next kickoff, moving the ball all the way to the Panthers 35 yard line. One play later, Gagliano found Wes Howell wide open over the middle for a 35-yard touchdown pass which gave the Invaders a 36-32 advantage with 7:06 remaining.

With a little less than three minutes left in the fourth, Michigan took its final lead of the game, 39-36, as Steve Pelluer hit Carl Aikens for a 33-yard touchdown strike.

Game Notes;

In Week 6, Oakland hosts Pittsburgh, while Michigan heads to Chicago...

In other Week #5 Sunday action; Birmingham remains undefeated after a road win at Pittsburgh 37-33, Baltimore beat Arizona 30-20, Houston pounded Chicago 37-17, and Memphis edged New Orleans 16-10.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Grudge Match!

2012-01-28T15:19:00.004-05:00

Event Date: April 18th, 1992

Event Description: Bandits Blast Bulls!

Source: Jacksonville Sun Times

Ben Bennett threw two touchdown passes to lead the Tampa Bay Bandits past the Jacksonville Bulls, 33-6, at the Gator Bowl in Jacksonville.

Bennett went 16-of-29 for 385 yards with no interceptions and one sack. Eric Truvillion caught two of Bennett's touchdown passes for the Bandits, who won their first game of the season.

Tom Ramsey finished 16-of-28 for 219 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions for Jacksonville, which remains in a tie for fourth place with Memphis and New Orleans.

Tampa Bay opened up the scoring in the first quarter on Obed Ariri's 22-yard field goal before Carlos Huerta tied things up at 3-3 after he nailed a 44-yarder for Jacksonville.

In the second quarter Ben Bennett came through with a 44-yard touchdown strike to Eric Truvillion to make it a 10-3 Bandits advantage. Then, after a Jacksonville turnover, Obed Ariri's 28-yarder extended the Bandits advantage to ten points.

The Bulls’ responded with another field goal, this time from 27 yards out, to cut the Tampa lead to 13-6.

With time running down in the second quarter, Rod Harris scampered for an 89-yard kick-off return for a touchdown to put his team up 20-6 heading into halftime.

Eric Truvillion provided the highlight of the game late in the fourth, tipping the ball with one hand to avoid the defender and then corralling it with the other hand for a 62-yard touchdown reception that made it 33-6. Obed Aririr's two second-half field goals capped the scoring.

Game Notes;

The Bandits were the league's only winless team after the first month of the season...Tampa receiver Eric Truvillion finished with seven receptions for a team record 250 yards.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Panning For Gold?

2012-01-27T17:57:00.005-05:00

Event Date: April 17th, 1992

Event Description: Gold Rush!

Source: Mile High Sports Report

The United States Football League is heading back to Denver.

U.S.F.L. commissioner Harry Usher awarded a conditional expansion franchise to a Colorado-based group headed up by the Ron Blanding Consortium, the original owner of the Denver Gold.

"This is an exciting time for the United States Football League and the city of Denver," Usher said. "I am guardedly optimistic and excited at the same time."

Blanding's group, which will pay a $15-million expansion fee, must still secure a lease agreement for Mile Stadium, which is set to host Major League Baseball starting in 1993.

"The stadium agreement is the condition and that is why we're calling this a conditional franchise," Usher said. "I believe that the job of the U.S.F.L. and the commissioner is to find the business leaders, to find the community leaders and to find the sports leaders. It's now in their capable hands to make sure we bring spring football back to the Denver area in a stadium and a facility that the U.S.F.L. and the fans here deserve."

This marks another attempt by the Blanding Group to land a U.S.F.L. franchise for Denver. Three years ago, Blanding was part of another group that was regarded as the front-runner among bids to land an expansion franchise for Denver. But the Denver bid was rejected in favor of Pittsburgh and Oklahoma City.

While this would be the U.S.F.L.'s second stint in Denver, league officials are confident Blanding's group can succeed based on the fact that the team always compiled great attendance figures. the competition with baseball could hurt initially, but league officials are confident that the “true football fans will return.”

The franchise could begin play as early as 1993.

more to come.............

'92 Chronology-Unpaid Bills

2012-01-26T22:13:00.003-05:00

Event Date: April, 16th, 1992

Event Description: Down & Out

Source: Phoenix Sun Times

Arizona Wranglers running back Bill Johnson will be sidelined with a knee injury and will most likely miss the next three games.

Johnson, who became an important part of Arizona's offense going back to last season, was injured late in the game during the Wranglers' 16-10 loss at the hands of the Chicago Blitz on Monday night.

Wranglers coach Frank Kush was hopeful that Johnson would not miss anymore than three games. Earlier in the week he didn't know if the injury was a strain or a tear.

"It's hard to rule Bill out, especially since we know what a competitor he is," Kush said. "I would hope that he will progress rapidly as the weeks go by as he has been getting some treatment already this week. I think the most important thing is that we don't rush it too much so as to make it any worse. He is an older player by running back standards, so it may take more time than either of us realize."

Backup running back Kevin Nelson went through a full practice as the starter and said he will be ready to play when called upon. Nelson was acquired as a free agent this past off-season but has played sparingly so far. The Wranglers host the Baltimore Stars on Sunday.

Event Description: Week Five Injury Report

Source: League Office

NEW YORK (AP) -- The updated United States Football League latest transactions and injury report, as provided by the league:

New Orleans Breakers-Signed FB Allen Harvin to practice squad.

Jacksonville Bulls-Signed OL Ben Jefferson to active roster.

Week #5 Injury Report

Los Angeles at New Jersey

Express--Out: DT George Achica (shoulder).

Generals--None

Birmingham at Pittsburgh

Stallions--None

Maulers--Probable: DL Bob Buczkowski (hamstring), TE Bob Mrosko (shoulder).

Memphis at New Orleans

Showboats--Out: DT Malcolm Taylor (knee); Questionable: DL Chris Burns (knee).

Breakers--Out: TE Greg Scales (elbow).

Houston at Chicago

Gamblers--None

Blitz--Out: LB Mike Stonebreaker (eye); Probable: TE Cap Boso (ankle), DL Frank Kmet* (hand).

Baltimore at Arizona

Stars--None

Wranglers--Out: RB Bill Johnson (knee).

Tampa Bay at Jacksonville

Bandits--None

Bulls--Out: OG Jay Pennison (finger), G-T James Harvey (shoulder).

Oakland at Michigan

Invaders--Doubtful: DB Ron Osborne (knee).

Panthers--None

more to come......

'92 Chronology-Week Four Power Rankings

2012-01-24T17:18:00.002-05:00

Event Date: April 14th, 1992

Event Description: Week #4 Power Rankings

Source: Pro Football News

Here is the fourth installment of the power rankings for the U.S. Football League;

(#1) Pittsburgh Maulers

Record: 4-0

Last week’s ranking: #2

This week: vs. Birmingham Stallions, Sunday 1 p.m.

Head coach Sam Rutigliano has his young team playing like wily veterans.

(#2) Birmingham Stallions

Record: 4-0

Last week’s ranking: #1

This week: vs. Pittsburgh Maulers, Sunday 1 p.m.

Slipped back a notch but with a matchup against Pittsburgh looming they could regain the lead spot atop the rankings.

(#3) Memphis Showboats

Record: 2-2

Last week’s ranking: #3

This week: at New Orleans Breakers, Saturday 8 p.m.

A tough loss in Jacksonville last week puts the ‘Boats back to .500.

(#4) Baltimore Stars

Record: 1-3

Last week’s ranking: #4

This week: at Arizona Wranglers, Sunday 4 p.m.

A two-game losing skid and a lack of offensive production should be cause for concern.

(#5) New Orleans Breakers

Record: 3-1

Last week’s ranking: #7

This week: at Memphis Showboats, Sunday 8 p.m.

Three straight wins has the faithful partying on Bourbon Street.

(#6) Oakland Invaders

Record: 2-2

Last week’s ranking: #5

This week: at Michigan Panthers, Sunday 1 p.m.

A division win over rival Houston helps Oakland keep pace with division leading Chicago.

(#7) New Jersey Generals

Record: 2-2

Last week’s ranking: #6

This week: at Los Angeles Express, Monday 8 p.m.

A tough one-point loss last week against Birmingham pushes New Jersey to the middle of the pack.

(#8) Jacksonville Bulls

Record: 3-1

Last week’s ranking: #10

This week: vs. Tampa Bay Bandits, Saturday 8 p.m.

Rivalry week in Jacksonville as the cross-state Bandits come limping into town.

(#9) Chicago Blitz

Record: 3-1

Last week’s ranking: #8

This week: vs. Houston Gamblers, Sunday 4 p.m.

A win again last week and they still slide down the rankings. The Rodney Dangerfield’s of the U.S. Football League.

(#10) Los Angeles Express

Record: 1-3

Last week’s ranking: #9

This week: at New Jersey Generals, Monday 8 p.m.

Two straight losses after a blow-out win over Houston back in Week #3.

(#11) Houston Gamblers

Record: 1-3

Last week’s ranking: #11

This week: at Chicago Blitz, Sunday 4 p.m.

A team with two divisional losses and an injured starting quarterback.

(#12) Arizona Wranglers

Record: 1-3

Last week’s ranking: #12

This week: vs. Baltimore Stars, Sunday 4 p.m.

A quarterback change is possible if Todd Dillon continues to struggle.

(#13) Michigan Panthers

Record: 1-3

Last week’s ranking: #14

This week: vs. Oakland Invaders, Sunday 1 p.m.

A win over Tampa last week moves the Panthers up one notch.

(#14) Tampa Bay Bandits

Record: 0-4

Last week’s ranking: #13

This week: at Jacksonville Bulls, Saturday 8 p.m.

The struggles continue.

more to come............

'92 Chronology-Week Four Roundup

2012-01-22T08:31:00.005-05:00

Event Date: April 12th, 1992

Event Description: Winless!

Source: Tampa Tribune

Steve Pelluer passed for 276 yards and tossed four touchdown passes to lead the Michigan Panthers to a 28-9 win over the Tampa Bay Bandits at the Silver Dome in Pontiac.

John Williams rushed for 42 yards on 11 carries, while Frank Lockett led all receivers with seven receptions, three for touchdowns, for a whopping 178 yards in the win. Ex-Lion Garry James added a touchdown reception for Michigan (1-3), which claimed its first victory of the season.

Ben Bennett completed 15-of-25 passes for 201 yards for Tampa Bay (0-4), which has now opened the season with four losses. Greg Boone hauled in four passes for 54 yards and added another 74 yards on the ground in the loss.

Early into the second quarter, Michigan grabbed a 14-0 lead on a two-yard touchdown pass from Pelluer to James. The Panthers opened the scoring with a 35-yard Pelluer to Lockett touchdown strike at the end of the first quarter.

The ensuing Tampa possessions resulted in three-and-outs before Pelluer again marched the Panthers right down the field. After a punt, the hosts got the ball near their own 17-yard line. Pelluer hit Lockett for a 29-yard completion, then found Mark Raugh on an 18-yard sideline throw before another touchdown strike to Lockett from seven yards out and a 21-3 lead with just under two minutes to play in the first half.

Obed Ariri's 47-yard field goal with just 0:17 on the clock in the second quarter made it a 21-6 game at the half.

The only scoring in the second half occurred off the foot of Obed Ariri, who again connected on a field goal, this one a 36-yard boot, and another touchdown pass from Pelluer to Lockett. Neither team was able to score in the final quarter.

Game Notes;

Michigan commited a game-high eleven penalties as compared to just five by Tampa...Both teams’ finished with less than 100-yards rushing.

Event Date: April 13th, 1992

Event Description: Slugfest at Soldier

Source: Chicago Daily News

Mike Saunders rushed for 144 yards and a touchdown as he led the Chicago Blitz to a 16-10 win over the Arizona Wranglers at Soldier Field.

"He's a big, fast guy," Hohensee remarked of his rookie running back. "When you give him openings like that he's able to hit it and turn it into some big yards, and when we get around the goal line he's a big, physical guy who's able to break some arm tackles and get into the end zone."

Hohensee converted 15-of-24 passes for 145 yards with three picks for the Blitz (3-1) who remain atop the West division. Scott McGhee finished with six receptions for 61 yards and rookie Tony Brooks also added a touchdown run.

Arizona (1-3) signal-caller Todd Dillon connected on 13-of-23 passes for 132 yards, with one touchdown and one interception while fighting off an attacking Chicago defense which claimed three sacks. Running back Bill Johnson recorded just 33 yards rushing on a dozen attempts.

"Offensively I don't think we had a lot of missed assignments," Dillon said afterward.

"It was just one of those games where they made more plays than we did. They didn't do anything differently than we expected, they just came out and ran the ball well and beat us."

Mike Saunders put the first points on the board in the opening quarter when he scored from seven yards out to give the hosts a 7-0 edge.

Moments later, Arizona began to feel the pressure from the Blitz defense on their next possession when Pete Catan sacked Dillon in the end zone for a safety giving the Blitz a 9-0 lead with over eight minutes remaining in the first quarter.

In the second frame kicker Joe Wood responded for Arizona with a 27-yard field cutting the Chicago lead to 9-3.

The second quarter scoring ended when Mike Hohensee handed off to Tony Brooks who scored from one yard out. With the extra point the Blitz saw their advantage increase to 16-3.

Following a scoreless third quarter, Arizona pivot Todd Dillon quickly read the blitz and dropped a short pass over the top to Gene Taylor who then headed up the field and ran nine-yards into the end zone to make the score 16-10 in favor of Chicago.

With less than three minutes remaining and the ball deep in their own zone, the Wranglers opted to run the ball and throw underneath rather than aggressively trying to make plays further down the field. Dillon did make some connections with teammates, but on third down on Arizona's side of the field his final throw of the series fell far short of its intended target. Neither team would score again.

Game Notes;

Mike Bellamy finished with five receptions for 44 yards...Arizona running back Bill Johnson left the game in the second quarter and he did not return...Arizona is set to face off against Baltimore at home next week, while Chicago hosts Houston.

In other Week #4 action; New Orleans beat Baltimore 15-6, Oakland outlasted Houston 22-19, Pittsburgh rolled over Los Angeles 34-14, and Jacksonville won at home against Memphis 24-17.

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Stallion Stampede!

2012-01-21T13:53:00.006-05:00

Event Date: April 11th, 1992

Event Description: Stallions Remain Unbeaten

Source: Birmingham Sentinel

Walter Lewis's 5-yard touchdown pass with 1:18 left was the difference, as the Birmingham Stallions edged the New Jersey Generals, 29-28.

Brent Fullwood finished with 75 yards on 21 carries for the Stallions (4-0), who remain atop the South division. Charlie Brown added 147 yards on nine receptions with a touchdown in the win. Walter Lewis threw for 283 yards on 23-of-30 efficiency with an interception and two touchdowns. Joey Jones added another 69 yards for the winning team with one score on six grabs.

Doug Flutie totaled 312 yards on 19-of-27 passing with two touchdowns for the Generals (2-2), who have now fallen two games behind division leading Pittsburgh. Perry Tuttle tallied 110 yards on six catches in defeat, while Zeke Mowatt had two touchdown grabs. Gordie Lockbaum and Nuu Faaola also notched rushing touchdowns.

The Generals got on the board with just over six minutes left in the quarter, as Flutie hooked up with Zeke Mowatt for an eight-yard touchdown. They added the extra-point and it was 7-0 after the first quarter.

Birmingham responded with a 14-play, 82 yard drive finishing with Brent Fullwood's six-yard touchdown run, tying the game at 7-7.

New Jersey answered with a scoring drive, culminated by Flutie's second touchdown pass to Mowatt giving the visiting team a 14-7 lead with just over nine minutes left to play in the half.

After exchanging punts, the Generals got the ball back and drove 83-yards finishing with a one-yard scoring plunge by fullback Nuu Faaola which pushed New Jersey out to a 21-7 lead. A late Birmingham field goal from Scott Norwood sent the teams into half-time at 21-10.

Trailing by a 18 points, the Stallions got the ball back near the end of the third quarter, and then marched down the field and converted on a third down before Paul Ott Carruth barreled his way in from one-yard out. The two-point conversion was no good, but Birmingham was within two scores at 28-16 with 11:23 left.

The teams traded possessions, and the Stallions eventually got the ball back at their own 28 with just over eight minutes left to play. Flanker Gary Lewis moved the chains with a 25-yard run, and later in the drive, on third down, a 25-yard touchdown pass to Joey Jones moved Birmingham to within five at 28-23.

The Stallions then embarked on an epic drive that saw the club convert on a 3rd-and-inches. The nine-play, 77-yard drive was capped by a Lewis to Brown touchdown pass, which gave Birmingham its first lead of the game, 29-28, with about 1:18 left in the game.

Game Notes;

New Jersey lineman Todd Thomas and punter John Teltschik were both inactive due to injuries...New Jersey finished with just 54 rushing yards on 27 attempts...Birmingham registered 418 total yards, while New Jersey had 366.

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Week Four Injury Report

2012-01-19T16:48:00.003-05:00

Event Date: April 8th, 1992

Event Description: Week Four Injury Report

Source: League Office

NEW YORK (AP) -- The updated United States Football League latest transactions and injury report, as provided by the league:

Memphis Showboats-Signed WR-KR Ira Hillary.

Week #4 Injury Report

New Jersey at Birmingham

Generals--None

Stallions--None

Memphis at Jacksonville

Showboats--Out: DT Malcolm Taylor (knee); Questionable: DL Chris Burns (knee).

Bulls--Out: OG Jay Pennison (finger), G-T James Harvey (shoulder).

Pittsburgh at Los Angeles

Maulers--Probable: DL Bob Buczkowski (hamstring), TE Bob Mrosko (shoulder).

Express--Out: DT George Achica (shoulder).

Arizona at Chicago

Wranglers--Out: RB Bill Johnson (knee).

Blitz--Out: LB Mike Stonebreaker (eye); Probable: TE Cap Boso (ankle), DL Frank Kmet* (hand).

Tampa Bay at Michigan

Bandits--None

Panthers--None

Oakland at Houston

Invaders--Doubtful: DB Ron Osborne (knee).

Gamblers--None

New Orleans at Baltimore

Breakers--Out: TE Greg Scales (elbow).

Stars--None

more to come......

'92 Chronology-Week #3 Power Rankings

2012-01-19T16:24:00.005-05:00

Event Date: April 7th, 1992

Event Description: Week #3 Power Rankings

Source: Pro Football News

Here is the third installment of the power rankings for the U.S. Football League;

(#1) Birmingham Stallions

Record: 3-0

Last week’s ranking: #1

This week: vs. New Jersey Generals, Saturday 8 p.m.

After winning a big game against Memphis last week, the Stallions need to avoid a let down this week against New Jersey.

(#2) Pittsburgh Maulers

Record: 3-0

Last week’s ranking: #3

This week: at Los Angeles Express, Sunday 4 p.m.

So far the Maulers are this years’ feel good story.

(#3) Memphis Showboats

Record: 2-1

Last week’s ranking: #4

This week: at Baltimore Stars, Sunday 1 p.m.

If Reggie Collier continues to play well, then the Andy Kelly era may just have to wait a little longer.

