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The first football movie to be highlighted on the road to Hollywood is a perfect fit for the week of the underdogs. "Rudy" tells the story of an undersized kid from northern Indiana whose dream is to play for Notre Dame. His drive, determination and grit inspire those around him and lead to one of the best final scenes in any sports movie ever made. A week where upsets were the order of the day. Maybe in 3 months time we will look back and say that some of the games this week were not truly upsets, simply teams we were underestimating, but right now, right here, we have at least 5 games that the Vegas books, and a lot of us watching at home, got wrong.  It was also a week that saw the injury ranks swell as several key players are now sidelined at least temporarily.  Finally, it was a week that produced more eye-popping statistics as we saw a 200-yard rusher and an early OPOTY candidate go for nearly 250 in combined yards.  But we start with the five games that surprised us and then we can get into the nitty gritty as we review all the week’s action.   Upsets Highlight Week 2 Action Football is a game of inches, and sometimes that means that all the logical predictions we make can be thrown aside.  This week was one of those weeks as not one, not two, but 5 underdogs found a way to beat the odds.  That’s five teams that were at least a 5-point underdog surprised us with a big win.  On Saturday we saw Dallas, a team we all may be undervaluing right now, go into Charlotte and largely shut down the Monarch offense on their way to a 17-9 victory.  That same night we saw two upsets on Saturday Prime Time as New Jersey defended their home turf and stunned an Atlanta club we all had as a potential division champion, followed by Houston laying the lumber to the league champions, scoring a major victory at NRG Stadium.  Finally, on Sunday, we got more of the same with St. Louis upending Michigan at Ford Field and Memphis stunning San Diego in the Showboat season opener.    In all five games we saw the underdog doing something that our profiles and research pretty much said they could not do.  New Jersey ran the ball right into the heart of the Atlanta defense, and did it with so much success that their lead back, Maurice Jones-Drew, was able to top 200 yards on the ground.  Dallas played shut down defense, keeping Charlotte out of the endzone and nearly doubling the Monarch offensive production.  St. Louis held the ball for nearly 38 minutes and kept Michigan’s offense off the field, holding the Panthers to only 189 total  yards.  Memphis played solid D as well, with a little help from a bum ankle for Marshawn Lynch, and kept the San Diego Offense out of the endzone for 3 ½ quarters.  Finally, Houston broke down the stingy Baltimore defense and produced a 35-0 scoring run that turned a battle into a blowout.    This is the nature of pro football.  Unlike the college game where teams can pad their schedule with opponents who simply cannot measure up, in pro football there is enough parity, enough equity of talent, that on any given Sunday (as the phrase goes) a team can find its way and do the unexpected.  And who knows, perhaps by Week 16 we will look at one of these five underdogs and say that this week’s big win was the start of them turning a corner and surprising us all with an excellent season.  We should remember, after all, that last year we all predicted Baltimore to finish dead last in the NE Division, not to make a Summer Bowl run.  It’s the beauty of the game, well, for those of us who are not coaching the Thunder, Panthers, Fire, Monarchs or Blitz that is.   PHILADELPHIA STARS 23    WASHINGTON FEDERALS 24 No upset in Washington, except for the small but loud contingent of Philly fans who made the drive to RFK stadium in our nation’s capital.  What we got instead was an evenly matched game between two proud organizations, neither of which wanted to come out of the gate with an 0-2 start.  Washington had lost their opener on the road in Pittsburgh, but were determined not to fizzle in front of their home crowd.  Philadelphia had already suffered a bad defeat in their home opener, beaten by 17 by the Blitz, and were hoping to rebound with a strong showing against a Federals team they viewed as ripe for the picking.   So, we had two proud teams, both seeing this as a chance to step up and set a tone for the year.  Only one would come out on top, but we would not know who until the final minute of play as once again the GOTW came down to the final seconds of play.  It was an even game pretty much across the board, with both teams faring well in the run game, both putting up solid, if not spectacular passing stats, and both having their share of defensive stops.  For Philadelphia, playing without Matt Gutierrez, the key was protecting Chad Henne from the pressure of carrying the team.  For Washington it was about getting their stars more involved after a surprising lack of production in Week 1.    Early on it looked like the Stars may have had the game under control.  They scored the only points of a slow-paced first quarter, a 40-yard kick from Mike Nugent, but then exploded for touchdowns on consecutive drives to make it a 17-0 lead.  On the first drive Chad Henne connected on 3 of 4 passing to drive the Stars down the field, then connected with Stevie Johnson on a play action pass at the goal line.  The second drive saw the run game take over, with backup Leon Washington making his case for more carries with a 21-yard scoring run.  Washington would finish with fewer carries on the day than starter Zac Stacy (14 to 19) but would see much better results, rushing for 117 yards to lead all rushers, and blowing past Stacy’s 47-yard day.    But, despite getting in an early hole, Washington was not knocked out. They rallied late in the half and found their first score when David Garrard got his top receiver involved.  The Feds’ QB connected with Deion Branch on what should have been a quick 11-yard in-cutting route, but which turned into a 41-yard touchdown when Branch eluded a defender and cut towards the sideline, outracing the safety to the endzone.  The Federals went into the half down 10 but with a sense that momentum had changed.   In a defensively-dominated 3rd quarter the only points put up were from the foot of Washington kicker Adam Vinatieri, who added a 40-yarder to bring Washington within 7.  Philadelphia added their own 3-pointer right as the 4th quarter began, a 30-yard kick that resulted from a sack of Henne that nearly produced a drive killing fumble.  Henne was able to recover the ball, but the blown 3rd down play forced the Stars to settle for 3.  Up 20-10, they would need to hold off the Federals for nearly a full 15 minutes of game time.  That proved difficult. The Federals continued to feed Deuce McCallister the ball, helping him hit the century mark with 104 yards on 16 carries, but the pacing was different.  Washington used “muddle huddles” or short half-way huddles to get the basics of a play set up, then rushed to the line and made adjustments. This kept Philadelphia from substituting as much as they would like, and it gave David Garrard more control of the playcalls. He used that autonomy to call several successful plays, leading the Feds deep into Philadelphia territory.  The drive came to an end when Garrard found TE Kellen Davis alone in the endzone and delivered a frozen rope to get the big receiver the ball before the safeties could converge.  Philadelphia’s lead was cut to 3, 20-17.    The Stars moved the ball well in response to Washington’s drive, pushing the ball all the way to the Washington 3 before the wheels fell off the bus.  A false start pushed them back 5, then a missed receiver in the endzone, a run by Stacy to get them back to the 3, and a 3rd down play that ended with Henne sailing the ball practically into the stands to avoid a sack.  Seeing the difficulty his team was having with Washington’s short-yardage defense, Coach Jim Harbaugh opted to go for 3 and take his chances that his defense could hold Washington out of the endzone with only 1:46 left on the clock.   Second guess Coach Harbaugh if you wish, certainly a 10-point lead would have been nearly impenetrable, but there was no guarantee that the Stars could score on a 4th and goal from the 3.  They took the 3 points and set their defense up to defend against a Federals offense that was not known for quick strikes.  Washington, for their part, opted to stay in a 3-receiver set, allowing Deuce McCallister to play the safety valve while still putting Branch, LaFell, Kellen Davis and Kelvin Benjamin on the field.  In only 7 short plays, and using 2 of 3 timeouts, Washington drove the ball  well into range to take some endzone shots as the clock started to get tight.  Once again Garrard looked to his most trusted receiver, and once again Deion Branch would come through.  With a post-corner pattern, supported by Brandon LaFell taking a hard inside cut to occupy the safety, Branch got into a footrace with CB Sam Shields instead of the quicker Cortland Finnegan.  Branch got a step on Shields and Garrard did the rest, throwing a perfect ball into the endzone for Branch to reach out and snag.  The veteran receiver dragged his 2nd foot along the turf, and the ref raised his hands to signal the touchdown with only seconds left on the clock.  The PAT from Vinatieri would seal the fate of the Stars, dropping them to 0-2 and giving Washington the win they felt they needed to help recalibrate after a disappointing 7-9 season a year ago.  So, on to week three for both, with the Feds headed to St. Louis with hopes of putting back-to-back wins on the field, while Philadelphia would return home to face a familiar foe, their rival, the Generals in a third straight divisional matchup to start the year.   SEATTLE 14   PORTLAND 17    OVERTIME Another rainy game in Portland, but another win for the waterlogged Stags.  Ryan Fitzpatrick again gets the start as Coach Hamilton wants Mariota to watch and learn, but it was a day for the mudders, as both Jonathan Stewart and Joseph Addai go over 100 yards rushing.  The two slog it out into overtime before a nice drive gives the Stags what they need to get Mason Crosby into range and end the game with a 29-yard field goal to send Portland to 2-0. POTG:  Stags HB Jonathan Stewart: 23 Att, 132 Yds, 1 TD.   DALLAS 17    CHARLOTTE 9 Dallas’s defense continues to surprise and impress as they hold Charlotte to 3 field goals and only 23 total yards. Wheedon completes only 18 of 41 attempts and McFadden is held to 2.9 yards per carry as the Roughnecks improve to 2-0.  Dallas also got it done on the ground with Mendenhall (93 yards) and Pittman (62) combining to wear down the Monarch defense.  POTG:  Dallas HB Rashard Mendenhall: 14 Att, 93 Yds, 2 TD   TAMPA BAY 25   BIRMINGHAM 33 The Bandits found some offense as Sanchez thew for 343 and 3 scores, but his 2 picks helped Birmingham get the win.  Rookies T. J. Yeldon (95 yds on 17 carries) and Amari Cooper (5 for 124 yards) came up big for the Stallions, as did LB DeMeco Ryans, with 11 tackles.  Santonio Holmes had 109 yards receiving for the Bandits, with Santana Moss bringing in 2 scores. POTG:  Stallion rookie WR Amari Cooper: 5 Rec, 124 Yds. DENVER 22   CHICAGO 6 No snow this week in Chicago, but a blustery, cold day and a rock hard turf made life difficult for both teams. It did not affect Denver kicker Greg Zeurlein however, as he went 5 of 6 kicking and accounted for 15 of the Gold’s 22 points.  Brady Quinn was booed as he left the field after a 16 of 33, 150 yard day for the Machine. Two rough starts in rough weather for the Chicago starter. POTG:  Denver DE Justice Cole: 6 Tck, 2 Scks   ATLANTA 17   NEW JERSEY 21 The Generals shock Atlanta as Maurice Drew goes off against the Fire defense.  MJD rushes for a stunning 210 yards and accounts for 2 of the 3 New Jersey touchdowns in an unanticipated failure by the Fire D. The New Jersey back averaged 8.4 yards per carry on the day, making life easy for Sam Bradford, who threw for 2 scores (one to MJD).  The Generals’ D also came through, holding Kyle Orton to 205 yards passing and snuffing out a late game drive with a key sack by Chase Blackburn to preserve the win. POTG:  Generals’ HB Maurice Jones-Drew: 25 Att, 210 Yds, 1 TD, 2 Rec, 12 Yds, 1 TD   BALTIMORE 21    HOUSTON 42 An astonishing 35-0 run by the Gamblers shellshocked Baltimore and gave the home team a margin they would not lose.  Touchdowns from Williams, Hyde (2), and Evans (2) on 5 consecutive drives showed the firepower of the Gamblers as Baltimore’s defense seemed utterly lost.  Ben Roethlisberger would throw for 393 in an attempt to come back, but the Blitz fell far short as the Gamblers simply dominated offensively. POTG:  Gambler HB Carlos Hyde: 19 Att, 141 Yds, 1 TD, 4 Rec, 83 Yds, 1 TD   ST. LOUIS 17    MICHIGAN 14 Another surprising result in Detroit as the Skyhawks move to 2-0 with a road win against the Panthers.  St. Louis got 108 yards from Eddie Lacy and scored 10 in the final period to upend the Panthers. Kirk Cousins struggled all game, completing only 13 of 27 passes and throwing a costly pick midway through the 4th, leading to the game winning field goal from Rob Bironas. POTG:  HB Eddie Lacy of St. Louis: 20 Att, 108 Yds   SAN DIEGO 10   MEMPHIS 19 Memphis win their home opener with an upset of San Diego, thanks in large part to the play of LB NaVorro Bowman.  Bowman’s safety in the 3rd quarter gave Memphis a 2-score lead, and they held San Diego to a field goal the rest of the way.  Eli Manning threw TDs to Nate Washington and Sidney Rice and rookie HB Todd Gurley added 71 on the ground as the Showboats get the upset win over the Thunder. POTG:  Showboat LB NaVorro Bowman; 7 Tck, 1 Sck, 1 Sfty   ORLANDO 24   JACKSONVILLE 17 Coach Del Rio goes with McPherson again and the veteran almost gets the Bulls to the promised land, but 115 yards from Knowshon Moreno and a late TD from Wilson to Maclin put and end to the upset bid as Orlando moves to 2-0 and Jacksonville’s losing streak reaches 18 games.  NFL import Reuben Randle looked good for the Bulls, catching 6 for 93, while the defense played well against a somewhat erratic Russell Wilson. POTG:  Orlando CB Syd’Quan Thompson:  6 Tck, 1 Int, 1 Def TD, 1 FF, 1 FR   LAS VEGAS 9   TEXAS 41 An angry Outlaws team after their opening game loss vented their frustration against the Vipers, building a 27-0 lead before Las Vegas got on the board.  Flacco threw for 275 and 2 scores, with Colston again the primary target with 6 catches for 130 and 2 touchdowns.  A Clyde Adams pick-six made things even worse for the Vipers, who head home for the grand opening of Wynn Arena at 0-2. POTG:  Texas WR Marques Colston: 6 Rec, 130 Yds, 2 TD   LOS ANGELES 10   OHIO 25 Ohio moves to 2-0 with another strong defensive performance, highlighted by 7 sacks as they drive Aaron Murray out of the game and Tim Tebow sees his first action in an Express uniform.  Troy Smith connected with Steve Smith 6 times for 103 yards on the day, but the big story again was the Ohio pass rush, with 6 different players recording sacks and free agent acquisition Kamerion Wemberley adding 2 more to his total for the year. POTG:  Ohio CB Ashton Youboty: 6 Tck, 1 Int, 1 Def TD   ARIZONA 16   OAKLAND 26 Oakland improves to 2-0 with a nice home win against the Wranglers.  Joey Harrington kept pace with David Carr and the Oakland defense got to the Arizona QB 5 times, including a safety from Ellis, to help build a 26-9 lead that they would not relinquish.  Gore was held to only 38 yards rushing and Harrington connected with both Davante Adams and Pierre Garçon as the Invaders upend the Wranglers. POTG:  Invader DT Sedrick Ellis: 6 Tck, 3 Sck, 1 Sfty, 1 FF   NEW ORLEANS 28    PITTSBURGH 27 It took 59 minutes and 50 seconds, but New Orleans got the last second score to spoil Pittsburgh’s shot at 2-0.  After trailing most of the game, it was Brees to HB Jeremy Hill with 10 seconds left to give the Breakers the 1-point victory. Brees finished 26 of 41 for 277 and 2 scores, while Andy Dalton again dominated the Mauler offense, throwing for 381 in what ended up being a losing cause. POTG:  Breaker LB Kevin Minter: 4 Tck, 1 Int, 1 Def TD   MJD Rushes for 210 in Upset of Fire Where did this come from?  Maurice Jones-Drew looked unstoppable, like a bowling ball on fire in a cluster of pins as he rumbled through the Atlanta defense for over 200 yards.  It was a stunning performance by a back that has been criticized in the Tri-State area for his lack of big plays.  You cannot say that this week, as the back averaged over 8 yards per carry and broke off a 42-yard run and a couple of tackle-breaking 20-yarders as well. MJD was quick to thank the O-line of the Generals, but the highlights show him single-handedly ripping through tackles and making players miss.  It was a great game for the diminutive back (only 5’7”) and a good omen for the Generals if they can figure out a way to get this kind of effort from their lead back each week.   Carlos Hyde Amasses 224 Yards From Scrimmage Another back making a lot of noise this week was Houston’s sophomore stud, Carlos Hyde.  The Ohio State product looked like he was up against Kent State instead of the Baltimore Blitz as he rushed for 141 yards, averaging 7.4 yards per carry, and then added 4 receptions for another 83 yards. Throw in two touchdowns and you have one heck of a day for the 2nd year player and 2014 Rookie of the Year.  Hyde is currently 4th in rushing behind MJD, Eddie Lacy, and Knowshon Moreno, but his 4.9 YPC average is among the best in the game.  Add in his abilities in the Houston passing game and this is one player who is going to have to be a focal point for any defense that faces the Gamblers  this year.   Big Ben Averaging over 390 Yds a Game   The Blitz may have fallen to the Gamblers this week, but don’t put that on Big Ben. The Baltimore QB is one of 2 in the game right now (Andy Dalton being the other) who is averaging over 350 yards per game, with Roethlisberger at 391.5 to Dalton’s 395. Both QBs are looking nearly unstoppable but both would likely rather have more in the run game to help balance things out.  We saw this week, with both the Maulers and Blitz falling to defeat, that a passing game alone cannot guarantee wins.  Big Ben and the Red Rifle may be first and third in passer rating and both may be putting up the big numbers, but it is Matt Hasselbeck, currently 2nd in QBR, and an easy 100 yards behind the others, who has the 2-0 record.   Maulers’ Cruz to Miss 2-4 Weeks Not all is peachy for Pittsburgh as their loss this week to the Breakers also produced a potentially impactful injury.  WR Victor Cruz, who leads the team with 250 yards in 2 games, is likely out a month or more after suffering a painful-looking hamstring pull in this week’s game.  MRI’s revealed a partial tear, but no ligament or tendon damage, so the timeline for return to play is anywhere from 3-5 weeks.  In his absence, Andy Dalton turned to Adam Thielen, who finished this week’s game with 4 receptions for 99 yards, but will need more help from other receivers like Mike Williams, Josh Cribbs, and TE’s Jimmie Graham and Anthony Hill.  The Maulers hit the road for the first time this week, heading down to Orlando, where Calais Campbell will be waiting to make life difficult for Dalton and the Mauler passing game.   If Week One felt fortunate on the injury front, Week 2 certainly boomeranged in the other direction, with 13 player ruled out for this upcoming week, including two more added to the IR list and out for the season. St. Louis lost two receivers in the week, with starter Eric Weems now gone for the year. Baltimore will miss All-USFL corner Nnambi Asomugha for possibly a month, as is the case for Mauler WR Victor Cruz. A bad week for several teams as we saw quite a few players leaving the field of play with injuries.   OUT LB           Spencer Larsen               MEM     Back                     IR WR         Eric Weems                      STL         PCL                       IR TE           Tony Moeaki                     STL         Arm                       6-8 Weeks G             Zach Martin                      CHI        Groin                    4-6 Weeks OT          Joseph Bragg                  LV           Shoulder             4-6 Weeks CB          Nnambi Asomugha       BAL        Ribs                       2-4 Weeks WR         Victor Cruz                        PIT         Hamstring         2-4 Weeks DT          Jonathan Sullivan           BIR         Back                     1-2 Weeks WR         Brian Hartline                  BAL        Pinched Nerve  1-2 Weeks SS           Shaun Schillinger           SEA        Wrist                     1-2 Weeks DE          Malik Jackson                   HOU     Arm                       1-2 Weeks G            Mike Briesel                   POR      Neck                     1-2 Weeks TE           Daniel Fells                ORL       Knee                     1-2 Weeks   DOUBTFUL DT          DeMarcus Tyler               PHI        Eye FS           Vinnie Sunseri                 LV           Hand   QUESTIONABLE FS           T. J. Ward                         CHI        Concussion LB           Buster Ward                      PIT         Stress Fracture (Foot) G            Steve Sciulo                      PIT         Neck HB         Marshawn Lynch            SDG      Ankle   Weather A Factor in Early Season USFL While the USFL does not have legendary “winter” games like its fall competitor, no Ice Bowls or Frozen Tundra, the early season in March can be a time when the weather does play a huge factor.  And while more USFL players complain about late season heat, humidity, and dehydration, the fact is that the league has always dealt with unpredictable March weather for its opening weeks, and this season has been no exception.   Opening the season with two home games, the Chicago Machine have barely been able to put together a viable offense, due largely to the weather conditions.  In Week 1 it was a white out snow that not only suppressed attendance but also both the Chicago and San Diego offenses.  This past weekend it was the cold and the wind gusts of up to 30 MPH that impacted both the homestanding Machine and the visiting Denver Gold.  Both were at least cold-weather teams in their own ways, so there was a bit more action on the field than in Week 1, but both also tried to shorten the game by draining the clock between plays and using the run game to speed things along.   Different issues have impacted the two season-opening games in Portland.  The classic Pacific Northwest Rains have produced two sloppy, muddy, and soggy games in Portland.  Again, in Week 1 a foe unfamiliar with the typical PNW weather, the Memphis Showboats, fell to Portland in a soggy mudfest.  This past week Portland had to struggle against another regional foe in the Seattle Dragons, but again got the W by being better on a slow and wet field.    So, what is the good news on the weather front?  First off, that as March moves into April the conditions in both the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest will improve, but also that both teams get a reprieve from their often-unpleasant outdoor conditions.  Chicago will be out in sunny and dry Las Vegas, helping the Vipers christen their new domed facility, while Portland will remain in their soggy home, but with a dry 2-3 days anticipated ahead of their clash with Oakland.  As nice as it is to open the year with several home games, we suspect that there are Stag players who have circled the back-to-back games in San Diego and Arizona (Weeks 5-6) as very fondly anticipated road trips.        Glory & Federals Land CB Help as NFL Window Closes They went through camp, through preseason, and into week one, but apparently the Ohio Glory and the Washington Federals were still not feeling great about their rosters. Both clubs made a move just as the NFL-USFL transfer window closed last week, both adding NFL cornerbacks to their rosters in a move to improve depth and provide additional support to their pass defense.   Of the two moves, Washington’s was the most noteworthy, landing former NY Giant Prince Amukamara.  Amukamara could potentially take over the nickel position or could challenge for one of the two starting cornerback positions. He arrived in D.C. only this past Thursday and was not cleared to participate with the team in the weekend’s game. We expect we might see Amukamara as soon as Week 4, after passing his physical, acquiring facility access and getting up to speed on the team’s playbook and play call lingo.   Similarly, former Seahawk Jeremy Lane will be joining the Ohio Glory.  The product of Northwestern State (LA) played two seasons with the Seahawks and will now join the Glory, likely to see action in Week 4 as well.  Lane pencils in as a nickel corner for now.  Both players made the move with only 24 hours left in the window.  Others who were in negotiations with USFL clubs, including halfback Bilal Powell and quarterback Jimmy Clausen, were unable to come to terms with USFL clubs before the window was shut until next September.    Clausen, in particular, was an interesting case as the former Carolina Panther was reportedly in talks with both San Diego and Ohio in the final days of the transfer window.  This could be an indication that both teams are feeling unsettled at quarterback.  This is a bit of a surprise in the case of the Thunder as it was thought that Joe Webb, signed in trade with the Federals this winter, was securely locked in as the starter this year.  In Ohio, the competition between Troy Smith and Brock Osweiler seemed to have been settled, with Smith getting the start for the season opener and now having produced 2 wins, but feelers sent out to Jimmy Clausen’s agent seem to indicate that the Glory may not be feeling particularly comfortable with their options.   Vipers & Thunder Prep for Home Openers Expect a celebratory vibe at both Wynn Arena in Las Vegas on Friday night and at Qualcomm in San Diego on Saturday.  It seems very clear that fans in Las Vegas are saying “good riddance” to the Thunder and ready to embrace their new Vipers team.  The game is expected to draw between 55,000 and 57,000 on Friday night, even with the Vipers coming to their first home game at 0-2.  We all expected this to be a rough season for last year’s 3-13 Nashville Knights, but that may not matter to fans in Las Vegas who now get to enjoy pro football in lovely climate-controlled conditions, rather than the sweltering oven that was Sam Boyd Stadium.   In San Diego the mood is equally as ebullient.  The southern California city has been playing second fiddle to LA for a long time, and that was especially true each spring as LA fans got to experience the USFL through their Express club while San Diegans had to make a road trip up the coast to get spring gridiron action.  No longer as the arrival of the Thunder gives Southern California their second club and one that is almost certain to enjoy perfect weather conditions for their entire season in sunny San Diego.  To make the situation even better for San Diegans, unlike Las Vegas, the team they are adopting is a pretty solid one. Sure, Jake Plummer is no longer with the Thunder after retiring in the offseason, but Thunder ticket holders will still get to see Marshawn Lynch and Chad Johnson, two of the league’ s more flamboyant stars.  Expect a festive experience at Qualcomm this week, and possibly every week this year.   The week ahead of us seems split between divisional rivalries and brand-new homecomings.  We open on Friday with the first pro football game to be played in Las Vegas’s shiny new Wynn Arena as the Vipers will play host to another winless club, the Chicago Machine, on NBC’s Friday Night Lights.  On Saturday we get the first of two clashes in the New Jersey-Philadelphia rivalry, and then, in the 4pm slot, we get Oakland traveling to Portland in a battle of early undefeated teams in the Pacific.  Saturday Night we open another new venue, though the stadium itself is hardly new.  Qualcomm Stadium will host its first game as the San Diego Thunder welcome the Houston Gamblers to southern California.   On Sunday it is back to divisional matchups with Memphis heading to New Orleans and Tampa Bay visiting Charlotte.  Both the Bandits and Monarchs sit at 0-2, so this late game on Sunday will be huge for both clubs to avoid an 0-3 start.   Among other interesting matchups on Sunday, we have Pittsburgh at Orlando and a battle of two unlikely unbeatens as the Ohio Glory hope to make it 3-0 in Dallas but must get past both an improved Roughneck defense and the rowdy and noisy Cotton Bowl crowd.   Friday @ 8pm ET         Chicago (0-2) @ Las Vegas (0-2)                     NBC   Saturday @ 12pm ET   New Jersey (1-1) @ Philadelphia (2-0)           ABC Saturday @ 12pm ET   Birmingham (1-1) @ Baltimore (1-1)                FOX Saturday @ 4pm ET     Seattle (0-2) @ Denver (1-1)                              ABC Saturday @ 4pm ET     Oakland (2-0) @ Portland (2-0)                          FOX        Saturday @ 7pm ET     Texas (1-1) @ Atlanta (1-1)                                NBC Saturday @ 9pm ET     Houston (2-0) @ San Diego (1-1)                      ESPN/EFN   Sunday @ 12pm ET      Washington (1-1) @ St. Louis (2-0)                 ABC Regional Sunday @ 12pm ET      Memphis (1-1) @ New Orleans (2-0)                ABC Regional Sunday @ 12pm ET      Pittsburgh (1-1) @ Orlando (2-0)                    FOX Sunday @ 4pm ET         Michigan (1-1) @ Los Angeles (1-1)               ABC Sunday @ 4pm ET         Jacksonville (0-2) @ Arizona (1-1)                  ABC Regional Sunday @ 4pm ET         Ohio (2-0) @ Dallas (2-0)                                   FOX Regional Sunday @ 8pm ET         Tampa Bay (0-2) @ Charlotte (0-2)           ESPN/EFN

