'85 Chronology-Sidelined

Event Date:  February 27th, 1985

Event Description: Sipe Surgery

Source: UPI

Brian Sipe was in satisfactory condition after surgery to repair his injured throwing arm, but doctors are uncertain when the Jacksonville Bulls quarterback will be able to play again.

Sipe, 35, suffered a separated right shoulder when he was tackled early in the second quarter of the Bulls' 10-9 loss to the Pittsburgh Maulers.

Surgeons secured Sipe's collarbone with an artificial ligament to give his torn shoulder ligaments a chance to heal. Sipe opted for the procedure after talking to other quarterbacks who have undergone similar operations, most notably Jim Plunkett of the NFL's Los Angeles Raiders.

Dr. Paul Shirley said the operation was a success, but it could be months before the extent of Sipe's recovery is apparent.

“He could do some light throwing in six weeks if everything goes perfect,” Shirley said. “He could play after eight weeks, but that's the optimistic view.”

Sipe signed a two-year contract with the Bulls earlier this month that is worth an estimated $800,000 a season. The 12-year veteran, who last year jumped from the NFL's Cleveland Browns to New Jersey of the USFL, was traded to Jacksonville earlier this month to allow Doug Flutie to become the Generals' starting quarterback.

Nick Kish, director of player personnel for the Bulls, said Jacksonville is looking for a player to replace Sipe. The Bulls released Matt Robinson and former Duke standout Ben Bennett after signing Sipe.

Bulls coach Lindy Infante said second-string quarterback Robbie Mahfouz will start next week with Buck Belue as backup.

In other USFL news; the Memphis Showboats spoiled the debut of the San Antonio Gunslingers as the ‘Boats scored a 41-30 home victory over the leagues’ newest team. 

Quarterback Walter Lewis tossed a career-high five touchdown passes while piling up over 400 yards passing. Derrick Crawford led all receivers with seven receptions for 140 yards and three scores.

In other Monday action, the Michigan Panthers scored a 41-14 upset victory at Arizona as the Panthers dominated play throughout. Michgan pivot Bobby Hebert passed for 356 yards and tossed a pair of touchdowns to Derek Holloway. Star wideout Anthony Carter also chipped in with seven receptions for 164 yards.