March 8, 2017
We are doing things a little differently in our Two-Part USFL Preview this year. Rather than dedicate a whole edition to past moves and stories and another to preview the season ahead, we are returning to an older format, splitting the series between the Eastern and Western Conferences. In this first edition we focus on the East, with lead stories, team previews, discussion of the names to follow and then wrap up with a preview of the best games in Weeks 1-8. Our second half will do the same with the 14 Western Conference Teams, along with an update on the San Antonio stadium saga, and then wrap up with the best games of the season’s 2nd half and a preview of Week 1 action.
So, let’s get this party started, exploring the Beasts of the East.
New Coaches Not New to USFL Football
Two new coaches join the Eastern Conference, though neither is truly new to the league. Bruce Arians was unemployed for less than a month after being let go by the St. Louis Skyhawks. The 2012 Championship coach now resides in Atlanta, where the Fire have been anything but championship caliber since returning to the league in 2006. Over their 11-season history, Atlanta has had 3 winning seasons and has advanced out of the Wild Card round only twice. After a 4-12 season and a major shakedown at QB, the Fire are a team very much looking for a rebirth, and Coach Arians, who took a fledgling Skyhawk team from also-rans to league champs is looking to do it again.
Tampa Bay’s new head coach, June Jones, has not coached in the USFL since the late 1980’s, but after being an understudy to Run & Shoot mastermind Mouse Davis, Jones has become the wide open offensive scheme’s greatest proponent, taking the spread formation and its quick, undersized receivers to the University of Hawaii and Southern Methodist, helping both programs overcome recruiting disadvantages by using innovative formations, play calling, and decision-making. Jones will bring that innovative and dynamic approach to a Bandits squad that has lacked in big plays the past few seasons. Tampa Bay may have become something of a running gag as they have failed to bring in the high publicity QB they have sought each of the past 3 years, but Coach Jones insists he can win with the team he has, even if he is still uncertain who will play QB for him, 2nd year player Dak Prescott or recent NFL import E. J. Manuel.
5 New Faces to Watch in the East
Every season brings new faces to teams across the league. Some add roster depth, others fill gaps in the roster, but some are ready to shine, redefining their public perception with a new team, a new opportunity, and a new chance to put their best on the field. As we look at the 14 Eastern Conference teams, there is no shortage of candidates for potential immediate impact among the newly signed USFL and NFL free agents. We reviewed every roster and these are the 5 players we see in the conference who could rocket into the national consciousness with a new chance on a new team.
1. FS Rafael Bush (Federals)-NFL Import
Bush joins the Federals after 7 seasons in the NFL with 4 different teams. In that time he topped 50 tackles on two different occasions, including this fall in Detroit. He joins a Federals team that has needed a strong safety presence since the retirement of Ed Reed 3 years ago. Bush has a chance to become a leader on a relatively young and inexperienced secondary.
2. CB Patrick Robinson (Showboats) -Free Agent
Coming over from the Denver Gold, a 31-year old veteran of 7 USFL campaigns, the crafty cornerback has averaged nearly 70 tackles per season over the past 3 years. More of a pass defender than a ball hawk, Roberston has averaged over 20 pass defenses a year since coming into the league with the Bandits in 2010.
3. QB E. J. Manuel (Bandits) -NFL Import
The former 1st round pick of the Buffalo Bills, Manuel started strong, with 1,900 yards in his rookie year, but Buffalo was not the spot where this FSU grad could succeed. He struggled through 2 injury-shortened seasons and lost his starting job in 2016. Manuel is hoping a return to Florida is just the tonic for what must feel like an endless cold in Buffalo. He will have to beat out 2nd year QB Dak Prescott to get a chance, but Bandit fans see in Manuel a native son ready for a comeback in the Sunshine State.
4. WR Keenan Allen (Federals) -Free Agent
Allen needs no recuperation. The 2nd Washington Federal on our list has proven over the past 3 seasons that he is as dynamic and dangerous as any receiver in the game. Competing with Davante Adams for targets in Oakland got old for Allen, so he declined a contract extension and now finds himself a top target for David Garrard in Washington. Allen will combine with Brandon LaFell as the Federals’ top targets, and could have a career season facing opponents who are less familiar with his moves.
5. TE C. J. Uzomah (Blitz) -Traded from St. Louis
Uzomah is a big, strong end with good hands. He struggled to escape Rob Gronkowski’s shadow in St. Louis but now takes over as the top TE in the Blitz offense, filling in the very big shoes of retired legend Antonio Gates. Uzomah had only 25 receptions in 2016 but we would not be shocked if he doubled, maybe even tripled that production with his new club.