Our Road & Football film series kicks off with a classic rebel road movie, "Easy Rider". The 1969 film starring Peter Fond and Dennis Hopper is a story that captured the tensions of the nation in the turbulent late 60's. Welcome back to football!  We know it has really only been a little over a month since the NFL Super Bowl, but something about that cold, dark, long month of February makes it fee so much longer.  Well, never fear, the USFL is back and, man, oh man, did it start with a bang.  We had 2 QBs go for 400 yards, a 200-yard receiver, and a ton of close games in the first week of action.  We had one player return two picks for scores, we had whiteout conditions in Chicago, and we had a couple of tone-setting blowout wins.  So, what are we waiting for?  Let’s get right to it with our Big Story of the Week.   Big Individual Performances Highlight Week One While every game this weekend had its stories, the big picture story of the first week of 2015 was individual performances, from huge numbers to huge plays, it was all about stars being stellar and big players making big plays.  Five performances stood out this week, so let’s take a quick look at each as we ramp up for USFL football being part of our weekly schedule for the next 5 months.   Andy Dalton (PIT) The Cover Boy of ESPN’s USFL preview had exactly the kind of breakout game that everyone in Pittsburgh was hoping for.  Dalton had the kind of day that every QB dreams of, sacked only once, no picks and numbers that are off the chart.  Dalton threw only 19 passes, completing 13, but with an almost unbelievable 21.5 yards per completion we are looking at 409 yards passing, oh, and by the way, 5 touchdowns.  He hit Victor Cruz for 147 and 3 scores, but also threw scoring tosses to Josh Cribbs and TE Anthony Hill.  He took a 10-7 Washington lead early in the 2nd and turned it into a 28-10 halftime lead for the Maulers.  Pittsburgh scored on 5 consecutive drives, including 4 Dalton throws and a TD run from new HB Marcus Lattimore.  The Federals were shell shocked by the 4th Quarter, and Dalton was resting on the sideline as he earned a well-deserved rest, watching Jeff Smoker finish the game out.   Marques Colston (TEX) If I told you that one receiver topped 200 yards this week, your first guess might well be Marques Colston, and you would be dead on.  Despite Joe Flacco being sacked 10 times in a tight game that eventually went to the Ohio Glory, Marques Colston still made a statement. Colston averaged an outrageous 42.8 yards per reception against Ohio, including a 67-yard play and a 61-yard touchdown catch.  What makes it even more amazing is that he was not alone in the Texas air attack.  Brandon Marshall caught 4 balls for 131 yards and a score.  New TE Julius Thomas had a 33-yard catch for a score as well, but on this day, it was Colston making a statement that it is time to recognize just how good he is.   Cam Newton (BIR) We have gotten used to seeing Cam Newton explode early in the season.  Usually, it is a mix of rushing and passing, but this year the athletic QB stayed in the pocket and did his damage with his arm.  The final numbers were impressive:  37 of 56 passing, 331 yards, and 4 TDs.  Down 28-13 after 3 quarters, Newton did most of his damage late in the game, tossing a 31-yard TD to rookie standout Amari Cooper, then following that with TD tosses to TE Jabari Holloway and possession receiver Chris Chambers.  He had the Stallions within a 2-point PAT of tying the game with the Houston Gamblers, but on his final pass of the day, LB Ramik Wilson got between Cam and his receiver and swatted the ball down, giving Houston the win, but a win that came with a lot of tense moments thanks to Newton’s huge day.   Eric Wright (OAK) Down 13-10 in the 2nd quarter, Oakland needed a boost, and boy, did they get one.  On a routine 2nd and 5 throw, Eric Wright tipped the ball in the air, came down with it, and then proceeded to wind his way down the field 43 yards for a score to give Oakland the lead 17-13.  Only 2 plays later, he did it again.  This time it was a clean snatch, pulling the ball away from Nate Burleson and dashing 33 yards for the score.  Two pick-six touchdowns in less than 90 seconds and suddenly Oakland was up 24-13 and never looked back.  Wright would finish the day with 7 tackles and two of the most impactful interceptions of his career as he willed Oakland to victory with a flurry of action in just 90 seconds.   Jerry Hughes (TBY) Not every outstanding performance can lead to a victory.  Sometimes even in defeat you have to recognize the efforts of a single player.  That is certainly the case for Jerry Hughes, the Tampa Bay Bandits’ left defensive end, and the man charged with taking over for Jason Pierre-Paul.  Hughes stepped up big time on opening weekend, finishing the game with 11 solo tackles and all three Tampa Bay sacks of Russell Wilson.  With a lot of offensive issues for the Bandits, Hughes’ performance was not enough to give Tampa the edge, but it was as impressive a first game as we saw from any defender this past weekend.   TEXAS OUTLAWS 27   OHIO GLORY 28 Anatomy of an upset as the Glory weather a blistering passing attack from the Outlaws. They bent, but they did not break, as Joe Flacco compiled 416 yards passing but also withstood 10 sacks, 4 of them drive ending plays.  Ohio won the game with a pressure approach, giving up plenty of big plays, but also ending several drives thanks to a strategy of constant pressure from additional pass rushers.  Of course, it also required some offense from the Glory, and QB Troy Smith in his first start since 2011, got the W with a masterful final drive that produced the winning points.   Texas got off to a fast start, thanks to a blown coverage (one of many by the Ohio secondary), a 2nd and 7 throw that went for 61 yards and a score as Flacco found his favorite target, Marques Colston, deep down the left side.  Ohio’s strategy of blitzing Flacco heavily seemed to be a failure on this drive, and on the next, when the Outlaws again moved the ball well.  But a key sack from Tommy Harris on a 3rd and 6 forced Texas to settle for a field goal and was a sign of things to come.   Ohio would score the next 13 points in the game as their defense pressured and flustered Flacco in the 2nd quarter.  David Green would add two field goals and Troy Smith would connect with Ohio’s best receiver, Steve Smith, on an 18-yard touchdown.  Leading 13-10 at the half, the Glory had few changes in mind for their defensive strategy.  Texas, on the other hand, opted to leave one more player in protection, often TE Chris Cooley or HB Felix Jones.  That gave Flacco just enough time to start to find success regularly against the Ohio zones.  In the biggest play of the third quarter, he connected with Brandon Marshall on another deep throw, a 51-yard touchdown that gave Texas the lead.   The Outlaws would extend that lead early in the 4th when the passing game helped Texas march the ball 74 yards before Flacco found Julius Thomas for a score and a 24-13 lead.  Ohio would need to make some changes, and they would need to crank up the offense again.  They would do the latter on their next drive, moving the ball quickly down the field in a no huddle and putting up 6 on a Troy Smith TD run.  The 2-point conversion was good and Texas’s lead was cut to 3.  The Outlaws would take over, move the ball again, but again settle for a field goal after yet another sack of Joe Flacco.  Up 6, the Outlaws were vulnerable with 2:34 laft.  Ohio would need a touchdown, but they had both time and timeouts.   Troy Smith led the Glory down the field, with nearly 51,000 fans in Ohio Stadium urging the former Buckeye on.  Short passes and a draw to Rashard Jennings got the ball into range, and Smith finished off the drive on a 1st and goal, faking the ball to Isaiah Pead, then bootlegging out to the left.  Smith threatened to run, and that drew the linebacker in, allowing the QB to lob the ball over him and right to WR Justin Blackmon for the game-tying score.  The PAT from David Green gave Ohio the lead, and with only 47 seconds left, they would agein rely on their high-pressure defense to keep Texas out of field goal range.   Texas had only 47 seconds and no time outs left, having blown two earlier in the game on offense.  It was not enough time, after a quick out to Goodwin, the 10th sack of the game, this one from DT Tommy Harris, cost the Outlaws valuable time. They scrambled to get a 3rd down play called, and when it failed, they were forced to go for a 3rd and 12.  That too failed, with pressure on Flacco from both Harris and DE Kamerion Wemberley, and the Ohio fans got to cheer as Troy Smith took a knee and got the win for the underdog Glory.   BALTIMORE 34    PHILADELPHIA 17 Not how the Stars wanted to start the season, with both QB Matt Gutierrez and newly acquired WR Ronald Johnson injured and out.  Baltimore dominated the game after the Gutierrez injury, with Ben Roethlisberger throwing for 3 TDs, two to 2014 OPOTY Darrius Heyward-Bey.  Chad Henne finished the game for Philly and will likely be the starter for the next 1-3 weeks.  He finished 10 of 17 for 76 yards on a lot of checkdowns, while Big Ben threw for 390 on a 16 of 23 day as the defending champs get the divisional win to start the new year off right. POTG:  Blitz QB Ben Roethlisberger: 16/23, 390 Yds, 3 TD, 2 Int   WASHINGTON 17   PITTSBURGH 42 We predicted that Washington might have a down year, and Pittsburgh was on the rise, but even we were surprised by the utter domination by the Maulers in this game.  Pittsburgh won the yardage battle 508-299, with Andy Dalton averaging a ridiculous 21.5 yards per completion.  Victor Cruz had a huge game with 147 yards and 3 TDs for the Maulers as Pittsburgh looked to be in very high spirits in their home opener. POTG: Mauler QB Andy Dalton: 13/19, 409 Yds, 5 TD, 0 Int   ORLANDO 24    TAMPA BAY 3 The Mark Sancez era in Tampa Bay got off to a rocky start as the Renegades dominated the Bandit offense. Jahvid Best rushed for only 1.8 yards per carry, Sanchez was sacked 4 times (twice by Campbell), and the Bandit defense tired out as the game progressed.  Tampa was only 2 of 12 on third down, compared to 8 of 14 for the Renegades.  On the positive side for Tampa, DE Jerry Hughes recorded 3 sacks and 12 tackles, but still not enough as they fall by 21. POTG: Orlando QB Russell Wilson: 20/28, 204 Yds, 2 TD, 1 Int   BIRMINGHAM 33   HOUSTON 35 A beauty of a shootout in NRG Stadium as the Gamblers had a 35-20 lead only to see Birmingham score twice in the final 3 minutes.  A failed 2-point PAT attempt is all that kept this game from overtime. Both Cam Newton (37 of 56 for 321 and 4 TDs) and Matt Hasselbeck (16of25 for 370 and 3 scores) lit it up against a pair of defenses that looked pretty shaky.  Birmingham did hold Carlos Hyde to only 31 yards, but Mike Evans lit them up for 110.  Rookie Amari Cooper had a great debut with 110 yards and a score to be the ROTW. POTG: Houston LB Ramik Wilson: 8 Tackles, 1 Int, and the key 2-point PAT breakup.   CHARLOTTE 14   ATLANTA 17 A tight one in the Georgia Dome as the Fire came back from a 14-0 deficit, held Charlotte scoreless in the 2nd half and got the W in their home opener.  It was Darren McFadden’s return to Atlanta, now as a Monarch, and he led all rushers with 62 yards, but the day went to Atlanta thanks to a Kyle Orton TD pass to Matt Jones with 3:28 left to play. POTG: Fire LB Patrick Willis: 9 Tck, 1 Sck, 1 FF   DENVER 20   ARIZONA 25 Another good divisional game as the Wranglers left the dome open on a mild March day in Glendale.  The day belonged to HB Frank Gore, who looked rested and ready to roll, racking up 116 yards on 25 carries for the Wranglers.  Kicker Elliott Parson was the main weapon for Arizona, going 6 for 6 on kicks to account for 18 of Arizona’s 25 points.  Matt Leinart connected with Michael Crabtree 6 times for 122 yards and a score, but had to watch helplessly as Arizona got the winning field goal with 12 seconds to play. POTG:  Wrangler kicker Elliott Parson: 6 for 6 on FG.   JACKSONVILLE 3   NEW ORLEANS 20 The Bulls’ losing streak reaches 17 as they lose the opener in New Orleans.  The Bull defense actually played well, holding Drew Brees to only 163 yards passing, but the offense was a problem as Adrian McPherson got the start (over a newly arrived Robert Griffin III) and struggled, sacked 5 times by the Breakers.  Breaker SS Brandon Taylor was the star of the game with 12 tackles and a sack, but it was a team effort to hold Jacksonville to only 282 total yards. POTG: New Orleans SS Brandon Taylor: 12 Tck, 1 Sck, 1 Pass Def   SAN DIEGO 7   CHICAGO 6 A nasty winter storm in Chicago made this game a tough one to play, and an even tougher one to watch as whiteout conditions made TV viewing an adventure and made offensive football a bit of a joke.  The visiting Thunder got the win on a lone Marshawn Lynch catch & run.  Lynch took a short swing pass and disappeared into the snow, rumbling his way past slipping and sliding defenders to put San Diego on the board in the 4th quarter and ruin what had been a 6-0 shutout until that point. POTG:  San Diego HB Marshawn Lynch:  17 Att, 35 yds, 2 Rec, 58 yds, 1 TD   LAS VEGAS 20   ST. LOUIS 23 The Las Vegas Vipers debuted on the road in St. Louis, where they gave the Skyhawks a scare before a late Rob Bironas field goal gave St. Louis the opening day win.  The Vegas duo of Hardesty & Blount combined for 82 yards rushing and a TD, and Cody Pickett found rookie DeVante Parker for another, but St. Louis countered with TD passes from Freeman to rookie TE C. J. Ozumah and Arizona transfer Rob Gronkowski in what ended up being a TE dominated offensive attack. POTG: Skyhawk QB Josh Freeman: 25/38, 325 Yds, 2 TD, 1 Int   MEMPHIS 7   PORTLAND 13 Rain in Portland kept both teams a bit on edge, as the field was a quagmire.  Todd Gurley debuted in a muddy 38-yard day as the game’s leading rusher, while Eli Manning struggled to only 157 yards passing in the rain.  Things were not much better for Ryan Fitzpatrick, who got the start despite the fans’ chants for Mariota.  But Fitzpatrick did get the game-winning score, throwing to TE Jordan Cameron in the 3rd. POTG: Memphis DE Mario Williams: 6 Tck, 1 Sck, 1 FF, 1 FR   NEW JERSEY 17   MICHIGAN 20 The Panthers struggled to find offensive rhythm despite LeVeon Bell’s 18 carry, 100-yard effort.  Trailing 17-13 late in the 4th, Kirk Cousins connected with Cody Latimer with only 27 seconds to play to give the Panthers a hard-fought win.  New Jersey had played well, with CB Devin McCourtey recording both a pick and a forced fumble and Maurice Jones drew getting 78 yards rushing, but it was not enough in the end as the late Panther TD was the game winner. POTG: Panther WR Cody Lattimer: 5 Rec, 103 Yds, 2 TD   LOS ANGELES 7   DALLAS 20 Dallas picked off Aaron Murray 3 times, including a Will Allen pick-six, as the Roughnecks thrilled a big crowd at the Cotton Bowl with a season-opening win.  Despite only 25 yards from Rashard Mendenhall and only 148 in the air from Manziel, the Roughnecks held off LA, thanks in large part to the defense, which allowed only 3 conversions on third down all day and forced the 3 Murray turnovers. POTG: Dallas FS Will Allen: 2 Tck, 1 Int, 1 Def TD   OAKLAND 34    SEATTLE 16 The final game of the week saw Oakland march into Seattle and march out with a win.  It was a sloppy game for the Dragons, who lost the turnover battle 3-1, and who just could not convert third downs (2 of 10) against the Invaders. Joey Harrington was much more on target, completing 22 of 26 throws (84.6%) and connecting with both Davante Adams and Richard Rodgers for scores.  Add in two pick sixes from Eric Wright on two consecutive drives and that was all she wrote for Seattle. POTG: Oakland CB Eric Wright: 7 Tck, 2 Int, 2 Def TD   Maulers and Blitz impress, Bandits & Express Implode While we want to be cautious about jumping to conclusions or overreaching in our analysis of just one week’s games, it is hard to argue against the idea that the Maulers and Blitz looked really good and the Bandits and Express looked to have a lot of work to do after this opening weekend.  Let’s not overreact and pencil anyone in for a Summer Bowl or a top draft pick just yet, but it is hard to argue with the results of week one as an indicator of where each program sits at the moment.   Baltimore came out of the week looking very much like the club that stormed through the playoffs last year and took the title.  They passed the ball extremely well, forced Philadelphia to be one dimensional by shutting down Zac Stacy and the run game, and with Matt Gutierrez out, that one dimension was a lot shakier.  The Blitz run game still needs to find itself (only 46 yards on the ground) but by most measures, their 34-17 win over the 2014 division champs was a cannon shot across the broadside of the East that this team was not going to fade as many past champions had.   Pittsburgh also came out with guns blazing, putting up 42 points on a Federals defense that almost never cracks that wide open.  They too did it in the air, with Andy Dalton proving why ESPN made him their cover shot.  But they also did it with defense, holding Deuce McCallister to only 21 yards rushing on 17 carries.  That Mauler front line has three potential All-USFL players on it in Freeney, Allen and Donald.  It should be a major concern for any team facing the Maulers.    On the other side of the spectrum, the Tampa Bay Bandits looked anemic on offense in Mark Sanchez’s first game at the helm.  Jahvid Best rushed for only 32 yards and Sanchez struggled to get the ball to his receivers at key times in the game.  Both Santana Moss and Santonio Holmes found ways to get open, but often too late as Sanchez was feeling pressure and dumped the ball short.  The defense had some moments, including 3 sacks by Jerry Hughes, but over the course of the game they just wore down due to the lack of rest during short offensive possessions.   Sanchez’s former team, the LA Express did not fare any better with Aaron Murray the new starter. Against Dallas, Murray struggled, throwing 3 picks into the Roughneck secondary.  He completed only 54% of his throws and struggled on third down, where the Express only converted 3 of 16 attempts.  The LA defense looked solid, holding Dallas to only 179 total yards, but still fell by 13 points due to the lack of offensive production.   But, as we said, one game is much too soon to make final decisions about any of these teams.  We see it every year where a hot start does not translate to overall success or where a slow start is followed by a late winning streak.  But, for all four of these teams, the first week provided talking points to emphasize ahead of Week 2.   Henne to start after Matt Gutierrez Injury in Philly Week 1 certainly did not go the way the Stars would have liked, losing badly to division rival Baltimore, losing free agent WR Ronald Johnson for the year, and losing QB Matt Gutierrez at least for 1-2 weeks with a knee injury.  So, what is the plan for Week 2?  Well, we expect Chad Henne, brought in via trade from Orlando via trade this offseason, to get the start at QB.  Henne has looked good in camp and, with almost no snaps during the week, still had decent numbers against the Blitz, throwing for 260 yards on a 27 of 44 day.  At wideout, it looks like 2nd year receiver Allen Robinson will step into the starting role opposite Stevie Johnson.  Robinson had 41 targets, 24 catches and 192 yards in his rookie year.  Used mostly as a short route receiver, Robinson will now need to show he can stretch the field and add medium and deeper routes to his tree.  Philadelphia takes on Washington this week in another early season divisional matchup. With both teams suffering losses in their openers, we expect a lot of intensity in that game.   Cooper leads all rookies with big day. While we saw a a lot of rookies on the field this weekend, only one really made a big first impression. Birmingham wideout Amari Cooper opened his pro career with a 6-catch, 110-yard, 1 TD-game, impressing Coach Givens with his poise and ability to find open spaces in zone coverage.  Other rookies also had moments, but none with the overall game that Cooper displayed.  Cooper’s teammate from Alabama and now in Birmingham, HB T. J. Yeldon, finished with 47 yards on 14 carries, not bad, but not earth shattering either.  Todd Gurley for Memphis also struggled in his first game, rushing for only 38 yards on 14 carries, and Matt Jones, who at one point was seen as the starter for the Jacksonville Bulls until Cadillac Williams was signed, saw only 3 carries, but looked like the most explosive of the three backs, rushing for 38 yards on the day.   Among the other rookie receivers, Las Vegas Viper DeVante Parker had a very solid outing, catching 3 balls for 71 yards and a score, while New Orleans’s Tyler Lockett also scored on one of his 2 catches on the day. In Orlando, Breshad Perriman was on the field for only 3 plays and was not targeted.   Among USFL rookie defenders, we saw DE Vic Beasley of New Jersey snatch his first pro sack, as did Houston’s Dante Fowler. LB A. J. Johnson of Charlotte also snagged a sack in his first action, along with 3 tackles. But the best first day among rookie defenders had to belong to Houston LB Ramik Wilson, who not only had 8 tackles and a pick, but whose deflection of a 2-point PAT try at the end of regulation won the game for Houston, preventing the game from going to overtime.     The injury to Philadelphia wideout Ronald Johnson is the only season-ending injury in a relatively light Week 1.  No consolation to Johnson or the Stars, but good news for the other teams across the league.  The Gutierrez injury will be week-to-week as swelling in the knee of the Stars’ QB will determine when he can return to action, likely with a brace on that left knee.  Until he can come back, Chad Henne, acquired in a trade this offseason, will be under center for Philly.   OUT   WR         Ronald Johnson       PHI        Groin       IR G            Zach Martin              CHI         Groin      6-8 Weeks DE          Michael Bennett     MGN      Knee 2-4 Weeks DE          Malik Johnson          HOU        Arm                 1-2 Weeks FS           T. J. Ward               CHI          Neck              1-2 Weeks QB         Matt Gutierrez       PHI          Miniscus         1-2 Weeks   DOUBTFUL HB         C. J. Spiller      DAL       Concussion WR         Kenny Britt          NOR        Neck   QUESTIONABLE SS           LaRon Landry         LV     Neck WR         Demaryius Thomas       ATL           Eye DT          Henry Melton                JAX          Toe TE           Zach Miller                     OHI       Wrist DT          Brodrick Bunkley            JAX          Knee HB         Danny Woodhead          BIR           Finger New Faces: Free Agent Roundup Opening week across the USFL and opening day for a lot of free agents making a first impression with their new teams.  Let’s round up the big names that moved zip codes this winter and see how they opened the next phase of their careers in the USFL.   OFFENSE QB Mark Sanchez (LA to TBY):  Not horrible, but not good enough as the Bandits are held to 3 points.  Sanchez went 25 of 38 for 223 yards, 1 pick, 4 sacks, but just never got the offense moving against the Renegades.    HB Joseph Addai (BIR to SEA): Addai had 16 carries for 57 yards, a pretty mediocre 3.6 YPC, but showed some burst on a 13-yard run in the first quarter.   HB Cadillac Williams (SEA to JAX): 20 carries for 54 yards, only 2.7 per carry as Williams struggled behind a suspect Jacksonville line.    TE Rob Gronkowski (ARZ to OHI): 4 catches for 54 yards and a score as Gronk and rookie C. J. Ozumah appeared on the field together in over 50% of the Skyhawk plays. That may be the future for this Skyhawk offense as both Josh Freeman TDs went to his two big tight ends.   TE Greg Olsen (ORL to TBY): Olsen had 4 receptions for 40 yards, but 28 came on one play.  Other than that it was a lot of check downs from Sanchez.    WR Johnny Knox (JAX to HOU):  Knox saw the field on only 5 plays and had no targets. He is 3rd on the depth chart, but Houston likes to use 2 WRs and 2 backs and that showed this week.   DEFENSE DT Ellis Wyms (CHI to BAL): Wyms had 5 tackles, 1 for loss, and looked every bit the space-eater in the middle as Baltimore stuffed Zac Stacy, holding the Philly back to only 2 yards per carry.   DE Jason Pierre-Paul (TBY to CHI): Brutal conditions in Chicago did not make for a good test, but even in the snow JPP had 4 tackles, all 4 for losses.  No sacks, but that is not a surprise on this day.   DE Larry English (ARZ to DAL): English got his first sack as a member of the Roughnecks, and Dallas got the Win so no complaints from the Roughneck fans here.   LB Donterrious Thomas (NJ to OAK): A pretty quiet day for Thomas, with 4 tackles and no other stats.  Still, the Oakland D came up big in their game against Seattle.   CB Cortland Finnegan (ORL to PHI): Finnegan spent most of the day matched up against Darrius Heyward-Bey, and, well, it did not go well. 1 tackle for Finnegan, 3 catches and 2 TDs for DHB.   SS DaJuan Morgan (ATL to LA): Five tackles and 1 pass defended for the new Express safety.  Defense was not the issue for the Express, who held Johnny Manziel to only 148 yards passing. NFL Stars Sit in Opener As we have come to expect each spring, several NFL imports were not yet ready to take the field.  While the NFL players who signed in September were in action, many who were signed just in the last 2 weeks are still rehabbing from the long NFL season and still learning the playbooks and the system with their new teams.  Players held out this week include defenders Von Miller (DEN), Nick Fairley (ATL), Sean Smith (NJ), and Greg Hardy (BIR). On offense we did not yet see Jacksonville’s new QB, Robert Griffin III, or any of the backs brought over from the fall league: Chris Ivory (NJ), Bobby Rainey (STL) or Christian Michael (HOU).    Among the players who did see the field, Texas CB Pacman Jones finished the Outlaws game with 8 tackles, Reuben Randle for the Bulls had 4 catches for 32 yards, and QB Brock Osweiler held a clipboard as Ohio Head Coach named Troy Smith the starter midweek.  Smith finished the game with a W and with 288 yards passing, so expect to see Osweiler with a ball cap and a clipboard next week when Ohio takes on the LA Express in Columbus.   Attendance Strong in 13 of 14 Home Openers A very strong opening weekend for the USFL at the box office with a league record average of 48,202 across all 14 games.  Thirteen of the 14 league games saw more than 43,000 on hand with the one exception being the blizzard in Chicago where only 19,102 brave souls sat in whiteout conditions to watch the Machine. The league leader in attendance?  No surprise, the Arizona Wranglers, with the dome open on a rare cool March day in the desert.  Arizona pulled over 55,000 to University of Phoenix Stadium, followed closely by the home openers for the Breakers, Stars, Gamblers, and Panthers, all of whom had more than 52,000 on hand.    We are still two weeks away from the Week 3 home openers for both the San Diego Thunder at Qualcomm and the new Las Vegas Vipers at the brand spanking new Wynn Arena, but early reports of ticket sales sound like we may eclipse 50k in both venues when they finally get that first home game. The Thunder have trailed expectations on season tickets but seem to be doing well with individual game sales, while Las Vegas has had a very strong season ticket drive, particularly when you consider that the relocated Nashville Knights won only 3 games last year.  But, as you so often see, as fans of the departed Thunder dump their allegiance and embrace a new franchise in town, excitement for the Vipers is amped up.   Week Two kicks off with a classic rivalry as the Cascade Classic is renewed in Portland, where the Stags got a Week 1 win. Seattle comes to town after a tough season opener at home, a bad loss to the Invaders. On Saturday, the early window has Philadelphia in yet another tough divisional game as they host the Federals.  Tampa Bay is in Birmingham and Dallas visits Charlotte.  A nice night game on ESPN as well with the defending league champions visiting the Atlanta Fire in a rematch of the Eastern Conference Finals from last year.   Sunday starts off with a Central Division clash on ABC as the Skyhawks visit Michigan in a battle of 10 teams. Orlando will be in Jacksonville in a Florida Derby game at noon, and at 4pm, we have Arizona visiting Oakland in a nice Western Conference inter-divisional clash.  The weekend caps off with two up and coming teams meeting at Heinz Field.  The Maulers take on the defending Southern Division champion Breakers in a nice early season test.   Friday @ 8pm ET                Seattle (0-1) @ Portland (1-0)                           NBC   Saturday @ 12pm ET          Philadelphia (0-1) @ Washington (0-1              ABC Saturday @ 12pm ET               Dallas (1-0) @ Charlotte (0-1)                          FOX Saturday @ 4pm ET                 Tampa Bay (0-1) @ Birmingham (0-1)               ABC Saturday @ 4pm ET                 Denver (0-1) @ Chicago (1-0)                           FOX       Saturday @ 7pm ET                  Atlanta (1-0) @ New Jersey (0-1)                      NBC Saturday @ 9pm ET                  Baltimore (1-0) @ Houston (1-0)                     ESPN/EFN   Sunday @ 12pm ET                St. Louis (1-0) @ Michigan (1-0)                        ABC Sunday @ 12pm ET                  San Diego (1-0) @ Memphis (0-1)                    FOX Regional Sunday @ 12pm ET                  Orlando (1-0) @ Jacksonville (0-1)                    FOX Regional Sunday @ 4pm ET              Las Vegas (0-1) @ Texas (0-1)                       ABC Regional Sunday @ 4pm ET                     Los Angeles (0-1) @ Ohio (1-0)                       ABC Regional Sunday @ 4pm ET                   Arizona (1-0) @ Oakland (1-0)                        FOX Sunday @ 8pm ET                    New Orleans (1-0) @ Pittsburgh (1-0)       ESPN/EFN

PLAYER OF THE WEEK: The season opens with a tough choice between Marques Colston's 214-yard day and Andy Dalton's 409-yard, 5 TD day. I think we have to lean towards the 5 TDs and the big win for Pittsburgh, if only because the Maulers got the W and the Outlaws were upset by Ohio.

In Part One of our preview, we recapped the big moves from the past few months, including all the NFL-USFL transfer drama, the latest free agent moves, and the last minute QB shuffle between the Bulls, Express, and Bandits.  Now it is time to see what we think the results of all these moves are.  In doing so, we will introduce our new Power Rankings, where we divide all 28 teams into 4 categories:  Strong, Solid, Incomplete, and Shaky.  We will revisit this ranking periodically during the season, reassessing who fits in each category as the games are played out.  For now, we will use this system to review all 28 clubs,  but first we make our initial division predictions, always fraught with uncertainty and often with just bad calls.  But you asked for it, so here we go, our look at the 6 USFL division races in 2015. DIVISION PREVIEWS & PREDICTIONS Every year brings us teams that fall of from their past successes, others that find the right formula for success, and every year we see shifting power dynamics across the six USFL divisions.  As we explore the division races this year we have to consider key player departures, new arrivals, rookie contributions, and new coaching staffs.  It is complicated and at the same time it is all pure speculation, because until the teams take the field and play the games, there is no way to know what we will get. Teams like Baltimore and Michigan impressed us last year, who will do it this year?  We are going to take our best shot at sorting out what we see in the tea leaves and give you our best guess at how each division might play out, starting in the Northeast and working our way west. 2014 Finish:  PHI 13-3, BAL 12-4, WSH 7-9, NJ 5-11, PIT 5-11 Big Changes for 2015: Steve Slaton is gone from the Stars.  The QB controversy in DC ended with Joe Webb shipped out to San Diego. New Jersey drafts a second edge rusher, and Baltimore tries to beef up their already solid defense with the addition of DT Ellis Wyms.  But, compared to other divisions, the NE was about as stable as any division in the league. Outlook: No new QBs, no new coaches, no new teams, so the Northeast is looking like a pretty stable division.  But does that mean that we don’t foresee any changes? Not on your life.  First off, we have to recognize that Baltimore won it all in 2014, and look to be as good, if not better in 2015.  Philadelphia, on the other hand, could struggle with the loss of Steve Slaton to the NFL.  We are looking as well at an aging Washington team, who’s big 3: Garrard, McCallister, and Branch, don’t seem to have gotten much new blood to boost their chances this offseason. We are intrigued by some of New Jersey’s moves, particularly adding a good young DE to put opposite Kampmann in rookie Vic Beasley, but in our eyes the most intriguing team is Pittsburgh.  The Maulers have more talent than their 5-win season last year demonstrates.  We have a feeling they could be this year’s up and comer. Predicted 2015 Finish:  Baltimore 12-4, Pittsburgh 9-7, Philadelphia 9-7, Washington  6-10, New Jersey 5-11 2014 Finish: TBY 12-4, CHA 11-5, ATL 10-6, ORL 8-8, JAX 0-16 Big Changes for 2015: A wholesale reboot for the Bulls, a much needed one.  A new QB in Tampa Bay (Sanchez), but one we have doubts about after his time in LA. A big defensive signing by the Fire (Fairley), and Orlando still trying to turn all that talent into wins. Outlook: We are having trouble seeing Tampa Bay repeat as champion in a very competitive division, not with Mark Sanchez as a last-minute Hail Mary choice at QB.  They had their hearts set on landing Jameis Winston, so losing out there left them in a bit of a panic. Charlotte, Atlanta, and maybe even Orlando, are good enough to challenge them.  Jacksonville will still bring up the rear, but Coach Del Rio’s completely revamped roster should still be significantly better than what we saw from the Bulls last year.  A lot depends on Robert Griffin, but with 3 new receivers and Cadillac Williams now in the mix, we expect the Bulls to at least pull out a few games this year.  Our big riser?  We are going with Atlanta, now with Kyle Orton on a new contract and with more options at receiver, they could and should make a run much like their Eastern Finals appearance last year. Predicted 2015 Finish:  Atlanta 11-5, Charlotte 10-6, Tampa Bay 8-8, Orlando  8-8, Jacksonville 4-12   2014 Finish: NOR 12-4, BIR 7-9, MEM 6-10, NSH 3-13 Big Changes for 2015: Well, for starts Nashville is now in Las Vegas and the Houston Gamblers join the mix, a much bigger challenge to the Breakers than any of the other Southern teams were last year. We also have a new coach in Memphis as Rex Ryan, son of former Showboat coach Buddy Ryan, takes over an underperforming Showboat squad. We have two exciting rookies in Birmingham with WR Amari Cooper and HB T. J. Yeldon both staying in Alabama, and we have a Breaker squad that added some youth in rookies Tyler Lockett on offense and Kwon Alexander on defense, not to mention a new OT to protect Drew Brees, with Wisconsin’s Rob Haverstein choosing New Orleans over the NFL. Outlook: We think this is still the Breakers’ division to lose, but we think Houston will make it a challenge. We wish we could say the same about Birmingham, but while we love the rookie additions, we think it will take a year for them both to adapt to the pro game. Memphis now looks like the weak sister in the division, but we love them being aggressive and landing Todd Gurley as their new bell cow back.  This is a division with a lot of quality younger players, and that could make it an exciting one to follow. Predicted 2015 Finish:  New Orleans 11-5,  Houston 10-6,  Birmingham 8-8, Memphis 6-10   2014 Finish: MGN 10-6, OHI 8-7-1, CHI 6-10, STL 4-12 Big Changes for 2015: Let’s see what we have here.  A new coach in Michigan, but one very much familiar with the club; a true QB competition in Ohio as an NFL import (Osweiler) and an Ohio State legend (Troy Smith) battle to take the mantle, another possible QB controversy in Chicago, where rookie Trevor Siemian could be putting Brady Quinn on a short leash, and some new weapons for the St. Louis offense as the Skyhawks bring in TE Rob Gronkowski from Arizona and HB Bobby Rainey from the NFL.  Basically, this division could be nearly impossible to predict. Outlook: While the unfortunate health issues with Jim Johnson forced the coach to step down, the Panthers are still in good hands, and they have a nice triad of offensive talent to help them out, not to mention a very underappreciated defense, one that only got better with the addition of rookie LB Lake Ryan.  We like Michigan to repeat as champions largely because we don’t trust that any of the other three teams are ready to challenge them.  We do like St. Louis’s additions on offense, but worry that Coach Arians needed to do more to fix the D.  