(#4) Baltimore Stars

Record: 1-2

Last week’s ranking: #2

This week: vs. New Orleans Breakers, Sunday 1 p.m.

Last weeks’ 30-14 loss in Pittsburgh could be a signal for a changing of the guard in the East division.

(#5) Oakland Invaders

Record: 1-2

Last week’s ranking: #7

This week: at Houston Gamblers, Sunday 4 p.m.

The Invaders suffered a tough loss last week against the Blitz, but many pundits still believe that they are the most improved team in their division.

(#6) New Jersey Generals

Record: 2-1

Last week’s ranking: #9

This week: at Birmingham Stallions, Saturday 8 p.m.

A blow-out win last week over Michigan seems to have righted the ship after a touch opening season loss.

(#7) New Orleans Breakers

Record: 2-1

Last week’s ranking: #5

This week: at Baltimore Stars, Sunday 1 p.m.

In last weeks’ win over Tampa, John Fourcade was effective behind center and Sammy Martin was stellar on special teams.

(#8) Chicago Blitz

Record: 2-1

Last week’s ranking: #8

This week: vs. Arizona Wranglers, Monday 8 p.m.

Rookie runner Mike Saunders has made a huge impact so far as he leads the entire league in rushing yardage.

(#9) Los Angeles Express

Record: 1-2

Last week’s ranking: #12

This week: vs. Pittsburgh Maulers, Sunday 4 p.m.

A slow start combined with tepid fan support may not bode well for the Express.

(#10) Jacksonville Bulls

Record: 2-1

Last week’s ranking: #11

This week: vs. Memphis Showboats, Sunday 8 p.m.

The Bulls head into a prime time divisional matchup against Memphis feeling collected and confident.

(#11) Houston Gamblers

Record: 1-2

Last week’s ranking: #6

This week: vs. Oakland Invaders, Sunday 4 p.m.

A skittish start to the season for the men from the Lone Star state.

(#12) Arizona Wranglers

Record: 1-2

Last week’s ranking: #10

This week: at Chicago Blitz, Monday 8 p.m.

The Wranglers suddenly look old and slow.

(#13) Tampa Bay Bandits

Record: 0-3

Last week’s ranking: #14

This week: at Michigan Panthers, Sunday 1 p.m.

A tough three-point loss last week against New Orleans makes this a must-win game against Michigan.

(#14) Michigan Panthers

Record: 0-3

Last week’s ranking: #13

This week: vs. Tampa Bay Bandits, Sunday 1 p.m.

Michigan continues to struggle both on the field and at the box office.

more to come............

'92 Chronology-'Boats Sign Ex-Gamecock

2012-01-16T19:53:00.004-05:00

Event Date: April 7th, 1992

Event Description: ‘Boats Bag Hillary

Source: Memphis Times Sentinel

The Memphis Showboat have added former Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ira HIllary, the team announced Tuesday.

The former South Carolina Gamecock joins the team and will be used as a punt returner and slot receiver.

"Ira is an experienced player and is someone we are very excited about bringing to Memphis," coach Pepper Rodgers said in a statement. "He adds quality depth to our receiving corps, and we are expecting him to contribute on special teams this season."

Hillary most recently spent time with the Minnesota Vikings during the 1990 season. He played with the Bengals for three seasons after being drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs back in 1985.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Breaker Blockade!

2012-01-15T11:06:00.004-05:00

Event Date: April 6th, 1992

Event Descripton: Breakers Beat Bandits!

Source: Times Picayune

Teddy Garcia nailed a 25 yard field goal in the extra frame and Marcus Dupree ran the ball 14 times for 91 yards in the New Orleans Breakers' 33-30 overtime victory over the Tampa Bay Bandits.

John Fourcade completed 15-of-31 passes for 196 yards with one interception and two touchdowns. Lonzell Hill was his top target, catching five passes for 59 yards and Alton Alexis added two touchdowns for New Orleans (2-1), which won its first road game of the season.

Joe Dudek had 23 carries for 106 yards and one touchdown for Tampa Bay. Ben Bennett completed just 12-of-30 passes for 196 yards with one touchdown while Willie Gillespie hauled in four passes for 40 yards. Greg Boone also ran the ball fifteen times for 88 yards, scoring once.

Tampa Bay grabbed the early lead on a Obed Ariri 31-yard field goal with just over nine minutes left in the first quarter to make it 3-0. New Orleans responded with a touchdown strike from John Fourcade to Alton Alexis from 46-yards out to move the Breakers out to a 7-3 lead.

After another field goal from Ariri, Marcus Dupree ran one in from eleven yards out for a 14-9 advantage at the intermission. The lead grew to 17-9 midway through the third quarter after Garcia’s first field goal.

Ben Bennetts' first touchdown with 14:34 remaining in the fourth quarter pulled the Bandits to within one at 17-16.

New Orleans responded immediatley with a 96-yard kickoff return from former LSU star Sammy Martin pushing the Breakers back out to a seven point lead.

Trailing 23-16, the Bandits got the ball back with 14:21 remaining and took nine plays to go 81 yards capping the drive with a Greg Boone run score to tie things up at 23 each.

Tampa then scored the go-ahead touchdown after Joe Dudek capped a 55-yard drive with a one-yard scoring plunge, giving Tampa a 30-23 lead with just over three minutes remaining.

Alton Alexis scored on both of his receptions, after he found his way into the end zone again this time from 20 yards out to tie the game at 30-30 with just seventeen seconds remaining in regulation time.

Obed Ariri finished 3-for-3 on the day with field goals from 31, 39 and 42 yards, all coming in the first half. a long of 48 yards. Teddy Garcia was 2-for-2 for the Breakers, including the game-winner in overtime from 25 yards out.

Game Notes;

This is the first time league history that the league champions have started 0-3 the following season...New Orleans fullback Buford Jordan was knocked out of the game in the second quarter.

(Thanks to BJones for card photos)

more to come.......

'92 Chronology-Week #3 Scoreboard

2012-01-15T10:02:00.005-05:00

Event Date: April 5th, 1992

Event Description: Stallions Win Round One

Source: Mobile Register

Walter Lewis's 196 yards and four touchdowns in his first game against his old team, as Birmingham upended the Memphis Showboats, 28-20, at the Liberty Bowl in Memphis.

"On offense we were able to get some big plays," said Stallions’ coach Walt Michaels. "The first touchdown throw to Bouldin, the reverse play we ran to Gary Lewis when we were backed up. And at the end of the game were able to keep it on the ground and run out the clock."

Lewis added eight rushing yards and a rushing touchdown as well for Birmingham (3-0), but the ground game was paced by Paul Ott Carruth, who finished with 52 yards on 13 carries. Brent Fullwood added 43 yards on sixteen carries for the Stallions, who were celebrating their 10th anniversary.

"I gotta be thankful to the Stallions organization and coach Michaels," said Lewis. "He put me in this position and showed a lot of confidence in our offense. We just have to keep getting these wins. We are in a very competitive division and we have a long way to go."

Memphis (2-1), was led by Reggie Collier's 243 yards on 23-of-37 passing with one touchdown and three picks. The majority of Collier's production went hand-in-hand with Derek Crawford, who hauled in nine passes for 111 yards in the setback.

The Showboats only finished with 59 yards on the ground as a team, and the majority of those yards came from Chuck Webb, who finished the game with 37 yards and on just six carries.

The Stallions' opening drive of the contest resulted in a seven-point lead, as Walter Lewis found tight end Gary Lewis on a four-yard slant pattern to move Birmingham out to a 7-0 lead.

The Showboats responded on their third drive of the game with a field goal by Ian Howfield from 45-yards out bringing Memphis to within four at 7-3.

The Stallions then blew the game open in the second quarter with three straight scores. The first points of the second quarter came off of a ten-yard touchdown run from Walter Lewis making the score 14-3. The Stallions intercepted Reggie Collier after he barely avoided a sack in the end zone and returned the pick to the ten yard line.

Memphis added two more scores via Walter Lewis to Jerry Bouldin touchdown passes from 26-yards and 11-yards respectively. The Stallions then went into half time with a 28-3 lead. Birmingham did not score in the second-half.

"We just did not play well in any phase today," Showboats’ head coach Pepper Rodgers said after the game. "We had some big plays in the second half by Collier and Crawford but that’s all. We were spotty on defense and poor on special teams. We will need to get back to work at practice this week and try and iron out some things."

Game Notes;

Paul Ott Carruth led all rushers with 52 yards on thirteen carries...Birmingham and Pittsburgh are the only undefeated teams through the first three games of the season...Joey Jones and Charlie Brown tallied 66 and 60 yards respectively on three receptions apiece.

Event Description: Blitz Invade Oakland

Source: Chicago Sun

Mike Hohensee battled through a bruised knee to complete 21-of-38 passes for 221 yards and two touchdowns, as the Chicago Blitz came from behind to defeat the Oakland Invaders, 24-17.

Hart Lee Dykes hauled in nine passes for 106 yards and Cap Boso and Scott McGhee each hauled in touchdown receptions for the Blitz (2-1), who have alternated wins and loses to begin the season.

Rookie sensation Mike Saunders added 146 rushing yards on 26 carries and added a touchdown of his own in the victory.

Blaise Bryant rushed for 56 yards on 19 attempts for the Invaders (1-2), who led 17-0 at the break.

Bob Gagliano completed 16-of-24 passes for 202 yards with one interception and two touchdown passes. Wes Howell made seven catches for 148 yards with one touchdown.

It was all Invaders in the first half as Howell hauled in a 33-yard touchdown pass from Gagliano early in the second quarter. Gagliano and tight end Daryl Mason later hooked up in the quarter, this time for 10 yards to give Oakland a 14-0 edge.

Jim Gallery tacked on a 19-yard field goal for the Invaders to send the home team into halftime with a 17-0 edge. Oakland would not score in the second-half.

Chicago got back into the game in the second half.

Mike Hohensee’s first touchdown pass came midway through the third from ten yards bringing the Invaders to within ten at 17-7. And after a field goal from 22-yards out by Brian Franco to start the fourth quarter, the Blitz were within seven at 17-10.

Chicago held the momentum in the fourth quarter and drove deep into Invaders' territory after Hohensee hit Mike Bellamy for a 12-yard completion. Hohensee then connected on a five-yard touchdown pass to Scott McGhee to tie the game at seventeen apiece.

Mike Saunder's three-yard touchdown run at the end of the fourth made it a 24-17 game after a failed drive by Oakland.

Game Notes;

Rookie defensive lineman Frank Kmet was placed on the inactive list before the game...Both teams committed just one turnover...Oakland travels to Houston next week, while Chicago hosts Arizona.

In other Sunday action; Houston blew out Los Angeles 40-7, New Jersey trounced Michigan 41-13 and Pittsburgh remained undefeated after a 30-14 win over Baltimore.

(Thanks to BJones for card photos)

more to come..........

'92 Chronology-Wranglers Wither!

2012-01-14T12:25:00.008-05:00

Event Date: April 4th, 1992

Event Descripton: Bullied in Jacksonville!

Source: Tempe Times

Tom Ramsey completed 17-of-24 passes for 260 yards and two touchdowns as the Jacksonville Bulls topped the Arizona Wranglers, 28-21, in a Week 3 matchup at the Gator Bowl.

Andre Brown caught four balls for 146 yards for the Bulls (2-1), while Perry Kemp added six receptions for 100 yards and one touchdown. Tight end Eric Seivers also registered a touchdown catch.

Steve Slayden subbed for Ramsey after he was knocked out of the game in first quarter, and threw for 127 yards on 4-of-6 completions and a touchdown.

Todd Dillon was somewhat ineffective, throwing for 228 yards on 22-of-40 completions with two scores and a pick for the Wranglers (1-2), who fell into a four-way tie for last place in the West Division.

Gene Taylor had five receptions for 95 yards and one score, Mark Keel had six catches for 64 yards and Joe Wood made both of his field-goal attempts.

After replacing Ramsey on the teams’ first possession Slayden went to work on his first play, throwing his first touchdown pass of the season, an 85-yarder to Andre Brown for an early 7-0 lead.

After holding Arizona scoreless in the first quarter, the Bulls got the ball on the board near the end of the second quarter when Mike Rozier broke over the right side for a seven-yard touchdown run and a 14-0 lead.

Later in the quarter, Dillon hooked up with Rod Barksdale on a three-yard floater down the left side which accounted for the Wranglers' first touchdown and brought the home team within 14-7. Joe Wood hit a 38-yarder with 0:01 left in the half and the Bulls were up 14-10 at the intermission.

Working with a four-point lead after half time, the Bulls kept the pressure on and boosted their lead to 21-10 toward the end of the third quarter on Perry Kemp's 11-yard touchdown reception.

The Wranglers responded with a score on Gene Taylor's 16-yard touchdown reception with 13:18 remaining to make it 21-18.

The Bulls then sealed the victory when Tom Ramsey found Seivers from one-yard out to move Jacksonville out to a 28-18 lead with 7:39 remaining. Joe Wood made a 46-yard field goal with 4:06 to go to close out the scoring.

Game Notes;

Bill Johnson led all rushers with 14 carries for 63 yards...Mike Rozier finished with 60 yards on 13 attempts and had three pass receptions for 38 yards...Saute Sapolu had three sacks for Arizona...In Week 4, Jacksonville hosts Memphis, while Arizona travels to Chicago to face the Blitz.

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Week #2 Power Rankings

2012-01-13T10:13:00.006-05:00

Event Date: April 2nd,1992

Event Description: U.S.F.L. Power Rankings

Source: Pro Football News

Here is the second installment of the power rankings for the U.S. Football League;

(#1) Birmingham Stallions

Record: 2-0

Last week’s ranking: #2

This week: at Memphis Showboats, Sunday 8 p.m.

Walter Lewis returns to his old stomping ground to take on the ‘Boats.

(#2) Baltimore Stars

Record: 1-1

Last week’s ranking: #1

This week: at Pittsburgh Maulers, Sunday 1 p.m.

After a tough home loss last week, the Stars must now re-group as they face a much improved Maulers unit.

(#3) Pittsburgh Maulers

Record: 2-0

Last week’s ranking: #5

This week: at Baltimore Stars, Sunday 1 p.m.

If Major Harris continues to improve and excel, then the Maulers could have a legitimate shot at the playoffs.

(#4) Memphis Showboats

Record: 2-0

Last week’s ranking: #4

This week: vs. Birmingham Stallions, Sunday 8 p.m.

The biggest match of the season looms as former star pivot Walter Lewis returns to the Liberty Bowl.

(#5) New Orleans Breakers

Record: 1-1

Last week’s ranking: #9

This week: at Tampa Bay Bandits, Monday 8 p.m.

The Breakers head to Tampa where the Bandits’ are facing a must-win situation.

(#6) Houston Gamblers

Record: 1-1

Last week’s ranking: #8

This week: at L.A. Express, Sunday 4 p.m.

The team rebounded nicely after an opening week loss, look for head coach Forrest Gregg to open things up offensively against Los Angeles.

(#7) Oakland Invaders

Record: 1-1

Last week’s ranking: #12

This week: vs. Chicago Blitz, Sunday 4 p.m.

Blaise Bryant seems to have found his rhythm and the Oakland defense appears to be much improved.

(#8) Chicago Blitz

Record: 1-1

Last week’s ranking: #6

This week: at Oakland Invaders, Sunday 4 p.m.

The Blitz lost a close one last week versus New Orleans after opening the season with a win.

(#9) New Jersey Generals

Record: 1-1

Last week’s ranking: #10

This week: vs. Michigan, Sunday 1 p.m.

This weeks’ matchup should be another chance for Doug Flutie to shine.

(#10) Arizona Wranglers

Record: 1-1

Last week’s ranking: #7

This week: at Jacksonville Bulls, Saturday 8 p.m.

The Wranglers will be looking to rebound after a tough loss to Houston last week.

(#11) Jacksonville Bulls

Record: 1-1

Last week’s ranking: #3

This week: vs. Arizona Wranglers, Saturday 8 p.m.

Tailback Mike Rozier seems to have plenty left in the gas tank.

(#12) Los Angeles Express

Record: 0-2

Last week’s ranking: #11

This week: vs. Houston Gamblers, Sunday 4 p.m.

This years’ enigma?

(#13) Michigan Panthers

Record: 0-2

Last week’s ranking: #14

This week: at New Jersey Generals, Sunday 1 p.m.

Veteran quarterback Steve Pelluer is playing well, but the supporting cast is still lacking.

(#14) Tampa Bay Bandits

Record: 0-2

Last week’s ranking: #14

This week: vs. New Orleans Breakers, Monday 8 p.m.

A tough start to the season for the defending champions.

more to come............

'92 Chronology-Week #3 Injury Report

2012-01-10T21:45:00.001-05:00

Event Date: April 1st, 1992

Event Description: Week Three Injury Report

Source: League Office

NEW YORK (AP) -- The updated United States Football League latest transactions and injury report, as provided by the league:

Jacksonville-Signed K Dan Miller, placed OG Jay Pennison and K Carlos Huerta on inactive list.

Chicago-Signed NT Ira Albright, placed DL Frank Kmet* on P.U.P. list.

Los Angeles-Placed DL George Achica on P.U.P. list.

Week #3 Injury Report

New Orleans Tampa Bay

Breakers--None

Bandits--None

Birmingham at Memphis

Stallions--Questionable: DT Eddie Blake* (elbow).

Showboats--None

Chicago at Oakland

Blitz--Out: DL Frank Kmet* (hand).

Invaders--Probable: K Jim Gallery (ankle).

Arizona at Jacksonville

Wranglers--Out: DB Tony Zackery (hamstring)

Bulls--Out: K Carlos Huerta (knee), OG Jay Pennison (finger), LB Ned Bolcar (elbow).

Houston Los Angeles

Gamblers--None

Express--Out: DT George Achica (shoulder).

Baltimore at Pittsburgh

Stars--Out: DE Dexter Manley (hamstring).

Maulers--Out: TE Bob Mrosko (shoulder); Questionable: RB D.J. Dozier (wrist).

Michigan at New Jersey

Panthers--None

Generals--None

more to come......

'92 Chronology-Rules of Engagement

2012-01-09T17:43:00.004-05:00

Event Date: March 30th, 1992

Event Description: Star Struck!

Source: New York Daily News

Doug Flutie threw for 276 yards on 14-of-25 passing, and completed a go-ahead touchdown pass to Bobby Olive to start the fourth quarter, lifting the New Jersey Generals to a 30-24 win over the Baltimore Stars.

Flutie had three touchdown passes overall, and Olive caught two of them, finishing with four receptions for 57 yards for the Generals (1-1). Perry Tuttle added three catches for 97 yards with one touchdown.

Chuck Fusina went 16-for-32 passing and accumulated 176 yards and one touchdown, but was also sacked five times as Baltimore (1-1) lost its first game of the season.

Clarence Weathers and Victor Harrison each caught four passes, one for a touchdown, while John Settle ran for 91 yards and one touchdown on 15 attempts.

Flutie got New Jersey on the board in the first quarter with a 52-yard touchdown strike to Olive, though Fusina’s 22-yard touchdown throw with 2:12 left in the stanza knotted things headed into the second.

