The Birmingham Stallions solidified their playoff spot by defeating the Memphis Showboats with a score of 27-20. This USFL thriller saw both teams showcasing their prowess, but Birmingham’s performance was ultimately the deciding factor. Quarterback Alex McGough made USFL history and confidently stated after the game, “I am now the Captain of this ship.”
Birmingham Stallions:
Offense:
The Birmingham Stallions’ offense was led by the record-breaking performance of quarterback Alex McGough. McGough threw for 282 yards, completing 22 of 33 passes with 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. He also rushed for 32 yards. His regular-season statistics include a modern USFL record of 2,507 total yards, 25 touchdowns (20 passing, 5 rushing), and a 67.4% completion rate.
Running back CJ Marable contributed significantly with 56 rushing yards on 10 attempts, including a rushing touchdown. Jace Sternberger, the tight end, had 84 receiving yards on 4 catches, with a spectacular 46-yard touchdown. Wide receiver Davion Davis also had an impressive game with 114 receiving yards on 9 receptions.
Defense:
On the defensive side, the Stallions were quite sturdy. Cornerback Nate Brooks snagged an interception and added four tackles. Dondrea Tillman added a sack and a tackle from the defensive tackle position. Rashad Smith, the middle linebacker, led the team in tackles with five.
Special Teams:
Kicker Brandon Aubrey was essential to the victory, successfully converting three field goals.
Memphis Showboats:
Offense:
For Memphis Showboats, quarterback Cole Kelley went 20 for 30, throwing for 154 yards with 1 touchdown and 1 interception. He also rushed for 9 yards. Running back Ezra Gray had an outstanding game with 82 rushing yards on 16 attempts and added 11 receiving yards on 2 catches. Wide receiver Derrick Dillon had 5 receptions for 38 yards, while Osirus Mitchell added 36 yards on 3 receptions. Vinny Papale, the wide receiver, scored a touchdown and tallied 8 receiving yards.
Defense:
Memphis’ defense was also solid. Dondrea Tillman recorded a sack and a tackle. Nate Brooks, the cornerback, had an interception and four tackles. Linebacker Rashad Smith made five tackles, leading the team in that regard.
Special Teams:
Kicker Alex Kessman contributed 6 points by successfully converting two field goals.
Final Take:
With this victory, the Birmingham Stallions improved their record to 8-2, while the Memphis Showboats dropped to 5-5. As the regular season concludes, the Stallions head to the playoffs with momentum, led by their talisman, Alex McGough. On the other hand, the Memphis Showboats will look to build upon this season’s performance for the next campaign.
USFL Box Score