We also like the addition of Jason Pierre-Paul to the Chicago defense, but now worry that their offense is a concern. As for Ohio, you know the saying about having 2 QBs.  They may not really have even one.   That has to be a big concern as the season starts. Predicted 2015 Finish:  Michigan 11-5, St. Louis 9-7, Chicago 8-8, Ohio 6-10   2014 Finish: TEX 11-4-1, ARZ 11-5, DEN 10-5-1, HOU 9-6-1, DAL 5-11 Big Changes for 2015: Houston is out, a new Las Vegas Vipers team is in, Gronk is in St. Louis, but Von Miller is now in black and gold.  But, when we look across the division, the swap of Houston for the former 3-13 Nashville Knights squad, now in Vegas, seems to have left the division as a 3-team race, which is interesting since 4 teams made the playoffs last year. Outlook: Texas is still kings of the hill after a Summer Bowl appearance last year.  We are not sure how big a loss Gronkowski is for Arizona, as defense is still their calling card.  We think Denver could be a real threat if Von Miller can be who he was with the Broncos.  That makes the Gold defense a possible Top 5 group and a real threat to Flacco and Carr.  We also saw a lot of pluck out of the Dallas Roughnecks last year, and with an offseason to learn more about the pro game, Johnny Manziel should be even better in 2015.  The Vipers are likely bringing up the rear, as they did in Nashville last year.  They are going to stick with Cody Pickett but signing Jeff Tuel could create a QB controversy if they struggle on offense.  All in all, we still see a split between the top 3 teams and the next 2. Predicted 2015 Finish:  Texas 12-4, Denver 11-5, Arizona 10-6, Dallas 7-9, Las Vegas 3-13   2014 Finish: OAK 9-7, LV 9-7, SEA 7-9, POR 6-10, LA 6-10 Big Changes for 2015: While the Thunder relocate from Las Vegas to San Diego, not a lot else changes in this tight division.  The biggest shift is for the Express, who trade Mark Sanchez, say they are committing to Aaron Murray, but then bring in Tim Tebow, supposedly as a backup, but we are not so sure.  The Thunder have a change at QB as well, with Jake Plummer now playing golf, they bring in Joe Webb to lead the offense.  He could slot in well into a QB option style that Plummer used to run with great efficiency.  Portland will also have a new QB in rookie Marcus Mariota, along with a new head coach in former Baltimore OC Pep Hamilton.  We will see how quickly those two can gel and adapt.  Finally, we have Seattle, where they have bolstered the run game with the addition of Joseph Addai and rookie Jay Ajayi.  They were already looking like an up and comer last year, while Oakland seemed to be fading late.  Will that continue?  We think it could. Outlook: We have already pretty much given up the spoilers on this division.  We see Seattle as the biggest possible riser, Oakland and LA possibly slipping a bit, and Portland as a true unknown.  So, the missing piece is what we expect from San Diego.  We like Joe Webb at QB.  We like that they replaced the retired T. J. Houshmandzadeh with DeVante Parker, an exciting rookie, and we like that they added Lamar Miller to help Marshawn Lynch grind down defenses.  Are they better than last year?  We think very much they could be, and with the controversy of their former ownership, the team sale, and the relocation hopefully behind them, a new city could be getting a new division champion in San Diego. Predicted 2015 Finish:  San Diego 10-6,  Seattle 10-6, Oakland 8-8, Los Angeles 6-10, Portland 6-10   TEAM PREVIEWS & USFL POWER RANKINGS After years of reviewing teams by division, this year we are introducing a new twist to our preseason and midseason team evaluations.  Our new team Power Ranking system will provide you with insight into where we see teams throughout the season (not every week, but at least once per month), and will see how we sort teams into one of four categories:  The Strong, The Solid, The Incomplete, and The Shaky.  Teams can rise and fall, switch categories, and change our perception as the season progresses.  We will keep 7 teams in each category, and we will rank teams within each category, so you can see where your team stands from 1st to 28th in our assessment.   We start with our preseason rankings as we preview each club.   THE STRONG These are teams we think can win divisions, finish with 10 or more wins, and compete for a title.  They tend to have solid squads on both sides of the ball, sometimes dominant squads in one area, and they don’t tend to hurt themselves with bad decisions or poor execution.  We are listing only 7 teams here, so there could be an 8th that will move up after games start, but for now these are the 7 we see as the strongest in the league.   1-BALTIMORE Head Coach: Jim Caldwell 2014 Record: 12-4 (2nd in NE Division, League Champions) Departures: HB Cedric Benson (RET), WR Javon Walker (FA), K Nick Folk (FA), WR Donte Do (FA) Additions: HB Jacquizz Rogers (NFL), DT Ellis Wyms (FA), C Ryan Pontbriand (FA), DT Angelo Blackson (Rook), WR Eli Rogers (Rook), K Josh Lambo (Rook), S James Sample (Rook) Outlook: It’s pretty easy to say that the defending USFL champion is one of the league’s stronger teams, but after putting up a Top 5 offense and an equally impressive defense, the choice seems pretty legit to us.  And while the Blitz took some hits to the depth of their receiving group, the rest of the roster remained largely intact.  Add in one of the league’s best defensive tackles in Wyms and a speedy 3rd down back in Rogers and you have the makings of a team that could be a 1 seed in the East and return to a Summer Bowl. 2015 Prediction: 12-4, NE Division Champion   2-TEXAS Head Coach: Greg Landry 2014 Record: 11-4-1 (1st in SW Division, Western Conference Champions) Departures: CB Michael Boulware (Ret), CB Cedrick Griffin (FA0, DE Robert Ayers (FA), C Jason Spitz (Trade) Additions: TE Julius Thomas (Trade), CB Pacman Jones (NFL), QB Bryce Petty (Rook), OT D. J. Humphries (Rook), LB Jordan Hicks (Rook), CB P. J. Williams (Rook) Outlook: As much as the departure of Michael Boulware could be a negative, if Pacman Jones pans out in the locker room, we know he can be outstanding on the field.  Expect him to be both a major feature of the defense and the special teams this year.  Beyond that, the Outlaws largely stood pat, but when you make a title game and come within 15 seconds of winning it, standing pat is not a bad thing. 2015 Prediction: 12-4, SW Division Champion   3-MICHIGAN Head Coach: Sean McDermott (New) 2014 Record: 10-6 (1st in Central Division) Departures: WR Mario Manningham (FA), OT Russell Okung (FA), QB Tyler Thigpen (FA) Additions: WR Ted Ginn Jr (FA), LB Jake Ryan (Rook), QB Taylor Heinecke (Rook), DT Darius Philon (Rook), OT Andrus Peat (Rook) Outlook:  The Panthers were something of a surprise last year, but this year we all see them coming.  The only major free agent signing was Ted Ginn, who should take over in the slot, a space where Manningham never really excelled. In what could be a pretty weak Central Division, the Panthers could rack up plenty of wins and that could help them oust Texas as the 1 seed. 2015 Prediction: 11-5, Central Division Champion   4-NEW ORLEANS Head Coach: Lamar Lathon 2014 Record: 12-4 (1st in Southern Division) Departures: G Dan Buenning (Ret), LB Antonio Pierce (Ret), C Ryan Pontbriand (FA), WR Santonio Holmes (FA0, WR DeMetrius Byrd (FA0, OT Robert Gardner (FA) Additions: OT Rob Havenstein (Rook), WR Tyler Lockett (Rook), LB Kwon Alexander (Rook), G Nick Easton (Rook) Outlook: The Breakers will miss Antonio Pierce, there is no doubt of that, but they bring in youth at LB with Kwon Alexander, and they still have a pretty impressive offensive squad.  The addition of Havenstein at tackle could help Brees be even more effective this year, and Tyler Lockett impressed us in the preseason with his escapability in the middle of the field.  New Orleans is the prohibitive favorite to take the Southern Division again. 2015 Prediction: 11-5, Southern Division Champion   5-ATLANTA Head Coach: Tom Ramsey 2014 Record: 10-6 (3rd in SE Division) Departures: FS Curtis Fuller (Ret), WR Josh Reed (Ret), DT Robaire Smith (Ret), LB Orlando Huff (FA), SS DaJuan Morgan (FA), WR Ted Ginn Jr (FA), G Deuce Lutui (FA), HB Marcus Lattimore (Trade) Additions: G Trevor Canfield (Trade), DT Nick Fairley (NFL), WR Javon Walker (FA), DE Mario Edwards Jr. (Rook), S Derron Smith (Rook), WR Darren Waller (Rook), CB Damian Swann (Rook) Outlook:  We like Atlanta to take the next step and win the Southeastern Division.  They came on strong last season, making a surprise run into the Eastern Finals, but this year we think they won’t have to sneak up on anyone.  Adding quality in NFL DT Nick Fairley and free agent receiver Javon Walker could go far in helping Atlanta take the crown.  Rooies Mario Edwards and Damian Swann could also play a part if Atlanta is to rise to the top of the division. 2015 Prediction: 11-5, Southeastern Division Champion   6-DENVER Head Coach: Dick Jauron 2014 Record: 10-5-1 (3rd in SW Division) Departures: TE Robert Royal (NFL), SS Roy Williams (NFL), LB Chris Kriewaldt (Ret), LB Hannibal Navies (Ret), TE Daniel Graham (FA0, DE Bryce Fisher (FA), DT Sione Piuha (Trade) Additions: TE Delanie Walker (Trade), DE Von Miller (NFL), WR Kevin White (Rook), LB  Randy Gregory (Rook), C Austin Reiter (Rook) Outlook: Everyone is perhaps a bit overemphasizing the Von Miller signing.  Yes, it is big.  Yes, Denver will now have a vicious front 3 with Justice Cole on the other side and Ndamukong Suh in the middle, but dothey have enough offense to be a dominant team?  That has been a question for a long time.  And we are not sure this offseason answered it. 2015 Prediction: 10-6, In the Wild Card Mix    7-ARIZONA Head Coach: Jim Tomsula 2014 Record: 11-5 (2nd in SW Division) Departures: TE Rob Gronkowski (FA), DE Larry English (FA), LB Lance Briggs (FA), WR Kassim Osgood (FA) Additions: TE Daniel Graham (FA), DE Quientin Groves (FA), OT Brandon Scherff (Rook), TE Maxx Williams (Rook), DT Tyeler Davison (Rook), WR Jaelen Strong (Rook) Outlook: Last year the Wranglers started slow and came on late, just falling short against Texas in the playoffs.  This year we are a bit worried that losing Rob Gronkowski is a bigger issue than Arizona is letting on, though we do like rookie Maxx Williams to become the target David Carr likes to have over the middle. Perhaps a bigger issue is the loss of both Larry English and Lance Briggs from the Wrangler defense. Is that enough to keep them 1 step behind Texas again.  We think it may just be. 2015 Prediction: 10-6, in the Wild Card Mix   The Solid These teams have a lot of good pieces in place, but may have a few question marks that keep them from being elite. They are strong Wild Card contenders, and may surprise us and move up the rankings if they can put all the pieces together. 8-PHILADELPHIA Head Coach: Jim  Harbaugh 2014 Record: 13-3 (1st in NE Division) Departures: HB Steve Slaton (NFL), WR Reche Caldwell (Ret), LB Sean Lee (FA), CB Bradley Fletcher (FA), DE Reggie Torbor (FA) Additions: QB Chad Henne (Trade), CB Cortland Finnegan (FA), WR Ronald Johnson (FA), OT Donovan Smith (Rook), DE Danielle Hunter (Rook), HB Karlos Williams (Rook), LB Mike Hull (Rook) Outlook: The Stars faded a bit down the stretch, and then suffered a big blow this offseason when Steve Slaton threatened to hold out and was released, eventually signing with the NFL.  That is a big loss, and we are not sure Zac Stacy is up to the task in replacing him.  However, other than the HB position, Philadelphia is still about as well-rounded and solid as a club can be.  They may struggle to stay ahead of Baltimore this year, but we still see them in the playoff mix when all is said and done. 2015 Prediction: 9-7, In the Wild Card Mix   9-CHARLOTTE Head Coach: Jim Mora Jr. 2014 Record: 11-5 (2nd in SE Division) Departures: OT Sean Bubin (Ret), HB Fred Jackson (Ret), FB Justin Green (Ret), OT Tyson Clabo (FA), DE Kamerion Wemberley (FA), HB Shonn Greene (FA), QB Jeff Tuel (FA), WR Mark Clayton (Trade) Additions: HB Darren McFadden (Trade), OT Kelvin Beachem (NFL), HB Ronny Hillman (NFL), WR Donte Do (FA), OT Russell Okung (FA), QB Tyler Thigpen (FA), DT Danny Shelton (Rook), LB A. J. Johnson (Rook), DE Obum Gwachum (Rook), FB Aaron Ripowski (Rook) Outlook:  A lot of change in Charlotte, with some big names out the door, including their top 2 halfbacks, their backup QB, and their left tackle.  The moves they made to bring in talent don’t feel balanced with the losses they took, so we are predicting a step back, perhaps dropping as far as 3rd or even 4th in the division if things don’t click with their new arrivals. 2015 Prediction: 10-6, In the Wild Card Mix   10-SAN DIEGO Head Coach: Dick LeBeau 2014 Record: 9-7 (2nd in Pacific Division) Departures: QB Jake Plummer (Ret), CB Tyrone Bell (Ret), WR T. J. Houshmandzadeh (Ret), DT Linval Joseph (FA), TE Julius Thomas (Trade) Additions: C Jason Spitz (Trade), QB Joe Webb (Trade), HB Lamar Miller (FA), LB Eric Kendricks (Rook), C Hroniss Grasu (Rook), CB Tye Smith (Rook), G Terry Poole (Rook) Outlook: A new city, a new fanbase, a new QB, and a new attitude.  The Thunder say they are sick of late season fades and are ready to play until the final whistle.  After two consecutive drops out of playoff contention on Week 16, we will believe this is a new team when we see it in July.  So, don’t get too excited with a quick start, the key to the Thunder is how that last quarter of the season goes. 2015 Prediction: 10-6, Pacific Division Champion   11-HOUSTON Head Coach: Wade Phillips 2014 Record: 9-6-1 (4th in SW Division) Departures: WR Bethel Johnson (NFL), C Justin Hartwig (NFL), DE Osi Umenyiura (NFL), HB Cedrick Cobbs (Ret), LB James Farrior (Ret), WR Kevin Johnson (FA), DE Derrick Burgess (FA), LB Nick Barnett (FA), QB Chris Simms (FA) Additions: WR Johnny Knox (FA), OT Sebastian Vollmer (FA), HB Christian Michael (NFL), DE Malik Jackson (NFL), DE Dante Fowler (Rook), C Shaq Mason (Rook), LB Ramik Wilson (Rook), OT Cedric Ogbuehi (Rook) Outlook: Losing both Osi Umenyiura and James Farrior leaves a pretty big leadership gap on the Houston defense, but we do like the addition of NFL veteran Malik Jackson and rookie DE Dante Fowler, to bring some youth and energy to the defense.  On offense, this will very much be the same team that surprised us last year with two outstanding rookies.  Can they avoid a sophomore slump and show us even more in 2015?  2015 Prediction: 10-6, In the Wild Card Mix   12-SEATTLE Head Coach: Stump Mitchell 2014 Record: 7-9 (3rd in Pacific Division) Departures: OT Kenyatta Jones (NFL), G Jeb Terry (Ret), FS Corey Hall (Ret), HB Cadillac Williams (FA), DT Amobi Okoye (FA), WR Dwayne Jarrett (FA), WR Kevin Kasper (FA), LB Akeem Ayers (Trade) Additions: WR Emmanuel Sanders (Trade), HB Joseph Addai (FA), S Taushaun Gipson (NFL), G Laken Tomlinson (Rook), TE Tyler Kroft (Rook), HB Jay Ajayi (Rook), DE Christian Ringo (Rook) Outlook:   If Oakland was the big slumper in the second half of 2014, Seattle was the rising underdog.  We did not expect much from them last year, so a 7-9 finish was a pretty good result.  Now, can they take it a step further?  The Dragons revamped their run game by signing Joseph Addai and drafting a speedster in Jay Ajayi.  The also added a good looking TE in Tyler Kroft, and a solid O-line boost in guard Laken Tomlinson.  We are still not sold on their WR group, but adding Emmanuel Sanders is a potentially shrewd move, and we are still feeling good about the direction this club is headed. 2015 Prediction: 10-6, In the Wild Card Mix   13-PITTSBURGH Head Coach: Vic Fangio 2014 Record: 5-11 (5th in NE Division) Departures: DE Jerome McDougle (NFL), HB Ronnie Brown (NFL), LB Donnie Spragan (Ret), K Shayne Graham (Ret), DT Dan Klecko (FA), G Chester Adams (FA), G Trevor Canfield (Trade), WR Tavon Austin (Trade) Additions: C Antonio Caldwell (Trade), HB Marcus Lattimore (Trade), LB Tahir Whitehead (NFL), TE Anthony Hill (FA), DE Shaquile Riddick (Rook), DT Gabe Wright (Rook), DE B. J. DuBose (Rook), K Andrew Franks (Rook) Outlook: We are not going to hem and haw on this. Our bullpen picks Pittsburgh as a team that could make a big leap this year, and we will stick with that.  We love Lattimore as a possible bell cow back, and adding two young and athletic DE’s behind Jared Allen and Aaron Donald on the D-line could make the Maulers a very tough team to throw against.  So, that leaves the big question.  Is Andy Dalton ready to take a step up and become an elite passer?  If the answer to that is yes then this team can make a run in the NE Division. 2015 Prediction: 9-7, In the Wild Card Mix   14-ST. LOUIS Head Coach: Bruce Arians 2014 Record: 4-12 (4th in Central Division) Departures: LB Wali Rainier (Ret), LB Marlon Greenwood (Ret), TE Jeramy Stevens (Ret), DT Brandon Mbane (FA), HB William Bethea (FA), LB Brandon Short (FA) Additions: HB Bobby Rainey (NFL), TE Rob Gronkowski (FA), TE C. J. Uzomah (Rook), LB Bryce Hager (Rook), DE Shane Ray (Rook), P Bradley Pinion (Rook), DT Carl Davis (Rook), G Chris Reed (Rook) Outlook: I think we have reached the point where we are ready to admit that the dynamic offense that took St. Louis to a title in 2012 is not coming back, but, at the same time, we love the additions they made to spice things up a bit.  Bobby Rainey will be a better 3rd down target than Eddie Lacy, but the big move is pulling Rob Gronkowski away from the Wranglers.  QB Josh Freeman better have Gronk on speed dial, because he will be a match up nightmare all season. 2015 Prediction: 9-7, In the Wild Card Mix   The INCOMPLETE This is an interesting group, made up of teams that may be on the downward slope leading to a retooling or renewal phase and some teams on the upward trajectory after bottoming out. In both cases these are teams with a few more questions than answers. They could potentially take a step towards playoff contention, or they could fall off a cliff. Expect a lot of movement within this group as the season plays itself out. 15-OAKLAND Head Coach: Dennis Green 2014 Record: 9-7 (1st in Pacific Division) Departures: LB Keith Bullock (NFL), TE Jeb Putzier (Ret), SS Pierson Prioleau (FA), LB Joe Odom (FA), WR Tiquan Underwood (FA), Additions: LB Donterrious Thomas (FA), S Jordan Richards (Rook), S Mykkele Thompson (Rook), TE Kennard Backman (Rook), DT Rakeem Nunez-Roches (Rook), LB Xzavier Dickson (Rook) Outlook:  Talk about fading.  The Invaders seemed ready to make a run at the 1 seed and then fell hard, slipping to 9-7 and then bowing out in their first playoff game.  It was not a good look for this team that already had a reputation for underachieving.  Honestly, we are not sure if this offseason made them a better team or shows signs that they are in decline.  But if last season is any indication, this may be the start of a rebuild project in Oakland. 2015 Prediction: 8-8   16-TAMPA BAY Head Coach: Mike Shula 2014 Record: 12-4 (1st in SE Division) Departures: WR Vincent Jackson (NFL), CB Ricardo Colclough (NFL), QB Daunte Culpepper (Ret), DE Jason Pierre-Paul (FA), TE Luke Stocker (FA), OT Sebastian Vollmer (FA), CB Barron Miles (FA) Additions: QB Mark Sanchez (Trade), G/T Brandon Brooks (NFL), TE Greg Olsen (FA), WR Santana Moss (FA), DE Preston Smith (Rook), WR Sammie Coates (Rook), DE Marcus Hardison (Rook), CB Taurean Nixon (Rook) Outlook: You cannot lose your future HOF QB and an All-USFL receiver and expect the team to respond stronger than before.  Oh, and did we forget to say that the Bandits also lost one of their best defenders in JPP?  Man, a lot of big names gone, and we don’t really feel the love for Mark Sanchez as the answer either.  This could be a tough  year by the Bay unless Sanchez and newly arrived targets Greg Olsen and Santana Moss can surprise us. 2015 Prediction: 8-8   17-ORLANDO Head Coach: John Fox 2014 Record: 8-8 (4th in SE Division) Departures: WR Doug Gabriel (NFL), CB Lito Sheppard (Ret), CB Cortland Finnegan (FA), TE Greg Olsen (FA), WR Dwayne Harris (FA), G Ben Hamilton (FA), QB Chad Henne (Trade) Additions: LB Mark Simoneau (FA), G Mike Iupati (FA), WR Breshad Perriman (Rook), CB Kevin Johnson (Rook), G Jon Feliciano (Rook), S Clayton Geathers (Rook) Outlook: John Fox is under some pressure to escape the middle-of-the-pack finishes of the past few years. He will again rely on the defense, but needs to show that he can build an offense that can win games when they need to.  It cannot all be on the big shoulders of Calais Campbell every week. 2015 Prediction: 8-8 18-BIRMINGHAM Head Coach: Ernest Givens (New) 2014 Record: 7-9 (2nd in Southern Division) Departures: LB D’Onte Curry (NFL), CB Quentin Jammer (Ret), HB Joseph Addai (FA), DE Quentin Groves (FA), G Herman Johnson (FA), DT Nick Eason (FA), TE Delanie Walker (Trade) Additions: DT Sione Piuha (Trade), DT Damon Harrison (NFL), DE Greg Hardy (NFL), WR Amari Cooper (Rook), HB T. J. Yeldon (Rook), G Robert Myers (Rook), FB Jalston Fowler (Rook), G Arie Kouandijo (Rook) Outlook:  A legend returns to coach the club as Ernest Givens takes over Cam Newton’s offense.  And, oh, look, he brought some new blood with him in Alabama’s dynamic duo, T. J. Yeldon and Amari Cooper.  This may be a team that needs another year to reach their potential, but we really like the potential we see here. 2015 Prediction: 8-8   19-CHICAGO Head Coach: Greg Schiano 2014 Record: 6-10 (3rd in Central Division) Departures: CB Marlin Jackson (NFL), DE Anthony Weaver (Ret), DT Ellis Wyms (FA), OT Xavier Fulton (FA), TE Anthony Hill (FA), WR Emmanuel Sanders (Trade) Additions: LB Akeem Ayers (Trade), DE Jason Pierre-Paul (FA), WR Jerrel Jernigan (FA), QB Trevor Siemian (Rook), DT Eddie Goldman (Rook), OT Trent Brown (Rook) Outlook: We are not entirely sure what Greg Schiano’s master plan is.  It feels like Chicago is jettisoning proven commodities and bringing in potential trouble.  We are not a fan of a Brady Quinn-Trevor Siemian battle at QB, and yet that seems to be where we are headed, especially if Quinn’s numbers look like last year’s.  Chicago did make one undeniably strong move this offseason, landing DE Jason Pierre-Paul to reawaken the pass rush.  Anthony Weaver was a solid pro for years, but last year he clearly tailed off.  JPP could be the answer, especially if rookie DT Eddie Goldman can absorb blocks like he did in college. 2015 Prediction: 8-8   20-DALLAS Head Coach: Mike Sherman 2014 Record: 5-11 (5th in SW Division) Departures: P Frank Whalen (NFL), LB Manny Lawson (NFL), TE Robert Royal (NFL), WR Cedric Wilson (Ret), LB Dat Nguyen (Ret), TE Brandon Manumaleuna (Ret), K Stephen Haushka (FA), G Luis Vasquez (FA) Additions: DE Larry English (FA), WR Mario Manningham (FA), P Harold Halstead (Trade), LB Lorenzo Mauldin (Rook), DT Jordan Phillips (Rook), LBPaul Dawson (Rook), LB Davis Tull (Rook), OT Andrew Donnai (Rook) Outlook:  The Roughnecks came up with some big wins towards the end of last season, giving fans hope that the team might be turning a corner.  Adding quality players like Larry English won’t hurt, but a lot also depends on if any of the rookies can contribute this year.  The Roughneck roster still seems a bit shallow compared to the depth of clubs like Texas and Arizona, but they are looking more like a team that could challenge for a playoff spot.  2015 Prediction: 7-9   21-WASHINGTON Head Coach: Sean Payton 2014 Record: 7-9 (3rd in NE Division) Departures: FS Ed Reed (Ret), CB Jimmy Williams (Ret), CB Sheldon Brown (FA), SS Gibril Wilson (FA), QB Joe Webb (Trade) Additions: DT Vinny Curry (NFL), CB Bradley Fletcher (FA), OT Ereck Flowers (Rook), DE Eli Harold (Rook), C Greg Mancz (Rook), S Adrian Amos (Rook), S Kyshoen Jarrett (Rook) Outlook:  Washington feels like a team running on fumes.  We don’t know if Deuce McCallister has another All-USFL season left in his legs.  We are feeling similar things about both Deion Branch and QB David Garrard.  The team just seems old, and perhaps a bit tired to us.  We don’t see a lot of help in the rookies either, with the possible exception of OT Ereck Flowers, who could be a nice bookend for the line.  But that does not feel like enough in a very tough NE Division. 2015 Prediction: 6-10     The SHAKY We look at the teams in this last grouping and we see more problems than potential. Whether it is QB insecurity, roster turnover, lack of depth, or just bad play, these clubs are trying to find a formula to get more wins, but the odds are that they are looking at 10-loss seasons or worse. 22-PORTLAND Head Coach: Pep Hamilton 2014 Record: 6-10 (4th in Pacific Division) Departures: DE Eddie Freeman (Ret), CB  Mike Rumph (Ret), LB Mark Simoneau (FA), G Mike Iupati (FA), WR Koren Robinson (FA), G Paul McQuistan (FA), QB Matt McGloin (Trade) Additions: LB Lance Briggs (FA), CB Cedric Griffin (FA), QB Marcus Mariota (Rook), DE Arik Armstead (Rook), CB Lorenzo Doss (Rook), G Quinton Spain (Rook), OT Austin Shepherd (Rook) Outlook: Let’s not put too much pressure on Marcus Mariota to turn things around in his first year.  Keep feeding the ball to Stewart.  Keep focusing on team defense, and don’t ask the rookie QB to do to much and the Stags could compete in a division that seems to lack a true frontrunner.  That said, they have a lot of areas that are looking problematic and even their snazzy new orange helmets won't hide that. 2015 Prediction: 6-10   23-MEMPHIS Head Coach: Rex Ryan (New) 2014 Record: 6-10 (3rd in Southern Division) Departures: WR Lee Evans (NFL), WR Greg Jennings (NFL), OT Maurice Williams (Ret), QB  Matt Cassel (FA), HB Darren McFadden (Trade) Additions: WR Mark Clayton (Trade), LB Danny Trevathan (NFL), G/T Jahri Evans (NFL), OT Tyson Clabo (FA), TE Luke Stocker (FA), HB Todd Gurley (Rook), WR Jamison Crowder (Rook) Outlook: It is very much a new team in Memphis, especially on offense, where Eli Manning has a new, and true, bell cow back in rookie Todd Gurley, and a new primary receiver in Mark Clayton.  Losing Jennings and Evans was not easy, but perhaps this will be the shakeup that the team needed.  Now, our big question is what can head coach Rex Ryan do with one of the league’s worst defenses in 2014. 2015 Prediction: 6-10   24-LOS ANGELES Head Coach: Andy Reid 2014 Record: 6-10 (5th in Pacific Division) Departures: FS Lance Schulters (Ret), LB Leon Joe (Ret), LB Lofa Tatupu (Ret), DT Rashard Moore (Ret), LB Will Overstreet (FA), WR Ronald Johnson (FA), K Damon Duvall (FA), DT Gabe Watson (FA), WR Jerrel Jernigan (FA), FA Nick Collins (FA), CB Coty Sensabaugh (Trade), QB Mark Sanchez (Trade) Additions: QB Tim Tebow (Trade), LB Nico Johnson (Trade), SS DaJuan Morgan (FA), DT Dan Klecko (FA), K Stephen Haushka (FA), HB Shonn Greene (FA), G Mitch Morse (Rook), WR Nelson Agholor (Rook), DT Michael Bennett (Rook) Outlook:  Andy Reid made some big moves, committing to Aaron Murray, trading Sanchez, and setting up a new offensive style, but the big concern is a defense that lost several important members, including Lofa Tatupu, the heart and sole of the D.  Clay Matthews is still there and will need to step up into that space if LA is to compete in a balanced, but weaker Pacific Division. 2015 Prediction: 6-10   25-OHIO Head Coach: Bart Andrus 2014 Record: 8-7-1 (2nd in Central Division) Departures: CB Corey Webster (NFL), QB Chris Weinke (Ret), FB Mike Karney (Ret), WR Arrelious Benn (FA), TE Lee Smith (FA) Additions: CB Jeremy Lane (NFL), QB Brock Osweiler (NFL), S Isa Abdul-Quddus (NFL), DE Kamerion Wemberley (FA), SS Pearson Prioleau (FA), C Cameron Erving (Rook), TE Jeff Heuerman (Rook), OTTyreek Burwell (Rook) Outlook: Chris Weinke’s decision to retire and join the NFL Rams’ coaching staff is a blow to a team that though they had the QB spot locked in. Now the Glory find themselves between a Brock and a hard place.  Do they go with an NFL import who was not exactly impressive in the fall league, or do they give Ohio State grad Troy Smith the shot he never seems to have gotten?  Ohio feels once again like an aging team (adding Wemberley and Prioleau is not exactly a youth movement) and the Glory have just not been drafting well lately, so this could be a true test (and a real hot seat) for Coach Bart Andrus. 2015 Prediction: 6-10 26-NEW JERSEY Head Coach: Norv Turner 2014 Record: 5-11 (4th in NE Division) Departures: DT Ian Scott (NFL), G Sean Mahan (NFL), OT Orlando Brown (Ret), CB Tay Cody (Ret), LB Donterrious Thomas (FA), G Paul Zakauskas (FA), HB Tatum Bell (FA), QB Bobby Hoyer (FA) Additions: DT Amobi Okoye (FA), K Nick Folk (FA), G Deuce Lutui (FA), HB Chris Ivory (NFL), CB Sean Smith (NFL), DE Vic Beasley (Rook), QB Brett Hundley (Rook), G Jamil Douglas (Rook) Outlook: The D-line should be better with the addition of Okoye and rookie Vic Beasley, but we are still worried about the secondary, and we are not feeling great about how little New Jersey did for their offense.  I mean, Chris Ivory is solid, but he is not going to bust out 20-yarders on a regular basis. That said, we are interested in seeing how much OBJ has progressed as he prepares for his 2nd year as the clear number one target for Sam Bradford. 2015 Prediction: 5-11   27-JACKSONVILLE Head Coach: Jack Del Rio (New) 2014 Record: 0-16 (5th in SE Division) Departures: SS Atari Bigby (NFL), WR Rashaun Woods (NFL), LB Alonzo Jackson (Ret), LB Mike Vrabel (Ret), WR Johnny Knox (FA), SS Mike Brown (FA), HB Lamar Miller (FA), QB Josh McCown (FA), QB Tim Tebow (Trade), C Antonio Caldwell (Trade) Additions: QB Robert Griffin III (NFL), CB Coty Sensabaugh (Trade), WR Tavon Austin (Trade), LB Sean Lee (FA), DE Robert Ayers (FA), HB Cadillac Williams (FA), DT Grady Jarrett (Rook), HB Matt Jones (Rook), S Cedric Thompson (Rook), DT Deon Simon (Rook), C David Andrews (Rook) Outlook: Shocked that Jacksonville is not ranked last? Well, this is not the 2014 Bulls. Nowhere to go but up for Coach Del Rio and a very new look Bulls squad.  And that is good after an 0-16 debacle in 2014.  New QB in NFL renewal project Robert Griffin III, new HB in Cadillac Williams, new receivers all over the field, and hopefully a new defensive strategy, because last year’s epically bad D cannot be repeated.  We think this is a team that still has several holes to plug, but they should at least be both competitive and a bit more entertaining than in 2014.  Rome was not built in a day, and neither is a USFL winner, but this year is a chance to start over. 2015 Prediction: 4-12   28-LAS VEGAS Head Coach: Greg Roman 2014 Record: 3-13 (Nashville-4th in Southern Division) Departures: QB Peyton Manning (Ret), WR Robert Meachem (NFL), FS Stevie Brown (FA) Additions: S Reggie Nelson (NFL), WR Arrelious Benn (FA), QB Jeff Tuel (FA), WR DeVamte Parker (Rook), DE Nate Orchard (Rook), TE Rory Anderson (Rook), OG Jeremiah Poutasi (Rook) Outlook:  Expectations have to be pretty low if we place you beneath last year's 0-16 club in our rankings, and, well, they are. Not only is the Peyton Manning experiment over, so is the entire Nashville Knights franchise.  Now located in Las Vegas, with some deep pocketed new ownership, and a new lease on life, the former Knights, now Vipers begin to rebuild in 2015.  We expect Cody Pickett to be the starter, but the signing of Jeff Tuel, who had some strong games in Charlotte, complicates that a bit.  We are also interested to see how Louisville speedster DeVante Parker fares as a potential target in this offense.  Starting the rookie in T. J. Houshmandzadeh’s spot is a gamble, but one that could pay off. 2015 Prediction: 3-13     SUMMER BOWL PREDICTION This is always a total crapshoot for us, but we are going to do something we have never done before. We are predicting that the same 2 teams that met in Atlanta in 2014 will meet again in Los Angeles in 2015, but with a different result.  Last year Baltimore was a Cinderella story. This year they are the evil stepsister that everyone loves to hate.  But, the talent on this team, on both sides of the ball, is legit, so we are picking Baltimore to defeat New Orleans in the Eastern Finals and to represent the East once again.  Texas came so close last year. They survived an injury to Joe Flacco, won the SW Division and home field throughout, made it to their first ever Summer Bowl, and gave Baltimore one heck of a game, ruined by one bad play.  This year we think they don’t blink at the wrong time.  We get another epic matchup and we get Texas holding on to win.  Our pick for the 2015 league champion is the Texas Outlaws.    AWARD PREDICTIONS Last year saw Baltimore clean up with 3 of the 5 major awards going to Ben Roethlisberger, Darrius Heyward-Bey, and Coach Jim Caldwell. This year we think Texas is the big winner, but they will only garner 2 of 3 awards, because everyone expects them to be good, so it is hard for Coach Landry to win COTY if everyone expects them to contend.  Here is our look at each of the Big 5 awards.   MVP: We are giving Joe Flacco his 2nd MVP as we see big things for the Outlaw QB this season.  He was close last year, but Big Ben edged him out.  That could well be the battle this year as well, with some dark horses in the mix like Atlanta’s Kyle Orton, Seattle’s Byron Leftwich, and maybe even Houston HB Carlos Hyde if he can win back-to-back rushing titles.   OPOTY:  Carlos Hyde cannot be bumped into Rookie of the Year this year, so if he has a dominant year, he would be our frontrunner, but we also think that WR Marques Colston is overdue.  With Flacco and the Outlaws expected to again lean heavily on Colston, we think he is our favorite, with Hyde, Heyward-Bey, and another receiver, New Orleans’s Early Doucet, also in the mix. In the end, we think Texas Fever will push Colston to the top of the list.   