John Settle opened the second-quarter scoring with little more than seven minutes left by scampering into the end zone from ten yards out, to give Baltimore a 14-7 lead. Two Tony Franklin field goals closed out the first half scoring sending the teams into the break at 14-13.

The Stars led 24-20 heading into the fourth quarter, after a 71-yard interception return by R.L. Harris and a 28-yard field goal by kicker David Trout. New Jersey got their score via a 72-yard bomb from Flutie to Perry Tuttle with 13:53 remaining.

Early in the final period, Flutie led New Jersey on a quick drive punctuated by a quick strike. After a 20-yard pass to Robert Drummond brought the club up to the Baltimore six-yard line, Flutie connected with Olive again for the touchdown and a 27-24 lead.

Tony Franklin converted a late field goal, bringing New Jersey out to a 30-24 lead that would not be relinquished.

Game Notes;

New Jersey committed two turnovers, while Baltimore had none...Flutie was the Generals' leading rusher with 57 yards on nine attempts; the team had only 99 rushing yards total...Ex-Giant Zeke Mowatt finished with two catches for 38 yards for New Jersey.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Maulers Edge Michigan

2012-01-08T19:09:00.006-05:00

Event Date: March 29th, 1992

Event Description: Maulers Start Season Undefeated

Source: Pittsburgh Times Tribune

Novo Bojovic's 51-yard field goal attempt to close out the game was short and wide left, leaving the Pittsburgh Maulers with a thrilling 35-34 win over the Michigan Panthers at Three Rivers Stadium.

Bojovic, finished the night 2-of-3 on field goal attempts with four extra points as the Panthers (0-2) remain winless.

Pittsburgh (2-0) quarterback Major Harris converted 16-of-24 passing for 174 yards and four touchdowns with no interceptions and an additional 39 yards rushing. Rodney Carter collected six receptions for 63 yards and 31 yards rushing in the triumph.

"It was a good win," noted Maulers head coach Sam Rutigliano. "I'm disappointed with the way we played in the third quarter, but we were able to survive it. The offense went back on the field and saved the game for us."

Michigan signal-caller Steve Pelluer finished 20-of-34 for 330 yards passing and four touchdowns of his own, to go along with one pics, in the losing cause. Frank Lockett tallied a game-high eleven receptions for a whopping 230 yards.

Pittsburgh got off to a fast start as they moved out to a 14-0 lead behind a Major Harris 49-yard touchdown pass and a 45-yard interception return by David Arnold.

Later in the first frame Michigan responded with a Steve Pelluer to Frank Lockett bomb from 62-yards out, cutting the Pittsburgh lead to 14-7.

Major Harris was then called upon once more and delivered with a 9-yard pass to Derek Hill pushing the Maulers back oout to a 14-point lead. The two quarterbacks then again traded touchdown passes and Novo Bojovic nailed a 39-yard field goal as the teams headed into half-time with the Maulers up 28-17.

The offensive trend continued as Pelluer hit Carl Aikens Jr. with a quick swing pass out to the left and, with key blocks and some poor tackling, Lewis raced across the field and over the goal line from 39 yards out in the opening minutes of the third quarter to cut the Pittsburgh lead back to four at 28-24.

A second Novo Bojovic field goal at the 4:37 mark, cut the lead to one at 28-27.

Back under center to begin the fourth quarter, Pelluer marched Michigan down the field on the very first possession and led the squad into the end zone when he fired a 44-yard strike to Frank Lockett to pull Pittsburgh out to a 34-28 lead.

Despite the lack of a running game, Major Harris found plenty of time in the pocket for the Maulers final score, hitting Rodney Carter a total of three times down the field before finding Willie Collier all alone on the left side for a five-yard touchdown pass to put the Maulers ahead for good at 35-34.

Game Notes;

D.J. Dozier, who gained 65 yards a week ago for the Maulers, carried the ball seven times for just eight yards...Dozier left the game in the second quarter with an undisclosed injury...Michigan committed seven penalties in the game compared to just three for the Maulers.

In other Week Two action; Memphis mauled Tampa Bay by a score of 41-20, Birmingham man-handled Jacksonville 45-24, while Oakland topped Los Angeles 30-20 and Houston won at home against Arizona 30-24.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Breakers Rebound

2012-01-07T21:40:00.005-05:00

Event Date: March 28th, 1992

Event Description: Breakers Bypass Blitz

Source: Times Picayune

Marcus Dupree for 82 yards on sixteen carries, and ran in the go-ahead touchdown with 18 seconds left, lifting the New Orleans Breakers to a 34-30 win over the Chicago Blitz.

Dupree had three touchdown runs overall, and quarterback John Fourcade finished with 191 yards passing and two touchdowns for the Breakers (1-1). Flip Johnson had six catches for 93 yards and one touchdown.

Mike Hohensee went 16-for-31 passing and accumulated 260 yards with no touchdowns and one interception as Chicago (1-1) lost its first game of the season.

Hart Lee Dykes caught four passes for 120 yards, while Mike Saunders ran for 124 yards and three touchdowns on 22 attempts.
The Blitz led 23-20 heading into the fourth quarter, but New Orleans quarterback John Fourcade then led the Breakers on a quick drive punctuated by a quick strike.

After a 10-yard pass to Buford Jordan brought the club up to the Chicago 18-yard line, Fourcade connected with Greg Scales for an 18-yard touchdown. Teddy Garcia converted the kick, making the score 27-23 in favor of the Breakers.

Chicago got the ball back and Mike Hohensee made passes of 23 yards, to Hart Lee Dykes and 27 yards to Mike Bellamy. A Mike Saunders three-yard run completed the drive, and moved the Blitz to a 34-30 lead with under ten minutes left in the game.

The teams then traded punts back and forth, then the Breakers took the ball with 1:12 minutes on the clock. John Fourcade then led the offense on a 74-yard game winning touchdown drive, culminating with a three-yard touchdown run by Marcus Dupree.

Game Notes;

Both teams committed just one turnover...Sammie Martin finished with 145 yards on returns...Mike Hohensee was sacked twice.

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Week #1 Power Rankings

2012-01-05T19:10:00.003-05:00

Event Date: March 26th,1992

Event Description: U.S.F.L. Power Rankings

Source: Pro Football News

Here is the first installment of the power rankings for the U.S. Football League;

(#1) Baltimore Stars

Record: 1-0 

Last week’s ranking: NA 

This week: vs. New Jersey Generals, Monday 8 p.m.

A dominating win over Michigan pushes the Stars to the top.

(#2) Birmingham Stallions

Record: 1-0

 Last week’s ranking: NA 

This week: vs. Jacksonville Bulls, Sunday 1 p.m.

New starting quarterback Walter Lewis led the Stallions to an impressive win over the defending champs.

(#3) Jacksonville Bulls

Record: 1-0

 Last week’s ranking: NA 

This week: vs. Birmingham Stallions, Sunday 1 p.m.

A nice way to start the season with a win over Marcus Dupree and the New Orleans Breakers.

(#4) Memphis Showboats

Record: 1-0

 Last week’s ranking: NA 

This week: vs. Tampa Bay Bandits, Sunday 1 p.m.

The ‘Boats squeaked by Houston by just a point, but a win is a win after all.

(#5) Pittsburgh Maulers

Record: 1-0

 Last week’s ranking: NA

 This week: vs. Michigan Panthers, Sunday 1 p.m.

An improved rushing attack led by D.J. Dozier and Mike Oliphant combined with a stingier defense should help the Maulers be competitive.

(#6) Chicago Blitz

Record: 1-0

 Last week’s ranking: NA

 This week: at New Orleans Breakers, Saturday 8 p.m.

An upset win on the road over Los Angeles is just how new head coach Ron Meyer wanted to start the season.

(#7) Arizona Wranglers

Record: 1-0

 Last week’s ranking: NA 

This week: at Baltimore Stars, Sunday 8 p.m.

New quarterback Todd Dillon won over some Wrangler fans with his solid play against the Invaders.

(#8) Houston Gamblers

Record: 0-1

 Last week’s ranking: NA

 This week: vs. Arizona Wranglers, Sunday 8 p.m.

A nice start to the season by rookie pivot David Klingler.

(#9) New Orleans Breakers

Record: 0-1

 Last week’s ranking: NA

 This week: vs. Chicago, Saturday 8 p.m.

An opening day and a short week could test the Breakers mettle early.

(#10) New Jersey Generals

Record: 0-1 

Last week’s ranking: NA 

This week: at Baltimore Stars, Monday 8 p.m.

Too much talent to be down for long.

(#11) Los Angeles Express

Record: 0-1

 Last week’s ranking: NA 

This week: at Oakland Invaders, Sunday 4 p.m.

A team that seemed to be stuck in neutral last week.

(#12) Oakland Invaders

Record: 0-1

 Last week’s ranking: NA

This week: vs. L.A. Express, Sunday 4 p.m.

Another tough season opener for a team with high expectations for the season.

(#13) Tampa Bay Bandits

Record: 0-1

 Last week’s ranking: NA

 This week: at Memphis Showboats, Sunday 1 p.m.

An ignominious start for the defending champs.

(#14) Michigan Panthers

 Record: 0-1

 Last week’s ranking: NA 

This week: at Pittsburgh Maulers, Sunday 1 p.m.

 The Panthers were manhandled last week by the Stars.

more to come............

'92 Chronology-Week #2 Injury Report

2012-01-03T21:27:00.002-05:00

Event Date: March 25th, 1992

Event Description: Week Two Injury Report

Source: League Office

NEW YORK (AP) -- The updated United States Football League latest transactions and injury report, as provided by the league:

Houston-Signed K Joaquin Zendejas, placed K Max Zendejas on inactive list.

Chicago-Signed NT Ira Albright, placed DL Frank Kmet* on P.U.P. list.

Los Angeles-Placed DL George Achica on P.U.P. list.

Week #2 Injury Report

Tampa Bay at Memphis

Bandits--None

Showboats--None

Jacksonville at Birmingham

Bulls--None

Stallions--Out: DT Eddie Blake* (elbow), Questionable: S David Evans (knee).

Chicago at New Orleans

Blitz--Out: DL Frank Kmet* (hand).

Breakers--Doubtful: Kari Yli Renko (arm).

Arizona at Houston

Wranglers--Questionable: DL Bob Clasby (arm), DE-LB Rod Saddler (knee).

Gamblers--Out: K Max Zendejas (knee).

Los Angeles at Oakland

Express--Out: DT George Achica (shoulder).

Invaders--None

New Jersey at Baltimore

Generals--None

Stars--Questionable: WR Naz Worthen (ankle).

Michigan at Pittsburgh

Panthers--Doubtful: WR Stacy Mobley (turf toe), G Stefan Humphries (knee).

Maulers--None

more to come......

'92 Chronology-'Boats Sink Gamblers!

2012-01-02T16:30:00.003-05:00

Event Date: March 23rd, 1992

Event Description: Showboats Win Opener

Source: Memphis Star Tribune

Reggie Collier tossed two second-half touchdowns, as Memphis opened with a win on the road after a 27-26 tussle with the Houston Gamblers.

Collier completed 28-of-43 passes for 328 yards with an interception for the Showboats, who came over to Memphis after a trade during the off-season. Greg Anderson,who was also acquired in the same trade, caught eight passes for 116 yards, and Derek Crawford had seven receptions for 79 yards in the win.

Rookie David Klingler completed 18-of-27 passes for 297 yards and three touchdowns for the Gamblers, who traded away veteran quarterback Todd Dillon after drafting Klingler out of the University of Houston.

Richard Johnson caught five balls for 170 yards and two touchdowns, while Reggie Dupard rushed for 48 yards on a dozen carries in the loss.

Leading 13-10 at halftime, Houston expanded their lead after a David Klingler touchdown pass to Richard Johnson from 13-yards out.

Memphis kept the score close, 20-17, after a 24-yard touchdown pass from Collier to Greg Anderson with 5:32 left in the third quarter.

About three minutes later, the Gamblers scored again, on a 55-yard strike from Klingler to Johnson with 2:43 left in the third. A failed extra point made the score 26-17 in favor of Houston.

Memphis got on the scoreboard again with 9:31 remaining in the final quarter when Ian Howfield hit on a 29-yard field goal to move Memphis to within six.

The final score of the game came when Collier hooked up with Joey Hackett on a five-yard touchdown pass with no time left on the clock after a sixteen-play 91 yard drive. Ian Howfield then nailed the extra point for a one point victory.

Game Notes;

Chuck Webb led all rushers with 58 yards on fifteen carries...David Klingler finished with a passer rating of 140.5 in his pro debut.

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Rozier Returns!

2012-01-02T13:53:00.003-05:00

Event Date: March 22nd, 1992

Event Description: Bulls Win Opener!

Source: Jacksonville Sun

Mike Rozier rushed for 93 yards on 15 carries in his U.S. Football League return, as his Jacksonville Bulls defeated New Orleans, 34-30, in the first regular season game for both teams.

Rozier was held to just eighteen yards rushing in the first half, but rebounded to help ensure the victory.

"You're always getting tired in your first game of the year," Rozier said. "I know you guys in the media are here see me as Mike Rozier, star player from the NFL, but it's all just football to me and the other players on the field."

A former Heisman Trophy winner, Rozier posted 1,000 or more rushing yards in his first season in Jacksonville back in 1985 and then again with the Houston Oilers in 1988.

"I'm more serious now than I was compared to earlier in my career," Rozier said. "I'm more mature now and I'm focusing on doing my job and helping my team mates this time around."

John Fourcade completed 13-of-26 passes for 123 yards for New Orleans, while Marcus Dupree rushed 18 times for 68 yards with one score. Lonzell Hill also caught six passes for 72 yards and Flip Johnson added two touchdowns of his own.

The game did not get off to a good start for the Breakers, who briefly lost veteran starting quarterback John Fourcade to a bruised finger on his throwing hand during the first series. His replacement, Terrence Jones, filled in for one series, before Fourcade returned.

Jacksonville opened the scoring with a pair of Carlos Huerta field goals holding a 6-0 lead less than six minutes in the first quarter.

New Orleans then went in front, 10-6, following a 43-yard touchdown run by Flip Johnson late in the first quarter, followed by a 19-yard Teddy Garcia field goal single with 14:09 left in the first half.

Jacksonville came back in the second quarter with a three-yard touchdown run by Melvin Bratton to claim a 13-10 advantage.

New Orleans, though, fired right back. Fourcade and Flip Johnson hooked up for a three- yard touchdown reception and with 4:07 remaining in the opening half. A Jacksonville fumble recovery by Isaiah West closed out the scoring in the first half and moved Jacksonville out to a 20-17 lead the the break.

Tom Ramsey opened the second-half scoring with a seven-yard touchdown pass to Marc Lewis, moving Jacksonville out to a ten point lead at 27-17.

Marcus Dupree drew New Orleans to within three with a six-yard touchdown run to close out the third quarter.

The Breakers made one last push, with Garcia nailing two late field goals to push New Orleans out to a 30-27 lead with under two minutes to play.

The Bulls then launched a comeback of their own when Andre Brown broke free for a 75-yard touchdown reception it seal the win for Jacksonville. "Ramsey put it right in there and I decided to finish it," Brown said.

"In the fourth quarter, we had the time to catch up and take the lead, but we left too much time on the clock and that allowed them to come back and win." Breakers head coach Jim Fassel said.

Game Notes;

Saturday's game between Birmingham and Tampa Bay kicked off the USFL's 10th season...Melvin Bratton led Jacksonville with 115 receiving yards on seven catches...Marcus Dupree had 68 rushing yards to pace the Breakers...Perry Kemp finished with five catches for 53 yards.

In other Week #1 weekend action; Birmingham downed Tampa Bay 34-17 on Saturday night, Pittsburgh upset New Jersey 30-17, Chicago upended Los Angeles 22-14, Arizona won at home against Oakland by a score of 20-13 and Baltimore notched a 30-7 win over Michigan on Sunday night.

more to come............

'92 Chronology-Team Previews-Birmingham

2011-11-26T17:10:00.005-05:00

Event Date: March 18th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Birmingham Stallions

 Last season: 7-7 Fourth place in the Southern Division

Head coach: Walt Michaels-First season in Birmingham

 Notable Arrivals: RB Siran Stacy* (Alabama), QB Walter Lewis (Memphis ’91), QB Mike Kelley (Arizona ’91), TE Thornton Chandler (Houston ’91), OL Bob Meeks* (Auburn), DT Eddie Blake* (Auburn), WR Charlie Brown (Jacksonville ’91), KR Scott Norwood (Buffalo ’91), LB Van Waiters (Browns ’91), LB Angelo Snipes (Oakland ’91).

 Departures: QB Reggie Collier (Memphis), QB Ken Hobart (Retired), LB Pete Najarian (Chicago), DT Buddy Moor (Retired), DL Scott Bergold (Free Agent), RB-KR Tony Baker (Free Agent).

 Newcomer to watch: All eyes will be on Alabama alum Walter Lewis as he attempts to rebuild his pro career in Birmingham.

 Veteran to watch: Incumbent tailback Brent Fullwood will be pushed by newcomers Ricky Blake and Siran Stacy who both looked good in training camp.

 Strengths: The Stallions have one of the leagues’ best linebacker corps.

 Weaknesses: The Birmingham defensive line became the teams’ achilles heel toward the end of last season.

 Reason for optimism: Former NFLer Terry Greer has been brought in to try and spark the return game.

 Cause for concern: It may take some time for new head coach Walt Michaels to mesh with star quarterback Walter Lewis.

 Bottom line: The fans in Birmingham are expecting a playoff berth this season.

more to come.............

'92 Chronology-Team Previews-New Orleans

2011-11-26T11:48:00.006-05:00

Event Date: March 18th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: New Orleans Breakers

 Last season: 5-9 Fifth place in the Southern Division

Head coach: Jim Fassel-First season in New Orleans

 Notable Arrivals: RB Marcus Dupree (LA Rams ’91), P Rick Partridge (Invaders ’91), QB Tim Riordan (Stars ’91), RB Gill Fenerty (Saints ’91), RB-WR Sammy Martin (Indianapolis ’91), TE Greg Scales (Saints ’91), TE Mitch Andrews (Broncos ’88), LB Doug Landry (BC Lions ’90).

 Departures: QB Bobby Hebert (New Orleans Saints), RB John Settle (Baltimore), RB Garry James (Michigan), RB Hokie Gajan (Retired), WR Nolan Fransz (Retired), TE Dan Ross (Retired), KR Mack Boatner (Retired).

 Newcomer to watch: Hybrid return man Sammy Martin will add some fireworks to the special teams.

 Veteran to watch: Tailback Gill Fenerty returns to the team after a two year stint with the Saints.

 Strengths: The talent at running back is second to none.

 Weaknesses: The defensive line failed to deliver a consistent pass rush for much of last season.

 Reason for optimism: Quarterback John Fourcade played well after the team benched Bobby Hebert at the end of last season.

 Cause for concern: The offensive line is gritty but somewhat over-aged.

 Bottom line: Fan expectations will be high especially after the addition of star running back Marcus Dupree.

more to come.......