Five Rookies Who Could Have an Impact in the East
Another year and another crop of bright-eyed rookies looking to make a splash in their pro debuts. Last year it was Philadelphia’s Derrick Henry who most impressed USFL fans with a stellar premier season. Who will it be this season?
HB Leonard Fournette (Breakers)
No rookie finds himself in a better situation than Fournette. The Breakers are a legitimate Summer Bowl contender, with an All-USFL quarterback in Drew Brees, a lights-out defense, and a solid coach in former LB Lamar Lathon. Fournette so impressed the Breakers that they traded away their 2016 lead rusher, Jeremy Hill, to the Vipers. That means that Fournette has the gig if he wants it. All he has to do now is produce.
QB Mitchell Trubisky (Monarchs)
Another team that went all in on their top rookie, Charlotte ditched QB Brandon Wheedon and his 20+ picks per season, sending him to Dallas to be a backup. That clears the path for UNC star Mitch Trubisky to start on Week 1. That can be a lot, and we hope the Monarchs and their fans keep reasonable expectations for a rookie QB, but the potential is there for Trubisky to establish himself as a franchise player with a solid first season.
S Budda Baker (Gamblers)
Houston has a few intriguing rookies, including wideouts JuJu Smith-Schuster and Josh Reynolds, but the newbie who has stood out all camp long has been safety Budda Baker. Baker’s camp was so strong that he will be given a chance to start at free safety rather than sit behind Kenny Vaccaro in the strong safety position.
LB Haasan Reddick (Stars)
Can the Stars make it 2 ROTY candidates in a row? Why not? Houston did it with Carlos Hyde and Ramik Wilson. Now the Stars have their defensive stud in the draft, a year after taking HB Derrick Henry. Reddick looks like a hitting machine, ready to take out blockers and feast on backs.
TE O. J. Howard (Fire)
At Alabama, Howard was an oft-undervalued asset, but he can dominate in coverage against either a safety (too small) or a linebacker (too slow). Expect Atlanta’s QB, whoever that ends up being, depending on Howard for that outlet pass. If we had a better sense of Atlanta’s QB plan, we might even call Howard a dark horse for ROTY, but right now it is hard to have faith that Atlanta has the QB needed to make a receiver an All-USFL target.
So, those are the players to keep an eye on, but what about the teams themselves. Let’s get right into our division-by-division and team-by-team analysis with the Northeast Division, perhaps the most balanced of any in the game.
The 10 Best Players in the Division
This is going to be tough, trying to name only 10 players who stand out in a division where we could see 3, maybe even 4 clubs make the postseason. But, we will give it a try, our Top 10 NE Division Stars coming right up.
QB Ben Roethlisberger, BAL
Big Ben is a near lock to be an MVP candidate as he guides Baltimore’s explosive offense.
QB Andy Dalton, PIT
The Maulers and Dalton expect a big upswing in 2017 after a very rough 2016.
HB Derrick Henry, PHI
What can Henry do for an encore after a stellar rookie campaign?
HB Maurice Jones-Drew, NJ
MJD enters his 12th season with 1,200 yards and 16 TDs as his personal goals.
WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, BAL
The most dangerous receiver in the division, DHB will get some competition from Cruz, OBJ, and newcomer Keenan Allen this year.
DT Aaron Donald, PIT
A dominant force inside, Donald is the prototype of the new defensive tackle.
DE Vic Beasley, NJ
After sharing the spotlight with Aaron Kampman last year, Beasley is hoping to eclipse 20 sacks this season.
LB Shawne Merriman, WSH
Merriman was a stud, but not a star in Denver, but that can all change in the eastern media market frenzy. Expect his highlights to light up the D.C. airways.
SS Adam Archuleta, BAL
Not the flashiest player in the division, but certainly one of the best. Archuleta is ready to start a 17th campaign in the USFL.
Team Previews
BALTIMORE BLITZ
2016 Recap: The Blitz struggled to an 0-4 start, then came on with 9 wins in their final 12 games to lock up a Wild Card before getting knocked out of the postseaon by Orlando.
Biggest Offseason Story: The retirement of Antonio Gates was the news that most impacts the Blitz for 2017, though they did well to recover by trading to acquire C. J. Uzomah from the Skyhawks.
Player to Watch: HB Kerwynn Williams has been promoted to the starting position, though we still expect to see a lot of Anthony Dixon as well. If Williams can prove his worth as the starter, Baltimore’s offense could again be very tough to keep contained.