DPOTY: Look, the fact that voters just don’t want to hand Calais Campbell the award each year is just becoming old (and honestly unfair).  If Orlando can win 9 games, you know Campbell has to be in the mix, especially if he tops 30 sacks again, just an incredible number that has only ever been reached by one man, him.  But, if Campbell or the Renegades somehow flounder, then this is wide open. We like the possibilities that Jason Pierre-Paul will have in Chicago, but if we have to go for any edge rusher who is not Calais Campbell, it has to be Denver NFL import Von Miller, who we are all itching to see take the field in black and gold.   ROTY: Rookie of the year is nearly always a back or a receiver. Well, if that is the case, we have some strong candidates.  We love Todd Gurley in Memphis, but we are worried about the showboat line.  We also have Matt Jones in Jacksonville, but the arrival of Cadillac Williams will limit his potential.  So, that leaves two very likely impact players both on the Birmingham Stallions.  We are going to say that this race, like last year’s between Houston’s Hyde and Evans, will be between Birmingham’s Amari Cooper and T. J. Yeldon.   But, this year we think it will be Cooper, not the HB who gets it.  Why? Well because Birmingham’s offense still runs through Cam Newton, and we see him taking away carries from Yeldon but not targets to Cooper.   COTY: Coach of the Year always depends on which teams outperform expectations.  Now, while we are kind of high on Pittsburgh’s potential, not a lot of others are.  So, we will double down on our projected Cinderella story and say that Coach Vic Fangio will be recognized as COTY if the Maulers can jump from 5th place in the Northeast to a possible playoff spot. Other contenders could include first year coaches Pep Hamilton and Henry Ellard if Portland or Birmingham surprise us.     5 BOLD PREDICTIONS FOR 2015 We challenged our bullpen to make some bold picks, asking key questions and polling them on their answers.  Here is the collective wisdom of our crew trying to push the envelope a bit and supply us with something beyond simply looking at last year’s records and repeating the same results.   Cinderella Maulers Make the Playoffs The first question was “What 10-loss Team from 2014 will make the playoffs in 2015?”, and other than 1 vote for St. Louis, the choice was nearly unanimous, the Pittsburgh Maulers.  Why?  Well, for one thing the once mighty NE Division is feeling like it is on a downward turn, with Philadelphia and Washington in particular looking weaker this year than last, and New Jersey, well, we have no idea what ever goes on in New Jersey.  So, the Maulers have an opportunity to take advantage of that.    Secondly, we like the pieces that Vic Fangio has in place.  On offense he has a stable QB, one that many feel is ready to take a step forward, a strong young WR group with Thielen and Cruz at the lead, and a defense led by one of the best 3-man D-lines in the game (Jared Allen-Aaron Donald-Dwight Freeny).  That line alone is terrifying if you are an OC.  Behind it he has solid LBs in Cushing, Posluszny and Davis, and and up and coming secondary led by one of the hardest hitting safeties in the game in Sean Taylor.  If the run game, now led by Marcus Lattimore can come together, this Mauler team could well be the revelation of the year.  At least we are picking that, which is why we put the Maulers and Dalton on our cover this year.   Joseph Addai Finishes with 1,300 Yards or More Our next question was “Which free agent finds surprising new life in a new home?”.   This one had more variety in the answers. We heard Greg Olsen, Cadillac Williams, and even Rob Gronkowski, but we eliminated him, because his life was quite good before the move to St. Louis, and we wanted someone who had underperformed and now could explode.  The winner was HB Joseph Addai.  In the four years since coming from the NFL Colts to the Birmingham Stallions, Addai has underwhelmed, with not a single 1,000-yard season, and decreasing numbers each year (909 to 838 to 632 to only 421 in an injury-plagued 2014).  Now in Seattle, with a new coach and a new offensive philosophy, not to mention a better O-line, Addai has a chance to show he still has it at age 29.  Our pundits and football geeks think he has a real chance at 1,200, maybe even 1,300 yards with a Dragon team that seems to be on the upswing.   St. Louis Rediscovers their Mojo with Gronk Question 3 was “Which free agent will make his team dramatically better?”.   Again, a lot of different opinions here, including Jason Pierre-Paul on the Chicago defense, Cadillac Williams in the Bulls’ backfield, and OT Tyson Clabo protecting Eli Manning’s blind side, but the consensus immediate impact was Rob Gronkowski with the Skyhawks.  Ever since Taylor Jacobs left the Skyhawks, Josh Freeman really has not had a go-to guy.   Jordi Nelson is a nice receiver, but not a 100-catch guy.  Freeman needed a security blanket, and Gronkowski will provide that for sure.  We expect his targets to shoot past 100 for the first time in his career, and that could mean 80 or more catches.  Freeman will find him early and often, especially if the St. Louis line is as porous as it was last year.   Jeff Tuel Starts More Games than Cody Pickett in Las Vegas Next question “Which backup QB ends up starting more games than the current starter?”   Without considering injury as the reason, our bullpen pretty quickly settled on Jeff Tuel in Las Vegas.  That is not exactly a vote of confidence for Cody Pickett, but then, since when have we really been that confident in Cody Pickett?  Not since his early days in Seattle.  Las Vegas (Nashville in 2014) looks to be a team that is still at the early stages of bottoming out and rebounding.  It is likely to be a long season and when a team struggles, the starting QB is often one of the first pieces a coach tinkers with.  Coach Roman brought in Tuel after some good games in Charlotte, and we expect that he may turn to him early if Pickett and the Vipers offense struggles, which we fully expect them to do.   Andy Reid Trades Tim Tebow Mid-Season And Last but not least, we asked “Which USFL player gets traded away midseason?” and we got a lot of votes for QB Tim Tebow. Why?  Well, because the acquisition of Tebow makes almost no sense for the Express.  Yes, he is a veteran starter, but he is also the starter with the most picks thrown over the past 5  years.  Tebow lives on raw athleticism rather than a true QB skillset, and that does not make any sense for an Andy Reid offense.  We think Reid will try to filter him into games with some unique play sets, but as a true backup to Aaron Murray we just don’t see how Tebow fits in.  But, at some point this season, some team’s starter is going to go down, and if that happens, we could see LA dangling Tebow in front of the team and that sets up a very plausible trade scenario.  It’s a bold call to expect a veteran QB to be traded mid-year, but in the case of Tebow, we think it makes a lot of sense.    LEAGUE TO HIGHLIGHT HOLLYWOOD ROAD & FOOTBALL FILMS Get ready for an alliance between big-time sports and big-time entertainment as the USFL heads “On the Road to Hollywood”.   That will be the theme of the season as the league plays towards a Summer Bowl in LA on July 27th. Each week the USFL will highlight a film connected to that theme, either a “road movie” or a movie about football. You will see those films highlighted in our weekly headers, not a ranking, just 8 of the films that define the genre.   So, which will appear in the 16 headers?  Which traveling films will show up?  Could we see Cannonball Run?  Oh, Brother, Where Art Thou? or Mad Max?  How about football movies?  There are a lot to choose from, though many are just not that good.  From the poignant (Rudy, Brian’s Song) to the ludicrous (Any Given Sunday, The Waterboy), Hollywood has long had a love of portraying America’s game on screen, and we had a lot of fun helping the league pick 16 films to celebrate on the road to Hollywood and Summer Bowl 2015.    But enough talk, enough prediction, enough armchair quarterbacking, it is time to get to some football.  Week One kicks off in 8 days, and we are ready to kick back and watch some games, so what is on the schedule for Week One? Well, the season kicks off, as it often does, with the defending Summer Bowl Champion in action, and this will be a good one. Baltimore heads to Philadelphia for a NE Division battle and a rematch of a divisional playoff from last year that threw the Blitz into the limelight. On Saturday we have the other Summer Bowl contender, Texas, in action as they head to Ohio to face the Glory. We also have divisional battles between the Federals and Maulers, Renegades and Bandits, and Monarchs and Fire. It all caps off with yet another big divisional rivalry as Denver heads to Arizona in a battle of two teams we ranked in our Top 7. Sunday has the first regional coverage, as well as the debuts of the newly relocated San Diego Thunder and the relocated and rebranded Las Vegas Vipers, both on the road to open the season. The best game of the day appears to be the nightcap, with ESPN and the ESPN Football Network simulcasting Oakland @ Seattle. It will be the debut of 2014 retired USFL & NFL superstar Peyton Manning as a color commentator on ESPN (where he will be part of both the NFL and USFL broadcast teams) and of former Federals and Breakers LB Antonio Pierce on the EFN broadcast.   Friday @ 8pm ET                  Baltimore @ Philadelphia       NBC   Saturday @ 12pm ET             Washington @ Pittsburgh       ABC Saturday @ 12pm ET                Orlando @ Tampa Bay                FOX Saturday @ 4pm ET                Texas @ Ohio                                  ABC Saturday @ 4pm ET               Birmingham @ Houston           FOX       Saturday @ 7pm ET                Charlotte @ Atlanta                    NBC Saturday @ 9pm ET                Denver @ Arizona                        ESPN/EFN   Sunday @ 12pm ET                 Jacksonville @ New Orleans  ABC Regional Sunday @ 12pm ET                  San Diego @ Chicago                 ABC Regional Sunday @ 12pm ET                 Las Vegas @ St. Louis                FOX Sunday @ 4pm ET                  Memphis @ Portland                 ABC Sunday @ 4pm ET                  New Jersey @ Michigan            FOX Regional Sunday @ 4pm ET                    Los Angeles @ Dallas                FOX Regional Sunday @ 8pm ET                   Oakland @ Seattle                       ESPN/EFN

Eight days away from a new USFL season and fans across the country are geared up for more football. Whether it is Baltimoreans ready to raise a banner and celebrate their first title, or fans in Jacksonville just looking for a team that can compete, across the country this is a time for hope.  Yes, the weather may still be a bit dicey, and some of the most recent signings may not make it to the field in Week 1, but across the USFL there is a buzz about Season 33.  And there has been a lot happening as USFL teams broke camp, played their preseason primers, and tuned up for next week’s openers.  We could see three teams open with starters who were not even on the roster when camp opened (OK, likely only 2, maybe only 1, but you see the point).  We have NFL imports getting accustomed to new homes, rookies finding their way, and teams hoping they have put together the right combination of players to take the next step.  In Birmingham, Jacksonville, Memphis, Michigan, and Portland we have new coaches putting in their playbooks and putting their stamp on the culture of their club.  And right now, we have our USFL preview where we will look at it all, break it down, and do our best to give you our perspective on what the season to come could hold. FLURRY OF LATE QB MOVES IMPACTS 3 TEAMS To say it was a wild few weeks since the USFL draft just does not do it justice.  Yes, we had the usual drama of recent draftees opting between USFL and NFL offers, but what we saw this year was something of a cascade effect as one decision led to another, with teams moving heaven and earth to try to fill those key spots. And while there certainly was drama in Denver (which we will explore later) the biggest story has been at the QB position, where one decision helped spark a cascade of changes that impacts 3 USFL clubs and shakes up the expectations across the league for this upcoming season. So, what was the decision?  Well, in our last Offseason Report we pointed out that FSU quarterback Jameis Winston was a top pick for both the USFL Tampa Bay Bandits and the NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  The double-selection, particularly with two teams in the same city, led to a bidding war that Winston and his agent had to love, but which drove the rest of us mad.  It was a long 2 weeks, but in the end, just as USFL camps were opening and veterans reporting, Winston made his choice.  He would be headed to the NFL with a new 5-year, $39M contract, a deal that included nearly $20 in signing bonus, something the Bandits just could not provide. Winston’s decision left Tampa Bay with only former backup Ryan Lindley and untested B. J. Daniels in the QB Room.  The 2014 SE Division Champs have designs on repeating, despite the loss of QB Daunte Culpepper and, in a surprise move, WR Vincent Jackson.  To do so they needed more at the QB position than what we saw from Lindley last year, so a deal needed to be done.  It was well-known that there were a couple of teams that were dissatisfied with their 2014 starters, but who had not found a taker willing to pay a high enough price to move their starters to another club.  Tampa Bay was now desperate to make a deal, and they did just that with the Los Angeles Express to bring embattled 7-year starter Mark Sanchez across the country with a promise of a starting gig, something the Express would not provide.  Sanchez would be the newest Bandit, in the hopes of fans the newest in a line that goes from John Reaves to Troy Aikman and then to Culpepper.  In return, LA received what they most wanted, future options, getting two 2016 draft picks, currently a 3rd and a 4th, but those shift to a 2nd and 3rd if Sanchez starts 10 or more games for the Bandits in 2015, something both LA and most Bandit fans hope to see.  Of course, moving Sanchez had an impact on the Express as well.  This now meant that Coach Andy Reid was fully committed to Aaron Murray as his starter.  That was assumed before, but now was locked in.  However, with only Brodie Croyle behind Murray, Reid wanted a veteran presence, someone who would accept his role and help support Murray, but also someone who could step in if Murray struggled.  The Express found an option in Florida once again.  They made an offer to the Jacksonville Bulls that no one had been willing to do all offseason.  They would take former Heisman Winner but accuracy-impaired QB Tim Tebow as a backup to Murray, and Jacksonville would get something they needed, more defensive help.  LA sent nickel back Coty Sensabaugh and a 4th rounder to the Bulls in exchange for Tebow and a 5th in 2016. So now we have Sanchez as the anticipated starter for the Bandits, Tebow at the ready as the number two in LA, and the Bulls now have who at QB?  Well, as of February 15th, they had former on-again-off-again starter for the Boston Cannons Adrian McPherson, and they had a lifetime backup in Chase Daniel on the roster.  Would they really stand pat with those two as their top options?  Of course not.  Jacksonville had an option, right there in the NFL-USFL Transfer window, and the kind of option that fans in Florida might actually get excited about.  The Bulls spent a hefty sum of cash, roughly $9M in each of the next 2 seasons, but they found a player they hoped could revitalize Bulls football in Jacksonville, former Baylor and Redskin QB Robert Griffin III. Griffin arrived in Jacksonville on the 18th, quickly took on number 16 and got to work.  His goal?  To be the starter in Week 1, a tough task for a new arrival, but one that fans were as eager to see as the once lauded QB of the Redskins.  So, in the span of just under 2 weeks we saw Winston opt for the NFL, which led Tampa to trade for Sanchez, which put LA in a position to trade for Tebow, which gave the Bulls the salary relief they needed to go after Griffin.  And that is how you get three new QBs on three new teams in short order.  Now, of course, the question is whether or not any of the three can find success in their new homes. You may think we have already spoiled the surprise before we got to our NFL-USFL Transfer Window Report, but you would be wrong.  As with the September-October window, this year’s February-March Window has been a rousing one, and one with more than a few surprises.  On the outgoing side, the USFL lost a few names that were surprises as teams allowed players to test the market rather than risk holdouts.  On the incoming side, the biggest fish in the NFL free agency pool made a huge move without even calling a van company.  Here is the breakdown, beginning with the USFL departures. Just as we saw in autumn, we have already seen an inexplicable balance in players moving between the two leagues. We still have just under 2 weeks to go, but so far we are seeing players jumping leagues more readily than in recent memory.  Among those who either moved as free agents or who were able to secure releases to explore an NFL option later in the offseason.  Some big names here, players who will be missed in the USFL. WR Vincent Jackson was initially believed to be retiring from the Bandits, the USFL and football, but it seems that he had second thoughts when the San Diego Chargers came calling.  Jackson, now 34, signed a 2-year deal for nearly double what he had been making in Tampa. Steve Slaton pushed hard for a release, unhappy that he was one of the league’s elite running backs, but was still stuck in a deal that paid him like a backup.  Philadelphia wanted to retain his rights, but in the end, they let him explore the market, and the market was very good to him.  Slaton signed a 3-year deal to switch to the fall, where he will be the newest member of the Houston Oilers.  The hopes of the Ohio Glory to be able to resign Chris Weinke came crashing down when the 2014 starter rejected a bid from the team and joined the St. Louis Rams.  But, in a twist we don’t often see, he is joining them as their QB Coach, not as a player.  It is not a formal retirement, but the fact that he has taken the coaching position all but  makes it final for his playing days.  An odd one to be sure.   Back to the more routine, former Nashville receiver Robert Meachem also found gold at the end of the NFL rainbow, released by Greg Roman after a series of blow-ups, Meachem now finds himself a New Orleans Saint.  Others who waited through free agency, without a suitable bid, only to find what they sought, along with a nice extended vacation before NFL minicamps in June, included CB Marlin Jackson, WR Bethel Johnson, center Justin Hartwig, guard Sean Mahan, CBs Corey Webster and Josh Sewell, and, as expected, former Pittsburgh Mauler Ronnie Brown . Brown had sought to be traded within the USFL but found no takers willing to restructure his contract.  He eventually got so sour with team ownership and management, that he was granted his release and that allowed him to pursue NFL options. Well, he found the deal he wanted, a 3-year deal worth nearly $24M with the San Diego Chargers, who are apparently trying to build a USFL roster after signing both Brown and Jackson. Brown’s deal is backloaded, meaning that he has to both avoid injury and show productivity this year in San Diego to get paid, but it is the dollar figure that the Maulers simply would not pay. So, we have some big names headed over to the NFL, what about any big names coming to the USFL on short notice and ready to jump right into the regular season?  Not to worry, Robert Griffin III was not the only NFL import, not by a longshot. After more than 20 signings in the Sept.-Oct. window, the USFL again fared quite well in their wooing of NFL talent.  With nearly 2 weeks to go in the window, we have already seen more than 15 players jump leagues.  And in that group some players that the NFL did not want to lose. Let’s start on offense, where the USFL added 3 NFL halfbacks in addition to the biggest QB name on the board.  First up was former Seahawk Bobby Rainey , who signed a 2-year deal to join the St. Louis Skyhawks, where he is likely to act as a 3rd down option behind Eddie Lacy.  Two days later we saw Christian Michael , another 3rd down specialist, join the Houston Gamblers.  Again, a role player in an offense where 2014 Rookie of the Year Carlos Hyde is clearly the bell cow.  Finally, just 2 days ago, bruising back Chris Ivory inked a deal with the New Jersey Generals, where he will spell Maurice Jones-Drew and very likely take on some goalline and short yardage duties. And while there were some recognizable names on offense chosen,  we saw an even richer haul on the defensive side of the ball.  The first prize came on opening day, when former Lion Nick Fairley , eagerly jumped at a chance to return to the South, to winning football, and to a team with a solid defensive reputation, joining the Atlanta Fire.  Fairley will likely play nose tackle for the Fire’s 3-4 alignment, splitting time with Jason Ferguson.  The next big signing was also a defensive tackle as former Eagle Vinny Curry , unsatisfied playing the swing/sub position for the birds, switch to a different green & black eagle as a new member of the Washington Federals.  Washington hopes to line Curry up next to Corey Liuget in a 4-3 that also features Chris Long and Mathias Kiawanuka, but also expect to see some 3-4 out of Coach Payton. New Jersey also added some defensive help, landing CB Sean Smith away from the KC Chiefs.  But the news for the Generals was almost immediately bumped from the headline as only 3 hours later we got the big announcement that USFL fans had been waiting for and NFL fans had dreaded. From a hotel in downtown Denver, All-Pro DE Von Miller made the announcement that he was leaving the Denver Broncos to join the USFL.  Before the local media could finish groaning, he informed them that he was not done with them yet. He would not be going anywhere, remaining in town as the newest member of the Denver Gold.  It was a jaw-dropper. The Gold, famous for their… let’s call it “frugality’, had opened the wallet up, blown the dust off their checkbook and landed the biggest fish in NFL free agency.  Von Miller was a superstar with the Broncos, and now the NFL club in town would have to watch as billboards with Miller’s face showed him in black and gold, not navy and orange crush.  It was a stunner, and, once USFL coaches put 2 and 2 together and realized that Miller would be on a defensive line that already featured Ndamukong Suh, concern rippled through the league like the force rippling through the universe when the Death Star blew up Alderaan.  The Gold had shocked the football world and now had a D-line trio of Justice Cole, Ndamukong Suh, and Von Miller.  You can almost hear Joe Flacco, David Carr, and Johnny Manziel collectively gasping at the thought.  Miller has the potential to be an immediate threat to Calais Campbell as the league’s best pass rusher, especially with Suh inside just as Campbell has Haynesworth occupying blocks.  And it may well be the model of Campbell and Haynesworth that drove Denver to make the move.  It will cost them a pretty penny to have Miller on the field, so maybe that big money extension for Matt Leinart is now in jeopardy, but it is the kind of move that will absolutely sell tickets (even among upset Bronco fans in Denver) and move merchandize with Miller’s trademark 58 on it. It also adds a level of excitement to the 2015 season that makes both the league and its TV networks very happy indeed. The addition of NFL transfers was not the only action over the past month, as teams continued to tweak their camp rosters, cutting some players loose and adding some via free agency. As is typical, several players who had been holding out for the perfect deal started accepting  lesser offers once camp began. More than 30 USFL players signed deals just in the past 3 weeks, with many returning to their former teams, but a good number changing teams as well.  Here is our quick rundown of notable players who have been added to rosters just as the preseason got under way and rosters started solidifying.   QB: No notable quarterbacks were added in the final month of free agency. HB: Shane Vereen signed with New Orleans, Jay Finley with St. Louis, Shonn Greene with the Express only after Rod Smart made his retirement official, and, perhaps the biggest signing, Cadillac Williams found a taker in the Jacksonville Bulls. WR: Tiquan Underwood landed in Seattle. Donte Do is now in Charlotte.  Jerrel Jernigan caught on in Chicago.  Ted Ginn Jr will be the new slot & return specialist for the Michigan Panthers, and former Panther Mario Manningham finally found an offer he liked, becoming a member of the Dallas Roughnecks.  TE: A couple of late signings, with Bo Scaife joining the Stallions while Arizona tried to add a potential target for David Carr now that Gronkowski is gone, signing veteran Daniel Graham to a 1-year deal. O-Line: Several noteworthy names, beginning with center Ryan Pontbriand who will join the defending champions in Baltimore.  Guard Deuce Lutui moves on to New Jersey, while OT Sebastian Vollmer will be joining the Houston Gamblers. D-Line: DE Brandon Mbane will have a chance to earn some snaps in Tampa Bay as the Bandits try to recover from the departure of Jason Pierre-Paul.  On the inside, veteran Dan Klecko leaves Pittsburgh for the LA Express while Dre Moore will now set up shop in Orlando, backing up Albert Haynesworth. LB/DB: Very few signings in the linebacker or DB groups, with one noteworthy exception as former Invader Pearson Prioleau is apparently not ready to retire after all, signing a 1-year deal with Ohio at the age of 37. ST: Baltimore kicker Nick Folk will head up I-95, staying in the division with the New Jersey Generals, who release 3-year starter Leigh Tiffin with Folk now in the fold. MOST IMPACTFUL NEW FACES That is a lot of new arrivals all across the USFL, so who do we think will be the biggest impact arrivals with their new teams?  We decided to go division by division, starting out west and heading eastward.  Five players in each division who could make a real difference this year.  Could be a rookie, a free agent, a traded starter, or an NFL import, but we think these are players to keep your eyes on as they start their journeys with a new team. QB Marcus Mariota, Portland (Rookie): No pressure, rookie, just the entire hopes of a franchise that has never produced much ride on you.  Easy peasy. QB Joe Webb, San Diego (Trade): The move from the Feds to the Thunder gives Webb a chance to be the bona fide starter without looking over his shoulder, but for how long? HB Joseph Addai, Seattle (Free Agent): A lot was expected of Addai in Birmingham, but it never materialized.  Can he find more success in the PNW with a new team? LB Lance Briggs, Portland (Free Agent): A force on Arizona’s 2013 title team.  Can he be the QB of the defense for the Portland Stags? WR Nelson Agholor, LA (Rookie): We could have gone with Tim Tebow, since he will be a focus of the media for sure, but unlike Tebow, Agholor could be a Week 1 starter as he battles with Robert Woods in camp.   DE/LB Von Miller, Denver (NFL Import): No doubt the hype machine is ready to roll as Miller moves from the Broncos to the Gold.  The talent is undeniable, and Denver could be ready to make a move if the hype turns into results. WR DeVante Parker, Las Vegas (Rookie):  Replacing T. J. Houshmandzadeh will not be easy, but Parker has the tools to be a very dangerous target who can draw coverage away from Chad Johnson. DE Larry English, Dallas (Free Agent): An underrated and oft-overlooked edge rusher.  We would not be surprised if he had his best season as a pro now that he is in Dallas. CB Pacman Jones, Texas (NFL Import): If Jones can keep the distractions and self-destructive nonsense to a minimum, he could be a huge factor for a Texas squad that wants to get back to the Summer Bowl after getting so close to a title last year. WR Kevin White, Denver (Rookie): White provides the quickness and YAC moves that we generally don’t see in Gold wideouts.  Could he help bring in a new age of offensive football in Denver? QB Trevor Siemian, Chicago (Rookie): Not expected to start, but his presence will either propel Brady Quinn to a more successful year or we will see Quinn stumble, pushing Siemian into a possible QB controversy. TE Rob Gronkowski, St. Louis (Free Agent): As good as Gronk was with David Carr and the Wranglers, we think the ceiling is even higher with Josh Freeman in a Bruce Arians offense. QB Brock Osweiler, Ohio (NFL Import): He came to the Glory expecting to hold a clipboard for Chris Weinke, but he now looks like the potential starter as the season draws close. WR Ted Ginn Jr, Michigan (Free Agent): The Panthers add a speedy inside weapon for Kirk Cousins.  Ginn will benefit greatly from LBs and even safeties having to respect the threat of LeVeon Bell out of the backfield. DE Jason Pierre-Paul, Chicago (Free Agent):  The Machine want to return to their glory years of monster defense, and there is no better way to do that than to put pressure on the QB.  JPP can certainly do that, as he proved in Tampa last season.   WR Amari Cooper, Birmingham (Rookie):  A Birmingham squad that once had both Moss and Owens on the field together needed some youth and some speed at the position.  Cooper could be the weapon Newton has needed. OT Tyson Clabo, Memphis (Free Agent): Protect your QB’s blind side, open holes for your new HB, and provide some veteran leadership to an offense that needs to find itself. That is the 3-part task before Clabo. HB Todd Gurley, Memphis (Rookie): Is Gurley all his college career seemed to show or will he be another in a pretty long line of backs to struggle in Memphis?  If he can crack 1,000 yards as a rookie, he could be elected mayor in the Blues City. DE Malik Jackson, Houston (NFL Import): Not as flashy a signing as Von Miller, but Houston is expecting Jackson to become a solid force as a dedicated edge rusher.  If he can live up to that, his name will become more well-known. LB Kwon Alexander, New Orleans (Rookie): The Breakers see themselves as one step from a title, and a youthful, fast, and aggressive LB could be just what they need to turn a very good defense into one that is feared across the league.   TE Greg Olsen, Tampa Bay (Free Agent): With a new QB in town, and a lot of moving pieces all across the offense, landing a solid safety valve was a shrewd move.  Olsen is a step up from Luke Stocker, and could be a 100-target receiver at TE. HB Cadillac Williams, Jacksonville (Free Agent): The Bulls needed help across the offense.  They brought in 3 new receivers and finally landed a potential bell cow back in Williams.  DT Nick Fairley, Atlanta (NFL Import): Fairley disappointed Lion fans, but he could rebound with a strong season in Atlanta.  Don’t expect a lot of sacks from the interior lineman, but if he can free up the LBs to get involved in the pass rush, his arrival will have been a success. QB Robert Griffin III, Jacksonville (NFL Import): So much rides on Griffin’s back.  He needs to show the world he was not a flash in the pan.  He needs to prove himself a leader on a team that desperately needs one. But most of all he needs to stay healthy. QB Mark Sanchez, Tampa Bay (Trade): A bit of a desperation call after whiffing on Jameis Winston, but now Tampa Bay has to rally behind Sanchez, and Sanchez has to prove that LA made a huge mistake giving up on him.   HB Marcus Lattimore, Pittsburgh (Trade): The Maulers chose Lattimore over other bigger, more straight line backs, so they will now need to modify their run game to adapt to the lighter, quicker, and shiftier style of Lattimore. DT Ellis Wyms, Baltimore (Free Agent): Baltimore wants to make life tough on opposing halfbacks, and Wyms can certainly do that.  He will eat up blocks and space, which could also benefit the Blitz pass rush. CB Cortland Finnegan, Philadelphia (Free Agent):  Not since Quentin Jammer left have the stars truly had a lock down corner.  Finnegan could be just that for them, and that could be the difference as they try to hold down Baltimore’s pass-happy offense. DE Vic Beasley, New Jersey (Rookie): The Generals are trying to make life miserable for offensive coordinators. With Kampman on one side and Beasly on the other, this could be a pass rush that produces a lot of grey hair for anyone responsible for QB protection. HB Jacquizz Rogers, Baltlimore (NFL Import): The Blitz will still primarily rely on Anthony Dixon to run between the tackles, but having a weapon like Rogers on 3rd down could make life a lot easier for Big Ben and could be a 1st down machine in the short passing game. In Part 2 of our 2015 Season Preview, we will make bold predictions, assess the 6 USFL divisions, rank all 28 USFL clubs ahead of their opening week, make our often-way-off-base predictions for the Summer Bowl and the award winners. That, plus a preview of Week 1 action, all on its way in just 2 days.

