In an exciting USFL matchup, the Michigan Panthers staged an incredible comeback to defeat the Philadelphia Stars 23-20. This thrilling victory took place at the Panthers’ home field and was crucial for Michigan as it secured their spot in the USFL North Division Championship.
Philadelphia Stars Breakdown
The Philadelphia Stars came out strong in the first half, putting up a total of 20 points. Quarterback Case Cookus completed 24 of his 44 passes, accumulating 247 yards in the air and throwing 2 touchdowns. Cookus also added 48 yards on 7 rushing attempts.
Wide receivers Devin Gray and Terry Wright were Cookus’ top targets. Gray led the team in receiving yards with 62, pulling in 9 receptions. Terry Wright had 6 receptions for 57 yards and a touchdown, while Diondre Overton caught a 29-yard touchdown pass.
Running back Dexter Williams rushed 10 times for 13 yards but was unable to find the endzone. Kicker Luis Aguilar had a solid day, successfully converting 2 extra points and hitting a field goal from between 20-29 yards out.
On the defensive side, the Stars put up a good fight. Cornerback Stanford Samuels III was a standout, leading the team with 6 tackles. Safety Cody Brown and LaDarius Wiley each contributed with 3 tackles.
However, the Stars couldn’t keep their momentum going into the second half and failed to put any points on the board, which ultimately led to their downfall.
Michigan Panthers Breakdown
The Michigan Panthers struggled in the first half, only managing to put 6 points on the board. However, they rallied in the second half, scoring 9 points in the third quarter and 8 in the fourth, to clinch a 23-20 victory.
Quarterback E.J. Perry was the playmaker for the Panthers, completing 12 of his 23 passes for 121 yards. Perry also ran for 48 yards on 10 carries, scoring a crucial rushing touchdown.
Wide receiver Kaden Davis had a notable performance, with 3 receptions for 32 yards. Trey Quinn also had a good day, making 3 receptions for 44 yards. Reggie Corbin was the lead rusher with 12 carries for 24 yards.
On the defensive side, cornerback Stanford Samuels III had an impressive game with 6 tackles, identical to his counterpart on the Stars. Linebacker Joel Dublanko contributed with 4 tackles, and safety LaDarius Wiley made 3.
Kicker Cole Murphy had a successful day, converting 2 field goals, including a crucial one from 40-49 yards.
Up Next
With this victory, the Michigan Panthers have clinched a playoff spot and will face Pittsburgh in the USFL North Division Championship on Saturday, June 24, at Canton, Ohio. The game is expected to be a hard-fought battle and will be televised on NBC at 8 p.m.
USFL Box Score