Why Be Bullish?: The Blitz have one of the league’s best passing attacks, with a veteran QB who can command a game. The defense may not be dominant, but they are certainly good enough to protect a lead when Baltimore gets one, which is often.
Why Be Concerned?: We are still somewhat shocked that the Blitz have not done more to improve their run game. The duo of Anthony Dixon and Kerwynn Williams was good enough to combine for over 1,300 yards in 2016, but you never feel like they can control a game, and if teams can stay with Baltimore early on, their D is not ideal for holding teams down for 60 minutes when they are not chasing from behind.
NEW JERSEY GENERALS
2016 Recap: Picked by many to finish last, the Generals stunned everyone, winning 11 games and taking the division title at 11-5. They knocked Orlando out of the postseason but fell in the Conference Title Game to Memphis by a single failed 2-point conversion.
Biggest Offseason Story: The Generals hit on several draft picks, including WR Zay Jones and LB Matt Milano, but the one that got away will likely haunt them as LB/DE T. J. Watt ended up signing with the NFL Steelers.
Player to Watch: Expect Coach Turner to move both Aaron Kampman and Vic Beasley from side to side to confuse blocking schemes. Both believe they are the best edge rusher on the squad, so we could be looking at another NY Sack Exchange if they both compete with each other, not good news for opposing tackles.
Why Be Bullish?: New Jersey’s rise to the division title does not feel like a fluke. They had a balanced offense and the 2nd best scoring defense in the league. In the offseason they added quality on both sides of the ball and we think Norv Turner knows how to use his young QB in a way that does not expose the flaws in his game.
Why Be Concerned?: Brett Hundley played well last year, but can he carry a team that won’t be sneaking up on anyone? The defense seems solid, and we know MJD can produce big games, so Hundley remains the one piece of uncertainty for a team most think have a good shot to repeat their 2016 performance.
PHILADELPHIA STARS
2016 Recap: The Stars started the season very strong, surprising many, but faded in the middle third. They rallied to finish the year 9-7, but just missed the playoffs on a tiebreaker.
Biggest Offseason Story: The Stars made a play to get Clemson’s Deshaun Watson at QB, trading with the Monarchs to select Watson, but the dual threat QB jumped to the NFL, which means a somewhat offended Matt Gutierrez will now be playing with a chip on his shoulder.
Player to Watch: When Stevie Johnson went down mid-season, the Stars traded to bring Randall Cobb in. Now Cobb will be on the field with Johnson to form a very dangerous 1-2 combo. Watch to see which receiver become’s Gutierrez’s go to threat.
Why Be Bullish?: The Stars, by all accounts, had one of the better drafts of any team, landing 4 potential 2017 starters (G Dion Dawkins, LB Haasan Reddick, LB Tanner Vallejo and P Rigoberto Sanchez), and they have the defending ROTY in a key position. That is a nice youth movement.
Why Be Concerned?: There are still concerns that Matt Gutierrez has been slowly sliding backwards for several years, and that is without the psychological blow that Philly’s pursuit of Deshaun Watson caused. If he is not the answer at QB, then Philadelphia could again come up short in a very tough division.
PITTSBURGH MAULERS
2016 Recap: After a dominant 13-3 season in 2015, last year was about as fast a collapse as we have ever seen. Injuries, penalties, and just sloppy play doomed the Maulers to a 6-10 collapse. They certainly hope to regain 2015 form this year.
Biggest Offseason Story: The Maulers were relatively quiet considering their 2016 collapse. They brought in Jay Ajayi to help with returns and add some 3rd down sizzle, but they largely held pat in hopes that a healthy 2017 squad could regain their form from 2 years ago.
Player to Watch: If the Maulers are going to rebound, it is the D-line that will tip us off. Watch Arnold, Freeney, and Jared Allen. If they start the year off strong, the Maulers could ride their talents back to the top of the division.
Why Be Bullish?: If healthy, the combo of Thielen, Cruz and Mike Williams is one of the best 3-deep receiver groups in the league, and we know Andy Dalton can get them the ball. Throw in a very intimidating front 4 and you have a team that could rebound in a big way.
Why Be Concerned?: While the D-line is certainly elite, that is where the quality seems to end. Other than Paul Posluszny, the LB group is among the league’s weakest, and the secondary is not scaring anyone either. Could the defense again be a major issue?
WASHINGTON FEDERALS
2016 Recap: The Federals were competitive all season long, but some late week losses cost them a shot at a Wild Card and left them at 8-8 when the season wound down.
