Game Preview:
The Memphis Showboats will host the Houston Gamblers at their home field in a crucial week 7 matchup of the USFL season. Both teams are coming off decisive victories, the Showboats shutting out the Pittsburgh Maulers 22-0 and the Gamblers winning against the New Jersey Generals 16-10. The Gamblers are currently 4-2, while the Showboats stand at 3-3, hoping to even the odds and edge their way up in the standings.
Game Details:
- Date/Location: Sunday, May 28, 2023, at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium, Memphis, Tennessee
- Kickoff time: 2:30 PM ET
- Channel: USA Network
- Odds: Point spread: Gamblers -3 | Moneyline: Gamblers -167 favorites to win; Showboats +130 underdogs to win | Total scoring over/under: 43.5 points scored by both teams combined
Showboats vs Gamblers Season Overview:
The Showboats, led by QB Cole Kelley (833 yards, 4 TDs), are hoping to bounce back after an even start to the season. The Showboats will look to utilize their wide receiver Vinny Papale, who has racked up 248 receiving yards and a touchdown this season. They’ve shown strong defense, recently shutting out the Maulers, and will need to bring this intensity against the Gamblers.
The Gamblers, led by QB Kenji Bahar (970 yards, 7 TDs), have demonstrated a balanced approach on offense and defense. Justin Hall has been the go-to receiver with 355 yards and 4 TDs this season. They’ve held opponents to an average of less than 20 points per game.
Showboats Injury Report/Game Status:
On the injury front, the Showboats will be without defensive end Jeremiah Valoaga, who was recently placed on the injured reserve list. In his place, Jordan Ferguson has been signed as a free agent, but he has been transferred to the inactive roster for the upcoming game.
Showboats Active/Inactive List:
No major changes have been reported in the active/inactive list. The newly signed DE Jordan Ferguson is the only significant addition, but he is currently listed as inactive for the upcoming game.
Score Prediction:
This match-up is bound to be a closely contested one given the current form of both teams. The Gamblers are slight favorites going into the game, but the Showboats’ strong defensive showing last week might just give them the edge at home.
Showboats 24, Gamblers 21