Welcome back, USFL Fans as we offer our second offseason report for your favorite spring and summer obsession. With the NFL pausing for a week before Super Bowl XLIX between the Chiefs and the Dallas Cowboys, we turn our attention to the USFL, with camps about to open and players reporting. In this report, we will update you on all the signings, mid-winter trades, Draft Day deals, and the rookies that could impact the 2015 USFL season. We will also look ahead at the upcoming NFL-USFL Transfer Window to highlight possible NFL defections, and we will take a look at the can't miss games of the upcoming season. We start it all off with our Big Story, the hiring of a new coach to bring Jacksonville back from the brink. Bulls Nab Del Rio as New Head Coach We start off this report with the hiring of Jack Del Rio as the new head coach of the Jacksonville Bulls.  The former head man for the NFL Jaguars returns to Jacksonville with a pretty bug job to fill.  He will take over an 0-16 franchise that still has questions at QB and a defense that was among the worst in USFL history.  How is that for a challenge. Del Rio was named Head Coach in mid-December, giving him less than a month to get on board with Scott Pioli to plan for the USFL Draft.  Jacksonville went heavily for defense after using their first pick on Wisconsin HB Melvin Gordon, selecting 4 defenders in their next five picks.  Del Rio also had a hand in bringing former Outlaw DE Robert Ayers to the Bulls.  But a lot of rebuilding still to be completed as the Bulls roster continues to be reformed.  The Bulls are hoping to add their 1st round pick to the backfield to join CFL import Kory Sheets and scatback Kiero Small.  They have added NFL wideout Reuben Randle, but lost longstanding number one option Rashaun Woods to the fall league.  The big question, of course, is what Del Rio’s plan will be at quarterback.  Does he stick with Tim Tebow, or seek a trade? The Bulls did not pursue a QB in the draft, so their options may be limited to a trade or hoping to sign an NFL prospect when the Transfer Window  opens.  Many fans are hoping for the latter, pointing out that both Robert Griffin III and Jimmy Clausen, the former Golden Domer, are still unsigned by their NFL teams.  To do either, the Bulls will need to move Tebow, whose contract all but prohibits signing another big-name player at the position.  All this is on the plate for the former Jaguars’ head man as he returns to Duvall County, to Alltel Stadium, and to a franchise that needs a facelift and a new culture to wipe away the sour memories of 2014. We thought this offseason might be one that produced a lot of intriguing trades, and that has certainly been the case.  Both in the buildup to the draft and on draft day itself, trades broke all across the league as teams tried to position themselves to get talent they coveted, either directly or through shifts in their draft position.  Let’s start with some of the moves made ahead of the draft, and then we can explore the excitement on draft day itself. Two prominent tailbacks found new homes in November as both Atlanta and Memphis opted to move back in favor of some help in other positions. The Showboats acted first, cutting a deal with the Charlotte Monarchs to bring some WR help to a Memphis squad that lost both Greg Jennings and Lee Evans to the NFL.  Charlotte agreed to send veteran wideout Mark Clayton to Memphis in trade for lead back Darren McFadden . This will be McFadden’s third team since 2011, returning to the SE Division where he began his career in Atlanta.  Clayton, now in his 10th season, joins his third team with the move to Memphis. The trade is an interesting one because no one expected scatback Knile Davis to take on the bell cow role for the Showboats.  We all awaited another deal, and we got one in late December, but more on that later. The other halfback sent to a new team was Atlanta’s Marcus Lattimore , who had split carries with Steven Jackson in the Fire backfield, rushing for 395 yards and 5 TDs in 2014.  Lattimore became the newest member of the Pittsburgh Maulers, where he could very well be given every chance to become the primary back as Pittsburgh gave Ronnie Brown the release he had demanded.  Brown remains unsigned, but Lattimore now joins Toby Gerhardt and Charles Sims in the Mauler backfield.  In return for Lattimore, Atlanta shored up their line with a quality interior lineman in guard Trevor Canfield .  Depth at the position allowed the Maulers to make the deal, as they expect competition between veteran Chester Adams and 3rd year swing guard Julian Vandervelde to line up across from RG Steve Sciulo. Pittsburgh was not done dealing with the Lattimore acquisition.  With a deep WR pool, the Maulers decided to part with slot receiver Tavon Austin , who did not live up to his draft hype with only 38 receptions in 2014, following a rookie year with only 24 receptions.  Austin was shipped to the Jacksonville Bulls, another potential bolster to their receiving corps, as the Maulers added center Antonio Caldwell from the Bulls.  Expect Austin’s spot in Pittsburgh to be filled by either Mike Williams or Josh Cribbs. San Diego also hoped to add a new pivot and made a deal with Texas to acquire up and coming center Jason Spitz .  The Outlaws sent Spitz to the newly relocated Thunder in trade for a solid receiving TE in Julius Thomas .  Thomas, paired with Outlaw TE Chris Cooley could allow the Outlaws to use more 2-TE sets, which will certainly help out HB Chris Johnson as he targets 1,000 yards after a 735-yard 2014 season.  We also saw a couple of player-for-picks moves in the waning weeks before the draft as Dallas sent a 7th rounder to Memphis to acquire punter Harold Halstead.  Not a huge move, but one the Roughnecks needed as they lost their punter to retirement.  Finally, a bit higher on the impact meter, we saw Birmingham send LB Nico Johnson to LA for a 3rd rounder (one acquired from Chicago last year).  The move helps LA deal with Lofa Tatupu’s retirement while providing the Stallions with a solid mid-round pick. But perhaps the biggest pre-draft trades came in the week prior to the Territorial Draft, when two clubs elected to trade away top T-Draft picks to eager teams willing to give up picks in the Open Draft. As we said earlier, Memphis’s trade of Darren McFadden left them without a solid option for a lead tailback. Well, they addressed that right after Christmas with a deal they hope will bring them the gift they covet. The Showboats sent 3 picks to Atlanta, their 1st, 3rd and 5th rounders this year and in return received the rights to Atlanta’s first T-Draft pick.  There was no doubt who the target would be, Georgia halfback Todd Gurley, and one week later, at the T-Draft announcement of selections, that is exactly who Memphis selected.  Gurley was the consensus pick as the top halfback available in a draft that had 3 solid 1st round options (Gordon and Yeldon being the others). The move gave the Showboats a chance to pursue an elite back, and now all that is required is for them to outbid the NFL Rams. The second big move in the T-Draft came when Arizona sent their 1st round pick in the Open Draft to St. Louis for the Skyhawks’ first T-Draft selection. Again, the target was quite obvious.  Arizona has not been happy with the 12-year veteran Wade Smith at left tackle, particularly this past year, where the LT gave up 13 sacks of QB David Carr.  Smith has not adapted well on a move from RT to LT and the Wranglers were seeking a better option.  That option came via St. Louis’s T-Draft pick, which the Wranglers used to snap up the USFL rights to Iowa’s Brandon Scherff.  With two T-Draft deals made in the week prior to the opening of the USFL Collegiate Draft, the wheeling and dealing was not yet over. By the morning of the Open Draft, it was known that Jacksonville had not protected either of the top tier pass rushers available to them in the T-Draft, leaving both Florida’s Donte Fowler and Clemson’s Vic Beasley available in the Open Draft.  For one team, the New Jersey Generals, the opportunity to find a linemate for Aaron Kampman was too good to pass up.  New Jersey made a draft day deal to move up to St. Louis’s 3rd pick in the draft to land their choice of the two edge rushers.  With Jacksonville having selected Melvin Gordon and Las Vegas jumping on WR DeVante Parker of Louisville, the slate was open with the 3rd pick.  New Jersey opted to go for Clemson product Vic Beasley, leaving Fowler on the board for Houston at the 4th pick.  St. Louis dropped down to pick 6, where they drafted Kentucky LB Bud Dupree, and still had the 22nd pick that they had acquired from Arizona in the trade of their T-Draft selection.  All in all, we saw 5 teams move their picks in the first round.  New Jersey up to pick 3 (Beasley), Houston using a pick from Dallas they acquired last year at 4 (Fowler), St. Louis using New Jersey’s 6th pick (Dupree), Atlanta using the pick they acquired from Memphis for the rights to Todd Gurley (Atlanta chose DE Mario Edwards of FSU), and St. Louis with their pick from Arizona (Washington Huskie LB Hau’oli Kikaha). No moves down at the bottom of the draft, but pretty active trading throughout as we also saw 13 picks change hands between the 2nd and 4th rounds.  A busy day for the stat trackers at the Draft, as well as for the various team war rooms. Before we take a look back at the USFL Collegiate Drafts, we should highlight some of the more prominent USFL free agency signings between October and January as those moves certainly impacted the priorities of the teams involved as well as the draft boards.  Here are 10 more free agent signings that could be impactful as teams prepare for 2015.  These are not ranked, just 10 we feel have potential impact. DALLAS added a veteran presence to their D-line in the form of Arizona DE Larry English .  English, whose sack total has hovered between 11-13 over the past 5 years in Arizona, is expected to line up on the right side, a switch for him, but this allows Dallas to pair him with Elvis Dumervil, who finished 2014 with 15 sacks, to make a nice duo up front. HOUSTON hopes to add yet another weapon for QB Matt Hasselbeck, landing former Bull Johnny Knox with a 2-year deal.  Knox played in 13 games and had 58 receptions for 654 yards for the Bulls this year.  Expect him to move into the slot, as Mike Evans, Roy Williams, and Mike Sims-Walker rotate outside.   MEMPHIS shored up the left side protection for Eli Manning by signing 29-year-old Tyson Clabo away from the Charlotte Monarchs.  Clabo is a solid LT, allowing only 1 sack of Charlotte QBs in 2014.  OHIO added some potential pass rush help, landing another Monarch, DE Kamerion Wemberley to their D-line. Wemberley saw his production drop from 11 and 12 sacks in 2012-2013 (with Washington) to only 6 sacks in 2014 with Charlotte.  The 30-year old is hoping to have more success with Ohio, his 7th team since coming to the league in 2006. LAS VEGAS added WR help in the form of Ohio’s Arrelious Benn .  Benn, still only 24, signed a 3-year deal with the new Vipers franchise, where he likely will compete with both Denarius and Lance Moore for a starting job after the release of WR Robert Meachem due to ongoing disputes between the wideout and Head Coach Greg Roman.   CHARLOTTE continues to tinker with their QB room. Having lost Jeff Tuel to free agency, they find a new backup through the same tool, inking former Michigan backup Tyler Thigpen to a 2-year deal. Thigpen, who had been with Atlanta before a 5-year stint in Michigan, now returns to the SE Division as a Monarch, where he will back up Brandon Wheedon. TAMPA BAY adds a speedster in former Wrangler and Breaker Santana Moss .  Moss had 52 catches for 476 yards in 2014 with the Breakers and now joins a Bandit WR group headed by Vincent Jackson and Santoni Holmes. LOS ANGELES fills their gap at kicker by landing former Roughneck Stephen Haushka .  Expect him to compete with rookie Hugh Banks, a Cal-Davis product.  ORLANDO brings in some veteran savvy at LB by signing 34-year old former Portland Stag Mark Simoneau . Simoneau missed 7 games due to injury after a very strong 2013 in which he finished the year with 105 tackles.  The Renegades hope to line him up inside, allowing Anthony Barr to take over the strong side with Barrett Rudd on the weak side. Finally, SAN DIEGO , apparently wanting to offer Marshawn Lynch more support and more opportunities to come out of the game, have added Lamar Miller to their RB room.  Miller, who was the lead back for the Bulls the past 2 seasons, now clearly takes on a backup role to Lynch in the San Diego backfield.  With only 4 TDs the past two seasons, Miller had simply not lived up to the promise of his 700-yard, 8 TD 2012 season in the USFL after coming over from the NFL.    The USFL Draft is a bit of an odd duck.  While the Territorial Draft has proven over the years to be an effective way to get top talent to sign with the league, using the lure of lucrative local endorsements and home town fans as a draw, it does have its drawback.  With so many top quality players off the board for the Open Draft, the excitement is just not the same as with the NFL Draft.  To be honest, both drafts lose a bit of their luster as fans have learned that even with your team picking the player you most covet, the odds are still 50/50 that the player will end up with your club, because when you have 2 leagues competing for the same talent, there is no guarantee that a good draft turns into a good incoming class for your team or your preferred league.  And so, with a bit of hesitation we review the draft class of 2015 for the USFL, both the T-Draft and the Open Draft, reminding everyone, that half of the names listed here will end up playing in the fall, not in the USFL. JACKSONVILLE BULLS T-Draft Players: HB Matt Jones, DT Grady Jarrett, DT DeShawn Williams.     1st Round Pick: HB Melvin Gordon (Wisconsin) Most Interesting Move: While a lot of fans will question the double-down strategy of choosing both Matt Jones and Melvin Gordon, USFL insiders can tell you that doing so is always a good option as it protects against the NFL outbidding you for one of the two.  What intrigues us is that with no interest by the Bulls in DE’s Vic Beasley (Clemson) or Dante Fowler (Florida) the Bulls accepted no offers to trade away a T-Draft pick to a team that sought edge rush help.  Seems a missed opportunity.   LAS VEGAS VIPERS T-Draft Players: DE Nate Orchard, OG Jeremiah Poutasi, DB Robertson Daniel 1st Round Pick: WR DeVante Parker (Louisville) Most Interesting Move: Another case of “Why didn’t they?” with the Vipers.  Surely someone offered them a chance to move down in the Open Draft, someone after an edge rusher, but Las Vegas stood pat with the 2nd pick and chose a receiver who they could have likely gotten at any point in the Top 10.  But, if Parker can replace Robert Meachem (released in December and openly seeking a chance to join the NFL), it will prove a shrewd move in the end.   NEW JERSEY GENERALS (Trade to 3rd Pick) T-Draft Players: FB Michael Burton, OG Ian Silberman, C Andy Galik 1st Round Pick: DE Vic Beasley (Clemson) Most Interesting Move: The trade with St. Louis to land Beasley was clearly the big story, but we were also intrigued by the Generals picking QB Brett Hundley from UCLA in the 4th round.  Are they challenging Sam Bradford or just getting some youth in the room in case of injury?    HOUSTON GAMBLERS (Trade to 4th pick) T-Draft Players: OT Cedric Ogbuehi, DT Christian Covington, FS Deshazor Everett 1st Round Pick: DE Dante Fowler (Florida) Most Interesting Move: A 2013 deal with Dallas gave Houston the 4th pick and they had to be overjoyed to see Fowler here. With Osi Umenyiura off to the NFL the timing of this could not be better.  Now they just have to ensure he does not sign with the NFL Jaguars.   PITTSBURGH MAULERS T-Draft Players: DE Shaquille Riddick, OT T. J. Cummings, CB Darryl Roberts 1st Round Pick: CB Trae Waynes (Michigan State) Most Interesting Move: We like the Waynes pick, but their best move might have been to double down at DE by taking Riddick in the T-Draft then using a 3rd rounder in the Open Draft to pick Louisville’s B. J. Dubose.  Good value at that pick and a nice insurance policy if they cannot land Riddick.   ST. LOUIS SKYHAWKS (Traded down from 3rd in 1st round) T-Draft Players: DE Shane Ray, DT Carl Davis, WR Dorial Green-Beckham 1st Round Pick: LB Bud Dupree (Kentucky) Most Interesting Move: The trade down was not a surprise, and by doing so, the Skyhawks picked up 2 more picks in the Open Draft.  They still got the LB they were hoping to add to the defense, and their 2nd round pick from New Jersey, Auburn TE C. J. Uzomah from Auburn, could give them a potent 1-2 at the position with All-USFL candidate Rob Gronkowski coming over in free agency.   CHICAGO MACHINE T-Draft Players: QB Trevor Siemian, S Ibraheim Campbell, DE Ryan Russell 1st Round Pick: DT Eddie Goldman (FSU) Most Interesting Move: While the pick of Goldman makes sense for a team trying to rebuild their defense, the move that has surprised many was the selection of Siemian from Northwestern.  For those annoyed by Brady Quinn’s seeming regression, having a young, talented QB in the fold could be a sign that Quinn is on a short leash.   ATLANTA FIRE (Traded up with Memphis) T-Draft Players: CB Damian Swann, WR Darren Waller, WR Chris Conley 1st Round Pick: DE Mario Edwards Jr. (FSU) Most Interesting Move: The edge rush frenzy continued as Atlanta moved up to land the next best edge rusher on the board.  If Edwards comes to Atlanta, it could be a crowded rotation with Chris Kelsay and C. J. Mosely, but that may well be exactly what the Fire want as they chase down those SE Division QBs.    MEMPHIS SHOWBOATS (1ST round pick traded to ATL) T-Draft Players: DE Trey Flowers, LB Martrell Spaight, CB Bobby McClain 1st Round Pick: No 1st round pick (traded to ATL) Most Interesting Move: We placed Memphis more or less where they would have picked had they had their 1st rounder, traded to Atlanta in order to get a T-Draft bid in on Todd Gurley.  Let’s be honest, this entire draft will depend on if the Showboats can land Gurley. If he goes to the St. Louis Rams instead, well, then fans will rightfully be upset.    LOS ANGELES EXPRESS T-Draft Players: WR Nelson Agholor, DE Leonard Williams, HB Javorius Allen 1st Round Pick: CB Marcus Peters (Washington) Most Interesting Move:   The Express were the one team to actually jump on their edge rushing prospect (Williams) in the T-Draft.  He could be tough to sign as he now has to choose between staying in LA with the USFL or heading to NYC with the Jets of the NFL. With Keneche Udeze not getting any younger, LA should do all they can to land the USC product.   PORTLAND STAGS T-Draft Players: QB Marcus Mariota, DE Arik Armstead, LB D. J. Alexander 1st Round Pick: CB Byron Jones (UConn) Most Interesting Move:  Rumors have Mariota very close to signing with the Stags after being selected by the Tennessee Copperheads of the NFL.  Mariota’s arrival will be a huge deal for Coach Pep Hamilton and a Stags team that needs to boost enthusiasm in the PNW for this club.   BIRMINGHAM STALLIONS T-Draft Players: WR Amari Cooper, HB T. J. Yeldon, OG Arie Kouandijo 1st Round Pick: WR Phillip Dorsett (Miami) Most Interesting Move: It is a common complaint that some teams just have an inherent advantage in the T-Draft, and when Birmingham can protect two Top 10 picks like Cooper and Yeldon, it is hard to argue that they have it easier than say New Jersey, Philadelphia, or Las Vegas.  That said, the double down strategy by going for Dorsett after protecting Cooper proves just how precarious the draft process is.  Protecting or selecting a player is no guarantee of signing that player.   SEATTLE DRAGONS T-Draft Players: LB Shaq Thompson, HB Jay Ajayi, DT Xavier Cooper 1st Round Pick: OG Laken Tomlinson (Duke) Most Interesting Move: We could say Tomlinson is a bit of a reach at 12, but he already signed, so that is a win for the Dragons.  The pick that has fans intrigued is Jay Ajayi from Boise State, who will now join free agent Joseph Addai and power back C. J. Anderson in a very intriguing and very new-looking RB Room.   WASHINGTON FEDERALS T-Draft Players: DE Eli Harold, S Kyshoen Jarrett, OT Laurence Gibson 1st Round Pick: OT Ereck Flowers (Miami) Most Interesting Move: Washington is the good counter-argument this year for Birmingham.  They had no one in their pool that measured as a 1st or even 2nd round pick, but they had enough bodies that the league would not grant them a supplemental school as they did a few other teams.  When it came to the open draft, Flowers was their most noteworthy pick in a draft that left us a bit underwhelmed.   OHIO GLORY T-Draft Players: TE Jeff Heuerman, LB Za’Darius Smith, WR Devin Smith 1st Round Pick: C Cameron Erving (FSU) Most Interesting Move:  It is clear that the Glory are going to try to protect whoever ends up being their QB (Weinke remains unsigned) as they went with Center Cameron Erving in the first round and then drafted two tackles in later rounds, including TCU’s Tayo Fabuluje, an intriguing 3rd round pick.  Even protecting Heuerman in the T-Draft could be seen as a QB protection move.   ORLANDO RENEGADES T-Draft Players: WR Breshad Perriman, S Clayton Geathers, OG Jon Feliciano 1st Round Pick: CB Kevin Johnson (Wake Forest) Most Interesting Move: Other than protecting Feliciano, this draft was all about speed for the Renegades. Perriman in particular is a speed demon, but Geathers and Johnson are also fast for their positions.  Guess the Renegades are going to try to outrun the division.   SAN DIEGO THUNDER T-Draft Players: LB Eric Kendricks, OG Terry Poole, FB Joey Iosefa 1st Round Pick: LB Stephone Anthony (Clemson) Most Interesting Move: The trade for Joe Webb was a clear indicator that beyond Mariota and Winston (both T-Draft protected), the Thunder did not like any of the rookie QB prospects.  Understandable, there were no others targeted as immediate starter potential.  Instead they focused on areas of need and adding depth on the line and in the LB group.  If Webb works out, that could prove a shrewd move for a club that has been on the cusp of playoff relevance for a while now.   DENVER GOLD T-Draft Players: LB Randy Gregory, HB Ameer Abdullah, OT Ty Sambrailo 1st Round Pick: WR Kevin White (West Virginia) Most Interesting Move: The Gold are still not satisfied with the speed in their WR group, even with Michael Crabtree, so they add White, a quick and fast potential slot man to line up inside of Crabtree and Tate. After signing Delanie Walker this offseason, the receiver group could be more diverse for Matt Leinart than we have seen in some time.   CHARLOTTE MONARCHS T-Draft Players: LB A. J. Johnson, WR Justin Hardy, C B. J. Finney 1st Round Pick: DT Danny Shelton (Washington) Most Interesting Move:  Charlotte may win the “all-name” team for the draft.  Not only do they go with the amazingly named Aaron “The Ripper” Ripkowski at fullback (7th round), but they also selected DE Obum Gwacham (Oregon State) in the 4th round. We will see if the picks work out, but at least they created some fun when they were announced.   OAKLAND INVADERS T-Draft Players: S Jordan Richards, CB Alex Carter, DT David Parry 1st Round Pick: DT Malcolm Brown (Texas) Most Interesting Move: Case in point about the “double down” strategy.  First round pick Malcolm Brown looks almost certainly headed to the New England Patriots, but Oakland has already inked 4th round pick Rakeem Nunez-Roches from Southern Miss, another big, space-filling DT, so they had insurance.  We told you that drafting in the USFL was a tricky game.    NEW ORLEANS BREAKERS T-Draft Players: LB Kwon Alexander, CB Jalen Collins, HB Kenny Hilliard 1st Round Pick: OT Rob Havenstein (Wisconsin) Most Interesting Move: We are honestly a little shocked that Havenstein lasted all the way until pick 20 in the draft.  He is a top graded run blocker (who needs to work on his hands a bit in pass protection) on a school that was not anyone’s T-Draft option, so we thought he would go earlier.  If the Breakers can keep him from jumping to the Rams in the NFL, they will have themselves a steal.   DALLAS ROUGHNECKS (No 1st round pick due to 2013 Houston Deal) T-Draft Players: DT Jordan Phillips, LB Paul Dawson, TE Blake Bell 1st Round Pick: None Most Interesting Move: Houston picked here (their normal pick) after using Dallas’s earlier 4th pick.  Dallas had to wait until round 2 to pick LB Lorenzo Mauldin from Louisville.  They would go on to pick 2 more linebackers (between the T-Draft and Open Draft), so you know what part of the defense displeased Coach Greg Landry last year.     ARIZONA WRANGLERS (No 1st Round Pick after trade with St. Louis) T-Draft Players: TE Maxx Williams, WR Jaelen Strong, LB Damien Wilson 1st Round Pick: No 1st round pick. Most Interesting Move: The Wranglers gave up their Open Draft pick to snag St. Louis’s first T-Draft selection, where they followed the obvious direction and took LT Brandon Scherff.  They are competing with the Washington Redskins to sign the big guy, but so far it seems the Wranglers are making the better case, a development that has to be making David Carr happy.   TAMPA BAY BANDITS T-Draft Players: QB Jameis Winston, DE Preston Smith, LB Benardrick McKinney 1st Round Pick: WR Sammie Coates (Auburn) Most Interesting Move: We now know that Jameis Winston will be playing in Tampa Bay, but will he go with the Bandits or the Buccaneers. Both Florida clubs picked the FSU quarterback.  The Bandits used the T-Draft as expected, but the Buccaneers used the overall number one pick of the NFL Draft. That means that the sky is the limit on how much they can offer Winston.  That could prove tough for the Bandits to match.  Expect some drama here.   PHILADELPHIA STARS T-Draft Players: OT Donovan Smith, LB Mike Hull, TE Jesse James 1st Round Pick: S Jaquiski Tartt (Samford) Most Interesting Move: A bit of a reach for Tartt (Another All-Name Team MVP), as many had him as a 2nd rounder at best, but the Stars like the guy and with their track record over the Harbaugh years, who are we to say they were wrong?   MICHIGAN PANTHERS (Atlanta picked both 8th and 25th) T-Draft Players: LB Jake Ryan, WR Devin Funchess, WR Tony Lippett 1st Round Pick: OT Andrus Peat (Stanford) Most Interesting Move: The Panthers picked 3 wideouts to replace Mario Manningham, who has yet to sign with anyone, but for us the most interesting pick was the  mid-round selection of ODU quarterback Taylor Heinecke.  He is not so much a threat to starter Kirk Cousins as to backup Drew Stanton, but will he actually see the field?   TEXAS OUTLAWS T-Draft Players: LB Jordan Hicks, S Quandre Diggs, HB Malcolm Brown 1st Round Pick: OT D. J. Humphries (Florida) Most Interesting Move: Another team with an intriguing mid-round QB pick as the Outlaws look at Baylor QB Bryce Petty.  Petty is more of a spread offense guy, so it will take him time to learn how to play under center, but who better to train him up than Joe Flacco?   BALTIMORE BLITZ T-Draft Players: S James Sample, WR Eli Rogers, OG John Miller 1st Round Pick: CB Ronald Darby (FSU) Most Interesting Move: The newly crowned league champions had a somewhat unspectacular draft, which is typical when you pick last, but at the very least they think they have their new kicker in Texas A&M product Josh Lambo.  For a team with few needs, adding depth is really all you expect in a draft, so picking up a starter on special teams is a solid move.   NFL-USFL WINDOW PREVIEW We have run down the trades, free agent signings and the results of the 2015 USFL Collegiate Drafts.  But there is still one major aspect of the offseason yet to wrap up.  The 2nd NFL-USFL Transfer Window of the offseason is set to open on March 1st, just as the USFL preseason’s 2-game schedule kicks off.  That means one last chance to add players that could make an impact. Yes, we know that for many the physical toll of playing a full NFL season followed by a full USFL season drains these players, but as we have seen year after year, by midseason we often see these players getting more snaps, and improving just as teams reach the playoff drive in the season’s final weeks.  So, even though for many their best USFL seasons will not come until their 2nd or 3rd years, we still see NFL players come to the spring and make a huge impact right away. So, who has the potential to transform a roster, improve a key position group, or just add something new to a team?  As we look at the 2015 NFL Free Agent pool, there are some names that not only could be impactful, but could be open to a jump from Fall to Spring as a way to refresh their careers or, as is often the case, cash in on early career success in the fall league.  Here is our pick of 15 players who you might see on USFL rosters, making a difference. 15) HB Christian Michael (Seahawks) The former A&M back has not done much in the NFL, rushing for only 175 yards this past season in Seattle, but the potential is still there for him, particularly on special teams and as a pass-catching 3rd down back. 14) S Rodney McCleod (Rams) A player who slipped through both the NFL and USFL drafts in 2012, McLeod surprised many when he became a Ram starter as an undrafted free agent in the 2013 season.  In two years with the Rams he has 4 picks and over 140 tackles.  Not too bad for a guy neither league initially wanted. 13) DT Vinny Curry (Eagles) The former Marshall DT has appeared in 30 games for the Eagles the past two seasons.  He has not earned a full-time starting gig, something he might seek out in the USFL. 12) DE Greg Hardy (Cowboys) The Carolina Panther DE emerged in 2012, his third season, with 11sacks.  That number bumped up to 15 in 2013, but he appeared in only 1 game last year due to injury.  He could be seeking a bounce-back season in 2015, and that could come in the Spring. 11) C Alex Mack (Browns) After 5 seasons in Cleveland,  is the big man ready to move to a new location?  It seems that way, with several teams interested in him as a pivot. 10) S Reggie Nelson (Bengals) The big question for the 8-year veteran is whether or not he can increase his numbers after some pretty ho-hum years in Cincinnati.  But, haven’t most folks in Cincinnati pretty much had ho-hum years. We blame the chili. 9) QB Jimmy Clausen (Ravens) After starting 10 games his rookie year for the Carolina Panthers, Clausen did not throw a pass until this past season, when he subbed in 1 game for the Chicago Bears.  Not exactly a contract-year explosion.  We project Clausen as a backup, but there are plenty of teams that might just want him to compete with a questionable starter. 8) HB Chris Ivory (Jets) Ivory is not going to bust off too many 20+ yard runs, but if you need a 3rd and 1, you could do worse. We could see a lot of teams looking for a short-yardage back and giving Ivory a good lookover as an option. 7) G/T Alex Boone (49ers) Another big man who could make a leap. Boone’s advantage is that he has played 3 different spots on the line in recent years, including both guard spots and some time at right tackle. That could be an attractive option for someone. 6) DT Nick Fairley (Lions) A lot of hype for Fairley when he came out in 2011, with favorable comparisons to Denver Gold DT Ndamukong Suh, but it just has not panned out as planned for the Detroit Lion.  So, could a change of scenery bring about a change in fortune? 5) CB Prince Amukamara (Giants) Amukamara had his best year in 2014, a contract year, so now he is on the market and hoping to cash in.  He had 3 picks and returned 2 for scores last year, which is a nice highlight to be able to tout.  But, outside of 2014, he has never had more than 1 pick in any season since joining the NFL in 2011. 4) QB Robert Griffin III (Redskins) Here is where it really starts to get interesting, these last 4 names.  We all saw the hype fo RG3 when he came out of Baylor, and his first year with the Redskins was pretty eye-catching.  But injuries and some pretty bad Redskin teams have left him in a rough spot.  He played only 7 games last year, showing a few sparks, but also throwing 6 picks to 4 TDs. Is there a USFL team looking for a potential reclamation project?  When isn’t there?  It’s just a matter of who. 3) WR Marvin Jones (Bengals) Another potential star who suffered a season-ending injury and is now looking to rebound.  Jones was looking very promising in 2013, when he had 51 catches for 712 yards and 10 TDs.  That is a solid resume starter, but he missed all of 2014 with injury and now is on the market with a chance to start fresh. 2) HB Alfred Morris (Redskins) Morris exploded on the scene with the 2012 Redskins, rushing for over 1,600 yards in his debut season. But, that total dropped to 1,275, and then to 1,074, all  without him missing serious time to injury.  So what gives?  Is he a solid back?  Most certainly, but is he too predictable in his skillset and his move?  Some are saying so.  Still, a 1,000 yard back is always a valuable commodity. And... 1) DE Von Miller (Broncos) In a year where you saw teams in both leagues scrambling to draft edge rushers, the fact that one of the best in the game is now testing the free agent waters could create a shark frenzy across both leagues.  There is no doubt that the Denver  Broncos will do all they can to resign the All-Pro DE/LB, but they have a cap to work with, and another team, one willing to sacrifice other positions to pay out big money, could very well just outbid the Broncos’ ability to resign Miller. Taking a Look at the 2015 USFL Schedule We are going to finish up our 2nd Offseason Review by looking ahead. We won’t  make picks, we always save that for our Preseason Special Edition (Hitting newsstands on March 8), but we will take a look at the USFL schedule and give you our thoughts on the “must watch’ games of the season.  WEEK ONE There’s always a reason to be excited about opening week.  Every game has the potential to surprise us, but when we look at the schedule, there are several games that are just too good to pass on.  How is this for an opening week: Charlotte & Atlanta face off in an opening week SE Division clash. Orlando and Tampa Bay clash in what feels like a midseason matchup. Denver heads to Arizona in a tough opener for both teams. Philadelphia hosts Baltimore in as intense a game as we are likely to see in Week 1. That is one heck of a Week 1 lineup. WEEK THREE We jump to the third week of the year, where we see a possible Summer Bowl preview with Texas visiting Atlanta in a battle of two teams that went very deep in the 2014 playoffs.  Another good matchup has Tampa Bay at Charlotte, as New Jersey and Philadelphia renew their classic rivalry as well. WEEK FOUR A new (yet old) rivalry could begin as the San Diego Thunder head up the coast to Oakland to face the Invaders. We also have the 2nd and final matchup of the Stars and Blitz for the year (who planned that for the first month?) and a renewal of the Ohio-Pittsburgh rivalry,  now with both clubs in different divisions. WEEK FIVE Texas @ Arizona, that will be a nasty one. Michigan @ Ohio, always a good show, and Orlando @ Charlotte in  SE Battle, but don’t sleep on the Seattle-New Orleans game.  Both clubs could be among the season’s early risers up the power rankings. WEEK SEVEN Arizona finishes it’s home-and-away series by visiting Denver.  We also have Washington @ Baltimore in the Beltway Brawl, St.  Louis v. Chicago in the I-55 Rivalry, and another California Derby with LA visiting San Diego.  A new rivalry, but based on years of clashes between the Express and the Thunder. WEEK EIGHT They are dubbing the new Arizona-Las Vegas game in the SW Division, the “Desert Classic”.  We will see if it builds into a true rivalry or not.  We also have an interdivisional rivalry between Birmingham and Atlanta, and a new divisional rivalry between two teams likely to compete for the Southern title, Houston, just added to the South after years of separation from the Breakers, heads into New Orleans to renew an old spark. WEEK ELEVEN We skip a few weeks before things get heated again. Texas will head to Denver, and we expect both to be contenders in the SW Division at this point.  We also have Atlanta & Charlotte matched up again, Birmingham at New Orleans, and a new, possibly heated game, as the San Diego Thunder must return to Las Vegas to take on the Vipers.  A bit of bad blood there, at least with the Las Vegas fans now split between two teams. WEEK THIRTEEN With the playoff races in their final month we expect the Atlanta-Orlando game to be a hot one, as could Houston @ Birmingham, Oakland @ Texas, and once again Philadelphia will be in New Jersey for a big rivalry game. WEEK FIFTEEN Pittsburgh is a trendy pick to be this year’s fast riser, and if that is the case, then this week’s game at home against Baltimore could be huge for them.  We also see Tampa Bay @ Orlando, Washington @ Philadelphia, and New Orleans in a 2014 playoff rematch against Charlotte. WEEK SIXTEEN The final week of the season can be a mixed bag, with some teams resting starters and others throwing everything into a last gasp attempt at locking up a playoff berth.  We don’t know if we are right or not with our picks, but when we look at the schedule, we see these games as being likely battles: Arizona @ Texas: How could it not be? Houston @ New Orleans: Could the Southern Title be on the line here? Michigan @ Baltimore: Will both be clinched or will both be fighting to get in? Seattle @ San Diego: It would not surprise us if this is a Win-&-In scenario for both. Atlanta @ Tampa Bay: We are not sure what Tampa will be without Culpepper, but Atlanta v. Tampa Bay could very well be a battle for a playoff spot as well. We return on March 8, with a full Season Preview Double Edition. We will run down the camp signing from the USFL as well as via the NFL Transfer Window. We will review the rosters, decide who gained and who slipped this offseason, look at the rookies who could have a big impact, and reveal a new power ranking system as we preview all 28 teams, the playoff picture, and who we think can snap up the major league awards in Season 33 of the USFL.