Biggest Offseason Story: The retirement of Deuce McCallister is a huge blow to the Feds, but they did not sit on their laurels, trading with Oakland to bring in Donald Brown, a 1,000-yard rusher in a 2-back system for the Invaders.
Player to Watch: Brown will be important, but it is wideout Keenan Allen who has folks in DC excited about the Federals’ offense. Not since Deion Branch retired has Washington had a true 1-2 combo outside, and now with Allen and LaFell they could be looking deep early and often.
Why Be Bullish?: The combo of Brandon LaFell and Keenan Allen could electrify the Federal passing game, and we love some of the additions on defenes: NFL import Rafael Bush and LB Shawne Merriman in particular.
Why Be Concerned?: It is nice that Washington got Donald Brown off the Invaders, but he is no Deuce McCallister, and there has to be an expectation that the run game will take a step backwards. We are also not sold on what appears to be a pretty thin defense, with hints that even the starting 11 has some exploitable weak spots.
Our Predictions for the NE Division
This could be the toughest division of the six this year to correctly predict. Last year we did not see the rise of the Generals or the collapse of the Maulers. We could very easily see the division flip upside down again. So, what do we think is realistic? Here are the 4 things we think we think right now:
1. We think Pittsburgh will rebound and at least be over .500 by season’s end.
2. We think Philadelphia can only go as far as Matt Gutierrez can take them, and that
may well be a sub-500 finish.
3. We think Washington can get over the hump this year. They added quality on both
sides of the ball and they have a settled veteran at QB.
4. We think New Jersey may take a step back. They overachieved last year, and we
think that will catch up with them.
So, after saying all that, what does it mean? It means we are going to pick Baltimore to regain the division title. They are the most complete team in the division and have the best QB as well. We think they are followed by Washington and New Jersey, both of whom could make the postseason as Wild Cards, and we think Philly and Pittsburgh will finish 4th and 5th, but not as 10-loss teams, more likely at 7-9 or even 8-8.
The 10 Best Players in the Southeast
Another very tough Top 10 list to curate as the Southeast has talent all over the board. We did our best, and these are the 10 players we just could not imagine this season without.
QB Russell Wilson, ORL
While the QB play in the division as a whole has been an issue, Wilson is growing into a solid performer and can, when on his game, be a difference maker.
QB Robert Griffin III, JAX
As a runner, there are few with Griffin’s moves and speed. As a passer, he needs to be more accurate and make better throws, but if he can, Jacksonville could be a quick riser.
HB Adrian Peterson, CHA
We are fascinated by even the hint that AD can get back to the form we saw in his NFL heyday.
WR D. J. Hackett, CHA
D. J. is not going to wow you with speed, or make 1-handed grabs that produce gasps, what he is going to do is get open when you need a play and make that first down.
WR Michael Jenkins, ORL
Very much like Hackett, Jenkins is a possession receiver, not a gamebreaker, but week in and week out he just comes through and will almost certainly be a league leader in receptions.
DE Calais Campbell, ORL
The dominant defensive player of a generation, perhaps of all time. No one has come close for nearly a decade, and as long as he is on the field, offenses cannot feel good about their schemes.
DE Barkevious Mingo, JAX
Not as productive as CC, but a player with flair, energy, and style. He makes every sack, every tackle for loss a celebration, and that makes him fun to watch.
LB Luke Kuechley, ATL
Perhaps undervalued on a shaky Atlanta team, Kuechley is one of the best young linebackers in the game. We expect Bruce Arians to get the most out of him this year.
LB Brian Orakpo, TBY
A nasty tackler, and somehow always in the right place to make the big play. He needs more support around him, but the former NFL star is no one to trifle with.
CB Dominique Rogers-Cromartie, JAX
One of the driving forces of Jacksonville’s defense, DRC can be a shut-down corner, a ball hawk, or a press nightmare.
Team Previews
ATLANTA FIRE
2016 Recap: A 4-12 season pretty much tells you what you need to know, but throw in QB confusion, a lack of consistent run game, and a poor defense and you have a team that needed a change, and so Coach Ramsey is gone and Bruce Arians is the new man in the big office.
Biggest Offseason Story: We could say Arians, but honestly the question everyone is asking in Atlanta is why the Fire did not do more to lock up a clear number one QB. They got UGA product Aaron Murray from the Fire, traded Kyle Orton away, and signed Notre Dame’s Deshone Kyzer, but no one is sure who will step up this year, if anyone.