'92 Chronology-Team Previews-Memphis

2011-11-26T11:35:00.004-05:00

Event Date: March 17th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Memphis Showboats

 Last season: 9-5 Second place in the Southern Division

Head coach: Pepper Rodgers-Ninth season in Memphis

 Notable Arrivals: QB Reggie Collier (Birmingham ’91), QB Jeff Francis (Browns camp ’90), QB Andy Kelly* (Tennessee), WR Gary Anderson (Birmingham ’91), DL Chris Burns* (Tennessee), K Ian Howfield (Oilers ’91), LB Junior Jackson (Birmingham ’91).

 Departures: QB Walter Lewis (Birmingham), QB Whit Taylor (Free Agent), QB Babe Laufenberg (WLAF), RB Anthony Parker (Free Agent), WR Preston Brown (Free Agent), DL Calvin Clark (Free Agent), OG Pat Saindon (Retired), LB Ed Smith (Retired).

 Newcomer to watch: Rookie quarterback Andy Kelly now becomes the face of the franchise.

 Veteran to watch: Quarterback Reggie Collier should start the season, but it may not take long for Pepper Rodgers to make the switch to Kelly.

 Strengths: Mossy Cade leads a solid secondary and is a boost to the special teams.

 Weaknesses: The ‘Boats defensive line had a difficult time replacing defensive tackle Ron Simmons who was traded prior to last season.

 Reason for optimism: A steady ground attack could help Reggie Collier return to form.

 Cause for concern: The N.F.L. may come calling as Pepper Rodgers enters the final years of his contract.

 Bottom line: The upcoming season could be a roller coaster ride as the ‘Boats go forward with a rookie quarterback and an aging defense.

more to come..........

'92 Chronology-Team Previews-Tampa Bay

2011-11-25T17:50:00.005-05:00

Event Date: March 17th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Tampa Bay Bandits

 Last season: 10-4 First place in the Southern Division

Head coach: Jim Stanley-Third season in Tampa Bay

 Arrivals: QB Chip Ferguson (Arena League ’91), RB Lars Tate (Bears ’91), RB Lorenzo Hampton (Dolphins ’89), FB Dexter McNabb* (FSU), TE K.D. Dunn (Jets ’89), OL John Bruhin (Buccaneers ’91), OL John Zimmerman (Cowboys ’90), WR-KR Rod Harris (Eagles’91), LB Bernard Clark (Seahawks ’91).

 Departures: QB Joe Ferguson (Free Agent), WR-KR Larry Brodsky (Jacksonville), DL Walter Carter (Free Agent), DB Scott Byers (Free Agent).

 Newcomer to watch: Running back Lars Tate arrives via the N.F.L. and will be pushing for the starting tailbacks’ job.

 Veteran to watch: Wideout Willie Gillespie seems to have lost a step and could be supplanted by N.F.L. import Danny Peebles.

 Strengths: Joe Dudek, Lars Tate and Lorenzo Hampton give the Bandits the best depth at running back in the entire league.

 Weaknesses: Keeping an aging defensive line healthy and productive will be of paramount concern for defensive coordinator Jim Bates.

 Reason for optimism: The addition of youth along the offensive line will ease the burden for everyone.

 Cause for concern: The defensive front is one of the oldest in the league.

 Bottom line: After last seasons’ championship run the fans in Tampa are hungry for another trip to the big game.

more to come.............

'92 Chronology-Team Previews-Jacksonville

2011-11-25T10:01:00.005-05:00

Event Date: March 17th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Jacksonville Bulls

 Last season: 8-6 Third place in the Southern Division

Head coach: John Hadl-Second season in Jacksonville

 Notable Arrivals: RB Mike Rozier (Atlanta ’91), QB Tom Ramsey (Express ’91), RB Otis Brown (Wranglers ’91), QB Rick Worman (Saskatchewan ’91), QB Steve Slayden (Bulls ’90), TE Eric Sievers (New England ’90), TE Gary Wilkins (Atlanta ’90), WR-KR Larry Brodsky (Bandits ’91), K Carlos Huerta* (Miami U.), P Keith English (LA Rams ’90), DB Dwight Drane (Buffalo ’91).

 Departures: QB Craig Erickson* (NFL) QB Ed Luther (Los Angeles), QB Anthony Dilweg (WLAF), P Bob Boris (Free Agent), RB Otis Brown (Wranglers), RB Ron Scott (Free Agent), K Jeff Brockhaus (Free Agent), WR Lindsey Scott (Free Agent), TE Paul Bergmann (Retired), OL Roy Simmons (Retired), DB Don Bessilieu (Retired), DB Norris Thomas (Retired).

 Newcomer to watch: All eyes will be on quarterback Tom Ramsey as he attempts to replace Craig Erickson who headed to the National Football League during the off-season.

 Veteran to watch: Former Buffalo Bills defensive back Dwight Drane should be a major contributor on defense, especially against the run.

 Strengths: The Bulls have one of the deepest and most talented offensive lines in the league.

 Weaknesses: The Bulls front four is getting somewhat long in the tooth.

 Reason for optimism: If Ramsey gets off to a shaky start the Bulls have some depth at quarterback with Rick Worman and Jeff Blake waiting in the wings.

 Cause for concern: The Bulls are hopeful that veteran running back Mike Rozier has something left in the tank.

 Bottom line: Jacksonville should be competitive, but they will need the running backs to be productive to ease the pressure on Ramsey and the wide outs.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Team Previews-Arizona

2011-11-24T21:18:00.006-05:00

Event Date: March 16th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Arizona Wranglers

 Last season: 9-5 Third place in the Western Division

Head coach: Frank Kush-Eighth season in Arizona

 Notable Arrivals: RB Kevin Nelson (Express ’91),RB Otis Brown (Jacksonville), QB Todd Dillon (Gamblers ’91), TE Richard Ashe (L.A. Rams ’90), OG Warren Wheat* (BYU), G-T-DT Reggie Singletary (Philadelphia ’90), DB Jay Taylor (Phoenix ’91), K Joe Wood (Air Force), QB-RB-WR-KR Darian Hagan* (Colorado).

 Departures: QB Rick Johnson (Blitz), QB Mike Kelley (Stallions), RB Daryl Clack (WLAF) WR Ray Alexander (CFL), LB Tom Woodland (Retired), K Joaquin Zendejas (Free Agent), DB Mike Adams (Free Agent), OL George Yarno (Retired), OL John Yarno (Retired).

 Newcomer to watch: Veteran quarterback Todd Dillon was brought in to challenge incumbent starter Alan Risher.

 Veteran to watch: Ex-Wrangler Otis Brown returns after a brief stint with Jacksonville.

 Strengths: Two veteran quarterbacks and a promising third stringer in Paul Justin.

 Weaknesses: The Wranglers are over-aged at running back.

 Reason for optimism: The infusion of new talent and youth should help the Wranglers stay in contention for a division title.

 Cause for concern: A quarterback controversy could divide the locker room.

 Bottom line: One of the leagues’ best run teams both on and off of the field of play.

more to come...........

'92 Chronology-Team Previews-Houston

2011-11-24T12:08:00.005-05:00

Event Date: March 16th, 1992

Events Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Houston Gamblers

 Last season: 10-4 second place in the Western Division

Head coach: Forrest Gregg-Fourth season in Houston.

 Notable Arrivals: OG Mark Adickes (Redskins ’91), RB Keith Woodside (Green Bay ’91), QB David Klingler*(Houston), QB Jason Garrett (WLAF ’91), TE Ed Thomas (Tampa Bay ’91), OT Chuck Johnson* (Texas), DL Robin Jones* (Baylor), LB Boone Powell* (Texas), WR-KR Marcus Grant* (Houston), KR James Dixon (Cowboys ’91), DB David Martin (Wranglers ’91).

 Departures: QB Todd Dillon (Arizona), QB Steve Pelluer (Michigan), W Greg Moser (Free Agent), LB Sean Scott (Free Agent), DL Kevin Harris (Free Agent), DL Pete Catan (Chicago).

 Newcomers to watch: Rookie quarterback David Klingler arrives after having a solid collegiate career at the University of Houston.

 Veteran to watch: Fullback Keith Woodside brings versatility and experience after playing four years with the Green Bay Packers.

 Strengths: The Gamblers’ have the best front office in the league.

 Weaknesses: Journeyman Frank Seurer is the only veteran quarterback on the roster.

 Reason for optimism: This team has not undergone a lot of turnover and should again contend for a division title.

 Cause for concern: If David Klingler falters then many will question the trading away of fan favorite Todd Dillon.

 Bottom line: This team should again find itself amongst the elite teams in the league.

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Team Previews-Los Angeles

2011-11-23T11:29:00.002-05:00

Event Date: March 15th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Los Angeles Express

 Last season: 11-3 First place in the West Division

Head coach: Dick Coury-Fifth season in Los Angeles

 Notable Arrivals: QB Damon Allen (Ottawa ’91), QB Ed Luther (Jacksonville ’91), RB Reuben Mayes (Saints ’90), RB Mike Mayweather (Army ’89), WR Mario Bailey* (Washington U.), TE Ray Rowe* (San Diego St.), TE Craig McEwen (Chargers ’91), NT Fred DeRiggi (New Jersey ’91), LB George Bethune (L.A. Rams ’90), DB Calvin Holmes* (USC).

 Departures: QB Rick Neuheisel (Retired), QB Tom Ramsey (Jacksonville), RB Aaron Emanuel (WLAF), RB Greg Bell (Retired), RB Kevin Nelson (Arizona), WR James Murphy (Retired), LB Frank Manumaleuga (Retired), TE Paul Green (WLAF), OL Wayne Jones (Retired), OL Greg Loberg (Free Agent), DL Ben Rudolph (Retired), LB Andy Melontree (free Agent), DB Mike Fox (Free Agent).

 Newcomer to watch: Damon Allen returns to California after tours of duty in Edmonton and Ottawa.

 Veteran to watch: If Rueben Mayes still has the desire to excel then the Express will have more offensive firepower than much of the league.

 Strengths: Offensive firepower at all of the important skill positions.

 Weaknesses: Due to retirements the Express lost some veteran leadership especially on the defensive side of things.

 Reason for optimism: Damon Allen and Reuben Mayes both represent significant upgrades at their respective positions when compared to last season.

 Cause for concern: Fan support continues to be fickle in sunny Los Angeles.

 Bottom line: Another deep playoff run is not out of the question.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Team Previews-Oakland

2011-11-22T18:11:00.004-05:00

Event Date: March 15th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Oakland Invaders

 Last season: 6-8 Fourth place in the Western Division

Head coach: Fred Bilentikoff-First season in Oakland

 Notable Arrivals: RB Albert Bentley (Tampa Bay ’91), OG James Fitzpatrick (L.A. Raiders ’91), P Barry Helton (L.A. Rams ’91), QB Troy Taylor (Jets ’91), QB Mike Pawlawski* (California), LB David Benenfield (Cal State), RB-KR Mike Pringle (WLAF ’91), RB-KR Terrence Flagler (Cardinals ’91).

 Departures: P Rick Partridge (Free Agent), QB David Archer (WLAF), K David Trout (Baltimore), QB Fred Besana (Arizona), QB Brad Gossen (Free Agent), RB Tony Cherry (Free Agent), WR Scott McGhee (Chicago), DB Zeph Lee (Free Agent), KR Jon Volpe (CFL), KR Louis Jackson (Free Agent) LB Angelo Snipes (Birmingham).

 Newcomer to watch: Former L.A. Raiders hybrid linebacker Scott Davis arrives with a nasty attitude and a hefty contract.

 Veteran to watch: Journeyman Bob Gagliano returns after a three-year stint in the National Football League.

 Strengths: The Oakland offensive line is led by a solid group of veterans including recently signed N.F.L. veteran James Fitzpatrick.

 Weaknesses: The backup quarterbacks are inexperienced and raw.

 Reason for optimism: The combination of Blaise Bryant and Bob Gagliano should bring some explosiveness to the offense.

 Cause for concern: A lackluster secondary features two rookies and a group of less than spectacular veterans.

 Bottom line: The Invaders should show improvement on the offensive side of things, but the defense remains a question mark.

more to come......

'92 Chronology-Team Previews-Chicago

2011-11-21T21:46:00.006-05:00

Event Date: March 15th, 1992

Events Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Chicago Blitz

 Last season: 1-13 in Oklahoma

Head coach: Ron Meyer-First season in Chicago

 Notable Arrivals: QB Mike Hohensee (Washington ’89), QB Rick Johnson (Arizona ’91), QB Matt Rodgers* (Iowa), RB Tony Brooks* (Notre Dame), RB Tony Stewart* (Iowa), RB Mike Saunders* (Iowa), FB Icky Woods (Bengals ’91), TE Cap Boso (Bears ’91), DE Mark Butkus (Michigan ’91), DL Frank Kmet* (Purdue), LB Mike Stonebreaker (Bears ’91), KR Mike Bellamy (Eagles ’90).

 Newcomer to watch: Running back Tony Brooks could be the starting tailback on opening day.

 Veteran to watch: Can Ickey Woods return from nagging knee injuries?

 Strengths: The front office has purged the high priced free agents from a year ago in favor of rookies and street free agents.

 Weaknesses: The receiving corps appears to be some what bland and lacks a breakaway threat.

 Reason for optimism: The team has brought in some regional favorites which should help at the box office.

 Cause for concern: It is always difficult for a new team to develop a decent offensive line.

 Bottom line: Head coach Ron Meyer is known for getting the most out of his players, but the Western division is loaded with talented teams so expectations should be somewhat tempered.

more to come......

'92 Chronology-Team Previews-Pittsburgh

2011-11-20T09:54:00.005-05:00

Event Date: March 14th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Pittsburgh Maulers

 Last season: 4-10 Third place in the Eastern Division

Head coach: Sam Rutigliano-Second season

 Notable Arrivals: WR Willie Collier (Michigan '91), QB Rick Strom (Steelers ’91), P Lewis Colbert (Chargers ’89), RB D.J. Dozier (Lions ’91), RB Mike Oliphant (Browns ’91), FB Tim Manoa TE Bob Mrosko (Colts ’91), OL Dean Caliguire (Steeler-49ers ’91), G Paul Siever (PSU ’91), DL Bob Buczkowski (Browns ’90), LB Mark D’Onofrio (PSU ’91), KR Undra Johnson (Falcons ’90).

 Departures: QB Glenn Carano (Retired), P Larry Swider (Retires), DL Ira Albright (Free Agent), LB Mel Land (Retires), DB Larry Friday (Free Agent), RB Richard Bell (Free Agent), KR Charles Gladman (AFL), QB Tim Riordan (New Orleans), G Scott LaFond (traded to New Jersey), LB AJ Jenkins (Free Agent), OG Ben Jefferson (Free Agent), OL Chuck Lanza (CFL).

 Newcomer to watch: KR Mike Oliphant arrives via the Cleveland Browns and could put a spark in the return game.

 Veteran to watch: Running back D.J. Dozier will be called upon to anchor the running game despite the fact that he was a role player and third down specialist in the National Football League with the Vikings and Lions.

 Strengths: All three quarterbacks will be in the mix to start the season and will probably all see playing time this season.

 Weaknesses: The linebacking corps is still young and inexperienced.

 Reason for optimism: The addition of D.J. Dozier and Mike Oliphant should provide a spark for the running game.

 Cause for concern: The Pittsburgh defense still lacks star power and will have to rely on solid team play to get results.

 Bottom line: The Maulers avoided the basement last season and will be gunning for a playoff berth this season.

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Team Previews: Michigan

2011-11-19T15:46:00.006-05:00

Event Date: March 14th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Michigan Panthers

 Last season: 3-11 Fourth place in the Eastern Division

Head coach: Monte Clark-Third season in Michigan

 Arrivals: LB Ray Bentley (Bills ’91), P Rick Donnelly (Seahawks ’91),QB Steve Pelluer (trade with Gamblers), QB Chuck Long (Lions ’91), RB Garry James (New Orleans ’91), WR Robert Clark (Lions ’91), OL Eric Andolsek (Lions ’91), DE Ross Browner (Gamblers '89), DL Steve Kaufusi (Eagles ’90).

 Departures: DL Mark Butkus (traded to Blitz), DE Chuck Klingbeil (NFL), FB Jacques Robinson (Free Agent), QB Erik Kramer (NFL), WR Willie Collier (traded to Pittsburgh), P Stan Talley (Free Agent), TE Mike Cobb (Retired), QB Steve Taylor (CFL), LB Keith Karpinski (traded to Pittsburgh), LB Greg Storr (Free Agent), KR Anthony Steels (Free Agent).

 Newcomer to watch: Quarterback Steve Pelluer comes over from Houston seeking playing time and a chance to be a starter.

 Veteran to watch: Wide out Robert Clark arrives via the Detroit Lions and should quickly become a favorite target for the Panther pivots.

 Strengths: A fairly solid group of receivers should help to open up the offense.

 Weaknesses: The loss of Chuck Klingbeil to the N.F.L. could make it hard for the Panthers to develop a consistent pass rush up the middle.

 Reason for optimism: With head coach Monte Clark entering his third season, it looks as though they may be ready to show some improvement and possible even contend for a wild card berth.

 Cause for concern: Quarterback Steve Pelluer was frequently injured throughout his N.F.L. career and is backed up by Chuck Long who failed to prosper while with the Lions.

 Bottom line: Alot will depend on the play of Steve Pelluer and Ray Bentley and the other veteran additions if the team is to show any improvement.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Team Previews: Baltimore

2011-11-18T18:21:00.007-05:00

Event Date: March 13th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: Baltimore Stars

 Last season: 7-7 Second place in the Castern Division

Head coach: Lindy Infante- First season in Baltimore

 Arrivals: DE Dexter Manley (Bucs ’91), RB John Settle (New Orleans ’91), QB Randy Wright (Packers ’88), QB Blair Kiel (Packers ’91), QB Joe Pizzo (WLAF ’91), K David Trout (Oakland ’91), WR Clarence Weathers (Packers’91), WR Clarkston Hines (WLAF ’91), WR-KR Kenny Jackson (Eagles ’91), P Paul McJulien (Packers ’91), TE Luke Fisher* (E.Carolina).

 Departures: Head Coach Ted Marchibroda (NFL), WR Scott Fitzkee (Retired), G Brad Oates (Retired), RB Allen Harvin (Free Agent), OL Ron Coder (Retired), P Bob Grupp (Free Agent), DL Grover Covington (Retired), LB John Gillen (Free Agent), K Brian Franco (Free Agent).

 Newcomer to watch: WR Clarence Weathers followed his former coach to the Baltimore and should provide an instant deep threat for quarterback Chuck Fusina.

 Veteran to watch: John Settle joins to the team via New Orleans and should challenge for the starting tailback slot.
 Strengths: The Stars’ have a solid group of veterans on the defensive front.

 Weaknesses: The defense is over-aged and could be in need of an overhaul.

 Reason for optimism: The addition of John Settle, combined with an infusion of talent coming over from the NFL, could help lead the team back to a division crown.

 Cause for concern: Manley has been banned from playing in the National Football League and could be out of chances if he fails to stay clean.

 Bottom line: The Stars always seem to find a way to contend and this season should be no different.

more to come..........

'92 Chronology-Team Previews: New Jersey

2011-11-17T20:31:00.006-05:00

Event Date: March 13th, 1992

Event Description: Team Previews Begin

Source: USA Today

Todays Team: New Jersey Generals

 Last season: 8-6 (1st place in the Eastern Division)

Head coach: Raymond Berry-Second season in New Jersey.