Two months since Baltimore’s first league title and the USFL is in full offseason mode.  But, while many fans want to imagine all the draft, trade and free agent scenarios for their teams, we have to pause to acknowledge the news out of Michigan, where Coach Jim Johnson was forced to step down as he undergoes aggressive treatment for skin cancer.  We will start off with that news, and then shift gears to cover the USFL hot stove season.  We will finish up with a preview of the upcoming Territorial and Open Drafts as all eyes are on the Stags and Bandits and their pursuit of a potential franchise QB. Coach Johnson Steps Down, McDermott Promoted Despite all the offseason moves, free agency, retirement announcements, and hires, the big story this offseason was a tragic one.  Just 2 weeks after the Summer Bowl, the Michigan Panthers held a press conference announcing that Head Coach Jim Johnson would be stepping down due to medical issues.  Coach Johnson was undergoing treatment for melanoma, which according to sources, was quite advanced and required somewhat dramatic measures.  The Panthers announced that defensive coordinator Sean McDermott would be taking on the role of Head Coach effective immediately.  Coach McDermott spoke to the press at the event, saying that while he appreciated the vote of confidence from the Panthers, all his thoughts were for Coach Johnson and his family. Coach McDermott takes over a team that played its way to the Western Conference Title game, in large part because of the defense he had led.  He will now take over in the lead position and is expected to promote from within and maintain a strong hand in the development of the defense, while leaving his OC, Jim Skipper.  All of us, of course, wish Coach Johnson the best of care and a full and speedy recovery.  Jim Johnson has coached in the USFL for most of his professional life, becoming the Head Coach of the St. Louis Knights in 1995, guiding them through the move to Nashville, and helping the franchise appear in the playoffs 12 times, with 4 division titles and a trip to Summer Bowl 1998.  In his one year in Michigan, the Panthers improved from 6-10 to 10-6, a Division Title and came within 1 game of the Summer Bowl before losing to Texas in the Western Finals.  He retires now after 20 seasons as a USFL Head Coach. The news about Coach Johnson and the internal hire of Coach McDermott was felt across the league, but nowhere more so than with the 3 teams still in search of a new head coach.  Sean McDermott was seen as a prime candidate in all three searches and had already met with the Jacksonville Bulls. With his promotion to Head Coach in Michigan, all three remaining clubs needed to scratch his name off their wish list and find alternatives. The Birmingham Stallions became the first of the three to make a decision and announce their new front man for the club.  To no one’s surprise, the man chosen to lead the Stallions was former stallion legend, Ernest Givens.  The former All-USFL and HOF wideout for the Stallions had risen quickly as a coach within the New Orleans Breakers organization, starting as an assistant to the OC, then as the WR Coach, and the past two seasons as the Offensive Coordinator.  Givens helped the Breakers break away in the Southern Division, winning the division title by 4 games this year and helping Drew Brees to one of his best seasons under center.   Givens will now return to the team that made him a household name, where he will have a very talented QB in Cam Newton, but where he will have to rebuild a run game that has never lived up to its potential, and very likely work to develop a receiving corps that has not had an All-Pro receiver in nearly a decade.  As we reported during the USFL Playoffs, perhaps the most sought-after coordinator in the league was Baltimore OC Pep Hamilton.  His transformation in just one year of the Blitz offense into arguably the league’s best, and one that helped win Baltimore its first title, was the kind of rocket to fame that turns a coach from a person of interest to a must-have for many owners.  Hamilton’s impact on the Blitz led to two clubs going deep into interviews and essentially competing with each other for his services, as both Portland and Jacksonville both clearly had Hamilton at the top of their lists to replace Marty Mornhinweg and Mike Nolan. But in the end only one team would be able to sign Hamlton, and that team was Portland. The Stags had a few distinct advantages over Jacksonville in the hunt for Hamilton.  They had a better overall squad, one which would need some improvements, to be sure, but when compared to the 0-16 nightmare that a new coach would inherit in Jacksonville, it was a much easier path to success.  Perhaps more importantly for an offensive-minded coach like Pep Hamilton, Portland had some good pieces in place, including a topflight halfback in Jonathan Stewart and a very solid, if at times inconsistent, QB in Ryan Fitzpatrick.  What is more, Portland had the inside track on a player that could be the best QB available in the 2015 draft, Oregon’s Marcus Mariota.  With the possibility of having both a veteran and a very-talented rookie to mold around his offense, Hamilton could see the advantage of signing with the Stags over the Bulls. So now, once again, another loss for Jacksonville.  Ownership has said that they want their new coach in place before the USFL draft in January, so this is not going to be a case of a team waiting out the NFL season to snag a hot prospect from the fall league.  This is a team that is trying to rebuild their entire franchise from the ground up, and that means they want those pieces in place as early as possible.  So, what do they do now? Basically, they are looking at unsigned coaches, including some let go in the NFL and the USFL not this year, but last year.  We will keep  our eye on the coaching search in Jacksonville, and in our post-holiday edition we fully expect to see a coach in place, though we cannot currently guess who that would be. We start off our run through of the USFL hot stove season with the post Summer Bowl retirement announcements.  It was certainly not the number of announcements that we saw after the end of the regular season, but there were a few significant names among those who filed with the league.  Here is our look at the five players who may be hardest to replace as they step away from the game. 1. LB Antonio Pierce (NOR): Pierce came over from the Federals in 2013 after 12 seasons with Washington.  He was an immediate impact player on the Breaker defense, leading the club with 101 tackles in 2013.  This year his numbers were down, and at 35 he had clearly lost a step.  Preservation of his body was a big reason he decided to step away at this point rather than give it another go with a pretty good New Orleans club. 2.  Another 35-year-old defender, Texas CB Michael Boulware , also announced that 2014 would be his final season in the league.   Boulware came to the Outlaws from the NFL in 2008 and in his 7 seasons with the club amassed 22 picks and over 450 tackles.  So add corner to the list of positions of need for the Outlaws this offseason. 3.  Atlanta’s lead receiver for nearly a decade, Josh Reed has stepped away from the game after 13 USFL seasons (4 with New Orleans and 9 in Atlanta).  With the Fire, Reed had 4 1,000 yard seasons, including 2014, when he finished with 1,264 yards on 86 receptions.  As you will see soon, Atlanta has already sought to address the gap in their receiving corps, so they might have had a sense that this announcement was coming. 4. Thunder wideout T. J. Houshmandzadeh joined QB Jake Plummer in not making the move to San Diego.  The 36-year-old receiver spent the final 4 seasons of his career in Las Vegas with the thunder after starting in New Jersey.  As a member of the Thunder he had some of his most productive years, including a 901 yard, 9-TD outing in 2012.  His final season saw him catch 48 passes for 825 yards and 5 scores. 5.  Finally, halfback Cedrick Benson of the USFL Champion Blitz felt that it was best to go out on  top, having come over to Baltimore just in time to win a title with the Blitz, after a journeyman career that saw him play for 5 teams in 10 seasons.  His best year was in Denver, back in 2007, when, as the club’s lead back, Benson rushed for 1,109 yards.  This year with the Blitz he largely played the role of a short yardage back, rushing 81 times for 269 yards, but in the Summer Bowl, when Anthony Dixon went down to injury, Benson stepped up and acted as the primary back.  He gets a championship ring and can now retire as a member of the league champion Blitz squad. From the look of it, this could be a furious year on the trading block as several teams did not even wait until the Summer Bowl was concluded before beginning to make deals. We have already seen several trades that could be very impactful for next year as teams try to fill gaps in their rosters or upgrade weaker positions.  The lack of a strong pool of potential draftees at the QB position seems to have influenced some of the early deals.  With only 2 prospects considered to be potential first year starters, Oregon’s Marcus Mariota and FSU’s Jameis Winston, and with both very likely to be protected by QB-needy clubs Portland and Tampa Bay, teams are looking for alternatives to add talent to their QB groups.  While not all the early trades have involved the position, several have been noteworthy.  Here are the deals that stand out to us as the offseason kicks into gear. Washington dealt with a budding QB controversy by removing one of the two contenders who have apparently been going head to head. They opt to keep the more veteran David Garrard, who had a very solid year despite the Federals’ disappointing season. That meant that the club would look to move Joe Webb in return for some draft capital.  They found a willing partner in the San Diego Thunder, eager to find a viable option after the retirement of a team legend, Jake Plummer. The Thunder sent Washington two picks for Webb, their 2nd rounder this year and a 3rd next year.  Webb is generally expected to be slated as the starter, with Case Keenum and Kevin Kolb almost certainly remaining in their backup roles. A second QB move seems to be more about depth as Philadelphia acquired Orlando backup Chad Henne for a 4th round pick.  Henne, a former NFL player, will likely serve as the veteran presence behind Matt Gutierrez, stepping ahead of Matt Moore in the depth chart, while Austin Davis was allowed to enter the free agent pool. One final QB-centric deal as Portland made room for what they hope will be Marcus Mariota’s arrival by trading one-time starter Matt McGloin to the Memphis Showboats.  Memphis famously had no luck with either Matt Cassel or Ryan Mallett as backups when Eli Manning went down this past season, so bringing in McGloin makes sense for them.  McGloin started 5 games for the Stags this past season after finishing 2013 as the starter over Ryan Fitzpatrick.  In his 12-game career to date, McGloin has thrown 14 touchdowns, but also 16 picks, completing a respectable 67% of his throws and accumulating 2,826 yards.  In return for a new backup to Manning, Memphis has sent Portland their 4th round pick in the upcoming draft. The first trade of the offseason, announced the day before Summer Bowl 2014, did not involve a QB, but saw Chicago and Seattle trade from areas of depth to bolster other squads that were a bit more threadbare. Chicago parted with former NFL wideout Emmanuel Sanders in order to acquire more help in their aging LB group, with Seattle sending them 3rd year LB Akeem Ayers. The addition of Sanders gives Seattle one of the oldest receiver groups in the league with 11-year vet Nate Burleson, 10-year vet Jerricho Cotchery, and 13-year vet Kevin Kasper also on the roster. Sanders will be reunited with Mike Wallace after the two spent some time together with the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL. One last trade to highlight from the early stages of the offseason as Denver and Birmingham also made a deal to help areas of concern on each team.  The Stallions wanted to bolster their interior D-line and will do that with former Gold DT Sione Piuha.  In return, Denver will add a nice safety valve for Matt Leinart as the Stallions part with TE Delanie Walker.  The early off-season trades were fascinating, but it is free agency where most teams both spend the most resources (money and focus) and where they hope to get immediate returns.  As we see most years, the first few days were a flurry of activity, and then the pace of signings dropped off considerably.  There were more than 20 significant signings in the first 72 hours of the open free agency period (a week before the NFL-USFL Transfer Window opened) as teams tried to either resign those players who had resisted before the deadline or sought out new talent.  Here is our rundown of the Dozen Doozies, the moves that will certainly impact both the former and the new club for each player. 12— QB Jeff Tuel (CHA to LV): This is an interesting move by the new Las Vegas Vipers.  Formerly in Nashville, the club seemed to be looking at Cody Pickett in the second half of the season. Does adding Tuel, who looked very good relieving an injured Brandon Wheedon in Charlotte, mean that the Vipers are hoping for a full-fledged QB competition.  We don’t expect Tuel signed with the Vipers without some promise that he could compete for a starting nod.  This will merit ongoing attention as we get into team camps this winter. 11— LB Lance Briggs (ARZ to POR): At age 32, Briggs has several good years left in him, but Arizona simply could not afford to hold onto the 11-year veteran.  Briggs had 74 tackles for the Wranglers this year after winning a title with their knockout defense in 2013.  He now heads to a Portland squad that is trying to create a true identity. 10— LB Sean Lee (PHI to JAX):  The retirement of Mike Vrabel all but guaranteed that the Bulls would pursue a veteran option at MLB.  With Lee being pushed to the strong side in Philly when Paul Posluszny was signed last offseason, the moment was ripe for the free agent linebacker to find a new home where he could reclaim the MLB role.  Jacksonville fit the bill as their LB group, outside of breakout 3rd year backer Jarrett Johnson was in disarray this past season and could certainly use the leadership Lee demonstrated in Philadelphia. 9— WR Javon Walker (BAL to ATL): Cashing in on the Blitz’s championship season, WR Javon Walker will have every opportunity to take on a big role in Atlanta.  After the retirement of Josh Reed, Walker could easily get a starting role opposite Demaryius Thomas, acting as the underneath and possession receiver, with still enough speed to go deep when called upon. 8— LB Donterrious Thomas (NJ to OAK):  Thomas fell out of favor with the switch from Herm Edwards to Norv Turner.  His production also dropped, from 96 tackles in 2013 to 68 last year, but at 30 years old, there is certainly tread left on the tires.  Oakland is likely to have Thomas line up on the weak side, pursuing backs, as they are set in the middle with Bobby Wagner and very happy with a rotation of Keenan Clayton and 11-year vet Nick Koutavides on the strong side. 7— DT Ellis Wyms (CHI to BAL):  The defending champs are not standing pat, adding a solid interior force to their already solid defense. Wyms comes over with the ability to allow Baltimore to maintain a 3-4 alignment while also providing interior runstuffing ability. 6— CB Cortland Finnegan (ORL to PHI):  The Stars add one of the most consistent corners in the game in Finnegan.  Expect him to get assigned the top receiver each week as Sam Shields gets a more comfortable assignment against every team’s number two. 5— TE Greg Olsen (ORL to TBY): With Luke Stocker taking off for Memphis, the Bandits wanted to use this as an opportunity to both upgrade at the position and damage a rival.  By signing Orlando’s Greg Olsen they accomplished both. Olsen is a top-notch pass catcher, perfect for Coach Shula’s offense, and should continue to produce great numbers with the move down the road from Orlando to the Bandits. 4— HB Joseph Addai (BIR to SEA):  Addai never fully showed the same explosiveness that fans had seen in the NFL while in Birmingham.  The Dragons are hoping that was due to scheme and not declining skills.  Addai is still only 29 and in Seattle he is likely to share carries with big, bruising back C. J. Anderson.  Addai will give the Dragons more in the passing game than Anderson had, so that already is an upgrade even if we don’t see 1,000 yards from the former Stallion. 3— QB Kyle Orton (Resigned by ATL):  The Fire absolutely had to get this done.  Orton wanted to return, but the Fire were not coughing up what he and his agent considered a fair deal, not until he started meeting with other clubs.  Atlanta finally agreed with Orton on a 4-year deal that will average just over $3M per season, keeping Orton as the starter for a Fire team that hopes this year’s Conference Final appearance was just the start of a very successful run of years. 2— DE Jason Pierre-Paul (TBY to CHI): The Machine and Coach Schiano are clearly interested in rebuilding what had once been one of the league’s best defenses.  The retirement of Anthony Weaver meant that Chicago was losing 15-20 sacks per year, so they went out, spent some major money, and lured Jason Pierre-Paul away from the Bandits. JPP has averaged 10 sacks a year the past 3 with the Bandits, but still has upside that Chicago believes could push him towards a top 5 finish. 1—TE Rob Gronkowski (ARZ to STL):  This is a big loss for the Wranglers.  Gronkowski has been a true weapon for Coach Tomsula and David Carr since coming to the league in 2010. He now heads to a St. Louis squad that is trying to provide Josh Freeman with more weapons.  Gronk can be a true force in the middle of the field, and after scoring 8 TDs for Arizona this year he moves to the Skyhawks, where the hope is that he will help them return to glory after a pair of down years. We are not sure if the USFL was simply more aggressive this year, or if more NFL veterans wanted to wait and see, but we saw a more balanced exchange between the two leagues, with several relatively big name players still unsigned even as the NFL season began in September.  With a deeper-than-usual pool, the USFL helped avoid the one-way movement we often see in the earlier transfer window.  Let’s start with the outward flow, which was again considerable.  Here are the top players who are leaving the USFL to start right up again with a new NFL club: WR Lee Evans (MEM to the Bills) SS Atari Bigby (JAX to the Copperheads) SS Roy Williams (DEN to the Cowboys) LB Keith Bullock (OAK to the Steelers) CB Ricardo Colclaugh (TBY to the Dolphins0 OT Kenyatta Jones (SEA to the Oilers) WR Doug Gabriel (ORL to the Seahawks) WR Greg Jennings (MEM to the Packers) WR Rashaun Woods (JAX to the Chiefs) DE Osi Umenyiura (HOU to the Giants) DE Jerome McDougle (PIT to the Browns) DT Ian Scott (NJ to the Eagles) LB D’Onte Curry (BIR to the Bucs) LB Manny Lawson (DAL to the Jaguars) TE Robert Royal (DAL to the Broncos) Some big losses here, especially in Memphis where the Showboats lose not one but both of their top receivers to the NFL.  Looks like new head coach Rex Ryan is going to have to expend some funds on a new receiver group, either that or run the Wishbone.  Houston losing Osi Umenyiura will also be a significant blow, as willthe loss of LT Kenyatta Jones from the Seattle Dragons.    But, as we said, this year we did see just a bit more equity across the transfer window.  We still expect the February window to the be the richer pool for USFL teams to plunder, but this September window produced more results than we have typically seen.  Here are the top signings by USFL teams from Fall to Spring: QB Brock Osweiler (Broncos to OHI) HB Jacquizz Rodgers (Bears to BAL) HB Ronny Hillman (Broncos to CHA) WR Rueben Randle (Giants to JAX) G Brandon Brooks (Oilers to TBY) DE Malik Jackson (Broncos to HOU) DT Damon Harrison (Jets to BIR) LB Danny Trevathan (Broncos to MEM) LB Tahir Whitehead (Lions to PIT) CB Pacman Jones (Bengals to TEX) S Tashaun Gipson (Browns to SEA) The most interesting pickup here has to be Texas taking a shot at Pacman Jones, the former Bengal has had some issues with NFL offices and with his team, so now the question is whether he will be more of a distraction for the Outlaws or if his on-field gifts will outweigh his antics.  Another interesting signing is in Ohio where the Glory are still hoping to resign Chris Weinke but have added a strong-armed option in former Bronco Brock Osweiler. Finally, the Blitz opt to replace Cedrick Benson not with another short yardage grinder (though one could come later on) but with a scatback with strong receiving skills, former Chicago Bear Jacquizz Rodgers. Expect to see Rodgers on kick and punt teams as well as the Blitz backfield.   We may still be several months away from the 2015 USFL Collegiate Draft, but teams are already positioning themselves, scouting their Territorial schools, and looking at top talent from across the country in anticipation of January's big event. As we go team by team, in draft order, we will look at each team's needs, the top prospects available to each in their T-Draft protected pool, and potential targets for each in the Open Draft's first round. Of course, until the T-Draft selections are made known, it is impossible to say which players will find themselves in the league's open draft, except for a few like Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon, who is not at a protected school. And every year we are surprised as teams don't pick top talent in their T-Draft either due to a lack of fit or just a lack of trust that the player will fit in with their system or is leaning to the NFL. So, it is a bit of a crap shoot to try to predict picks, but we will at least give our opinion on who we think could be a good fit if he is available when your favorite team has its selection. We start with Jacksonville, who has a lot of needs, and not a lot of options, at least at QB. JACKSONVILLE BULLS Needs: QB, WR, LB, HB, SS Best T-Draft Prospects: DE Dante Fowler (UF), DE Vic Beasley (Clemson), OT D. J. Humphries (UF), HB Matt Jones (UF) Potential 1st Round Target: HB Melvin Gordon (Wisconsin):  Jacksonville would love a QB here, but we do not expect either Mariota or Winston to be available in the Open Draft, so they go with the next big need for their offense.  With the reshuffle of T-Draft schools after the Las Vegas and San Diego franchise relocations, the Badgers became an unclaimed school, making Gordon the best player available that we know for sure will not be drafted in the Territorial Draft. LAS VEGAS VIPERS Needs: WR, DE, TE, QB, FS Best T-Draft Prospects: CB Eric Rowe (Utah), DE Nate Orchard (Utah), OG Jeremiah Poutasi (Utah), DB Robertson Daniel (BYU) Potential 1st Round Target: The Vipers could also use a QB upgrade, though with Tuel and Pickett they may now feel the position is set.  If that is the case, they could try to find a weapon here, which means possibly Amari Cooper (if B’ham lets him slip) or Kevin White of West Virginia (since Pittsburgh is not really in the market for a wideout.)  ST. LOUIS SKYHAWKS Needs: DE, DT, LB, TE, HB Best T-Draft Prospects: OT Brandon Scherff (Iowa), DE Shane Ray (Mizzou), WR Dorial Green-Beckham (Mizzou), DT Carl Davis (Iowa) Potential 1st Round Target: St. Louis may be in the best position in the Open Draft.  Why?  Because two of the best edge rushers are in Jacksonville’s T-Draft pool and that is not a position of need for the Bulls, so both could slip by and become available here.  Even if the Vipers take one, there is still one left.  But we think the Vipers go offense, so that means that both Dante Fowler and Vic Beasley could be here for the taking.  DALLAS ROUGHNECKS Needs: LB, OT, DT, DE,K Best T-Draft Prospects: DT Jordan Philips (OU), DE Geneo Grissom (OU), LB Paul Dawson (TCU), QB Bryce Petty (Baylor) Potential 1st Round Target: Dallas could go LB with a pick like Kentucky’s Bud Dupree, but we think the better move, if he is available is a solid DT in the form of Washington’s Danny Shelton or even Texas’s Malcolm Brown.  It is just a more obvious need pick.  PITTSBURGH MAULERS Needs: HB, LB, TE, C, K Best T-Draft Prospects: WR Kevin White (Pitt), DE Shaquille Riddick (WVU), OT T. J. Cummings (Pitt), CB Darryl Roberts (Marshall) Potential 1st Round Target: The Maulers are very unlikely to retain the services of Ronnie Brown, who is now pitching not only for a trade, but to be cut so he can be in the NFL-USFL transfer pool in February.  So, they need a back here. If Gordon is available, so be it, but if not, the best option may be Ameer Abdullah from Nebraska, an unlikely pick in the T-Draft for Denver, so possibly in the pool. NEW JERSEY GENERALS Needs: G, DE, DT, CB Best T-Draft Prospects: TE Tyler Kroft (Rutg), OG Ian Silberman (BC), C Andy Gallik (BC), DE Brian Hihalik (BC) Potential 1st Round Target: The fans want more skills players, but the roster really needs meet on the two lines, so guard or DT are the more likely picks.  We reviewed the top DTs with Dallas, so let’s look at guard, and we like Duke’s Laken Tomlinson here, or possibly Mizzou’s Mitch Morse, assuming either is left unprotected. CHICAGO MACHINE Needs: LB, DE, CB, FS, K Best T-Draft Prospects: S Ibraheim Campbell (NW), DE Ryan Russel (Purdue), QB Trevor Siemian (NW), HB Raheem Mostert (Purdue) – NOTE: Purdue was added to Chicago’s T-Draft list due to the lack of potential draftees from NW, Illinois, and Notre Dame. Potential 1st Round Target: The  Machine have already landed their target at DE with Jason Pierre-Paul, so now we think they will look at the secondary.  How about the best corner in the draft (if Michigan passes) which is Trae Waynes of Michigan State? MEMPHIS SHOWBOATS Needs: WR, HB, OT, OG, TE Best T-Draft Prospects: CB Senquez Golson (Ole Miss), DE Trey Flowers (Arkan), LB Martell Spaight (Arkan), CB Bobby McCain (Memphis) Potential 1st Round Target: The Showboats need offensive firepower, so we think either a receiver or a halfback here.  Memphis could try to trade to get a shot at Todd Gurley, if Atlanta is open to that, or they could go wideout and make a move for either Kevin White or DeVante Parker. LOS ANGELES EXPRESS Needs: QB, SS, DE, DT, G Best T-Draft Prospects:   DE Leonard Williams (USC), WR Nelson Agholor (USC), CB Josh Shaw (USC), HB Javorius Allen (USC) Potential 1st Round Target: We listed QB as a need, but only because we think they need to back up Aaron Murray.  Doubtful they do that with a rookie, so let’s look at strong safety, another big need area.  The best safety likely to be in the Open Draft is Damarius Randall of Arizona State.  The Wranglers are good at the position, so he should slip through the T-Draft unselected. PORTLAND STAGS Needs: QB, CB, DE, OT, LB Best T-Draft Prospects: QB Marcus Mariota (Ore), DE Arik Armstead (ore), OT Jake Fisher (Ore), QB Sean Mannion (Or State) Potential 1st Round Target: It’s Mariota. It has to be.  Portland has traded away Matt McGloin, so the spot and the cap room are there.  So, if they do pick Mariota in the T-Draft, as we all expect, then what do they do with this pick.  They could go corner with Trae Waynes or Marcus Peters (Washington), or, more likely they look for a DE, especially if Vic Beasley is still on the board. BIRMINGHAM STALLIONS Needs: HB, DT, WR, G, FB Best T-Draft Prospects: WR Amari Cooper (Bama), HB T. J. Yeldon (Bama), WS Landon Collins (Bama), WR Sammie Coates (Auburn) Potential 1st Round Target: If Birmingham does what we think they will do, they will lobby hard to get both Amari Cooper and T. J. Yeldon in the T-Draft and have them signed. If either seems to be waiting out an NFL bid, then they may have to double down at one of those positions, but if they feel good about both, they can then use this pick on a DT like Shelton, Brown or FSU’s Eddie Goldman. SEATTLE DRAGONS Needs: DE, G, DT, OT, HB Best T-Draft Prospects: DT Danny Shelton (Wash), CB Marcus Peters (Wash), LB Shaq Thompson (Wash), DT Xavier Cooper (WSU)   Potential 1st Round Target: Seattle is really hoping that one of the big name D-Linemen slips down to their pick. They need help both inside and outside.  They may cover the DT spot with their T-Draft, so edge rushing is key.  If the big 2 from FSU/Clemson are off the board, a good pickup might be Mario Edwards of FSU.  WASHINGTON FEDERALS Needs: FS, OT, DE, CB, DT Best T-Draft Prospects: OG Laken Tomlinson (Duke), DE Eli Harold (UVa), WR Jamison Crowder (Duke), S Kyshoen Jarrett (Va Tech) Potential 1st Round Target: Safety Landon Collins of Alabama could be the odd man out for the Stallions’ T-Draft, so he could be right here waiting for the Federals at this pick.  If not, then a cornerback is the most likely choice. OHIO GLORY Needs: OT, C, TE, QB, DE Best T-Draft Prospects: LB Bud Dupree (Ohio St), TE Jeff Heuerman (Ohio State), LB Za’Darius Smith (UK), DT Michael Bennett (Ohio St) Potential 1st Round Target: We have not seen a team take an OT yet, and that is a bit rare, but if there is a top tackle candidate on the board, we don’t see him getting past the Glory.  The names we are looking at are Brandon Scherff of Iowa and Ereck Flowers of Miami. ORLANDO RENEGADES Needs: G, CB, WR, SS Best T-Draft Prospect: OT Ereck Flowers (Miami), WR Breshard Perriman (Miami), OG A. J. Cann (So Car), LB Denzel Perryman (Miami) Potential 1st Round Target: Could be a guard, could be a corner.  We like Byron Jones of unprotected UConn if the pick is cornerback.  If it is guard, then either Tomlinson or Morse, if they are available. SAN DIEGO THUNDER Needs: QB, SS, HB, CB, C Best T-Draft Prospects: LB Erik Kendricks (UCLA), DEowa Odighizuwa (UCLA), OG Terry Poole (SDSU), QB Brett Hundley (UCLA) Potential 1st Round Target: The trade for Joe Webb clearly indicates that the Thunder do not think a top QB will fall this far, and with both the top-rated options likely taken in the T-Draft, they are probably right. So, they could look at safety, with a pick like Jacquiski Tartt of Samford, and how could you not want a guy named Jaquiski Tartt on your team?   DENVER GOLD Needs: WR, LB, TE, DE, C Best T-Draft Prospects: HB Ameer Abdullah (Neb), OT Ty Sambailo (Co St), LB Randy Gregory (Neb), QB Garrett Grayson (Co St) Potential 1st Round Target: The Gold need more speed outside. They won’t get that in the T-Draft, so we think they go for a speedster here.  That may require a bit of a stretch, but there is a lot of buzz about both DeVante Parker (Louisville) and Breshard Perriman (UCF).   CHARLOTTE MONARCHS Needs: HB, OT, QB, FB, DT Best T-Draft Prospects: WR Tyler Lockett (K State), WR Justin Hardy (ECU), LB A. J. Johnson (Tenn), CB Randall Evans (K State)--- NOTE: Charlotte was granted Kansas State and Tennessee as T-Draft schools this  year due to the lack of potential draft candidates from their initial 3 T-Draft schools. Potential 1st Round Target: With the retirement of Fred Jackson, the Monarchs are looking for a solid 3-down back. We don’t think Melvin Gordon drops anywhere this far, and we think Yeldon will be a T-Draft pick of the Stallions. So, who is the best 3rd option?  How about unprotected Tevin Coleman of Indiana?  A bit of a stretch as a 1st rounder, but that may just help Charlotte sign him without much NFL interference. OAKLAND INVADERS Needs: SS, FS, LB, TE Best T-Draft Prospects: OT Andrus Peat (Stan), S Jordan Richards (Stan), CB Alex Carter (Stan), WR Ty Montgomery (Stan) Potential 1st Round Target: Both safety positions are concerns for the Invaders.  They like Stanford’s Jordan Richards, but we could also see them go after someone like Tartt or Louisville’s James Sample. NEW ORLEANS BREAKERS Needs: LB, OT, WR, OG Best T-Draft Prospects: CB Jalen Collins (LSU), LB Kwon Alexander (LSU), DT Rakeem Nunez Roches (So Miss), HB Kenny Hilliard (LSU) Potential 1st Round Target: If the Breakers think they can move up a few places to get a LB prospect like Bud Dupree (Kentucky) or Shaq Thompson (Washington), they will do it.  It is such a need area that they cannot just hope to luck out that a top backer drops in the draft.   HOUSTON GAMBLERS Needs: WR, DE, C, LB, OT Best T-Draft Prospects: OT Cedric Ogbuehi (A&M), OG Jarvis Harrison (A&M), DT Christian Covington (Rice), K Josh Lambo (A&M) Potential 1st Round Target: We mentioned speed receivers above, with Denver. Houston would also love to get their hands on one, and could try to trade up ahead of the Gold if their favorite is off the board.  If not, then they may go DE or C here, especially if FSU’s Cameron Erving is still available. ARIZONA WRANGLERS Needs: OT, TE, DT, LB, WR Best T-Draft Prospects: S Damarious Randall (ASU), TE Maxx Williams (Minn), WR Jalen Strong (ASU), DE Marcus Hardison (ASU) Potential 1st Round Target: The Wranglers covet a big, run-blocking RT, so they could be looking very long and hard at someone like Donovan Smith of Penn State, who can play lT or Rt.  Another option would be Oregon’s Jake Fisher. TAMPA BAY BANDITS Needs: QB, WR, DE, CB, TE Best T-Draft Prospects: QB Jameis Winston (FSU), C Cmeron Erving (FSU), DE Preston Smith (Miss St), CB Ronald Darby (FSU) Potential 1st Round Target: We fully expect Tampa Bay to lobby hard for Jameis Winston in the T-Draft, so if we assume they feel that QB is covered, then they have to look at WR or CB.  By this late stage of the draft, the best corner left may be either Eric Rowe of Utah or Senquez Golston of Ole Miss. PHILADELPHIA STARS Needs: OT, DE, CB, WR Best T-Draft Prospects: OT Donovan Smith (PSU), S Adrian Amos (PSU), LB Mike Hull (PSU), TE Jesse James (PSU)   Potential 1st Round Target: Another club looking for a tackle, though we think Philadelphia feels like they need a LT more than someone on the right side.  They may try to trade with St. Louis to get a shot at Scherff, but if not, they would do well to take a long look at Wisconsin’s Rob Havenstein. ATLANTA FIRE Needs: DT, WR, SS, CB, G Best T-Draft Prospect: HB Todd Gurley (UGA), LB Ramik Wilson (UBA), C Shaq Mason (Ga Tech), CB Damian Swann (UGA) Potential 1st Round Target: Defensive Tackle will be a problem this late, as could true value at wideout.  The question is would Atlanta trade away a T-Draft pick to someone interested in Gurley, if it meant a Top 10 pick in the open draft?  That seems logical to us. MICHIGAN PANTHERS Needs: DT, OT, LB, WR Best T-Draft Prospects: CB Trae Waynes (Mich St), WR Devin Funchess (Mich), DE Frank Clark (Mich), LB Jake Ryan (Mich) Potential 1st Round Target: LB Denzel Perryman is exactly the kind of LB that new Michigan head coach Sean McDermott loves.  The Miami product could go to Orlando in the T-Draft, but if not, he would be a perfect choice for the Panthers in this slot.   TEXAS OUTLAWS Needs: CB, OT, LB, DE, TE Best T-Draft Prospects: DT Malcolm Brown (Texas), LB Jordan Hicks (Texas), S Mykkele Thompson (Texas), S Quandre Diggs (Texas) Potential 1st Round Target: We think the Outlaws, who have some needs up and down their defense, could just go Best Player Available, looking at DE, LB, or CB with that pick.  Or, they could throw us a curveball and snag a young pass-catching tight end like Rutgers’ Tyler Kroft.   BALTIMORE BLITZ Needs: DT, FS, TE, K Best T-Draft Prospecst: WR DeVante Parker (Louisv), CB Kevin Johnson (Wake), S James Sample (Louisville), WR Stefon Diggs (Maryland) Potential 1st Round Target:   Picking last in the first round is not something Baltimore is accustomed to, but they know that often there is value in trading down to get more mid-round picks, especially if doing so still gets them a top 5 pick in the 2nd round.  If not, well, it could be a good spot for them to go Best Player Available, since their needs are largely for depth, not immediate impact.