Player to Watch: With an uncertain QB situation, we are just not sure how Roy Williams is going to match his numbers from Houston, but the veteran wideout absolutely has to be a focal point of this offense. Problem is every defense they face will believe that as well.
Why Be Bullish?: There is talent on defense, especially the LB group with Kuechley, Patrick Willis and Dannell Ellerbe, and Chris Kelsay has been consistently over 15 sacks per year. If the secondary can come together under the leadership of FS Earl Thomas, the Fire could have a Top 5 unit.
Why Be Concerned?: Quarterback, plain and simple. Who is going to be the QB for this team. Is it Aaron Murray after several “meh” years in LA? Will Brad Gradkowski get a shot or is he just a semi-decent backup, and is Deshone Kizer ready? Without a QB, and without a clear bell cow back, we are not sure how Atlanta is going to put up enough points to escape the SE Division cellar.
CHARLOTTE MONARCHS
2016 Recap: After a 6-1 Start, the wheels came off the bus and Charlotte lost 6 in a row, dropping from first place all the way out of the playoffs with an eventual 8-8 record and a QB change in the offseason.
Biggest Offseason Story: The discarding of Brandon Wheedon (sent off to Dallas for marginal draft picks) and the hype over UNC rookie Mitchell Trubisky are without a doubt the focal points of the Monarch offseason. Fans are expecting a lot from a rookie with barely a year and a half of college experience.
Player to Watch: Aside from Trubisky, which is too obvious for us, we want to see what Adrian Peterson does with a full offseason of rest and rehab and with a new role as the clear lead back for the Monarchs.
Why Be Bullish?: There is a lot of excitement around QB Mitch Trubisky, but we are honestly more interested in a defense that has quietly been adding talent every year, form DE Chandler Jones to LBs Jerod Mayo and Rolando McClain, and then CB Derech Cox, there is some muscle here.
Why Be Concerned?: We just don’t trust rookie QBs to come in and succeed in their first year, especially with a questionable run game, questionable as long as Adrian Peterson plays like he is not fully back from ACL injury. We also wonder who in the receiving corps is capable of turning in some 20+ yard plays? We don’t see a lot of game breaking ability here.
JACKSONVILLE BULLS
2016 Recap: The Bulls started the year strong, leaning on a much-improved defense to pull off some upsets, but they could not sustain the momentum without more offense, and fell to a 5-11 final record.
Biggest Offseason Story: The Bulls are apparently fully committed to building through the draft, because they did not sign a single free agent of note. In the draft they looked to improve the offense, signing WR Mike Williams from Clemson, QB C. J. Beathard of Iowa, and a potential QB-turned-TE, Taysom Hill of BYU.
Player to Watch: Despite all the offensive rookies brought in, our favorite addition is rookie LB Alex Anzelone of Florida, who is already slated to be part of the starting defensive 11.
Why Be Bullish?: It’s all about the defense with the Bulls. With the addition of rookie Alex Anzelone, alongside Sean Lee, Jarret Johnson and Jordan Hicks, and with Rogers-Cromartie holding down the opposition’s best receiver, there is a lot to like about this defense. We want to see more in the pass rush, but otherwise this is a solid D that can win some games.
Why Be Concerned?: The defense may have to win games because it does not look like the Bulls did nearly enough to produce more offense. Is Matt Jones really a lead back? Who among Reuben Randle, Mike Williams, and Tavon Austin is going to break down a defense? And can Robert Griffin prove he is a passer as well as a runner? We have lots of doubts.
ORLANDO RENEGADES
2016 Recap: The Renegades had some impressive wins and Calais Campbell again proved why he may be the GOAT as an edge rusher. The result, a 10-6 record, the division title, but a quick exit as they could not generate offense in New Jersey.
Biggest Offseason Story: It was pretty quiet in Orlando, though we do like two of their draft picks, TE David Njoku and S Marcus Maye, both Florida products (U. of Miami & the Gators). Both are expected to start for the Renegades, who otherwise look very much like the 2016 team.
Player to Watch: Too easy to say Campbell, so we are going to pick a different defender. The loss of Albert Haynesworth at DT means that Ego Ferguson has big shoes to fill. His success in the middle could determine if Moats and Campbell can go wild on the edge again.
Why Be Bullish?: David Njoku could be a nice addition to the offense, giving Russell Wilson another potential target. The run game is solid, with room to improve, and the defense has playmakers at every level. A lot to be excited about.
Why Be Concerned?: We are putting a lot of faith in Ego Ferguson to replace Albert Haynesworth. If he cannot hold the middle, it makes Campbell and Moats much less effective, and if Orlando cannot stop the run, then the opportunities for sacks on passing downs is lessened. Orlando still looks like the class of the division, but what if they want to actually win a playoff game?