 Arrivals: QB Matt Cavanaugh (Giants ’91), QB Jeff Graham (WLAF ’91), G Scott LaFond (Pittsburgh ’91), DE-LB Eric Kumerow (Dolphins ’91), FB Nuu Faaola (Jets ’89), TE Zeke Mowatt (Patriots ’91), OT Joe Costello (L.A. Raiders ’89), RB Robert Drummond (Eagles '91), RB Mike Mayweather (Army, traded to Los Angeles), WR John Garrett (WLAF ’91).

 Departures: RB Roger Vick (WLAF), RB Bernie Parmalee (NFL), QB Kirk Baumgartner (Free Agent), OL Wayne Harris (Free Agent), OL John Jewell (Free Agent),DL Jim Byrne (Retirement), LB Mike Clemons (Free Agent), RB Derrick Harmon (Retirement), FB George Cooper (AFL), WR Scott Schwedes (Free Agent), TE Keith Neubert (Free agent).

 Newcomer to watch: Tight end Zeke Mowatt brings experience as well as some baggage from his N.F.L. days.

 Veteran to watch: Pass rusher Eric Kumerow will be called upon to deliver some much needed pass rush from the edge.

 Strengths: The Generals are set at quarterback with starter Doug Flutie and backup Don McPherson and recently acquired Jeff Graham.

 Weaknesses: The Generals’ secondary was burned at the end of last season and in the playoffs.

 Reason for optimism: Head coach Raymond Berry was able to turn a sad sack team and mold them into a division champ after just one season at the helm.

 Cause for concern: If the Generals do not develop a consistent running attack this season, then they will again find themselves leaning on Doug Flutie to carry the offense.

 Bottom line: Owner Stephen Ross went out and spent some money during free agency, so he will be looking for even higher returns this season.

more to come...........

'92 Chronology-Able Addition

2011-11-13T17:52:00.004-05:00

Event Date: March 12th, 1992

Event Description: Express Add Allen

Source: Ottawa Free Press

C.F.L. free agent quarterback Damon Allen signed a one-year contract with an option year and will join the Los Angeles Express on Friday where he will inherit the starting pivots job.

"I'm going into my ninth season of professional football, and for the first time I feel like I'm going to be the guy and have an opportunity to take a team as far as we can go," said Allen, who’ is joining his fourth pro team in a career that also included stops in Oakland, Edmonton and Ottawa.

He replaces Rick Neuheisel, who retired to pursue a career in coaching.

Although neither side would discuss contract details, Alen's signing bonus is believed to be about $1 million.

Allen is reunited with Raymond Chester, who as G.M. of the Oakland Invaders brought the quarterback into the U.S.F.L. in 1987. Chester was hired as a staff consultant after he was dismissed by the Invaders back in August.

Allen becomes the starter for a team that also has veteran Ed Luther and prospect Garrett Gabriel. "Damon's main job will be to play quarterback for this team and win," coach Dick Coury said.

Allen was 18-36 in three seasons with the Ottawa Rough Riders and was released last week after the Riders decided to go with veteran Tom Burgess.

"I was frustrated for a few days but then I realized that it just opened up some new opportunities for me," Allen said. "It may be the best thing that ever happened to me, to move on. Hopefully it will be the best thing for both the L.A. Express organization and for me as a pro quarterback. "

In other USFL news:

The New Jersey Generals and Los Angeles Express completed a four-player trade Thursday that brings nose tackle Fred DeRiggi to Los Angeles. DeRiggi will join the battle to replace Mike Charles, who retired last week.

Also coming to Los Angeles is former Army running back Mike Mayweather in return for veteran center Greg Loberg and backup quarterback Jeff Graham.

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Sunset Ride

2011-11-12T17:56:00.003-05:00

Event Date: March 11th, 1992

Event Description: Neuheisel Retires

Source: L.A. Daily News

L.A. Express quarterback Rick Neuheisel has decided to retire from football after a nine-year pro career, according to a report out of Los Angeles on Tuesday.

The former college and pro pivot, taken in the 1984 Territorial Draft by the San Antonio Gunslingers, will move into the coaching ranks with his alma mater UCLA.

Neuheisel spent seven productive seasons in the United States Football League, passing for 19,062 yards and 133 touchdowns while earning team MVP honors for the 1984 and 1988 seasons.

Neuheisel played for the Gunslingers, Arizona Wranglers and most recently with Los Angeles. He also had brief stints in the National Football League with San Diego and Tampa Bay.

"I am grateful to all my former team mates, coaches and my family," Neuheisel told the L.A. Times. "I have a special place in my heart for the U.S.F.L. and will always be thankful to them for giving me an opportunity."

Neuheisel, who took some big hits while playing behind a weak offensive line in San Antonio, played a full 14-game schedule only twice during his pro career.

There was talk earlier this week that the Express would sign veteran C.F.L. quarterback Damon Allen as a replacement for Neuheisel, but the team signed W.L.A.F. refugee Jeff Graham instead. (Photo courtesy: gumball king)

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Pre-Season Preview

2011-11-09T18:10:00.008-05:00

Event Date: March 10th, 1992

Event Description: U.S.F.L. Pre-Season Begins

Source: Pro Football Weekly

Entering his nineth U.S.F.L. season, there are plenty of things Chuck Pitcock still loves about pro football.

Training camp isn't one of them.

"It's a necessary evil," the Tampa Bay Bandits veteran offensive lineman commented Friday. "If I could just take along nap and wake up when camp is over, I think I'd like that."

Pitcock, 34, and all other U.S.F.L. veterans officially reported to their respective teams Saturday. Training camp — and the dreaded two-a-day workouts — will start today.

"It's certainly not the most fun time of year, especially for the line," the five-time USFL all-star said. "Quarterbacks have those red jerseys on so they can't get touched but we go at it like it was a game pretty much every day so it's very demanding both physically and mentally. The games are what you look forward to during the season so training camp is something you just have to get through to get to that point."

One of the reasons players hate camp is the repetition and monotony.

Before long, the days all meld into one, starting with an early breakfast, then off to prepare for the morning practice. Then there's lunch, maybe a position meeting before getting taped again for an afternoon workout.

After dinner there are more meetings before lights out.

Plain and simple, it's a grind, especially for a veteran who must again prove he can still play a young man's game.

"That's part of pro football," he said. "When you sign up you realize you have to do it and you still have to prove you can still play and training camp is part of that."

That's not to say it's all work and no play.

Players are always looking for different ways to break the routine and often do so by having rookies sing their school fight song for their meal or plotting practical jokes on unsuspecting teammates.

"To get through the days you need to have a little bit of fun," Pitcock said with a chuckle.

"I still have it in me to still go out and compete. I can't imagine anything I will do in the future that will compare to playing football and getting that adrenaline rush."

Fortunately, the Bandits return a veteran-laden squad in 1992, but will have to replace offensive lineman Larry Pfohl (retirement) and defensive back Scott Byers (retirement).

Tampa Bay landed former N.F.L. running backs Lorenzo Hampton (Miami) and Lars Tate (Chicago) in free agency.

Here's a look at the other U.S.F.L. teams heading into training camp.

East Division

New Jersey Generals

Last year: 8-6

Pre-season scrimmage schedule: March 12 vs. Pittsburgh, March 15 vs. Michigan

Offensive lineman Wayne Harris, quarterback Kirk Baumgartner and running backs Keith Jones, and Bernie Parmalee are gone, while safety John Preston retired to become a coach with the team.

Fullback George Cooper and rush end Freddie Gilbert leave minor holes to fill.

The team has added former New York Giants tight end Zeke Mowatt, backup quarterback Matt Cavanaugh and hard-running tailback Robert Drummond via the Philadelphia Eagles.

Baltimore Stars

Last year: 7-7

Pre-season scrimmage schedule: March 12 vs. Michigan, March 15 vs. Pittsburgh

Questions linger about the Stars after the team finished at 7-7 last season and have a new head coach in Lindy Infante.

Former head coach Ted Marchibroda left to lead the Indianapolis Colts while kicker Brian Franco has been replaced by David Trout, and running back Allen Harvin is also gone.

Meanwhile receiver Scott Fitzkee, offensive lineman Brad Oates and Ron Coder, and linebacker Grover Covington have all retired.

Veteran quarterback Chuck Fusina still runs a potent offense that features Kelvin Bryant and newly acquired John Settle.

Veteran receivers Victor Harrison and tight end Bob Niziolek are both coming off season-ending injuries. Newcomers include NFL veteran Clarence Weathers and former Duke star Clarkston Hines.

Michigan Panthers

Last year: 3-11

Pre-season scrimmage schedule: March 12 vs. Baltimore, March 15 vs. New Jersey

Third year head coach Monte Clark will have a new quarterback at the helm in Steve Pelluer as well as a new leader on the defensive side of the ball in linebacker Ray Bentley.

But the biggest off-season news was releasing quarterback Steve Taylor who subsequently jumped to the Canadian Football League.

Pittsburgh Maulers

Last year: 4-10

Pre-season scrimmage schedule: March 12 vs. New Jersey, March 15 vs. Baltimore

Pittsburgh was third in the East Division at 4-10, but the team showed improvement during the second half of last season.

Third year pivot Major Harris returns as the starter at quarterback with running back D.J. Dozier (Lions ’91), Rodney Carter (180 attempts, 686 yards, 1 TD) and Derek Hill being his primary weapons. Also looking for playing time will be former Cleveland Brown Mike Oliphant.

Defensively, veterans Lance Shields, Alvin Walton and Jo Jo Heath form one of the USFL's better secondary corps.

Punter Larry Swider and veteran backup Glenn Carano both retired during the off-season.

Southern Division

Birmingham Stallions

Last year: 7-7

Pre-season scrimmage schedule: March 12 vs. Jacksonville, March 15 vs. Houston

Walt Michaels takes over as head coach for Ted Cottrell, who was fired after another 7-7 record last year. Ironically, Cottrell was once a coach on Michaels’ staff when the two were with New Jersey.

Michaels cut quarterback Reggie Slack, traded away Reggie Collier and brought in former Memphis starter and Alabama native Walter Lewis.

The Stallions also signed running back Ricky Blake (WLAF ’91), wide out Charlie Brown (Bulls ’91) and linebackers Van Waiters (Browns’91) and Anthony Thompson (Broncos ’90) in free agency. Rookie Siran Stacy will be given the chance to start alongside veteran Brent Fullwood.

Kicker Scott Norwood returns after spending seven seasons with the Buffalo Bills.

New Orleans Breakers

Last year: 5-9

Pre-season scrimmage schedule: March 12 vs. Houston, March 15 vs. Tampa Bay

Jim Fassell replaces June Jones as head coach. Jones was hired by the Atlanta Falcons to be the teams’ offensive coordinator.

The Breakers traded running back John Settle to Baltimore, but signed both Marcus Dupree and ex-Saints’ star Gill Fenerty.

Also gone is quarterback Bobby Hebert, who returned to the N.F.L. after he got into a much-publicized spat with June Jones after being benched at the end of last season. Veteran backup John Fourcade takes over the reigns and will be backed up by former Tulane product Terrence Jones.

Versatile Sammy Martin should help a receiving corps that already features Alton Alexis, Lonzell Hill and Flip Johnson.

Nose tackle Jerald Baylis returns to anchor a defense that includes speedy cornerback/punt-returner Antonio Gibson.

Tampa Bay Bandits

Last year: 10-4

Pre-season scrimmage schedule: March 12 vs. Memphis, March 15 vs. New Orleans

Head coach Jim Stanley opened camp by telling his team that last year's team won the league championship and this year's hasn't won anything.

There always seems to be enough battles to bring the point home and this time it's at running back after both Lars Tate and Lorenzo Hampton signed with Tampa Bay. Joe Dudek is tabbed as the starter, but Tate and Hampton, are both in the mix.

Offensive lineman Larry Pfohl has retired to pursue a career in professional wrestling. The team signed former Dallas Cowboy Jeff Zimmerman to replace Pfohl.

Larry Brodsky won't be back at wide out, so Rod Harris and Danny Peebles were brought in from the National Football League.

And, of course, much attention will be paid to pivot Ben Bennett, who had knee surgery during the off-season but is healthy and ready to go.

Jacksonville Bulls

Last year: 8-6

Pre-season scrimmage schedule: March 12 vs. Birmingham, March 15 vs. Memphis

John Hadl enters camp with a couple of major goals, including extending his quarterback depth, rebuilding his offensive line and trying to find a way to get the ball to his talented receiving corps.

Tom Ramsey was acquired during the off-season to replace Craig Erickson and is the clear No. 1 quarterback, with Rick Worman and Steve Slayden as the backups. Youngster Jeff Blake was signed to push the incumbents.

The offensive line which gave up the most sacks last year, should benefit from the return of veterans Wayne Radloff and Brian Musselman. Both missed parts of last season due to a variety of injuries.

Most intriguing is the return of star running back Mike Rozier who returned to the league after a successful career in the National Football League.

Hadl has said that he'd like to go with a more conventional offense after using a hybrid offense last season which at times utilized four or even five receivers. Look for the Bulls to run a lot more this season behind newly acquired tight ends Eric Sievers and Gary Wilkins.

Memphis Showboats

Last year: 9-5

Pre-season schedule: March 12 vs. Tampa Bay, March 15th vs. Jacksonville

First order of business for the Showboats is to get the veterans to shake off their playoff loss to New Jersey that led to the benching and eventual departure of long-time starter Walter Lewis.

Then they have to spend camp getting their new quarterbacks acclimated to the offensive system and shaking off the effect of free-agent players heading to the exits.

There will be lots of scrutiny on rookie Chris Burns and linebacker Junior Jackson to see if they are the answers to the holes in the defense, but there are other options available to coach Pepper Rodgers.

What you see at the beginning of camp isn't necessarily what you'll get at the end as the Showboats wait patiently for rookie quarterback Andy Kelly to develop into a pro passer.

Kicker Ian Howfield, signed via the N.F.L., will take over the kicking duties from Alan Duncan who was released.

West Division

Houston Gamblers

Last year: 10-4

Pre-season scrimmage schedule: March 12 vs. New Orleans, March 15 vs. Birmingham

Houston looks to make another championship run under head coach Forrest Gregg.

Star running back Chuck Weatherspoon returns, as do receivers Gerald McNeil, Vince Couville and Richard Johnson. McNeil remains one of the USFL's best return men and is a dual threat as a solid receiver as well.

Holes exist with the departure of wideout Greg Moser (free agency), defensive lineman Pete Cataan (traded to Chicago) and cornerback Luther Bradley (retirement). Gregg also agreed to trade tight end Thornton Chandler to the Birmingham Stallions.

Rookie quarterback David Klingler will get the starters’ job by default after signing a rich contract and spurning the National Football League for at least one season.

Los Angeles Express

Last year: 11-3

Pre-season schedule: March 12th vs. Oakland, March 15th vs. Arizona

General Manager Don Klosterman spent the off-season adding a key part here, another there as he prepared his veteran line up for a camp designed to get the club ready to take another shot at Houston for top spot in the West.

There is experience pretty much everywhere you look and it's going to be the responsibility of both coordinators to make sure the team produces.

George Bethune (from the L.A. Rams) takes over the spot at middle linebacker while rookie James Malone will help the team change from more of a zone approach to man-to-man.

Steve Coury remains the offensive boss and he has lots of weapons returning. His big job will be working star free-agent signing Reuben Mayes into the attack as the new feature back.

Intriguing is the addition of free agent Craig McEwen who can move from tight end to fullback.

Rookie wide out Mario Bailey should add a spark to the passing and return games.

Arizona Wranglers

Last year: 9-5

Pre-season schedule: March 12th vs. Chicago, March 15th vs. Los Angeles

When you bring back Bill Johnson, the league's leader in rushing yards, and veteran receiver Trumaine Johnson to camp, there are parts of your attack that raise few worries.

Coach Frank Kush does have two minor headaches, however — getting more consistent play out of his offensive line and finding a way to turn rookie Darian Hagan into a consistent pro pivot after spending his college career as a cross between a quarterback and halfback.

To push incumbent Alan Risher, Todd Dillon was brought in from Houston, but his elbow surgery over the off-season is still bothering him a touch so progress during camp will be slow. There's also veteran backup Fred Besana who comes over from Oakland and Paul Justin, who backed up last year. Most eyes will be on Risher and Dillon and their battle to be number one on the depth chart.

The defense is just fine if it continues to operate as last season's crew did, though with Jojhnny Sutton now officially retired from the corner, that's a spot to watch through the pre-season scrimmages.

Oakland Invaders

Last year: 6-8

Pre-season schedule: March 12th vs. Los Angeles, March 15th vs. Chicago

Fred Biletnikoff replaces John Ralston as head coach. Ralston was replaced after missing the playoffs with a 6-8 record.

The Invaders also cut quarterback Fred Besana and signed both Bob Gagliano and former backup Kevin Sweeney. Troy Taylor and rookie Mike Pawlawski were also added to the roster.

Gone are guard Jim Leonard, defensive lineman Doug Hollie and defensive backs Jeff George and Derek Martin. N.F.L. veteran James Fitzpatrick was brought in to shore up the offensive line.

Kick returner Mike Pringle should help a running back corps that already features Blaise Bryant, Albert Bentley and Terrence Flagler.

Punter Barry Helton and kicker Jim Gallery should give the special teams a boost.

Chicago Blitz

Last year: 1-13 (Oklahoma Outlaws)

Pre-season schedule: March 12th vs. Arizona, March 15th vs. Oakland

When everyone arrived in town for Chicago's camp they were handed "Hello, My Name Is…" tags. OK, not true, but with so many starting jobs — perhaps 16 — up for grabs, you get the point.

First order of business will be for new head coach Ron Meyer, and his key assistants Leon Burnett and Steve Furness to get to know, and build trust with, the relatively small number of remaining veterans from last year's disaster.

There are questions at practically every position, but the key during camp will be watching if quarterback Mike Hohensee, who spent most of last season holding a clip board, can be given the protection he needs to contribute at a high level. Veteran backup Rick Johnson will be waiting in the wings if Hohensee were to flounder.

Top picks Tom Roth and Mirko Jurkovic can be keys to helping rebuild the offensive-line wall for Hohensee and the running backs.

Off-season acquisition Mark Butkus (from Michigan) will be under the microscope during the exhibition season and beyond.

more to come......

'92 Chronology-Boom and Bust?

2011-11-06T14:48:00.003-05:00

Event Date: March 9th, 1992

Event Description: Dillon Gets His Wish

Source: Houston Star Tribune

The Houston Gamblers reduced their quarterbacks and increased the size of their secondary.

The Gamblers accomplished that by trading quarterback Todd Dillon to the Arizona Wranglers for veteran defensive back David Martin.

The Wranglers also shipped backup tight end, and Houston native, Ed Thomas to the Gamblers.

"To bring in a player like Todd Dillon is really quite an opportunity to improve our football team,'' Wranglers head coach Frank Kush said Monday via telephone conference.