Heartbreak for the Texas Outlaws, Jubilation for the Baltimore Blitz as a once-in-a-lifetime play gives Baltimore a stunning victory in Summer Bowl 2014, when all onlookers anticipated overtime. With only 9 seconds left to play, Baltimore eschewed the kneel down to head to overtime and called a play fake that should have been easy to defend had Texas believed at all that Ben Roethlisberger would put the ball in the air. They didn’t, he did, and history was made.   In a matchup that largely lived up to the hype of the past week, Summer Bowl 2014 saw two teams with outstanding offensive game plans battle back and forth until the final seconds.  Both quarterbacks played well, but it was yet another 400-yard day from Ben Roethlisberger that won him the Playoff MVP to go along with his win as the MVP of the season, and brought the Blitz the first title in franchise history. Roethlisberger would complete 18 of 25 passes, averaging 17.4 yards per completion in a display of vertical passing that netted him 435 yards and 3 touchdowns, including the stunning game winner. Joe Flacco also had a strong day, throwing for 293 yards, and got help from his run game as NFL import Chris Johnson rushed for 91 yards and a 5.1 YPC average. The game saw three receivers top the 100-yard mark:  Marques Colston for Texas (119), Javon Walker (123) and Darrius Heyward-Bey (145) for Baltimore. In a game with no interceptions thrown and only 1 fumble per team, it was all about the offense, and, in a bit of a cliché, about who had the ball last.   Big plays were the key for Baltimore all game long, beginning in the first quarter when they scored on a 76-yard completion on their opening possession. Texas had gone 3-and-out to open the game, and Baltimore responded with a drive that only lasted 4 plays.  After taking the punt at their own 15, the Blitz garnered a first down on a pair of running plays, one each to Dixon and Cedric Benson. The third attempted run cost Baltimore a key weapon in the game, as on his very next carry Anthony Dixon went down with an ankle injury that would keep him out of the rest of the game and force Baltimore to go with Benson as their primary back. On a 2nd and 9, the Blitz rolled the dice, faking the ball to Benson and Big Ben found Walker in single coverage. The slot receiver, who is rumored to be seeking a free agent deal this fall, took in the arcing Roethlisberger pass and raced down the sideline for the first points of the game. The deep ball proved to be the first of several important big plays for the Blitz passing game.   Texas would recover, though it took 2 more drives before they added points to the scoreboard. Early in the second an Outlaw drive that had seen Chris Johnson bust a 23-yard run, fizzled in Baltimore territory, forcing the Outlaws to settle for a 31-yarder from Kai Forbath to get on the board at 7-3. Baltimore got the ball back and looked in rhythm as they drove down to the Texas 27, but on a basic off-tackle run, Benson fumbled when hit by Texas LB Vontae Burfict, and when Clyde Adams recovered the ball, the Outlaws had momentum and a chance to take the lead.    Texas would march the ball into Baltimore territory, mixing effective off-tackle runs by Johnson with short to medium passes by Flacco, including a beauty of a catch on a low ball by Brandon Marshall. Just outside the red zone, Coach Landry called a double move to Colston, who had been staying short on most of his routes. The misdirection worked and Flacco found Colston in the corner of the endzone for 7, putting the Outlaws up for the first time.    The lead would not hold as Baltimore was able to equalize the score with a late Nick Folk kick from 57-yards out, a boomer for the veteran and his longest kick of the year, thanks in part to the artificial turf and controlled environment of the Georgia Dome. The two teams would head into the locker rooms feeling pretty good about the first half. Both had proven able to move the ball, and aside from the one Benson fumble, the game had been a clean one for both teams.   With the clubs in the locker room, the fans at the Dome got to enjoy a halftime show headlined by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. The teams came out fired up to keep the ball rolling in the second half, and Texas wasted no time reasserting that they were a 1 seed for a reason, connecting on another nice pass from Flacco to Colston to go up 17-10. It was a play-action made possible by the solid running of Johnson throughout the first half.  The safeties bit on the run fake and that small hesitation was all that Colston needed to get behind the defense. Flacco had a good pocket and put up a high arcing ball that came down just as Colston crossed the end zone. The lanky receiver brought the ball down in stride, dragged his toes, and fell out of bounds with another score.   Baltimore would take barely 3 minutes to respond, with Big Ben creating chunk plays, with long gainers to both Brian Hartline and Antonio Gates. Within 7 plays Baltimore had evened the score when a defensive PI called on SS Terrance Holt gave Baltimore the ball on the 1. Benson, who was not finding much room in the open field, had more success in the big formation and goal line offense, rumbling behind the left guard to take it in for 6.  All tied up with 9:44 left in the 3rd quarter.   Texas and Baltimore both traded 3-and-outs after that drive, both hindered by holding calls on the O-line. And on Texas’s next possession, the turnover count was evened as this time it was Baltimore’s Dre Moore forcing a fumble as Felix Jones coughed the ball up trying to stretch on a 3rd and 3 play. The ball popped from his hands and Moore was able to fall on it, getting credit for both the forced fumble and the recovery. Baltimore would turn that takeaway into 3 points on a Nick Folk field goal and the third quarter ended with the score Baltimore 20, Texas 17. But everyone watching knew this game was not over.   In a fourth quarter that saw 24 combined points scored, both teams largely abandoned the run and looked for mismatches in 3, and occasionally, 4-receiver sets.  Texas struck first, with Flacco finding Marshall on a 41-yard that initially looked like a touchdown, but was ruled out of bounds on the 2 after review showed the receiver’s foot touch the sideline before his final lunge into the end zone. It would take the Outlaws only 2 inside runs to first halve the distance and then punch it in, with Terrance West doing the honors. Texas now led 24-20 with just over 8 minutes to play.  Baltimore, not to be outdone, answered with a 9-play drive that saw Darrius Heyward-Bey catch his 5th ball of the day and his first score. It was a short, 3-yard inside move that got him open and Roethlisberger threw a low ball that only his receiver could get.  DHB made the catch, rolling along the turf, and held the ball up to prove it was in his control. The referee verified the catch on instant replay and Baltimore moved out in front once again, 27-24. With 4:31 left, Texas would have a chance to win the game, or at the very least kick a field goal to send this game to overtime.    The ensuing Texas drive was a bit erratic, with Baltimore turning up the heat against Flacco, hoping to either force a mistake or a missed 3rd down. They would get neither. The Outlaws wanted 7, but when their drive bogged down at the 20 yard line, a last attempt at a touchdown went out of the end zone without finding a receiver. With 17 seconds left, Kai Forbath came out to tie the game and send it to overtime, or at least that was the idea.    Forbath’s kick was good, the game was tied at 27 and everyone, from the announces, to the fans in the Dome, to the beer and peanut venders all expected a couple of kneel downs from the Blitz and a coin toss for overtime possessions. What they got instead was a play that will live in either glory or infamy, depending on who you are dealing with. For Blitz fans this play will forever be the one that finally won them a title, but for Outlaw fans it was an inexcusable lack of focus that cost them a chance at their first title as a franchise. The play was simple, Baltimore lined up with 2 receivers, 2 tight ends, and Cedric Benson in the backfield, a pretty standard inside run formation. It was clear that Roethlisberger was not going to take a knee, but would hand off to Benson. At least that was the expectation.  When Big Ben did not hand the ball off, but faked it and then proceeded to drop another 3 yards back in the pocket, Texas was stunned. Their safeties had crept too close to the line to recover, cornerback Nathan Vasher was fast, but Heyward-Bey was faster and soon had a step on his lone defender.  The Outlaws had not put in a shell or prevent defense, they had so assumed the game would end on a kneel down, that they were caught in man coverage.    Roethlisberger’s pass down the sideline was perfect, a long arcing ball that dropped right into DHB’s hands at full speed. He pulled away from Vasher, the Texas fans in the stadium screamed in disbelief, the Baltimore fans in sheer joy. As Heyward-Bey crossed the end zone, he raised his hands in the air, dropped the ball and then dropped to his knees in sheer celebration. It would take nearly 6 seconds for any other Blitz players to reach him in the end zone, but when they did the celebration was on. The referees and Baltimore coaches had to clear the field for kicker Nick Folk to deliver the extra point to make the final score 34-27.  Folk would then kick the ball, squibbing it to a Texas up receiver, who tried to lateral it only to have the ball roll out of bounds. The game was over and the Baltimore Blitz had stunned everyone with one of the most memorable plays in USFL history.   Ben Roethlisberger would be named game MVP. He and coach Caldwell would receive the John Bassett trophy from the Commissioner, holding it aloft before passing it around to the team. Fans in the dome stayed to celebrate with them, at least the Baltimore ones. It was the kind of game that none of them wanted to end. No one wanted to go back to their cars, hotels, or homes.  It was an amazing game between two very worthy adversaries, both of whom played a very solid, well-planned game, and both of whom had their magic moments, but the sheer spectacle of the game’s final play from scrimmage is what will be remembered in the annals of the USFL, perhaps the greatest single play in Summer Bowl history.

We will have a first time USFL Champion.  That is the result when you have two first time franchises battling it out in the Summer Bowl, and that is what we will have after the Baltimore Blitz and Texas Outlaws earned a chance to play for the title in this week’s Conference Title Games.  While technically this will be the Blitz’s 2nd trip to the Summer Bowl, it will be the first for the city of Baltimore, as the Blitz appeared in a title game in 1986 when they represented Chicago. Either way, the league champion will be a new one as Texas has never appeared in a Summer Bowl game.  The Outlaws got there by outpacing a very game Michigan squad, while Baltimore needed to turn to defense as the Atlanta Fire did as much as anyone has in recent weeks to slow down Ben Roethlisberger and the Blitz offense.  We will recap how both teams got to Summer Bowl 2014, preview the Game of the Summer, and update you on all the league news, including a very difficult decision from one USFL star to call it a career.  All right here, so don’t go anywhere. ATLANTA FIRE 17    BALTIMORE BLITZ  20 The Blitz will be making their first Summer Bowl appearance since moving from Chicago to Baltimore in 1987 after knocking off the Atlanta Fire in front of a very excited 55,672 at M&T Bank Stadium this Sunday. In a tightly contested game between the 4 and 6 seeds, Baltimore built up a 10 point lead in the 4th quarter and survived a late surge from the Fire to lock up the Eastern Conference title, their first ever, and send themselves to Atlanta, home to Summer Bowl 2014.   The Fire were hoping to represent the East in their home stadium next week, but fell just short as Baltimore got two 4th quarter scores to break a 10-10 tie and win their first conference title.  The Fire did all they could to disrupt the Blitz’s dynamic offense, succeeding in causing some errors as Ben Roethlisberger uncharacteristically threw 3 picks in the game, but in the end, they could not generate enough offense to overtake the Blitz.   The game began with both defenses proving tough to crack.  After a scoreless first quarter that saw Roethlisberger throw his first pick in 3 weeks, Atlanta finally found their way onto the scoreboard, with Kyle Orton connecting with veteran Jake Reed for a 23-yard touchdown. Baltimore responded with a field goal drive, their first foray into Atlanta territory in the game, but as the 2nd quarter ran down, Atlanta boosted their lead with their own 3-pointer in the final seconds to take a 10-7 lead into the break and keep the Baltimore fans a bit nervous through the halftime festivities.   The Third quarter saw Baltimore equalize the scoreboard as a very patient 15-play drive led to a 1-yard Anthony Dixon run for the Blitz’s first touchdown of the day.  The Blitz survived an earlier pick by Atlanta’s Luke Kuechley, who would finish the game with 2 takeaways in an impressive outing.  Now the Blitz were tied, and as the quarter ended, they were driving again.  With the teams switching sides as the 4th began, Baltimore had driven inside the Atlanta 30, and just 1 minute into the final period, Big Ben found his breakout star, Darrius Heyward-Bey on a 14-yard corner route to take their first lead of the game.   Atlanta could not immediately respond, and when Baltimore added a 32-yard Nick Folk field goal on the next drive, the fans at M&T Bank Stadium started to celebrate a 10-point lead and a possible trip to the Summer Bowl.  Atlanta would  not go away quietly, however, and on their next drive they found the endzone as Orton connected on a slant route to slot receiver Ted Ginn Jr.  Down only 3, but with just 1:38 left to play, the Fire tried an onside kick.  Baltimore recovered, but with Atlanta still holding all 3 time outs, they needed to secure a first down to ensure the win.    Failing to gain more than 4 total yards on the first two downs, Coach Caldwell took a chance on 3rd and 6 from his own 44.  He called a pass play.  It was a logical call to get that first down, but it was a risky one too, and the risk came to fruition as Luke Kuechley found himself in the path of a ball headed over the middle. He lept up, tipped the ball and caught it, falling to the ground at the 50 and giving Atlanta a chance to get a game-tying field goal.  Well, that was the plan at least.  The problem was that they were still a solid 15 yards away from John Bounds’s realistic range.  They would need to gain those yards quickly, as there were only 37 seconds left to play.   Forced to go to the air, Orton missed on the first down throw, then made a bad throw on 2nd down, forcing the ball into double coverage in an attempt to find Josh Reed. Baltimore was ready for it as the team’s top ballhawk, CB Nnambi Asomugha had safety support and was able to undercut the pass, bringing down Orton’s only pick of the day and allowing Baltimore fans to celebrate at last.  The Blitz had held on, they were going to the Summer Bowl, and Baltimore had a reason to party. MICHIGAN PANTHERS 27   TEXAS OUTLAWS 38 The question of who would face the upstart Blitz in the Summer Bowl was answered somewhat emphatically in the other Conference Title Game as Texas built up a 31-7 lead over 3 quarters and then coasted home to finish with a comfortable 11-point win over the Michigan Panthers.  It was the Joe Flacco show in San Antonio as the Texas QB completed 14 of 19 passing for 240 yards, not huge numbers, but when 4 of those completions net 6 points apiece, that is a good day.  Flacco found Brandon Marshall twice for scores and added one each for Marques Colston (the game’s only 100-yard receiver) and TE Bo Scaife.  It was too much for Michigan to defend as they simply could not get their feet under themselves until they were forced to chase a large Texas lead.   The game began with a 10-play Texas drive that concluded with Marques Colston hauling in an 11-yard toss in traffic to put Texas up 7-0. Michigan responded with a long drive of their own, 13 plays and a Mike Hart 4-yard TD run, but that is the last they would see the endzone until the 4th quarter.  In the meantime, Texas continued to demonstrate their offensive diversity, using Chris Johnson runs and a mix of play action and 3-wide passing to disrupt the Panther zone schemes.  In the 2nd quarter a field goal and a TD toss of 26 yards to Brandon Marshall gave the homestanding Outlaws a 17-7 halftime advantage.   That advantage burgeoned to 31-7 thanks to back-to-back TD tosses from Flacco to Scaife and Marshall.  With 5 minutes left in the 3rd, Michigan found itself down 24 points, unable to utilize LeVeon Bell as a weapon and forced to throw, throw, throw.  The Panthers would add a field goal to end the 3rd, and then another to open the 4th, but three-points each drive would not be enough. When Texas added a goalline QB sneak for Flacco’s 5th TD of the day, the lead was 25 and the fans in the Alamodome started to celebrate their team’s first ever trip to a Summer Bowl.  Michigan would add two late touchdowns to make the score a bit more respectable, but Texas never lost composure. They had this game won and they knew it, forcing Michigan to use up the clock on every drive.   The Outlaws celebrated in the dome as green and blue confetti rained down on them.  The Outlaws, after nearly 30 years, would be participating in their first Summer Bowl.  It would be Flacco vs. Roethlisberger in Atlanta for the USFL title, a game that provides all sort of firsts and all kinds of energy as two long-suffering fanbases gear up for a party in the Georgia heat of August.   Big Ben Wins MVP and Wants More Last Night at the USFL’s Award Gala, Ben Roethlisberger was named MVP for the USFL’s 2014 season, but does not seem satisfied with the individual accolades.  Big Ben was unable to attend the event live as he and the Blitz prepare for the Summer Bowl, but when interviewed this morning, he thanked the reporters and coaches who voted, but wanted to focus on his team and their goal to be the league champion.  The numbers for Roethlisberger were undeniable.  First in the league in yards passing, passing TDs and QB Rating, his 36:9 TD:INT ratio was the best of his career, as was his 118.5 QB Rating.  He was quick to thank his coaches and his teammates, but he remained focused on team success, not individual success, exactly what you would want from an MVP and from a QB prepping to take a team to their first Summer Bowl together.   Flacco Completes 14 Pass, but 4 are for Scores That is the number that amazes us about this past week’s Western Conference Final.  Kudos to the Michigan defense for limiting Texas to only 19 pass attempts, but when 4 of 14 completions are scores, there is a problem, and certainly the Panthers saw the problem clearly as they fell behind by 24 points and then 25 as Texas just kept putting points on the board.  It may not have been the biggest day for Joe Flacco as a passer, since he has had more than his fair share of 300-yard, and even 400-yard games in his 7-year career in San Antonio, but it is certainly a game he will cherish as he led the Outlaws to the franchise’s first ever Summer Bowl appearance only a month after an injury threatened to end his season.  So now he has a chance to do what no Texas Outlaw QB has ever done, raise high the John Bassett trophy. It will not be easy. Baltimore is a very dangerous foe and is actually favored in the title game despite being a 4-seed, but Joe Flacco is in the mix, in the game, and ready to take on the challenge.   Panthers & Fire Proud of Strong Seasons Losing a playoff game is never easy, and losing in the Conference Championship, when you are so close to the title game is even tougher.  It can be hard to look at the season positively when you find yourself on the losing end of the scoreboard, but in the case of both Atlanta and Michigan there is a lot to be proud of in the 2014 seaosn and a lot to look forward to in 2015.   Michigan came into the season after back-to-back 6-10 years with a lot to prove.  They started the year at 1-4 and for many the expectation was that another 10-loss season was well on its way, but the young core of the Panther squad turned things around, winning 9 of their final 12 games to not only qualify for the playoffs but to win the Central Division.  They finished the year with a Top 5 defense and an offense that could be dangerous when they were in synch.  They have young players at both QB and HB and they have some developing stars on the defensive side, including NFL import Justin Tuck, 3rd year CB Dre Kirkpatrick, and 2nd year LB Sean Porter.  This is a team that is on the front end of a playoff and championship window, not the tail end.  Lots to be excited about here. As for Atlanta, they qualified for the postseason as the 6 seed, their third consecutive trip to the postseason. It may not be the position they wanted, but they did the most with it, winning two tough road games against two division champions to reach the Eastern Finals.  They finished the year in the Top 10 in scoring, scoring defense and yards allowed.  That is a solid team.  Kyle Orton, despite missing 4 games, still finished the year with a QB Rating of 88.4 and a 7:4 TD:Int Rating, one of the best years he has had.  The run game also improved significantly, with Steven Jackson missing a 1,000 yard season by only 41 yards.  Demaryius Thomas developed as a potential true number one receiver, taking over for Josh Reed with more receptions(93-86) and was complemented by Matt Jones and Ted Ginn in the slot.  This is a team that could step up beyond a 6 seed in 2015.   So, chin up Fire and Panther fans.  You are still on the upside, with potential to do more next year than the impressive steps you took this year.  Not a lot of teams can say that.   Culpepper Makes Tough Announcement Bandit fans feared this day, and the rest of us wondered if it would come now or not.  But it is now official, after 15 years in the USFL, all of them in Tampa Bay, QB Daunte Culpepper has announced his retirement from the game.  The injury this year to his MCL may have been the straw that broke the QB’s back, but it is a decision which Culpepper acknowledges that he began the season contemplating.    The former UCF star spent his entire career in central Florida, and will retire with over 36,900 yards passing, 259 touchdowns and a lifetime QB Rating of 93.1.  For a team that has always prided itself on its QB play, from John Reaves through Troy Aikman and on to Culpepper, Daunte has been a stable force for the Bandits and a great member of the Tampa Bay community.  He leaves the game with 1 title under his belt (the 2011 championship) and 4 All-USFL designations.    So now the question is how Tampa Bay will bounce back from Culpepper’s departure.  Ryan Lindley played solidly to help the Bandits win in Week 16, but did not fare well in their lone playoff game.  The obvious possibility is that the Bandits will go hard to sign FSU quarterback Jameis Winston, a draftee with a lot of similarity in style of play and physical attributes to Culpepper.  Most in Tampa seem to believe this is the primary, if not the only, direction the Bandits should look.  Others think that a deal could be made to bring a veteran QB to the team, with some looking at LA’s Mark Sanchez, or potential free agent Chris Weinke.  There are options, but for the moment, the Bandits are a team without a clear number one in the most important position in the game.   Only one new injury to report as Texas will likely be without LB Jonathan Moulton after the backer suffered an ankle injury in the Western Final.  That may be good news for Anthony Dixon in particular, as Moulton is most frequently used as a run-stuffer more than a blitzer or cover guy.  Other than that injury, both teams are in pretty good shape, with Adam Archuleta again expected to play, despite appearing on the injury list.   BAL: G Andy Alleman (IR), QB Vince Young (IR), G Scott Tercero (Q), SS Adam Archuleta (P) TEX: DE Reynaldo Wynn (D), G Kyle Long (D), LB Jonathan Moulton (Q)   Pep Hamilton a Hot Commodity in HC Circles No surprise that the offensive coordinator of the best offense in the USFL is getting a lot of attention and a lot of buzz for a possible head coaching job.  But while teams watch and wait, Pep Hamilton of the Baltimore Blitz is focused on preparing his club for the game of their lives in Summer Bowl 2014.  Hamilton will have his time in the sun after the game, especially if the Blitz can outlast the Texas Outlaws and take home their first title as league champions.   Hamilton will certainly get calls from across the USFL.  He likely will have his pick of positions, from rebuilding a down and out Jacksonville squad, to returning a once-proud franchise like Birmingham to glory.  He could even get a shot at defining a team that has not really created an identity for itself, the Portland Stags.  The choice likely will be his.  For an offensive mind like Hamilton’s, the choice may well come down to QB options.    If Hamilton goes to Birmingham he has a locked in starter, and one with dual threat capacity, in Cam Newton.  If he heads to Portland, the odds are that he will be dealing with a rookie as the Stags are full in on the quest to land Oregon senior Marcus Mariota.  And in Jacksonville, well, we are not sure what awaits the new Bulls coach.  Will 2014 starter Tim Tebow still be there?  Will the new coach get a say in whether or not the Bulls try to jettison the erratic QB in favor of another option, and who would that option be.  Hamilton, were he to go to the Bulls, perhaps Hamilton would get to pick his preferred option among those available.  But perhaps there is just too much uncertainty for him in the Bulls’ organization.   For now the focus for Coach Hamilton and the Blitz is Summer Bowl 2014, but as soon as that whistle sounds, the phone will start ringing and this coach will have choices before him.  That is guaranteed.   Baltimore Blitz Claim 3 of 5 League Awards We mentioned Ben Roethlisberger ’s honor as league MVP already, but that was just the tip of the iceberg for the Blitz, who also picked up two more major awards, Offensive Player of the Year and Coach of the Year, for their surprise run to 12-4 and now to a Summer Bowl appearance.   Roethlisberger was not a unanimous pick, with Daunte Culpepper and Jake Plummer also getting first-place votes, but he was a runaway winner with 40 of 45 potential first place votes cast his way.  His teammate, wideout Darrius Heyward-Bey won his award, Offensive Player of the Year, by a tighter margin, with significant votes going to Houston rookie HB Carlos Hyde and to 100-reception, 15-TD receiver Early Doucet of the Breakers.    The third Baltimore award was a landslide, with Jim Caldwell , the first-year coach of the Blitz getting all 45 votes for the honor.  We need to remember that Baltimore had finished 8-8 last two seasons, and had looked very much like a team that was headed the wrong way, particularly in the passing game as veteran Tory Holt retired last year and essentially was not replaced.  The run game was also viewed with suspicion as Caldwell opted to stick with an undervalued Anthony Dixon as his lead back.  Caldwell came in with an updated passing game and a new OC in Pep Hamilton, and trusted in the players he had on the squad.  Baltimore added only backup and role players like  slot receive Roscoe Parrish and backup QB Vince Young (who would be lost to the season to injury), and Caldwell rolled the dice with his roster.  The result was the top ranked offense in yardage (406.6 yards per game) and the second highest in scoring at 28 points per game, just slightly behind 1st place Texas, the Blitz’s foe in this week’s Summer Bowl.   That was a result that impressed the voters and gave  Caldwell a trophy in his first year in Baltimore.   Baltimore’s award success left only 2 trophies left to award. The first, Rookie of the Year, was a pretty obvious choice.  Houston HB Carlos Hyde led the league in rushing and came in second in the voting for OPOTY, so choosing him as the year’s best rookie was a bit of a slam dunk.  The award for Defensive Player of the Year is perhaps the one where we will see some controversy, especially for Orlando Renegade fans who cannot believe that a 33-sack season was not enough for Calais Campbell to win the award for a third time.  The vote was close, but the voters looked at team record as well and could not give the award to Campbell’s 8-8 Orlando squad, despite his huge sack total.  They voted instead (by a 24-21 margin) for a member of the 13-3 Philadelphia Stars.  We say that like they could have picked anyone, but the season put up by Philly’s Terrell Suggs was a thing of pure beauty.  Not only did he lead the Stars with 93 tackles, but he finished 2nd behind only DE Anthony Hargrove with 11 sacks, added in 2 picks, 3 forced fumbles, and 20 tackles for loss. He was an all-around terror on the field for the Stars, and a worthy DPOTY, despite the protestations of the Orlando faithful.   ALL-USFL Team Named In addition to the season award winners, the USFL Award Gala also revealed the 2014 All-USFL Team.  Baltimore again got a lot of love, placing 9 members of their squad on the honorary roster, a distant lead over the 4 players representing Summer Bowl opponent Texas and non-playoff club Las Vegas.  Washington, Charlotte, and Tampa Bay each had 3 players selected, though many were surprised that Bandit QB Daunte Culpepper was not among them. In all 18 of 28 clubs were recognized with at least 1 All-USFL representative.  Arizona, last year’s defending champion, managed to place only one player, CB Joe Haden on the squad just one year after having 6 players on the team to lead all clubs in 2013.  Sure to cause controversy, here is your 2014 All-USFL Team   QB: Ben Roethlisberger (BAL), Joe Flacco (TEX), Jake Plummer (LV) HB: Carlos Hyde (HOU), Deuce McCallister (WSH), Fred Jackson (CHA) FB: Quentin Johnson (BAL) TE: Antonio Gates (BAL), Kevin Everett (LV) WR: Darrius Heyward-Bey (BAL), Vincent Jackson (TBY), Marques Colston (TEX),           Early Doucet (NOR), Deion Branch (WSH) OT: Lomas Brown (TBY), Roger Saffold (TEX), D’Brickashaw Ferguson (BAL) OG: Eddie Brown (TBY), Derrick Dockery (LV), Charles Pitts (TEX) C:  Steve Wisniewski (DEN), Austin King (BAL)   DE: Calais Campbell (ORL), Aaron Kampman (NJ), Justin Tuck (MGN) DT: Albert Haynesworth (ORL), Sean Ellis (OAK), Ricky Jean-Francois (NOR) LB: Terrell Suggs (PHI), Channing Crowder (POR), Jerod Mayo (CHA),         Clay Matthews (LA), Jason Taylor (BAL), Bobby Wagner (SEA) CB: Antonio Cromartie (BIR), Asante Samuel (CHA), Joe Haden (BAL),         Nnambi Asomugha (BAL) SS: Grover Quinn (WSH), Adam Archuleta (BAL) FS: Willie Andrews (HOU), David Young (LA) K: Mike Nugent (PHI) P: Craig Jarrett (LV)    Here we are, Summer Bowl 2014 and we have two clubs very much new to the experience and very much unfamiliar with each other.  What can we expect from these two?  Well, considering that we have two of the very best quarterbacks, two All-USFL wideouts, and two innovative offensive head coaches, our guess is that this may be a shootout.  At least we hope it is.    In these two teams we have the number one and two scoring offenses, with Texas at 29.9 points per game and Baltimore right there at 28 points per game.  We have the number one and two passing attacks, with Baltimore at 319 yards per game, and Texas just a hair behind at 312.  They are also 1 and 2 in total yards, with Baltimore averaging over 400 yards per game, while Texas is right there at 390.  In other words, we have all the makings of a dynamic, offensively-charged highlight reel of a game.    So, is there an edge to one team.  The books in Las Vegas give a 3-point advantage to the Baltimore Blitz.  Why?  Probably because in addition to their top ranked offense, the Blitz also boast the number one scoring defense, allowing only 17.1 points per game.  Texas’s defense ranked 18th in that category, giving up 23.3 points per outing.  That is significant because this is a game that could come down to one possession or one turnover.  If that is the case, then we understand why the books would give a slight edge to Baltimore.    The other distinction may be the run game, where neither team is particularly strong, though we would argue that both Baltimore’s Anthony Dixon (969 Yds) and Texas’s Chris Johnson (735 Yds) are undervalued and often underutilized.   Both clubs tend to use the run as a means of keeping safeties honest and not as a primary form of attack, but, should one team get a late lead, the ability to run down the clock and gain first downs could become vital in this matchup.   This will be a close one, and likely a very high scoring matchup.  Just who will step up and become the hero? That is the question.  There are just so many options, from the two quarterbacks, to the two All-USFL wideouts, how about TE Antonio Gates?  Or Outlaw receiving TD leader Brandon Marshall?  Or could it be a surprise?  Could we have a defensive star stand out?   What about edge rusher Reynaldo Wynn (15 sacks) for Texas?  Or ballhawking cornerback Nnambi Asomugha for the Blitz?  If this game does come down to one possession a well-timed sack or a single takeaway could be the difference between victory and defeat.   We can debate how this will go all day.  The fact is that we have an intriguing matchup between two of the most exciting offenses in the league, with two outstanding quarterbacks, and we just need to sit back and enjoy this one, because at the end of the day we are going to have a new, and first time champion in the USFL on Sunday. BALTIMORE BLITZ (12-4) vs. TEXAS OUTLAWS (11-4-1) Sunday, July 27 @ 6pm ET The Georgia Dome, Atlanta, GA