TAMPA BAY BANDITS
2016 Recap: The Bandits were, well, a train wreck. QB Pat White got hurt in the opener, so rookie Dak Prescott ended up starting the rest of the season. But, the rookie struggled, the run game was a disaster, and the result was an embarrassing 4-win season for a proud franchise.
Biggest Offseason Story: The Bandits again could not land the QB they desired. Unlike the past 2 years, they did not go for the rookie, but tried to land free agent Eli Manning, only to lose out to Las Vegas. So, they return Dak Prescott and bring in former Seminole and supposed “draft bust” E. J. Manuel from the NFL. Can either of them be effective in June Jones’s version of the Run & Shoot?
Player to Watch: People often forget that the Run & Shoot depends on the run game as a balance to the spread receivers. Rookie Dalvin Cook from Miami could be huge if he can take advantage of defenses that have to focus on the pass and play in nickel or dime coverage.
Why Be Bullish?: Both the Bandits coaches and those of us who have watched have loved what we have seen in Dalvin Cook during camp. He has speed, hands, and a killer first move. Even if the Bandits cannot turn around the win-loss record, he will make them more fun to watch. Throw him into a run & shoot and we may have some fun on our hands.
Why Be Concerned?: We think the defense will be better, but we are looking at the roster and wondering if June Jones really has the pieces needed to run an effective spread offense. We still don’t know who the QB will be: NFL disappointment E. J. Manuel or 2nd year question mark Dak Prescott. And when we think of the prototypical run & shoot receivers, Hank Basket, Santonio Holmes, and Ryan Grant don’t seem to match the mold.
Our Predictions for the SE Division
On paper the Southeast looks like it could be the weakest division once again. Outside of Orlando there is just not a lot of confidence in these teams. Someone will probably rise to the level of 9-7 or 8-8, but your guess is as good as ours as to who will do it. We could also see Orlando go 8-0 in division games. They likely won’t but if they do, then we could see a situation where they lock up the division by Week 12 and we get 4 teams in a 5-team division finishing with 10 losses. So, what else do we see happening in the SE Division this Year? Here are four fearless but perhaps bold predictions.
1) Charlotte HB Adrian Peterson returns to form and rushes for 1,200 yards.
2) Jacksonville QB Robert Griffin III becomes the first QB in league history to rush for 1,000 yards.
3) Without Albert Haynesworth in the middle, Calais Campbell records fewer than 25 sacks, but ends the season with more than 100 tackles.
4) In June Jones' spread offense, rookie HB Dalvin Cook averages over 5 yards per carry and has more than 30 receptions.
The 10 Best Players in the South
Who are the best in the South? The sweet tea and BBQ of USFL talent? Only 4 teams, so we go even deeper to pick our 10 standouts of southern football.
QB Drew Brees, NOR
We are still not sure if Drew is a tactician or a gunslinger, because he can be either one whenever the need arises. With Jordy Nelson now in New Orleans, he could have a really big year.
QB Cam Newton, BIR
We are still waiting for Cam’s dynamic plays to turn into more wins for the Stallions, but you cannot deny that he is just dangerous, at any time.
HB Carlos Hyde, HOU
After a stellar rookie year, Hyde has become one of the game’s best, both as a runner and a receiver.
WR Robert Woods, MEM
Woods did not show much in LA, but last year in Memphis he proved almost impossible to cover, especially in those mid-range routes.
WR Mike Evans, HOU
A monster to defend, he will go up and get the ball no matter where it is thrown. A red zone nightmare for defensive coordinators.
DT Albert Haynesworth, HOU
As if Houston’s D was not scary enough, they add perhaps the most disruptive DT in the game today. Haynesworth’s presence will make the DE’s even better. That is scary.
DE Ty Warren, NOR
We need to start celebrating this man more. He has been outstanding for the Breakers for years, and we just don’t talk about him enough.
LB DeMeco Ryans, BIR
The Stallions have a leader and a playmaker on defense. If they can just add more around him, he could really shine.
CB Patrick Peterson, NOR
Yes, Randall Gay is gone, but PP is ready to step up and the the undisputed number one shut down corner in the South. A ballhawk with an attack philosophy, Peterson is a big play machine.
CB Leodis McKelvin, HOU
McK came on last year and is ready to step up and be considered an elite corner. Not afraid to come in on the run, he is in the mix all 3 downs every drive.