"It's always good to have an atmosphere of competition especially heading into training camp. Some opportunities present themslves and they are just too hard to pass up. Hopefully this trade will help Houston with its quarterback situation and help us get a good player who can challenge for the starters’ spot.''

Dillon had requested a trade since the teams’ signing of Houston University star David Klingler. To make room for Dillon, the Wranglers have released veteran quarterback Fred Besana.

more to come..........

'92 Chronology-Addition by Subtraction

2011-11-05T10:38:00.005-04:00

Event Date: March 8th, 1992

Event Description: Ex-Dolphin Joins Generals

Source: Daily News

The Daily News has learned that the New Jersey Generals have signed outside linebacker-defensive end Eric Kumerow to their training camp roster.

Kumerow, the 16th overall pick by Miami in 1988, was not impressive in his brief stay with the Dolphins, failing to start any games. He had five sacks ina three-year career with the Dolphins.

Kumerow also worked out for the Jacksonville Bulls and Tampa Bay Bandits but wasn't offered a contract.

The Generals told Kumerow that they'd like to use him as a pass rusher in third down situations and as a linebacker on the opening downs. A roster spot opened up this week when the team decided to place backup offensive lineman Todd Jones on the P.U.P. list.

Now the hope is that New Jersey can take advantage of Kumerow's pass-rushing skills and eventually develop him into a full-time player.

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Big Johnson

2011-11-03T23:46:00.003-04:00

Event Date: March 8th, 1992

Event Description: Wranglers Extend Big Bill

Source: Tempe Sun

The Arizona Wranglers have signed running back Bill Johnson — the leading rusher in the USFL — to a two-year contract extension.

Financial details of the extension were not released, but Johnson told reporters this afternoon he was heading into his option year this season and the extension means he will be a Wrangler for a least a "couple more years.”

"Maybe two, maybe three, maybe four — just depends on how I feel as the years go," said Johnson, 31. "Hopefully I can play as long as I want to. But other than that, I want to be a Wrangler no matter how long that is.

"Arizona gave me the opportunity when I first came here as a free agent, and they’ve been good to me and I feel like I want to finish my career here with a great organization. I feel like we have something special here and I believe we can do some things."

Johnson was the USFL rushing leader in 1991, and was named team MVP and captain for the upcoming season.

"He became a staple of this offense and I’m glad we got that done," said Wranglers QB Alan Risher. "He’s a guy that definitely deserves it. His vision as a running back is what’s really impressive. He’s able to see holes and pound through the gaps."

Wranglers head coach Frank Kush believes Johnson will have an impact again this season.

"Bill is first and foremost a great professional and has played very well since he came to us from Jacksonville. I think he can continue to grow in our offense and continue to get better and the other players really respect him. When I talked to him about it, he said: ‘Coach, I really want to be here. I like the direction of the team.’ So that makes you feel good."

The Wranglers held their first formal practice at Sun Devil Stadium today before heading off to participate in the leagues’ regional training camp in San Antonio.

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Quarterback Competition

2011-11-01T21:31:00.003-04:00

Event Date: March 7th, 1992

Event Description: L.A. Arms Race!

Source: Anaheim Sun

The Los Angeles Express have a pivotal decision to make in training camp this year.

With five quarterbacks already signed and a sixth possibly on the way, head coach Dick Coury said the starting job is up for grabs.

“We traded for Ed Luther to create competition at the quarterback position, to help our offense, which obviously last year was good enough for a playoff berth, but this year will should be much improved,” said Coury.

Coury and his staff are also putting starter Rick Neuheisel, sophomore Garrett Gabriel in the same boat, along with journeyman Todd Santos and World League refugee Jeff Graham.

“We’ll see how many of those guys make it through training camp.” The team has also had contact with C.F.L. free agent, and California native, Damon Allen.

One thing is certain, the Express will head into training camp with more arms than any other team in the league.

“We’ve got two quarterbacks who are experienced and three others with very limited time. I feel that we’ve got three guys now that are going to be battling for this spot. We may pursue other free agents, but only time will tell.”

However, frontrunners Neuheisel and Luther are both coming off of injuries, with Neuheisel playing the last part of the season with a torn ligament in his throwing hand.

“Rick had his surgery in July, and he has been throwing during the off-season,” Coury said. “Ed Luther worked with our trainer and has thrown here and there. He should report to training camp 100% and should have no issues. It’s always a concern anytime your guys have off-season surgery. They will come into training camp and we expect them to be healthy.”

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Man-Up!

2011-10-29T20:16:00.003-04:00

Event Date: March 6th, 1992

Event Description: Manley Joins Stars

Source: Washington Times

The Baltimore Stars have signed defensive end Dexter Manley to a one-year contract.

Manley played nine with the Washington Redskins and the last two with the Phoenix Cardinals and Tampa Bay Bucs. He had 6.5 sacks last season and has had 97.5 sacks over his pro career.

Manley played collegiately at Oklahoma State. He had tryouts with the Houston Gamblers and Arizona Wranglers signing with Baltimore.

In other pro football news:

Tampa Bay Bandits fans lined up outside the teams’ ticket office as early as 4:30 a.m. to purchase single-game seats when they went on sale Thursday.

Within an hour of the first sale at 9 a.m., all seats for the games against the New Orleans Breakers and Houston Gamblers were gone.

Tickets are also scarce for a handful of the USFL team's other regular-season home games - including the regular-season opener against the visiting Birmingham Stallions.

more to come..........

'92 Chronology-Long Way Home

2011-10-25T21:38:00.005-04:00

Event Date: March 5th, 1992

Event Description: Panthers Change Pivots

Source: Detroit Free Press

The Michigan Panthers have decided to fill Steve Taylor’s spot on the roster with quarterback Chuck Long, who was signed by the team on Wednesday.

Long began his pro career with the Panthers back in 1986, before heading to the N.F.L.. Long has played for the Panthers, Lions and Rams in his seven-year pro career.

In Michigan he will serve as the team's second-string quarterback and will backup Steve Pelluer.

Event Description: Invaders Prefer Pringles

Source: Sacramento Bee

The Oakland Invaders have re-signed running back Mike Pringle. Pringle signed a two-year deal, plus an option.

"This is great news," Invaders general manager Joe Kapp said in a statement.

"Michael has been on our radar since his release by the Atlanta Falcons, he will compete for the starting tailbacks’ job and will be one of our top special teams players. His experience and versatility will be a great asset to our team and our locker room."

Pringle is entering his second USFL season and his third pro season overall.

more to come............

'92 Chronology-Casey at the Bat

2011-10-23T10:08:00.005-04:00

Event Date: March 4th, 1992

Event Description: Weldon to stay in South

Source: Tampa Tribune

Former Florida State quarterback Casey Weldon has signed with the Tampa Bay Bandits of the U.S. Football League the team announced on Thursday.

Weldon will attend the Bandits training camp slated to begin on March 6th in Orlando.

Weldon completed 323 of 545 passes (59.3%) for 4,628 yards, with 42 touchdown passes and 15 interceptions in 45 games played as a member of the Seminoles football program from 1988-1991.

He finished ranked among FSU's all-time leaders in several categories, including touchdown passes, and passing yards. The Bandits also signed fullback Dexter McNabb (FSU), their fourth-round pick.

In other USFL news:

Event Description: Taylor heads North

Source: Omaha Star

It’s not the National Football League, but Nebraska’s record-breaking quarterback Steve Taylor will get another shot at professional football.

Taylor signed a free-agent contract on Friday with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League.

Taylor was most recently with the Michigan Panthers of the U.S. Football League, but became expendable when the team acquired Steve Pelluer from the Houston Gamblers.

more to come.......

'92 Chronology-Roster Rumblings

2011-10-22T11:21:00.004-04:00

Event Date: March 3rd, 1992

Event Description: Windy City Woods

Source: Chicago Daily News

With training camp quickly closing in the Chicago Blitz added to their offense, agreeing to a two-year contract with running back Ickey Woods and a one-year deal with rookie wide receiver Travis Moore on Monday.

The also signed rookie running backs Tony Brooks (Notre Dame) and Mike Saunders (Iowa), quarterback Matt Rodgers (Iowa) as well as rookie defensive end Frank Kmet (Purdue) to a one-year deals.

Woods spent the last four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals, running for 1,525 yards and 27 touchdowns. He added another 397 yards receiving. He was officially released by the Bengals this past off-season and did not receive any offers from the National Football League.

Travis Moore appeared in 22 games over four seasons with the Ball State Cardinals and has 62 receptions alongside 896 yards receiving with eight touchdowns.

The Blitz also added guard Jim Juriga to their negotiation list on Monday.

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Dillon Doubles Down

2011-10-18T23:44:00.003-04:00

Event Date: March 2nd, 1992

Event Description: Dillon to be Dealt?

Source: Houston Star

Gamblers quarterback Todd Dillon has formally requested a trade after the teams’ decision to sign rookie David Klingler to a contract, effectively making him the new starter in Houston.

Dillon, who enjoyed another productive season last year, was miffed when Klingler was signed and asked for a meeting with the front office over the weekend.

Dillon and his representatives met with head coach Forrest Gregg and general manager Gene Burrough on Saturday night to try to settle the matter but no progress was made and he has now asked to be moved.

"I went in there with every intention of solving the issue, staying with the Gamblers and moving forward." Dillon said in a press release. “They made it clear that the team could still entertain trading me because, as they put it, they must do whatever is in the best interest of the organization."

A one-time back-up to both Jim Kelly and J.C. Watts, Dillon emerged from their shadows to lead the franchise to a league championship in 1990. Dillon has been with the Gamblers since the 1984 season.

The teams said to be interested in acquiring Dillon include Arizona, Los Angeles, and possibly New Orleans.

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Brotherly Love

2011-10-17T16:07:00.006-04:00

Event Date: March 1st, 1992

Event Description: Gamblers Add Adickes

Source: Houston Sentinel

The Houston Gamblers have signed veteran offensive lineman Mark Adickes on Sunday and have traded center Dan Rosado to the Chicago Blitz.

"Mark is a veteran player who brings size, toughness and experience to our offensive line," Gamblers GM Ken Burrough said in a statement.

The six-foot-four, 278-pound Adickes spent the last two seasons with the Washington Redskins and the previous four before that with the Kansas City Chiefs.

He has appeared in 77 regular-season games in the National Football League and also spent two seasons with the Los Angeles Express.

He was released by the Redskins last month. Mark joins his brother John who has also been a member of the Gamblers since 1990.

The six-foot-three, 280-pound Rosado spent the three last seasons with the Gamblers after breaking in with the San Diego Chargers.

Other terms of the trade were not released.

more to come....

'92 Chronology-Pirate Sighting

2011-10-15T10:26:00.002-04:00

Event Date: February 28th, 1992

Event Description: Bulls add Blake

Source: jacksonville Sun Times

Former East Carolina quarterback Jeff Blake has signed a contract to play for the U.S. Football League's Jacksonville Bulls.

Jacksonville signed Blake after acquiring his negotiation rights from the Baltimore Stars in a trade.

Blake played for East Carolina from 1988 to 1991. While with the Pirates, he passed for 5,133 yards on 360 completions and had 43 touchdown passes.

more to come.......

'92 Chronology-Texas Star

2011-10-14T06:45:00.005-04:00

Event Date: February 27th, 1992

Event Description: Home Again

Source: Houston Star Tribune

David Klingler, the top pick in the territorial draft, signed a one-year, $1 million contract on Wednesday with the Houston Gamblers of the United States Football League.

The announcement of the deal came with smiles, confident talk of the future and the richest deal for the Houston franchise since the signing of Jim Kelly.

Team owner Jerry Argovitz and the Gamblers were especially eager to sign Klingler, avoid a bidding war with the N.F.L. and help the franchise move toward another championship with their corps players still intact.

"The circumstances are always different when it comes to a player, and in David's case it was all about trying to make a push now and then decide what he's going to do for the long term," said team president Gene Burrough, the teams' lead negotiator.

The Gamblers and Klingler's agents already had agreed on a one year deal with an option year as the basis for their deal, and then worked out the signing bonus and contract enhancements to complete the negotiations on Wednesday.

"We are very happy with the structure of the deal, a two-year contract is what we really wanted. we wanted to get this deal done by the start of the spring season and before the N.F.L. draft," Argovitz said.

"Their was a certain sense of urgency in getting it done today. The structure of the contract would not have been permissible unless it included the opt out fter the first year."

Burrough said he was involved in negotiations until late in the evening, and has also started to restructure the roster which includes a trade sending Steve Pelluer to the Michigan Panthers in exchange for cash considerations and a player to be named later.

more to come.......

'92 Chronology-Trial and Error?

2011-10-12T18:30:00.005-04:00

Event Date: February 26th, 1992

Event Description: Mayes Changes Course; Manley Mulls Return

Source: Times Picayune

Running back Reuben Mayes is headed to the United States Football League.

A little more than seven months after announcing his retirement, Mayes signed with the Los Angeles Express on Tuesday. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but it believed to be a one-year contract.

Mayes made headlines last summer when he abruptly retired after four seasons with the New Orleans Saints. The Saints placed Mayes on their reserve-retired list at the end of training camp.

"My skill is still there," Mayes said. "It's just a case of getting back on the field, learning the system and getting back into football shape."

In other pro football news:

Free agent defensive end Dexter Manley is mulling offers from the C.F.L. and U.S.F.L. but it appears the free agent is still undecided regarding his football future.

Manley's agent Jon Elliott, said that the NFL-suspended player has received offers from both leagues. "Yes, we're still in negotiations," Elliott said via telephone from his offices in Houston.

A source close to the situation said that both leagues would have an interest in signing the former Pro-Bowl end.

However, the fact that Manley is permanently banned from playing in the National Football League would be of a concern to any owner willing to pay for his services.

Manley may have a better shot at starting in the U.S.F.L. where a player of his stature could make an immediate impact. Manley would also be an impact player if he were to head north, but the larger field and more mobile quarterbacks could somewhat neutralize his ability to dominate games.

The book on Manley is laden with problems and controversy but an anonymous C.F.L. general manager admitted that many teams are interested in the 32-year-old sackmaster because, "he's somebody who's got experience and he can be a game changer."

That's as far as he would go.

more to come..........

'92 Chronology-Duty Bound

2011-10-09T14:50:00.002-04:00

Event Date: February 25th, 1992

Event Description: Mayweather Reports

Source: New York Daily News

The New Jersey Generals of the United States Football League suddenly have a crowded offensive backfield after signing tailback Mike Mayweather to a reported three-year contract yesterday.

Mayweather played four seasons with the Army Black Knights between 1987 and 1990. He was ineligible to play last season due to a military commitment.

New Jersey already has running backs Micheal Owens, Gordie Lockbaum and Robert Drummond.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Ex-Packers Join Stars

2011-10-08T16:21:00.006-04:00

Event Date: February 24th, 1992

Event Description: The Wright Stuff

Source: Baltimore Sun Times

The Baltimore Stars ended their search for another experienced backup quarterback Wednesday when they signed Randy Wright, an eight-year NFL veteran who hasn't played since 1988.

Wright had a workout with the Stars on Monday morning, signed a one-year contract for the league minimum and attended meetings in the afternoon.

Wright, 31, played with the Green Bay Packers from 1984-88, but decided to not return to the NFL for a sixth season.

Instead, he has been coaching in Milwaukee with one of the local high school football teams. When he heard that his former coach Lindy Infante was returning to coaching with the Baltimore Stars he decided to give his old coach a telephone call.
The two spoke in early February - saying it would be fun to hook up yet again.

"For myself, it was the chance to work with Lindy again and the chance to work with a top notch organizatiion really excited me," Wright said. "Because I don't care what stage of your career you're in, you want to get better and you want to prove that you can still play and perform. So for me, to be around coach Infante and to see him work with his quarterbacks is exciting."

Wright provides the Stars with another experienced pro pivot. He is expected to be given a chance to be the teams' starter as he will compete with current starter Chuck Fusina and backup Blair Kiel who was recently acquired from Chicago.

In other pro football news:

Former NFL wide receiver Perry Kemp has relocated to continue playing football, heading to Baltimore to join the Stars. Kemp signed a two-year contract, according to the U.S.F.L. franchise.

Kemp is a former Green Bay Packers and Cleveland Browns player who also played for the Bulls when Stars head coach Lindy Infante was in Jacksonville. Kemp also tried out for the Jacksonville Bulls at a recent minicamp, but the team opted to go with Larry Brodsky.

more to come......... 

'92 Chronology-Spring Shuffle?

2011-10-04T22:32:00.004-04:00

Event Date: February 22nd, 1992

Event Description: Return of the Shuffle?

Source: Cincinnati Star

Ickey Woods has struggled with knee injuries since his rookie season with the Cincinnati Bengals in 1988. Now the former N.F.L. running back is hoping to prove that he is ready to mount a comeback.

Woods, a Plan B free agent has received no offers since the start of free agency. That could be changing however as at least three U.S. Football League teams have shown an interest in signing the former second round draft pick out of UNLV. Those teams include the Chicago Blitz, Arizona Wranglers and Memphis Showboats.

“I am still a young man,” Woods, 26, said after a recent street free agent workout in Arizona which attracted players seeking employment in either the U.S.F.L., C.F.L. or World League. “I don’t think about my injuries or the possibility of having to retire just yet. I have a long way to go before I hang it up for good.”

Woods has missed 26 games due to injury over the past three seasons and has undergone surgery on both of his knees and on one ankle since the end of N.F.L. training camp last summer.

more to come..........

'92 Chronology-Bayou Bound!

2011-10-02T16:25:00.004-04:00

Event Date: February 21st, 1992

Event Description: Back to the Bayou

Source: Times Picayune

With a fresh attitude - and an old jersey number - Marcus Dupree re-joined the New Orlean Breakers on Sunday, looking to finish his career where it started.

The former Los Angele Rams running back signed a one-year contract with the Breakers, allowing him to play football and be closer to his home in Mississippi.

Dupree explained his decision to return to spring football was largely based on a desire to play closer to home. He felt the Breakers and the U.S. Football League was the perfect place to do that. His only other consideration was to sign with the Birmingham Stallions who already have a solid stable of running backs.

"Ever since I first arrived New Orleans out of college, I've been surrounded by nothing but warmth and acceptance," said Dupree, who will wear jersey No. 22. "Everyone has been so nice. It's really an uplifting feeling to be in this kind of environment. With a new head coach and some new players this team seems headed for a great season."

Despite concerns about a lingering knee injury, the Breakers decided that the former Oklahoma star was well worth the risk. His contract does not include an option for 1993, and he is free to return to the N.F.L. next year if he were to draw interest from a team like the Saints or possibly the Houston Oilers.

In Dupree, the Breakers again get one of football's premier power backs still close to his prime. Head coach Jim Fassel was ecstatic at the prospect of having a former league rushing champion on his roster. "He has super-sized talent," said Fassel. "He's explosive, physical and dominating. At times, he is the most dominanting player on the field."

Dupree comes with a hefty pricetag - at least, by USFL standards. His deal is believed to be worth around $750,000, making Dupree the highest-paid running back in the league.

Dupree, 27, was most recently with the Los Angeles Rams where he has spent the last two seasons.

"It's a team game," said Dupree. "From what I hear, we have a very talented group of running backs already. It's up to me to keep working hard and to perform at a high level. But I also know that one guy can’t carry a team no matter how good he is."