Team Previews
BIRMINGHAM STALLIONS
2016 Recap: The Stallions never really got on track, and while the other three teams in the division battled over playoff position, the Stallions just seemed to battle with their own mistakes, dropping to 6-10 and last place in the South.
Biggest Offseason Story: Cap crunch was the story of the offseason for the Stallions. They had a solid draft but did very little in free agency because they just could not find ways to free up more funds, not a good look for a last-place club trying to improve.
Player to Watch: After gaining 849 and 958 yards in his first two seasons, this could be a make-or-break year for tailback T. J. Yeldon. Birmingham needs him to take a big step forward, a 1,000 or even 1,200 yard step, If he cannot show growth this year, the Stallions may well have to prioritize the position for improvement in 2018.
Why Be Bullish?: The talent is certainly there on offense, from Newton to Yeldon to a receiver group that has Ameri Cooper, Dontrelle Inman and a good receiving TE in Hunter Henry. If they can just find a scheme that maximizes their talents, they could be an elite offense.
Why Be Concerned?: Birmingham had needs on defense. They brought in bodies, but we don’t see any impact moves that turn this mediocre group into a potential shut down defense. Birmingham may well have to win a lot of shootouts.
HOUSTON GAMBLERS
2016 Recap: The Gamblers essentially sat in first place from Week 1 through Week 16. Yes, the Breakers and upstart Showboats made things interesting, but even with Matt Hasselbeck missing several games, Houston never relinquished their claim on the division. They finished an impressive 13-3, but then were shocked by rival Memphis in the playoffs.
Biggest Offseason Story: The retirement of Matt Hasselbeck was a lot cleaner than most, with Colt McCoy essentially anointed as the heir apparent after some very good games in relief when Hasselbeck was dinged up. So now it is McCoy’s team. What can he do with it?
Player to Watch: With Roy Williams gone, Houston double-dipped to get receivers in the draft. We think that it will be USC’s JuJu Smith-Schuster who will prove the breakout star, but don’t ignore A&M’s Josh Reynolds, who could also see a lot of action.
Why Be Bullish?: What is not to love? They added the best DT in the league to their already tough defense. They added two more weapons on offense with Smith-Schuster and Josh Reynolds, and it looks like the trade to get a shot at Budda Baker is going to pay off. He is already locked in to start and Coach Phillips loves his game.
Why Be Concerned?: Look, we saw some good things from Colt McCoy last year, but being dubbed the starter and heir to Matt Hasselbeck is a whole different enchilada. What if the pressure gets to McCoy? What if teams start to figure out his tells? A new QB is always a potential disaster. We don’t think it will be, but the possibility is there.
MEMPHIS SHOWBOATS
2016 Recap: Memphis was one of the feel-good stories of 2016, rising from mediocrity to challenge Houston for the division and finishing with the 2nd best record in the conference at 12-4. The Showboats took the long road but found themselves in the Summer Bowl after upsetting the Gamblers in Houston. They could not outmuscle the Arizona Wranglers, but it was still a very Cinderella story for the Showboats last year.
Biggest Offseason Story: Do we even need to say it? The Eli Manning saga was all anyone could talk about. Could Memphis find a way to resign him? When that did not happen, was Paxton Lynch ready? We still don’t know, but who else does Memphis have? Well, a late offseason trade brings Kyle Orton to the Showboats, but many fans are hoping they never see him on the field. Lynch will get his shot and many hope he proves Memphis to be geniuses by transitioning to him over Manning.
Player to Watch: It has to be Lynch, right? Memphis signed the 2015 rookie after struggling with Eli Manning at the helm. The move somehow inspired Manning to have a career season, and now, with Eli in Las Vegas, the Showboats need Lynch to look good or they all look foolish for prioritizing the 2015 rookie over the All-USFL QB who got them to the Summer Bowl. No pressure, Paxton.
Why Be Bullish?: We saw a lot of good last year, from the 1-2 punch of Gurley and Allen in the backfield, to the development of Robert Woods, and the defense taking on the intensity of Coach Ryan. There is a lot there, and the trip to the Summer Bowl does not feel like a fluke.
Why Be Concerned?: All that is true, but where is Eli? Oh yeah, he bolted. So now it all falls on a 2nd year QB who only saw about 1 game’s worth of action as a rookie. And how troubling is it to say “If Lynch flounders, we have Kyle Orton”. Not soothing, right?
NEW ORLEANS BREAKERS
2016 Recap: The defending USFL Champions suffered a bit from Championship hangover, which happens more often than not. They started the year off slowly, but rallied late. It was not enough to win the division, but it did return them to the playoffs. However, in the postseason, their defense was not enough to defeat the Showboats and they had a quick exit in the Wild Card round.
Biggest Offseason Story: The love story between the Breakers and LSU halfback Leonard Fournette was all the rage in the Big Easy this summer. New Orleans outbid the NFL Jaguars and Fournette is now staying in Louisiana to turn pro. The Breakers put all their faith in Fournette to revive the run game, sending 2016 starter Jeremy Hill off to Las Vegas in a post-draft trade.
Player to Watch: The other big story this offseason was the retirement, very unexpected, of WR Early Doucet. So, what does New Orleans do to respond, only outhustle several other teams to sign St. Louis’s stud receiver Jordy Nelson to a deal that makes him one of the highest paid receivers in the game. He will now be the prime target for Drew Brees, and we expect big things.
Why Be Bullish?: Leonard Fournette could help take this offense to a new level. Throw in the deep threat of Jordy Nelson as well and Drew Brees could be about to explode. Oh, and the defense is still nasty, with the additions of C. J. Mosely and Tre’Davious White only adding to their potential game-changing potential.
Why Be Concerned?: New Orleans looks solid, we will admit that, but we are concerned that this team has some real issues in places where you don’t want them, the O-line and the linebacker group. If teams can exploit those two areas, even excellent skill players can be made irrelevant.
Our Predictions for the Southern Division
The South will likely be a 3-team race once again. Any one of the the three (Houston, Memphis, New Orleans) could win it, though we tend to lean towards the Breakers for one obvious reason, they are starting a veteran QB with a lot of high pressure game experience. Now, maybe Colt McCoy or Paxton Lynch will prove to be the perfect fits for their teams, but we already know that Drew Brees is. So, we are going to go with New Orleans atop the division, Houston next, thanks in part to their defense, and then Memphis sliding back to 9-7 or even 8-8 as Lynch learns the pro game. And yes, Birmingham is also there, and they could surprise us, but we are not ready to predict that yet. But, what about our bold predictions? Never fear, we have not forgotten them. Here are 4 big swings for this year in the South.
1) Breaker QB Drew Brees finishes with over 4,000 yards as Jordy Nelson tops 1,500 on the year.
2) Houston HB Carlos Hyde combines rushing and passing for over 2,000 yards.
3) Memphis's combo of Todd Gurley and Anthony Allen combine for 30 TDs.
4) Birmingham LB DeMeco Ryans sets a new team record with over 150 tackles in 2017.
8 Games not to miss in Weeks 1-8
Week 1: Denver @ Arizona: The defending champs open up their title defense with a bitter rival and a team trying to prove they can hang with the big boys this year.
Week 2: Memphis @ Oklahoma: The first USFL game to be played in the Sooner State since 1987 sees Eastern Conference Champion Memphis coming to town to take on Flacco, Lynch, Colston and the new-look Outlaws.
Week 3: Baltimore @ Houston: An interdivisional game that could see 80 points scored. These two offenses are poised to be among the best in the league. Can they stop each other or will the last team with the ball get the win?
Week 4: Pittsburgh @ New Jersey: The Cinderella Maulers of 2015 take on the Cinderella Generals of 2016. Will either of them prove to be a championship caliber team in 2017?
Week 5: Oklahoma @ Arizona: The two best teams in the SW Division square off for the first time in 2017 as the Outlaws hope to prove that they are right there with the Wranglers in 2017.
Week 6: Oakland @ San Diego: It could be a battle for supremacy in the Pacific as the surprising Thunder host the Invaders and their redesigned offense with HB Christian McCaffrey at the heart of a new attack.
Week 7: Memphis @ New Orleans: A big time Southern Showdown as Memphis heads into the Big Easy hoping to repeat their 2017 playoff victory, but with Lynch, not Manning, at QB, can they repeat the feat against the Breakers’ stingy D?
Week 8: Michigan @ Chicago: The midseason slate gives us a nice Central Division rivalry game as the Panthers and Machine renew their Midwestern rivalry. Last year the two split back-to-back games, can one of them sweep their games this year or are they just too similar to each other?
OK, we are back in just 48 hours with our full analysis of the Western Conference, from defending Champion Arizona to the last place St. Louis Skyhawks. We will break down every team, highlight new faces on each team, the rookies to watch, and the best players in each division. We will wrap it all up with our postseason and league award picks, and then on to Week 1 and the 2017 USFL Season. So don’t go anywhere, our Western Conference Preview will be here before you know it.
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