To make room for Dupree the team has released local favorite Hokie Gajan. Other running backs on the roster include Buford Jordan and Gill Fenerty who was recently signed away from the New Orleans Saints.

more to come...........

'92 Chronology-Homeward Bound

2011-10-01T18:02:00.004-04:00

Event Date: February 9th, 1992

Event Description: Lewis Birmingham Bound

Source: Memphis Star Tribune

The Memphis Showboats confirmed Wednesday that they have traded quarterback Walter Lewis, to the Birmingham Stallions for wide receiver Greg Anderson, offensive tackle Freddie Childress, and linebacker Junior Jackson.

"This decision was very tough and emotional," Showboats general manager Pepper Rodgers said in a statement.

"Giving up an MVP-calibre player is always difficult," Rodgers continued.

"But we have no doubt the addition of Andy Kelly and Reggie Collier who are both top-quality players, and with the players acquired in the trade it makes us much stronger in areas of need."

The Stallions have scheduled a news conference for Thursday, with representatives from Birmingham Stallions Ltd. and chief executive officer Jerry Sklar expected to attend.

"Trust me, the fans in Birmingham will love Walter Lewis," Rodgers said.

"He is a class act, on and off of the field. Plus he is an Alabama boy so he gets to go home and play before fans who watched him in college. I know he has been viewed as the enemy since joining the ‘Boats, but now he will be on their side.”

The Memphis Times reported Wednesday that Lewis, 30, recently expressed a desire to extend his contract for at least two seasons.

"In the end, we felt trading Walter to a team in which he could start and one which was willing to satisfy his contractual expectations was the right thing to do," Rodgers said.

Lewis ranked fourth in passing last season with 3,547 yards and led the Showboats to a 9-5 record.

"Even at his age, Walter still competes like a young man hungry to make the team," Rodgers said. "That fiery competitiveness and leadership will be a tremendous asset to the Stallions."

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Rozier Returns

2011-09-25T22:41:00.002-04:00

Event Date: February 6th, 1992

Event Description: Bulls Bag Rozier

Source: Jacksonville Sun

Mike Rozier is heading back to the league where his career started.

Rozier's agent, Art Wilkinson, said Sunday that the Jacksonville Bulls signed the former Oilers running back to a two-year contract. The Bulls confirmed that they have agreed to a deal, adding the aging star to the already crowded stable of runners.

"He wanted to go to a team that he thought had a chance to compete for a championship and to where he would have a chance to be a starter again," Wilkinson told The Sun in a telephone interview.

"He wanted to go somewhere where he had a chance to have a significant role, and so with the Bulls he also was going to be very familiar with the offensive system and is comfortable with coach Hadl."

At one time Rozier was one of the NFL's most dynamic players, he is expected to compete with fourth-year running back Melvin Bratton, who emerged in his second season especially in the passing game.

In other USFL news: The Michigan Panthers have traded defensive lineman Mark Butkus to the Chicago Blitz in exchange for lineman Dean Prater.

more to come...........

'92 Chronology-Buffalo Spring-Field

2011-09-22T22:46:00.002-04:00

Event Date: February 5th, 1992

Event Description: Former Bills Return to Spring Football

Source: The Buffalo News

The Michigan Panthers have signed free-agent linebacker Ray Bentley to a one-year contract, two weeks after his release by the Buffalo Bills.

The 31-year-old Bentley, a Grand Rapids native, was an original member of the Panthers when the team made its debut in 1983. He was an immediate starter on the Panthers' vaunted defense and has a championship ring from his first stint with the team.

Bentley joins a Michigan team that hit rock bottom with one of the league's more porous defenses.

"The way I look at it, there was only one place where I wanted to play and that was back home in Michigan," Bentley said. "From my standpoint playing in front of the home town fans can make all the difference. Every year is a different year and it's a new challenge."

In other U.S.F.L. news: The Jacksonville Bulls made their first N.F.L. free-agent signing by adding safety Dwight Drane to a three-year deal. Drane has been with the Buffalo Bills for the last six seasons.

"Dwight brings veteran leadership to the Bulls and has started a lot of games in the N.F.L. and in this league," Jacksonville general manager Larry Csonka said in a release.

"He is a smart, experienced player who knows the game and that knowledge can only help our defense and our special teams play."

The six-foot-one, 200-pound Florida native has spent most of his eight seasons in the N.F.L. with the Bills. Drane started his pro career with the Los Angeles Express who were also led by John Hadl at the time.

Drane, 29, won two AFC Championships while with the Bills.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Super Signing

2011-09-19T22:50:00.002-04:00

Event Date: February 4th, 1992

Event Description: Norwood Named Birmingham Kicker

Source: Buffalo News

The Birmingham Stallions have filled their vacant kicker's position with a familiar name.  

The USFL club dipped into the free-agent ranks Monday to sign veteran Scott Norwood, who spent the last few seasons with the Buffalo Bills, and may be best known for missing a late field goal in Superbowl XXV.  

Norwood takes over for Danny Miller, who was released earlier in the off-season.  

"We are pleased to improve our kicking game with the addition of one of the best kickers in pro football," general manager Jerry Sklar said in a statement.

"Throughout his career, Scott has proven to be very consistent and has shown the ability to handle pressure. We're looking forward to seeing him perform at a high level in Birmingham."  

The six-foot, 200-pound Norwood made 18-of-29 field goals last year with Buffalo. During his seven seasons with the Bills, Norwood made 72.3 per cent of his field goals and averaged 57.4 yards per kickoff. Norwood was a Pro-Bowl selection in 1988.  

more to come..........

'92 Chronology-Territorial Draft Results III

2011-09-18T12:58:00.001-04:00

Event Date: February 3rd, 1992

Event Description: Southern Division Territorial Draft Selections

Source: Pro Football Weekly

Birmingham Stallions

Ricky Jones QB Alabama St.
Tony Smith RB S. Mississippi
Siran Stacy RB Alabama
Kevin Turner FB Alabama
Torrance Small WR Alcorn
Bob Meeks OL Auburn
Eddie Blake DL Auburn
Robert Stewart DL Alabama
Eddie Robinson LB Alabama St.
Corey Barlow DB Auburn

Jacksonville Bulls

Dave Brown QB Duke
Charles Evans RB Clark
Carlos Huerta K Miami
Eddie Miller WR South Carolina
Deitrich Lockridge OL Jackson St.
Leon Searcy OL Miami
Bob Spitulski LB Central Florida
Gerald Dixon LB South Carolina
Gabe Mokwuah LB American Int.
Ken Swilling DB Georgia Tech

Memphis Showboats

Andy Kelly QB Tennessee
Joe Campbell RB Middle Tennessee
Muh. Shamsid-Deen RB Tenn-Chattanooga
Carl Pickens WR Tennessee
Marcus Dowdell WR Tennessee St.
Larry Tharpe OL Tennessee St.
Chris Burns DL Middle Tennessee
Shazzon Bradley DL Tennessee
Darryl Hardy LB Tennessee
Pumpy Tudors P Tenn-Chattanooga

New Orleans Breakers

Ronald Humphrey RB Miss. Valley St.
Todd Kinchen WR LSU
Nate Singleton WR Grambling
Brian Thomas WR Southern
Joe Randolph WR Elon
Louis Age OL Louis. Lafayette
Marc Boutte DT LSU
Mario Johnson DT Missouri
Ashley Ambrose DB Miss. Valley St.
Leonard Wheeler DB Troy

Tampa Bay Bandits

Casey Weldon QB FSU
Brad Johnson QB FSU
Amp Lee RB FSU
Dexter McNabb FB Florida
Hesham Ismail OG Florida
Curtis Whitley C Clemson
Darren Mickell DE Florida
Howard Dinkins LB FSU
Tim Paulk LB Florida
Ephesians Bartley LB Florida

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Territorial Draft Results II

2011-09-17T11:38:00.001-04:00

Event Date: February 3rd, 1992

Event Description: Western Division Territorial Draft Selections

Source: Pro Football Weekly

Arizona Wranglers

Joe Wood K Air Force
Darian Hagan QB Colorado
Michael Bates RB Arizona
Rico Smith WR Colorado
John Fina OL Arizona
David Dixon OL Arizona St.
Arthur Paul DL Arizona St.
Shane Collins DE Arizona St.
Phillippi Sparks DB Arizona St.
Selwyn Jones DB Colorado St.

Chicago Blitz

Matt Rodgers QB Iowa
Vaughn Dunbar RB Indiana
Tony Brooks RB Notre Dame
Mike Saunders RB Iowa
Mirko Jurkovic OL Notre Dame
Tom Roth OL S.Illinois
John Earle OL W.Illinois
Frank Kmet DL Purdue
Ron Geeter DL Iowa
George Williams DL Notre Dame

Houston Gamblers

David Klingler QB Houston
Bucky Richardson QB Texas A&M
Mike Gaddis RB Oklahoma
Ostell Miles RB Houston
Chuck Johnson OL Texas
Brandon Houston OL Oklahoma
Robin Jones DL Baylor
Boone Powell LB Texas
Tony Barker LB Rice
Mark Berry DB Texas

Los Angeles Express

Tommy Maddox QB UCLA
Mazio Royster RB UCLA
Maury Toy RB UCLA
Patrick Rowe WR San Diego St.
Ray Ethridge WR Pasadena CC
Ray Rowe TE San Diego St.
Jim Jennings OL San Diego St.
James Malone LB UCLA
Chico Fraley LB Washington
Calvin Holmes DB USC

Oakland Invaders

Mike Pawlawski QB California
Ryan Yarborough WR Cal-St. Fullerton
Jeff Sydner WR Hawaii
Larry Stayner TE Boise St.
Steve Gordon C California
Troy Auzenne OT California
David Wilson DB California
Nate Kirtman DB Pomona
Horace Smith DB Oregon Tech
Mike Wright DB Washington St.

more to come...........

'92 Chronology-Territorial Draft Results I

2011-09-14T17:26:00.002-04:00

Event Date: February 3rd, 1992

Event Description: Eastern Division Territorial Draft Selections

Source: Pro Football Weekly

Baltimore Stars

Matt Blundin QB Virginia
Charles Davenport WR North Carolina St.
Luke Fisher TE East Carolina
Tracy Boyd OL Elizabeth City
Bill Boatwright OL Elizabeth City
John Terry OL Livingstone
Andrew Oberg OL North Carolina St.
Derek Steele DL Maryland
Keo Coleman LB North Carolina
Gary Dandridge DB Appalachian St.

Michigan Panthers

Keithen McCant QB Nebraska
Desmond Howard WR Michigan
Courtney Hawkins WR Michigan St.
Jim Johnson OT Michigan St.
Matt Elliott OG Michigan
John MacNeill DL Michigan St.
Mike Evans DL Michigan
Brian Townsend LB Michigan
Mike Petko LB Nebraska
Curtis Cotton DB Nebraska

New Jersey Generals

Kent Graham QB OSU
Cornelius Benton QB Connecticut
Scottie Graham RB OSU
Tyrone Williams WR W. Ontario
Rod Milstead OL Delaware St.
George Rooks DL Syracuse
Alonzo Spellman DE OSU
Roosevelt Nix DE Central St.
Elnardo Webster LB Rutgers
Dwayne Sabb LB New Hampshire

Pittsburgh Maulers

Tony Sacca QB PSU
Sam Gash FB PSU
Terry Smith WR PSU
Dave Moore TE Pittsburgh
Vince Marrow TE Toledo
Pauol Siever OG PSU
Jeff Christy C Pittsburgh
Jim Gray DL West Virginia
Steve Grant LB West Virginia
Tony Tellington DB Youngstown

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Bulls Eye Brown

2011-09-11T16:08:00.005-04:00

Event Date: February 2nd, 1992

Event Description: Duke QB Eligible For USFL Draft

Source: Durham Daily

Dave Brown, quarterback for the Duke Blue Devils, will be drafted by the Jacksonville Bulls in the U.S.F.L.'s Territorial Draft slated for later today.

The territorial draft is held every season for players who complete college or otherwise become eligible for the regular U.S.F.L. and N.F.L. drafts. Teams pick from a pool of colleges in their region of the nation.

The Bulls added Brown to their negotiating list knowing that he may wait until the N.F.L. Supplemental draft which will be held in July. Brown has college eligibiltiy remaining but will graduate this spring.

Over 300 players are eligible for the territorial draft, including big-name players like Desmond Howard (Michigan), Carl Pickens (Tennessee), and David Klingler (Houston).

more to come.........

'92 Chronology-Star Search

2011-09-10T12:38:00.001-04:00

Event Date: February 1st, 1992

Event Description: Stars Hire Infante

Source: Baltimore Sun Times

The Baltimore Stars have hired former Green Bay Packers head man Lindy Infante as their new head coach.

The 50-year-old Infante takes over for Ted Marchibroda, who resigned earlier this week after receiving an offer to coach the Indianapolis Colts. The team announced Infantes' hiring on Friday.

"I am thrilled to return to the United States Football League and to coaching. Coaching never leaves your blood and for me, this is the right situation, with the right organization and people, to return to the sidelines," said Infante.

"I plan to help create an environment where players and coaches have the support and trust of everyone in the organization which gives you the best chance for success. The Baltimore Stars owners have been wonderful to me since coming over from the National Football League. Professionally, I needed a new challenge and I believe this is the right opportunity for me. I can't wait to get started."

This is Infante’s second stint in the U.S. Football League, the veteran coached the Jacksonville Bulls from 1984-1986.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Bandit-ball Bound

2011-09-06T17:26:00.004-04:00

Event Date: January 30th, 1992

Event Description: Ex-Buc Joins Bandits

Source: Tampa Tribune

The Tampa Bay Bandits announced today the signing of veteran running back Lars Tate.

"We're very excited to add another outstanding player to our team," said general manager Bugzy Engelberg. "Lars is a proven performer and has demonstrated the ability to make big plays on the ground and as a receiver out of the backfield. He has the potential to score from anywhere on the field and should really help to strengthen our running attack."

Tate, a 6-2, 215-pound hybrid back spent last season with the NFL’s Chicago Bears, where he played in only three games. Before joining the Bears, Tate spent his first two seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Tate carried the ball 289 times for 1056 yards and fifteen touchdowns while adding 16 receptions for 98 yards and two touchdowns.

Prior to joining the Bucs, Tate played four stellar seasons with the Georgia Bulldogs. In 42 career games, he recorded 3,017 rushing yards and 36 rushing touchdowns while also adding 40 receptions for 376 yards and one receiving touchdown.

Tate joins a crowded Tampa Bay backfield where he will now compete against Joe Dudek and former Miami Dolphin Lorenzo Hampton for the starting half-back position.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Arizona Addition

2011-09-04T19:37:00.003-04:00

Event Date: January 29th, 1992

Event Description: Wranglers Bag Besana

Source: Tempe Times

Fred Besana, one of three veteran quarterbacks to work out for the Wranglers yesterday, accepted a one-year offer to sign with the team, a source close to the team has reported.

Besana, Ken Hobart and Joe Ferguson worked out for for the Wranglers yesterday in Tempe. This morning, Besana was offered a one-year deal for the veteran league minimum.

The 36-year-old Besana has played for the Buffalo Bills, New York Giants, Oakland Invaders and also spent time in the California Football League. Besana was a 5th round draft choice for the Bills back in 1977. He was released by the Invaders after nine seasons with the team where he was both a starter and backup.

The Wranglers were in need of another quarterback after they lost Rick Johnson to Chicago via free agency.

In other USFL news: the New Jersey Generals have agreed to terms with free agent running back Robert Drummond.

Drummond, 24, spent the last three seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles after being drafted in the third round by the team back in 1989.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but it is believed that the team will give Drummond a chance to team with starting half-back Michael Owens. Owens and Drummond were also teammates while playing for Syracuse University.

more to come......

'92 Chronology-Invaders Back Gagliano

2011-09-01T19:33:00.004-04:00

Event Date: January 28th, 1992

Event Description: Invaders Mine For Gold

Source: Oakland Free Press

Former NFL and USFL quarterback Bob Gagliano has signed with the Oakland Invaders.

Gagliano, 34, spent the last three seasons with the San Diego Chargers. He also had stints with the Kansas City Chiefs, San Francisco 49ers, Detroit Lions, Michigan Panthers and Jacksonville Bulls.

Gagliano also had success in the USFL with the Denver Gold in the mid-1980’s. In his two seasons with the Gold, Gagliano threw for 2,931 yards and 15 touchdowns in 20 games as a starter.

"Bob is a quarterback that has all the skill sets to be a successful starter in the USFL, or in any other pro league for that matter," Invaders GM Joe Kapp said in a statement. "We feel that he will fit our offensive system very well."

The team also signed runing back Kenny Flowers and quarterbacks Troy Taylor and Kevin Sweeney on Monday.

more to come........

'92 Chronology-Rozier and Dozier

2011-08-31T16:55:00.003-04:00

Event Date: January 27th, 1992

Event Description: Bulls Could Pursue Rozier

Source: Orlando Sun

Mike Rozier will test the free agent waters now that the N.F.L. season is officially over. While many N.F.L. general managers may be underwhelmed, the U.S. Football League may be another story.

Jacksonville Bulls vice president of football operations Larry Csonka confirmed that the club has placed Rozier on its free agent negotiation list.

"Yeah, we'd like to pursue it, to see if there is real interest on Roziers' part, but right now we're just kind of kicking the tires," Csonka told ESPN.

"We'd like to see what's going on with Mike, where his interests are right now, and determine if there's something mutual there. Right now, it's still early in the process, and we don't have any answers yet. But we're going to try to get some by contacting his representatives."

Csonka told ESPN that the Bulls have not yet discussed the possibilities with Roziers' agent, but want to continue exploring their options. Rozier was released by the Atlanta Falcons toward the end of the regular season.

“I was disappointed with the decision made by the Falcons, but I understand it,” the former Heisman Trophy winner said in a statement released by his former team. “I am looking forward to continuing my pro career regardless of which team or league I decide to sign with.”

Rozier has also played for the Pittsburgh Maulers, Jacksonville Bulls, and Houston Oilers.

In other pro football news: The Pittsburgh Maulers have confirmed their interest in free agent running back D.J. Dozier. Dozier, 26, played in six games last season while with the Detroit Lions. Dozier also spent three seasons with the Minnesota Vikings.

more to come.......

'92 Chronology-Insurance Policy

2011-08-26T11:37:00.004-04:00

Event Date: January 10th, 1992

Event Description: Collier Set to Sail

Source: Memphis Star Tribune

It appears the Memphis Showboats have found their solution to their vacancy at backup quarterback.

The Showboats have confirmed that veteran quarterback Reggie Collier is expected to sign with the team as early as Monday.

The longtime Birmingham Stallions quarterback also has had stints with the Washington Federals, Orlando Renegades and Dallas Cowboys. The veteran has thrown for more than 12,000 career yards and has over sixty touchdown passes.

 Bishop became of interest to Memphis after he was rleased by the Stallions at the end of the regular season. The Showboats were in need of a third quarterback after Babe Laufenberg opted to sign with the Ohio franchise of the W.L.A.F..

 "Reggie is a veteran in this league and he instantly adds depth to our quarterback position," head coach Pepper Rodgers said in a statement released to the press. "There isn't much that Reggie hasn't seen or done since joining the league."  "He's not coming here like any kind of savior or anything like that, but he's coming here to be a part of this team and help this team win," said receiver Derrick Crawford. "He's a guy that you feel like you can win games with if you had to, so that's the bottom line. We are all here to build a winning organization and do our part."

"Things happen, things change and you have to try and move forward and look for an opportunity to play," said Collier, in a phone interview from Birmingham. "I've never closed the door to any opportunity. I'm coming in with an open mind, to be prepared and when my number is called, step in when and if I have to."

In other pro football news: The Chicago Blitz have agreed to terms with free agent quarterbacks Rick Johnson and Mike Hohensee.

Johnson, 30, spent last season with Arizona where he was a backup to Alan Risher. Johnson played his collegiate ball at the University of Southern Illinois. Hohensee, 30, was with the Baltimore Stars last season and has bounced around the league with a variety of teams.

Both players will be given the opportunity to compete for the starting quarterbacks job along with ex-N.F.L. veteran Blair Kiel.

more to come............

'92 Chronology-Strom Signs; Catan Traded

2011-08-24T13:58:00.007-04:00

Event Date: January 6th, 1992

Event Description: Ex-Steeler Joins Maulers

Source: Pittsburgh Free Press

The Maulers believe Rick Strom could be exactly what they need at quarterback even though he lacks much in the way of NFL or USFL credentials.

Strom signed a one-year contract and went through his first workout Sunday, providing the Maulers with a third quarterback for practice and possibly giving the team some leeway when looking at trade possibilities.

“He’s a smart guy, he’s been in some good systems, both in college and in the pros” coach Sam Rutigliano said.

The Maulers were in need of another quarterback after backup Glenn Carano decided to retire. Strom spent 1989-1991 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers and was in training camp with the Buffalo Bills in 1988.

The former Georgia Tech quarterback has thrown twenty-two NFL passes and completed fourteen of them for for 162 yards with no touchdowns and one interception.

Before signing with the Maulers, Strom was pondering an offer to join the Ottawa Rough Riders of the CFL.

Instead, on Sunday afternoon he was trying to learn as much as possible about the Mauler’s offense in order to take some of the throwing burden off starter Major Harris and second-string quarterback Scott Campbell.

“It’s just part of the game, part of doing what we do as players,” Strom said.

In other USFL news: The Chicago Blitz continued a busy free agency period Saturday, agreeing to terms to acquire defensive lineman Pete Catan from the Houston Gamblers in exchange for a player to be named later.

Catan (6-feet-2, 240 pounds), who will enter his 12th pro season this spring, is a two-time all-league selection out of Eastern Illinois. During the 1991 campaign, he had four sacks to go with 26 tackles.

more to come............

'91 Chronology: Trade Bait

2011-08-23T14:00:00.004-04:00

Event Date: December 19th, 1991

Event Description: Bulls Acquire Ramsey

Source: Jacksonville Sun Times

Veteran USFL quarterback Tom Ramsey has been traded to the Jacksonville Bulls where he will re-unite with his former head coach John Hadl.

Soon after the deal, one of the first persons Ramsey spoke with was Bulls coach John Hadl. Ramsey's relationship with Hadl -- which goes back to their days with the Express in the mid-1980’s -- is one of the main reasons why the quarterback agreed to a new contract deal with Jacksonville.

"I just felt like it was a great opportunity to have a chance to be a starter again. Plus already knowing the system is an added bonus," Ramsey said.

"I got a look at the playbook, upon arriving in Jacksonville, it felt like second nature to me. I was in it for a year and a half with John before the team made Steve Young the starter. It's definitely a bonus for me coming in here knowing the offense already and being familiar with John and his coaching style."

In exchange for Ramsey the Express obtained veteran quarterback Ed Luther and cash considerations. Ramsey has agreed to a new contract with Bulls, but the terms were not disclosed.

more to come.........

'91 Chronology: Gamblers add Garrett

2011-08-22T11:38:00.003-04:00

Event Date: December 16th, 1991

Event Description: Gamblers add depth

Source: Houston Star

The Houston Gamblers have a fourth quarterback to the fold.

The team has signed Jason Garrett to its practice roster yesterday. The 6-foot-2, 200-pound quarterback was formerly with the San Antonio Riders of the World Football League. Garrett starred at Princeton University and was named Ivy League Player of the Year in 1988.

Garrett, 25, was not drafted out of college but has spent time in the training camp of the New Orleans Saints for parts of the 1990 and 1991 seasons. He guided the San Antonio Riders to a 4-6 record this past spring where he shared duties with Mike Johnson.

Garrett, who has been on the USFL's radar for several years, joins Todd Dillon, Steve Pelluer and Rusty Hilger in Houston's quarterback stable.

In other pro football news: The Pittsburgh Maulers have agreed to terms with running back Undra Johnson. Johnson, 25, has experience in both the N.F.L. and W.L.A.F. and can be utilized as both a running back and kick returner.

more to come.........

'91 Chronology: One and Done?

2011-08-20T11:21:00.004-04:00

Event Date: December 15th, 1991

Event Description: Pivotal Decision?

Source: Jacksonville Sun Times

His past denials aside, Craig Erickson could turn his back on the Jacksonville Bulls when the team begins its off-season quarterback camp on Monday.

Over the weekend, Erickson denied television reports indicating he would jump to the N.F.L. if he is again drafted next spring.

But team sources, as well as several sources close to Erickson, have confirmed that after one full season in Jacksonville he will consider signing with an N.F.L. team. Erickson has a buyout clause which would allow to leave if he desired.

Erickson, 23, has reiterated several times in recent months that he would continue his career with the Bulls, who signed the former University of Miami quarterback to a two-year, contract in 1991.

Erickson was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fifth round of the 1991 NFL draft. However, contract discussions between Philadelphia officials and representatives for Erickson failed to reach agreement on a contract, prompting Erickson to sign with the Jacksonville Bulls.

The gambit by the Eagles, whose team holds Erickson's draft rights until the next draft, appears like it will not pay off. Even if the Eagles were to re-draft Erickson, which is highly unllikely, he has already said that his preference is to play in Florida.

It now looks as if Erickson, will forge his pro career elsewhere, possibly with either Miami or the Tampa Bay Bucs. In fact, that scenario is one of many that have been discussed, as all of the parties involved consider their alternatives.

If Erickson does not report for off-season workouts next week, that would leave only Ed Luther and Rick Worman on the active roster. Third-stringer Anthony Dilweg signed with the WLAF during the early part of free-agency.

In other pro football news: The Baltimore Stars have agreed to terms with free agent quarterback Mike Elkins. The Kansas City Chiefs selected Elkins in the second round of the draft back in 1989. Elkins spent last season in the World League of American Football where he played for Sacramento.

more to come.........

'91 Chronology: Blizzard of Moves

2011-08-17T15:28:00.002-04:00

Event Date: December 6th, 1991

Event Description: Blitz Move Forward

Source: Chicago Daily Sun

The Chicago Blitz of the United States Football League announced yesterday that they have signed free agent running back Tony Stewart, offensive lineman Alvin Powell, linebacker Mike Stonebreaker and traded for wide receiver Mike Bellamy.

Stewart is a 6-1, 209-pound player with four years of experience at Iowa University. Throughout his college career, Stewart carried the ball 532 times for a total of 2562 yards and 17 touchdowns. Stewart was named to the honorable mention list by the Big Ten coaches after the 1990 season.

Stewart was drafted by both the Seattle Seahawks and the Michigan Panthers. The Blitz have also agreed to send a player to be named to Michigan as compensation for signing Stewart.

Powell, a 6-5, 294-pound player, has played three seasons in the National Football League and five in the U.S.F.L.. After being signed by the Oklahoma Outlaws last year, he was granted free agency on November 29th.

Stonebreaker, a 6-0, 226 pound player, attended Notre Dame and was most recently on the roster of the Chicago Bears.

Bellamy, a 6-1, 195-pound player, attended Illinois University from 1987-1990. During his college career, Bellamy registered 1404 receiving yards, and scored 10 touchdowns. After college, Bellamy was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles, where he spent one season. Bellamy played for the Baltimore Stars last year where he recorded ten receptions for 142 yards and also starred on special teams.

In other pro football news: The Jacksonville Bulls have agreed to terms with CFL free agent quarterback Rick Worman. Worman spent last season with the Saskatchewan Rough Riders where he saw limited action.

Worman has also played for the Calgary Stampeders and Edmonton Eskimos. Worman was drafted by Jacksonville in the 1986. Terms of the deals were not disclosed.

more to come.........

'91 Chronology: Kelley Joins Stallions

2011-08-15T22:32:00.003-04:00

Event Date: December 3rd, 1991

Event Description: Stallions Sign Free Agents

Source: Birmingham Star Tribune

The Birmingham Stallions added depth on the offensive side of the ball today.

The Stallions signed veteran quarterbacks Mike Kelley, and Eric Jones in addition to adding running back Ricky Blake to the active roster.

The Stallions were in the market for a quarterback after starter Reggie Collier was released by the club at the start of the off-season. If the season were to start now, Kelley would most likely be the starter and veteran Bob Lane would be the backup.

Blake, a former Alabama A&M star, has experience in the World League, C.F.L. and the National Football League. Blake finished this past season with 554 yards rushing and five touchdown runs while playing for the San Antonio Riders.

more to come..........

'91 Chronology: Invaders Name New Staff

2011-08-14T21:37:00.003-04:00

Event Date: December 1st, 1991

Event Description: Kapp-ital Idea

Source: San Jose Star

The Oakland Invaders completed a shake-up of their coaching staff, appointing former WLAF head coach Roman Gabriel as offensive coordinator, Mike Livingston as quarterback coach and hiring Joe Kapp to become general manager.

"Although things didn't work out the way I wanted it to this year -- the Raleigh-Durham Skyhawks recently folded -- the last thing I thought I was going to do was to become a coordinator," Gabriel said. "There was only one place I even considered, and that was right here in Oakland."

Gabriel will now seek to improve an offense that ranked near the bottom in terms of total rushing offense, but was near the top in passing.

"I'll wake up in the morning excited about what I'm doing," Gabriel said. "This was the best opportunity for me to stay in coaching, and to also get back to the West Coast."

While Gabriel merely settled for his new post, Kapp was delighted to replace Raymond Chester -- who was let go at the end of the regular season -- and Livingston appreciated the opportunity to return to the team where he finsihed his playing days.

"I think I'm bred to be around football," said Kapp, the ex-pro quarterback and former general manager of the CFL’s B.C Lions. "I've always wanted to run my own show, and getting this opportunity again, is especially rewarding."

"I'm excited as I can be to be back in the game," Kapp said. "I don't pretend to have a wealth of experience and that I can just snap my fingers and turn everything around. I'm going to follow the direction of coach Biletnikoff, who is ready to sit down and draw up a plan for the off-season."

Invaders coach Fred Biletnikoff believes Gabriel and Livingston will help Oakland rectify the weakest facet of a team that went 6-8 and missed the playoffs.

"I sit here as a guy that gets his cake and eats it too in getting Roman as my new offensive coordinator and Mike as our new quarterback coach," Biletnikoff said. “Now comes the task of getting together as a team of coaches and trying to formulate a strategic plan to make our team better.”

more to come.........

'91 Chronology: Champs Add Depth

2011-08-12T09:28:00.004-04:00

Event Date: November 20th, 1991

Event: Bandits Sign Ex-Dolphin

Source: Jacksonville Sun Times

Former Miami Dolphins running back Lorenzo Hampton has signed a one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Bandits of the U.S. Football League.

Hampton, 27, was recently released by the Miami Dolphins where he has spent the last five seasons. Hampton a University of Florida product is expected to supplement starting running back Joe Dudek.

Contract terms were not disclosed.

More to come....

'91 Chronology: Even Kiel

2011-08-03T22:21:00.006-04:00

Event Date: November 14th, 1991

Event Description: Pro Football News

Source: Chicago Daily Sun

According to sources familiar with the agreement, the Chicago Blitz have reached a deal with free agent quarterback Blair Kiel.

The 30-year-old quarterback has spent the past three years with Green Bay, but began his career with Tampa Bay before heading to the Indianpolis Colts.

The Blitz were looking for a veteran quarterback to compete for the starting job. Veteran Doug Williams has retired, leaving only Rusty Hilger on the active roster. Chicago also plans to contact free agent quarterback Rick Johnson.

In other news from around pro football:

The New Jersey Generals have agreed to terms on a two-year deal with wide receiver John Garrett. Garrett played in the WLAF this past spring with the San Antonio Riders. Garrett caught 23 balls for 386 yards and three touchdowns.

The Baltimore Stars are bringing in quarterback Joe Pizzo to compete for a roster spot after being released by the Raleigh Durham Skyhawks.

Brothers George and John Yarno have both retired from the Arizona Wranglers.

Tampa Bay has agreed to terms with backup quarterback Jay Gruden. Gruden played his collegiate ball at Louisville, and spent this past season in the World League playing for Barcelona.

The Ohio Glory of the WLAF have agreed to a one-year contract with free agent quarterback Babe Laufenberg. Laufenberg started two games and threw for 359 yards while completing just 44 percent of his passes.

Veteran pro tight end, and former Illinois star, Cap Boso has signed with the Chicago Blitz of the United States Football League. Contract terms were undisclosed.

more to come......

'91 Chronology: Fitzkee Fade Out

2011-07-31T10:57:00.003-04:00

Event Date: November 9th, 1991

Event Description: Fitzkee Retires; Skyhawks Fold

Source: Baltiore Sun

Wide receiver Scott Fitzkee retired from the Baltimore Stars on Tuesday after 13 productive pro seasons.

Fitzkee finished his professional career with 350 receptions for 4845 yards and 50 touchdowns for the NFL's Philadelphia Eagles and San Diego Chargers before joining the USFL Stars in 1983.

"It has been an honor to be a part of the United States Football League and to have had the opportunity to represent three great organizations," said Fitzkee. "I never would have dreamt that professional football would've had such an impact on my life, but it has allowed me to develop friendships that will remain with me for the rest of my life."

In other pro football news:

A winless season and poor attendance forced officials of the Raleigh-Durham Skyhawks, as the World League of American Football team shut down yesterday.

It is now the property of the WLAF, and the possibility remains that the team could be moved -- possibly to Washington or even to Virginia where businessman Jim Speros, is spearheading a potential bid.

However, Speros said that he would rather have an expansion franchise than buy an existing franchise that went 0-10 in its only season.

more to come........

'91 Chronology: Blitz Hire Meyer

2011-07-29T18:59:00.002-04:00

Event Date: November 3rd, 1991

Event Description: Blitz Name Meyer Head Man

Source: Chicago Sun Times

He's leaving fall football for the spring time brand, but the new head coach of the Chicago Blitz says he's up to the task.

Ron Meyer, 50, was quickly hired to become head coach yesterday after being let go by the Indianapolis Colts in early October. Meyer was dismissed after the Colts started the season 0-5. He replaces Woody Widenhofer, who left the team after it was clear that they would not be returning to play in Oklahoma City.

"I march to the beat of a different drummer in my own way," laughed Meyer. "Hopefully we achieve the same level of success that I have had at both the collegiate and pro levels. That's our goal, to achieve the same level of success that I had while at SMU and in the National Football League."

Meyer's appointment as Blitz head coach wasn't a big surprise.

“Meyer has a great feel for our team, had a solid interview with the teams’ owners and is an excellent manager of locker-room where his players have always liked and supported him." said Executive Vice President Jim Foster.

more to come..........

'91 Chronology: Generals Sign Nuu Fullback

2011-07-28T13:32:00.004-04:00

Event Date: October 13th, 1991

Event Description: Generals Sign Faaola

Source: New York Daily News

Former New York Jets fullback Nuu Faaola, joined the New Jersey Generals and will compete for the starting fullback job come next spring.

Faaola, largely a blocking back while with the Jets and Dolphins, was signed to a two-year contract. He rushed for 71 yards on 20 carries, and caught two passes for 24 yards during his N.F.L. career. He also scored two touchdowns. While playing college ball for Hawaii, Faaola rushed for 1,446 yards and scored twelve touchdowns.

more to come.......

'91 Chronology: Sound Signing

2011-07-27T10:51:00.002-04:00

Event Date: October 11th, 1991

Event Description: Maulers Sign Ex-Browns Back

Source: Pittsburgh Daily News

The Pittsburgh Maulers signed free agent running back Mike Oliphant, who played the last two seasons with the Cleveland Browns, to a two-year contract.

Coach Sam Rutigliano said Wednesday that Oliphant is an ideal fit in the new system being installed by offensive coordinator Ellis Rainsberger.

"They've got a great head coach and some good players. They just need to put them all together," Oliphant said of the Maulers, who are coming off an 4-10 season.

"They're a team on the rise and I am really looking forward to getting back on the field next spring."

Oliphant, a versatile scatback out of the University of Puget Sound, joins Rodney Carter, Bryan Thomas and Greg Paterra in the running back mix. The Maulers still plan to either draft or sign another running back before next season.

more to come........

'91 Chronology: Fast Freddie!

2011-07-25T14:57:00.004-04:00

Event Date: October 2nd, 1991

Event Description: Invaders Name Helmsman

Source: PFW

The Oakland Invaders hired Fred Biletnikoff as their head coach Monday night, promoting the 48-year-old offensive coordinator.

Biletnikoff, former star receiver for the Oakland Raiders, earned the job with a strong interview Monday after the Invaders failed to reach a deal last week with former World League head coach Roman Gabriel.

Invaders front office executive Tom Fears confirmed the hiring in a conference with Pro Football Weekly. The agreement was first reported by San Francisco Chronicle. Biletnikoff is the Invaders' fourth head coach - and the youngest in franchise history.

Former coach John Ralston was moved to the front office after the season, and the teams’ ownership consortium was determined to hire another offensive-minded coach in the mold of former coach Charlie Sumner.

more to come.........

'91 Chronology: Internal Affairs

2011-07-17T18:11:00.001-04:00

Event Date: September 18th, 1991

Event Description: Breakers Hire Helmsman

Source: Times Picayune

After an exhaustive search, the New Orleans Breakers have found the replacement for June Jones from within the Breakers’ organization.

Offensive coordinator Jim Fassel was introduced as the Breakers' new head coach at a news conference on Wednesday. Jones resigned at the end of the regular season to become the offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons.

''As we go forward, our goal will be to achieve the very same high levels of excellence we established during the 1990 season when we made it to the league championship game,'' Fassel said. ''Success is achieved as we work together toward a common goal. That being said, I have such admiration for the other members of our coaching staff, and I look forward to working with them again in a collective effort.''

''As the off-season begins, it is important to recognize the fact we will be challenged each and every week, and, as such, we must be a better team next year,'' Fassel added. ''That will be our main goal, and it will be reflected in the way in which we work and prepare, as we seek the high level of play that our fans have come to expect and deserve.''

Fassel, who began his coaching career as an assistant at Stanford University, has also spent time with the Utah Utes as well as being the quarterbacks coach with the Breakers in 1984, before re-joining the team as offensive coordinator in 1987.

more to come........