A six seed makes it to the Conference Title Game, a 1 seed is eliminated, and two players prove just how valuable a franchise quarterback can be.  That is the storyline as we enter Conference Championship Week in the USFL.  Sixth seeded Atlanta pulls of the divisional upset, taking down a Tampa Bay squad that is just not the same without Daunte Culpepper.  Baltimore rolls over rival Philadelphia thanks to another huge game from Big Ben. Michigan dominates the Houston Gamblers to return to their first Conference Title game since 2009, and the Texas Outlaws edge the Arizona Wranglers, thanks in large part to the return of Joe Flacco under center.  We will review all 4 divisional matchups, preview a pair of Conference title games that promise at least one first-timer will reach Summer Bowl 2014, and run through the news on front office hires and player retirements in this edition of This Week in the USFL. ATLANTA FIRE 23   TAMPA BAY BANDITS 20        OVERTIME The first of three intra-divisional matchups went to extra time to be decided, but in the end the 6th seed again survives and advances.  The Fire did it by being persistent, limiting big plays, and pounding the ball with both Steven Jackson and Marcus Lattimore.  Tampa Bay and QB Ryan Lindley did enough to get to overtime, but were unable to finish in the extra period.    The game started with both defenses looking solid as the opposing offenses probed and tested them. The only score in the opening quarter was a safety when Kyle Orton was sacked in the endzone by DE Jason Pierre-Paul midway through the period.  Tampa was unable to benefit from the ensuing kickoff and the game went into the 2nd quarter with a 2-0 score. The second quarter saw one team start to figure out how to beat the defense as Atlanta put together back-to-back scoring drives.  Orton, who would finish the day 21 of 30 for 233 yards, connected with veteran Josh Reed for a short TD to give Atlanta the lead.  They would follow that up with a 48-yard field goal from John Bounds to take a 10-2 lead into the half.   The Bandits would regroup at the half.  Ryan Lindley, who completed only 8 of 15 passes in the first half would look much better as the Bandits made adjustments.  Red Burkhead would get 50 of his 84 yards in the second half as well.  Tampa would score 14 points in the third quarter to wrest the lead back from the Fire.  The first was a nice catch and run by Santonio Holmes, the game’s only 100-yard receiver.  His 68-yard scoring play was the majority of his yards for the day, but in pulling Tampa Bay back to within 2 points, he made it possible for the home team to equalize the score with a two-point PAT.  On their next drive, Lindley again found the endzone, this time on a short route to TE Luke Stocker, a play set up by a nice 19-yard run by James Wilder Jr.    Tampa took a 17-10 lead into the final period, but Atlanta again took over, scoring 10 unanswered to take the lead back once again.  They added a second Bounds field goal, then, following a fumble by Burkhead, they marched down the field with Orton connecting with Matt Jones to pull out by 3, 20-17 with only 1:49 left on the clock.  But, as we all know, when down only 3, having nearly 2 minutes is more than ample time for a team to get the equalizer.   Tampa Bay moved the ball in fits and starts, but they moved it, eventually getting to the 29 yard line, where Nate Kaeding connected on a 47-yard kick to even the score with just over 17 seconds left, and the game was headed to overtime.  In the extra period, a costly mistake left Tampa Bay stunned and gave Atlanta the ball in field goal range.  The play, a pitch to Burkhead, turned into a scramble for a fumble when Burkhead whiffed on the ball, but thinking it was a forward pass he did not immediately pursue it.  Atlanta’s Patrick Willis did, and after a mad dash and a few odd bounces, Willis came away with the ball. The refs called it first down Atlanta, and three plays later, the Fire sent John Bounds out to kick a 30-yarder for the win.  He put the ball between the uprights and the Bandits fell to defeat, with only themselves to blame. HOUSTON GAMBLERS 10   MICHIGAN PANTHERS 33 The Houston Gamblers rolled nothing but lucky 7’s in Oakland, but in Michigan they came up snake-eyes.  Michigan dominated the game, outgaining Houston 360-207, holding Carlos Hyde to only 22 yards rushing and allowing only 1 touchdown to the visitors from Texas.  On offense Kirk Cousins was humming, completing 22 of 28 and throwing for 2 scores, despite being sacked by the Houston front 7 five times.  LeVeon Bell did not reach 100 yards, but his 23 carries for 74 were enough to keep the Houston defense honest, and Cousins did the rest, with Hines Ward his primary target.   Houston started the game well, scoring late in the 1st on a Hasselbeck to Roy Williams TD toss, but it would be their last trip to the endzone in the game.  Michigan took over in the 2nd quarter and would go on a 33-3 run, beginning with a short Bell run for the equalizer, and followed by two Matt Prater field goals to send the game to the half at 13-7.  Houston got a field goal to pull within 3, but at the start of the 4th quarter the Houston defense started to fail, and Michigan was there to pounce on it.   Michigan would score 20 points in the final 15 minutes, including TDs from Hines Ward, mario Manningham, and Mike Hart as the Panthers simply shut down the Gamblers and took control of the game against a tired Gambler D.  Matt Hasselbeck would finish with only 184 yards passing, while Cousins celebrated his first playoff win as the QB of the Panthers. BALTIMORE BLITZ 45    PHILADELPHIA STARS 24 This was the game most anticipated as the one with greatest potential to be a shootout, and for a half it felt very much like it would be.  The score at the half was 17-14 in favor of the Blitz, but it was a pretty even game up until that point.  Baltimore had secured two Antonio Gates TDs, but Philadelphia had matched them with scores by Stevie Johnson and Allen Robinson.  Only a late Nick Folk field goal separated the two teams.   But the balance in the game started to unravel in the 2nd half.  Ben Roethlisberger, who would finish the game only 9 yards short of back-to-back 400-yard games, found Darrius Heyward-Bey from 53 yards out on a back-breaking play that put Baltimore up by 10.  They would add to that lead only 1 minute later when Matt Gutierrez made a very bad read, throwing right into coverage only to watch Blitz safety Eric Waddle step right into the path of the ball and return it 36 yards to paydirt.  Up 17 at 31-14, Baltimore now controlled the tempo and the tenor of the game.   Philadelphia could muster only a field goal in the third quarter, but before the disastrous quarter ended, Big Ben struck again, hitting Hartline with a 24-yard TD that made the score 38-17 and clearly Baltimore was in control.  When the Blitz upped the lead to 28, thanks to a Roscoe Parrish TD catch, Roethlisberger’s 5th TD of the day, the Stars fans started to file out of the stadium.   A garbage time TD from Gutierrez to Celek did not change the situation.  Both the 1 and 2 seeds in the East were done, and the Summer Bowl would be guaranteed at least one first-timer as 6-seed Atlanta and 4-seed Baltimore would vie for the right to attend their first title game. ARIZONA WRANGLERS 21   TEXAS OUTLAWS 24 The final game of the weekend would be a lot closer than the prior two, not decided until the final 5 minutes in a back and forth game between two division foes who could anticipate each other’s moves and counter-moves.  Joe Flacco would suffer 8 sacks in the game as Arizona relied on pressure, while David Carr similarly saw a lot of pressure from the Outlaws, sacked 5 times.  Both teams would have solid run games, but with Frank Gore leading all rushers with 71 yards, this would be a game won by the defenses and the quarterbacks.    Texas controlled the first quarter, going up 10-0 thanks to a Marquise Goodwin TD catch, but the 2nd quarter saw the momentum swing towards the visitors as David Carr connected with Larry Fitzgerald from 32 yards out to pull within 3.  The Wranglers would pick off Joe Flacco on the next drive, and that takeaway turned into 7 when Frank Gore took a swing pass from Carr and took it 6-yards to paydirt. But, despite the apparent turn of momentum, Texas did not give the quarter to the Wranglers.  They rebounded with a half-ending drive that put them back on top.  Flacco found TE Bo Scaife in the waning seconds of the half, and the homestanding Outlaws took a tentative 17-14 lead into the break.   We saw only 2 scores in the second half, one per quarter, as the defenses continued to pressure both quarterbacks and limit both run games.  Arizona would score first, retaking the lead at 5:39 in the third.  Carr again found Fitzgerald, this time from 15 yards out.  That score would create the 21-17 lead which Arizona would take well into the final period.  But with 9 minutes left to play, Texas again put together a scoring drive, using 12 plays and aided by a somewhat dubious defensive holding call, the Outlaws marched inside the 10 of Arizona. Flacco then hit Brandon Marshall with a perfect fade route and Texas had the lead a third time, now 24-21 with 5:21 left to play.   Arizona had time, but not success as they got the ball back.  They failed on three straight plays, forcing a decision from Coach Tomsula.  He opted to punt the ball away, hoping his D could tighten up and get the quick 3-and-out.  They came close, getting to a 3rd and 4, but on that fateful play Joe Flacco found Chris Cooley for a 8-yard reception and a first down.  That was the end for the Wranglers’ hopes of a championship repeat.  Flacco took a knee twice and Texas was on their way to the Western Conference Title Game.  Texas would host Michigan with a chance at their first Summer Bowl in their grasp, and in their home stadium.   Flacco’s Return Sparks Outlaws There was little doubt on Sunday that the return of Joe Flacco to the Texas starting lineup was a huge motivator for the Outlaws and a big factor in their win over the Arizona Wranglers.  Flacco, who missed the season’s final two games after suffering an injury in a Week 14 matchup against Memphis, returned to action this week and was a driving force in the Texas victory.  We can point to his 320 yards passing or to the three TD passes to Bo Scaife, Brandon Marshall, and Marquise Goodwin as evidence of this, but it was more than that.   What we saw in the Outlaws this week was a team confident in its ability to win the game, sure of itself, and able to overcome early setbacks.  That is what a strong leader provides to a team, even when he is not on the field.  The Outlaws we saw in Weeks 15 and 16 did not have that.  Yes, they were able to get a Week 16 win to stay a half-game over Arizona in the SW Division, despite losing to the Wranglers the week before, but the team simply did not have the swagger that we saw on Sunday as they punched their ticket to a Conference Title Game at home next week.  The return of Joe Flacco made the difference in the team’s demeanor, their preparation, and the outcome to the game.  If we look at the parallel situation in Tampa Bay, where a very good Bandits team lost their starting QB for the playoffs, we saw a far less confident, less composed, and less effective team, and we saw the Bandits bow out of the playoffs in their opening game.  When we talk about a quarterback being a “Franchise Quarterback”, it is exactly what we saw in Texas and did not see in Tampa Bay that defines what that means.   Big Ben Does it Again In just over a week’s time the league will be handing out its awards, including two that recognize leadership and offensive production.  We would be shocked if Ben Roethlisberger did not walk away with one of those awards, either Offensive Player of the Year or, more likely, league MVP.  Why? Well the two playoff games the Blitz have won so far this postseason is evidence enough.  In the Wild Card matchup against Charlotte, Big Ben threw for 400 yards on only 19 completions, tossing three touchdowns in a close game against a good Monarchs defense. This week, against rival Philadelphia, another team with a Top 5 defense, Roethlisberger came only 9 yards shy of another 400 yard game, and, oh yes, threw for 5 touchdowns as the Blitz erupted for 45 points, taking out the East’s top seed and advancing to the Conference Championship.   Big Ben has been playing out of his mind all season, finishing the regular season as the league leader in passing yards, with 4,751; touchdowns, with 36, and QB Rating, with a score of 118.5.  That trifecta often comes with an MVP trophy, and when it also means that a team picked to finish last in the NE Division now sits one game from the Summer Bowl, you better believe it turns heads.  Roethlisberger has been a very good quarterback for his entire USFL career, but this year, the first for Head Coach Jim Caldwell (himself likely to garner Coach of the Year honors), Ben’s performance has simply gone to a new level.  He has helped make Darrius Heyward-Bey a household name, has all but assured an All-USFL honor for TE Antonio Gates, and has electrified a somewhat jaded and cynical Baltimore fanbase.  All this in a year when the owner of the franchise is looking to cash out and sell the team, a sale that now will bring in a significantly higher price thanks to the team’s success.  And what is more, it seems like the playoffs are bringing out the best in the 11-year veteran, a fact that likely scares the Atlanta Fire, Baltimore’s opponent next week, as it well should.   Panthers Look Fierce in Blowout Win It has been a while since we have seen the once-dominant Michigan Panthers looking like a true title contender, but this week’s victory over Houston looked very much like what we had come to expect of Panther teams in the past.  In Michigan’s 23-point victory, the Panthers dominated in yardage, time of possession, and third down efficiency.  They got contributions from across the roster, from stars like LeVeon Bell and Hines Ward, but also from role players like DE Michael Bennett, CB Drayton Florence, and backup HB Mike Hart.    It has been 5 years since the Panthers last won a playoff game and we have not seen them in a Summer Bowl since their 2008 title, but this year’s team is looking very much like a potential contender.  It will be a tough task to go into San Antonio and knock off the Outlaws, but what we are seeing in Michigan’s aggressive defense and balanced offense is a team that can win in a variety of ways and one that will not be intimidated by Texas.  The Panthers did not play the Outlaws in the regular season, but did face off against both Denver and Arizona, two quality SW Division teams, beating them in back-to-back weeks in midseason action.  And while the competition in the Central Division may not have been at the level of that in the Southwest, this Michigan squad is a dangerous one, as the Gamblers discovered this week.  Expect them to give Texas a very good run as they face off with a trip to Atlanta and Summer Bowl 2014 on the line.   Retirement Update A relatively slow week for retirement announcements across the USFL as we saw only a handful of starters and All-USFL veterans make their curtain calls this week.  It began on Monday when Birmingham (and former Philadelphia) cornerback Quentin Jammer held a small press event to announce he was leaving the game after 12 seasons. Jammer, a 4-time All-USFL selection during his time in Philadelphia, came to Birmingham this past offseason, hoping to regain the swagger he had held for so long as a Star.  It was an up and down year for him, as he garnered only 2 interceptions and started only 13 of 16 games.  He leaves the game with a lifetime total of 32 picks, 1,040 tackles, and 182 games under his belt.   Another Monday announcement came from Houston after their defeat at the hands of the Michigan Panthers. Linebacker James Farrior , after 16 seasons split between the Baltimore Blitz and the Houston Gamblers, announced he had put on the pads and helmet for the last time.  Farrior is a 7-time All-USFL honoree, and a very likely Hall of Fame Candidate when his eligibility opens in 2019. He won a title with the Gamblers in his first year in Houston (2010) and has recorded 100 or more tackles in 6 of the past 7 years, finishing his career with 120 this year.    Tuesday saw a press event in Washington D.C., where 12-year starter and 4-time All-USFL safety Ed Reed announced he was leaving the Federals and the game to enter retirement.  Reed came to Washington in 2002 out of the University of Miami and became an immediate starter for the club.  He would go on to record 562 tackles and 35 interceptions as one of the most feared safeties in the game,  Known as a brutal hitter with an instinct for the right angle and the right timing, Ed Reed helped Washington remain a contender in the NE Division for his entire career, though he never won a title with the club.   Finally, on Wednesday, a bit of an unexpected announcement as Charlotte halfback Fred Jackson announced he would not be returning to the USFL for a 12th season.  Jackson, who finished 2014 with 1,185 yards and 11 touchdowns, had been a centerpiece of the Monarch lineup since coming to the team in 2010.  Before that he had been part of halfback committees in both Michigan and New Orleans.  A product of tiny Coe College in Iowa, Jackson had his first 1,000 yard season in his first year in Charlotte, and would follow that with 2 more in 2013 and 2014.  He retires at the age of 32, with just over 8,400 yards in his career.  Teams continue to get healthy as the playoffs progress, with two notable exceptions.  Baltimore added a key player to their injury list, with   safety Adam Archuleta listed as probable.  We would be shocked to see Archuleta sit out a game as essential as the Eastern Title Game, especially in front of an adoring home crowd in Baltimore.  The other noteworthy additions to the injury report are with the Panthers, where both C Jeff Faine and LB Sean Porter are likely not going to be able to appear in the Western Title Game.  Faine has already been ruled out with a neck injury, while Porter, suffering from hamstring pull, is questionable.  Other than these new updates, the remaining injured players on all 4 teams either remain on IR or are seeing improved diagnoses after another week of rest.   ATL: DE Chris Kelsay (IR), HB J. J. Arrington (IR), DT Jason Ferguson (P) BAL: G Andy Alleman (IR), QB Vince Young (IR), G Scott Tercero (D), SS Adam Archuleta (P)   MGN: CB Dre Kirkpatrick (IR), C Jeff Faine (O), DT Jerrell Worthy (O), LB Sean Porter (Q) TEX: G Kyle Long (O)   Bulls Hire Former Patriots & Chiefs GM Scott Pioli The rebuilding has begun for the Jacksonville Bulls after their disastrous 0-16 season in 2014. The first new hire is made and it is at the GM position where former NFL GM Scott Pioli, who worked both in New England and Kansas City, will take over the reins of the Bulls scouting and player personnel work.  Pioli had moderate success with the two NFL squads, helping to build a Patriot squad that while competitive, could never get over the hump to win a playoff game.  In Kansas City he had more success, building a Chiefs team that competed in the AFC Championship twice during his tenure.    Pioli’s task now is to find a coach who can bring a new culture to a very downtrodden and dejeced Bulls franchise.  He will also be tasked with a major overhaul of the Bulls’ roster, one that may include trying to ship off college superstar but USFL question mark Tim Tebow. It will not be an easy task to build the Bulls up, and certainly won’t be completed in one year, but at least the Bulls have started on the road to recovery after a year they would very much like to forget.   Memphis Keeps it in the Family, hire Buddy Ryan’s Son Rex For the second time in a decade the Memphis Showboats have tapped the son of a legendary USFL coach to lead their team.  Back in the early 2000’s it was Jim Mora Jr, son of Stars’ legend Jim Mora, and current Charlotte Head Man, and now it is Rex Ryan, son of former Showboat coach Buddy Ryan.  Rex, often seen as a flamboyant and outspoken coach like his father, comes to the Showboats with a similar reputation as a defensive mastermind.  Memphis, while hoping they won’t see some of the sideline and press room antics that cost Buddy his position, are hoping that his son can bring the intensity and aggressiveness of the Buddy Ryan defenses back to a Showboat team that has not exactly been dominant on the defensive side of the ball.   Ryan will be tasked with building a defense in Memphis, but also with developing an offense around QB Eli Manning.  And while Ryan will almost certainly want to start adding pieces to the Showboat defense, his first task may be to find a running back.  The duo of Darren McFadden and Knile Davis was underwhelming in 2014, with the Showboats finishing the year in the bottom 4 in rushing yards, averaging only 72.6 per game.  Knowing the Ryan affinity for slowing games down and limiting offensive possessions, we would expect that a strong run game will be a priority for Ryan and his new club.   Hamilton & McDermott Still Off Limits Two of the hottest names among coaching candidates remain off limits as Michigan’s Sean McDermott and Baltimore’s Pep Hamilton continue with their squads into the Conference Title Games. Depending on your team’s interest, Hamilton, the OC for the Blitz and McDermott the DC for the revitalized Michigan defense could well be on the top of your list as your club seeks a new head man.  Both have built reputations for innovative play calling and a good eye for talent.    Many are crediting Hamilton for the breakout seasons by both Ben Roethlisberger and WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, while McDermott is recognized as the primary architect of Michigan’s blitzing defense, despite the presence of another defensive coach as the Head Coach in Michigan, Jim Johnson.  While both coaches are certainly targets of a lot of interest, until their clubs exit the postseason, league rules prohibit any team from contacting them to interview for open positions.  However, as soon as either club is removed from the playoff hunt, expect the phone to start ringing.      (6) Atlanta Fire (10-6) @ (4) Baltimore Blitz (12-4) Sunday, July 20 @ 2pm ET M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD Blitz -6   While we admire what Atlanta has done to get here, knocking off New Orleans in the Super Dome and Tampa Bay at Raymond James, our bullpen was pretty much unanimous that the party ends here.  Baltimore is playing lights out football.  Big Ben is looking very much like a league MVP, even if the votes don’t go his way, and the Blitz feel very much like a team of destiny after crushing the Monarchs and the top-seeded Stars in back-to-back games.    So how could Atlanta pull off the upset?  Well, first they have to find a way to cool off Big Ben.  With 800 yards passing and 8 TDs in the first two playoff games, Roethlisberger is clearly the key to Baltimore’s success.  But, shutting him down is no easy task.  He is outstanding at extending plays, playing through pressure, and his receivers know it, so they don’ t give up on plays. Atlanta’s D has to be ready to play hard for 5-8 seconds on every play, not the usual 3-4 seconds. OUR PICK:  You get the gist of what we are saying. We think Baltimore takes this one.  It was a nice run for Atlanta, but we are loving the product that the Blitz are putting on the field. And we remind everyone that we picked them to finish last and to have 10 or more losses when this season began.  Blitz 31-21.   (2) Michigan Panthers (10-6) @ (1) Texas Outlaws (11-4-1) Sunday, July 20 @ 7pm ET The Alamodome, San Antonio, TX Outlaws -3   This one is a lot harder to pick.  Michigan also has the feel of a team on a mission, but Texas has been one of the league’s toughest outs all season long.  Joe Flacco makes the Outlaws a very tough matchup and Chris Johnson has been coming on in the second half of the season.  But, we are also loving what Michigan is doing on defense, where they are just not allowing teams to make use of their primary weapon. What they did this past week to Carlos Hyde and the Gamblers is proof positive that the Panther defense can shut down the best player on your team.    So, do we think Texas can get past that? They have enough weapons to survive a bad game for Marques Colston, their star. They too have a solid defense, though perhaps not a shut down defense.  They can run the ball when they want, but they prefer to pass.  Can Michigan cope with a balanced offense and a pretty solid, aggressive defense? OUR PICK:  We are going to say “Yes” to that last question.  While we are not as confident as we were with our Baltimore pick, we are liking the 2-seeded Panthers to come into San Antonio and escape with a win and a chance to earn a 4th John Bassett Trophy at Summer Bowl 2014.  Our pick is Michigan 21-17.

This weekend proved to be a tale of two very different days.  On Saturday both 6 seeds won on the road, knocking the 3rd seeded division champions out of the playoffs at home.  On Sunday the 4th seeded home teams both defeated the visiting 5th seeds.  It was a week that saw three of four games end within a single score, and on which creates 3 of 4 Divisional games as divisional battles.  In other words, it was what playoff football should be, unpredictable, high stakes, well-played football.  Let’s jump right into the game recaps in the order they happened.  We will then preview the 4 Divisional Round games, when the 1 and 2 seeds get their chance to shine, and we will look at both recent retirement announcements and the players from 20 teams that will, in all likelihood, be hitting the free agency pool on the Monday following Summer Bowl 2014. ATLANTA FIRE 20      NEW ORLEANS BREAKERS 17 It was a good win for the Atlanta Fire, a bad loss for a New Orleans Breakers squad that had high hopes of a return to the Conference Finals, or even more.  The Breakers came into the game feeling that this was their year.  They had cruised to a 12-4 record, easily won the Southern Division and would host this game in front of nearly 54,000 boisterous Breaker fans at the Super Dome, but a rough start and a third quarter injury to Drew Brees combined to sink the high hopes that New Orleans had brought to the game.   Atlanta was, to use a bit of a pun, on fire early in this matchup.  They owned the first quarter, hitting New Orleans with three consecutive scoring drives, with a Vance McDonald TD reception sandwiched by two John Bounds field goals.  New Orleans was down 13 before they managed to cross midfield for the first time.  They would rebound with a strong 2nd quarter, with Jeremy Hill rushing for a TD and a late Sturgis field goal pulling them to within 3 at the half, but that is as close as they would get.    The injury to Drew Brees in the third stunted the momentum for New Orleans, and Kyle Orton, who had himself a very good game (20 of 28 for 253 and 2 scores), found Demaryius Thomas from 13 yards out to boost the Fire lead to 10, a lead they held for most of the final period until a late Quincy Carter toss to Kenny Britt brought New Orleans back within 3.  But the Breakers would not get another shot.  Orton and HB Marcus Lattimore connected on a third down screen that gave Atlanta the downs it needed to end the game on a kneel down and the 6th seed Atlanta Fire would move on to the Divisional Round. POTG:  Fire WR Josh Reed:  4 Rec, 132 Yds HOUSTON GAMBLERS 23   OAKLAND INVADERS 14 Houston was a popular pick to upend the homestanding Pacific Division champs, so it was not a huge surprise that the Gamblers came back from a 14-10 halftime deficit to score 13 unanswered points in the second half and take out the Oakland Invaders. The Gamblers did so with a stingy defense that limited Ryan Williams to only 0.8 yards per carry (18 yards on 23 touches).  The Houston offense, while not explosive, was consistent. Oakland put a lot of energy into shutting down Carlos Hyde, and they largely did, save for one nice 17-yard TD run. But in doing so, they allowed Matt Hasselbeck to find 9 different receivers and complete 71.4% of his throws on his way to a 294-yard day.   Early on the game felt like one Oakland had in their hands.  They built up a 14-3 lead on TDs from Donald Brown and Keenan Allen, but a late first half response from Houston in the form of a Hasselbeck to Williams TD toss turned the momentum. Oakland would not score again, while Houston would take the lead on the 3rd quarter Hyde run and then add two 4th quarter Dan Carpenter kicks to build up their own 9-point lead.  Down two scores and with no run game to speak of, Oakland simply did not have the options needed to come back on Houston.  In two Saturday games two division champions and 3-seeds were out and both 6 seeds were on their way to the Divisional Round. POTG:  Houston QB Matt Hasselbeck:  30/42, 294 Yds, 1 TD, 0 Int   CHARLOTTE MONARCHS 24   BALTIMORE BLITZ 31 The story of the weekend set up by Saturday’s upsets did not carry through to Sunday, where both home favorites held serve.  It was not easy for either, as is evident in the close game between the Monarchs and the Blitz.  While Baltimore led most of the way, they could never pull out beyond  Charlotte’s reach as the Monarchs tied the game 3 times before the Blitz finally put up the game winning points.    It was a game that pushed both QBs over 300 yards passing, with neither run game able to do much against the opposing D.  Brandon Wheedon would finish the game 21 of 34 for 322 yards, but it was Big Ben with the upper hand against the Monarch defense, throwing for an even 400 on a day that saw him hit on several big plays, including a 62-yarder to Antonio Gates, a 47-yarder to Javon Walker, and a 43-yarder to Darrius Heyward-Bey.  Both DHB and Gates would finish over 100 yards on the day, and Walke was only 7 yards shy as Baltimore found all sorts of time for Roethlisberger, and the big guy came through play after play.    Baltimore led 17-14 at the half in a back-and-forth game.  They would build a 10-point lead on a Walker TD catch.  Charlotte fought back in the 3rd with a TD from Wheedon to TE Luke Wilson and a Brandon Coutu field goal, but in the 4th, Baltimore took the lead for good when Roethlisberger hit DHB for a short 3-yard TD with just 1:05 to play.  The late score did not leave Wheedon and the Monarchs time to equalize and the Blitz D got them the ball back when Wheedon tried to hit D. J. Hackett in double coverage.  Baltimore would move on to the Divisional Round. POTG:  Blitz QB Ben Roethlisberger:  19/22, 400 Yds, 3 TD, 1 Int. DENVER GOLD 20   ARIZONA WRANGLERS 25 The weekend’s final game was a rivalry game, a divisional battle, and a game of chess between two foes who know each other very well.  For a good part of the game it looked like Denver would cash in and sweep all 3 against Arizona this year, but the Wranglers came back strong after falling behind by 10 in the 3rd and scored the final 15 points to take the victory in front of a rabid home crowd.   Denver, playing without DeMarco Murray, depended on Matt Leinart and on the defense.  Leinart was up and down, but the D was the story of the first half, holding Arizona to only 101 total yards and keeping the Wranglers out of the endzone for the first 29 minutes and 21 seconds.  Down 13-3, following a Michael Crabtree TD and 2 Greg Zeurlein field goals, Arizona finally started to look alive in the 2-minute drill.  They moved the ball well despite Frank Gore going out of the game early.  Kadeem Carey would finish the game with 61 yards rushing, but on this half-ending drive, it was Larry Fitzgerald stepping up, making the TD grab in the final minute to pull Arizona within 3.   Denver would open the second half with a strong drive, expanding the lead back up to 10 with a LeMichael James TD run at the 6-minute mark of the third.  But from that moment on, Arizona turned up the intensity and the pressure as they slowly marched back.  They would pick off Matt Leinart twice in the final 19 clock minutes of the game.  On offense they did not panic, settling for field goals on their next 3 drives to pull within 20-19.  But with only 2:22 left on the clock, they got the ball back still down 1.    Arizona calmly moved the ball down the field, Carr hitting Carey, Antonio Bryant, and Larry Fitzgerald on short passes to get into Denver territory.  They then hit the big play that had eluded them all day.  TE Rob Gronkowski, set to become a free agent at the end of they year (barring a last second agreement), split the two safeties, hauled in a perfect arcing ball from Carr, and took it to the house for a 41-yard touchdown that won the game for the Wranglers.   It was not easy, but Arizona would move on to the next round and a rematch with another divisional foe, the Texas Outlaws. POTG:  Wrangler TE Rob Gronkowski: 4 rec, 118 Yds, 1 TD Flacco to Start vs. Arizona It is the news that Texas fans had hoped to hear.  In missing the final two weeks of regular season action, and with the extra bye week to rest and recover, QB Joe Flacco has had the time needed to heal and was cleared to practice in full this week, meaning that it will be Flacco under center for the Outlaws when they face Arizona in the Alamodome this upcoming Sunday.    While Flacco’s presence certainly does not ensure a win, after all Arizona won against Flacco back in Week 5, it certainly helps Texas feel confident in their offense going into the game.  Flacco finished the season 2nd in passing yards, behind only Ben Roethlisberger, third in TDs (Big Ben & Drew Brees), and fifth in QB Rating.  While Kyle Boller certainly helped the team out with their Week 16 win, having the main man back in the lineup on Sunday has to make Texas fans feel good about their chances.   Jake Plummer Makes it Official It was rumored last week, and it became official yesterday as Jake Plummer, standing in the Media Room at Sam Boyd Stadium, announced his retirement from the game.  A teary Plummer thanked the fans from both Las Vegas and Arizona who had supported him over the years.  He thanked several coaches who helped guide him, and he thanked his teammates.  He lamented the fact that he was never able to bring a title to one of his clubs, a pain that was clearly evident in his face.    Plummer retires with over 59,000 passing yards, 405 career touchdowns (not even including his 65 rushing touchdowns) and a lifetime QB Rating of 92.6.  Many expect that he may become the first QB to be nominated to the Hall of Fame in his first ballot without having won a title.  A premier rushing QB in his early days, Plummer evolved into a strong pocket passer who always remained at least a little dangerous when flushed outside.  He retires after 17 seasons in the USFL and 253 starts in his career.    Other Retirements to Report While Jake Plummer’s announcement was certainly the most-attended presser of the week, Plummer was certainly not alone in announcing his retirement.  As we have come to expect during the USFL playoffs, several other veteran players have publicly declared their intention to step away form the game and formally declare retirement with the league office.  Here is a quick list of the players who have said goodbye to the league and the game over the past 2 weeks. Charlotte OT Sean Bubin Chicago DE Anthony Weaver Dallas WR Cedrick Wilson Denver LB Hannibal Navies Jacksonville LB Mike Vrabel LA Safety Lance Schulters Memphis OT Maurice Williams New Jersey OT Orlando Brown Ohio FB Mike Karney Orlando CB Lito Sheppard Pittsburgh K Shayne Graham LV/SD CB Tyrone Bell St. Louis TE Jeramy Stevens and LB Wali Rainier   An impressive group, including elite players like Vrabel, Weaver, and Bubin.  They will be tough to replace.  We anticipate even more announcements as we move towards Summer Bowl 2014.  And as we wait for those announcements, speculation continues to grow about whether we will get an announcement from Tampa Bay QB Daunte Culpepper.   USFL’s Pre-Set Playoff Format Sets Up Divisional Games Unlike the NFL which matches teams from the Wild Card round with Division Champs based on their seeding, the USFL prefers to preset brackets, which has, and once again will, set up games where the 1 seed is not always facing the lowest seed.  That is the situation this year as the Arizona Wranglers, and not the 6-seed Houston Gamblers, will head to Texas to face the Outlaws, while the lower seeded Gamblers head to Michigan to face the Panthers.  The same is true in the East, where the 6-seed Fire defeated New Orleans and now head to Tampa Bay to face the 2 seeded Bandits, while the 4-seed, the Baltimore Blitz, get a rendezvous with their divisional rival, Philadelphia.   It is a different philosophy, but when it produces great matchups, particularly divisional matchups like Arizona-Texas and Baltimore-Philadelphia, no one is complaining.  No one that is except folks who would much rather see their top-seeded home team face off against the weakest opponent possible.  For the rest of us, the USFL system works when it produces great matchups like the ones we will see next week.   As we look ahead to the four divisional games, once again injuries might have a say in the outcomes of each playoff game.   Atlanta survived the absence of Chris Kelsay against the Breakers.  Can Tampa do the same without their starting QB.  A lot of pressure on Ryan Lindley to keep a great season going.  But Culpepper is not the only important player who could potentially miss the game.  Guard Steve Hutchinson is listed as probably, but is still nursing an ankle injury, while for Atlanta, both Darius Slay and Jason Ferguson have been upgraded to Probably for the outing. ATL:  DE Chris Kelsay (IR), HB J. J. Arrington (IR), CB Darius Slay (P), DT Jason Ferguson (P) TBY: QB Daunte Culpepper (IR), SS Michael Mitchell (O), DT Terrell McClain (D), G Steve Hutchinson (P)   In the only non-divisional matchup this weekend, the Panthers are looking quite healthy as they prepare for the Gamblers.  They would ideally like to have both Kirkpatrick and Porter available, but they have been playing without both for several weeks and seem to have found workarounds for both players’ absences.  As for Houston, all of their injured players continue to improve, and each was raised a level on the injury report, with Burgess the most likely of the three to take the field. HOU: FS Willie Andrews (Q), DE Antwan Applewhite (P), DE Derrick Burgess (P) MGN: CB Dre Kirkpatrick (IR), LB Sean Porter (Q)   Both the Blitz and the Stars have injuries that could certainly impact the game.  Adam Archuleta left the game early against Charlotte but is listed as probable.  Philadelphia has significant concern about their O-line with Matt Birk now placed on IR and tackle Jaimie Thomas listed as out for the game.  That will impact both Steve Slaton’s blocking as well as protection for Matt Gutierrez. BAL: G Andy Alleman (IR), QB Vince Young (IR), G Scott Tercero (O), SS Adam Archuleta (P) PHI: C Matt Birk (IR), CB Bradley Fletcher (O), OT Jaimie Thomas (O), FS Jairus Byrd (P)   The final game of the weekend could well be the one between the two healthiest teams in the postseason.  Arizona has two players listed, but Wade Smith is expected to play.  Texas has three as well, but we know that both Aaron Ross and Joe Flacco are fully expected to play on Sunday.  So, this should be a game where pre-existing injuries are no excuse if things don’t go right. ARZ: C Blake Schlueter (O), OT Wade Smith (P) TEX:  G Kyle Long (IR), CB Aaron Ross (P), QB Joe Flacco (P)   Stallions Hope to Interview Givens In a shock to no one, Birmingham has asked for permission to speak with New Orleans OC Ernest Givens.  The Hall of Fame receiver, who played 15 seasons in Birmingham, caught on with lamar Lathon’s Breakers and quickly moved from a position coach to the offensive coordinator position in 2013.  This was only his second year at the helm of the Breaker offense, but the upgrade in output by the Breakers impressed many across the country, and certainly this did not go unnoticed by the Stallions.    With New Orleans falling to Atlanta this week, Givens is now free to meet with franchises interested in  him, though with 2 more years on his contract in New Orleans, the Stallions did need to get permission.  New Orleans granted it, but required that any offer Birmingham made would have a chance for a counter from the Breakers.  It is unlikely that New Orleans could match a Head Coach deal for a coordinator contract, but this is a division rival, so the Breakers certainly don’t want to make it easy for Givens to leave.    Memphis meets with Cecil & Ryan The Showboats also jumped on the chance to get started on their coaching search, setting up meetings with both Chuck Cecil, the Express’s Defensive Coordinator, and with former New York Jets’ Head Coach Rex Ryan, son of former Showboat head coach Buddy Ryan.  Were the Showboats to select Ryan as their new coach it would be the second time that the franchise landed on  the son of a former USFL coach for their HC position, having already experimented with current Charlotte Head Coach Jim Mora Jr. back in the early 2000’s.    Ryan was let go by the Jets after a disappointing 2013 season that saw the Super Bowl contenders (on paper) stumble to an 8-8 record and miss the playoffs.  Ryan had had a good run with the Jets, but was never able to get them back to the Super Bowl.  He, like his father, is known for an aggressive defense, but has been criticized for his lack of imagination and progress at the QB position.  With a veteran like Eli Manning in Memphis, that would not be as big an issue as it had been in New York. Chuck Cecil would be coming over from an LA team that had barely more success this year than did Memphis, but with a defense that led the league in takeaways.  That would be a big focus for the Showboats if Cecil came over to the Mid-South.  Memphis’s defenses have been anything but dominating the past few seasons and it seems clear that the Showboats see the need for their new HC to be a defensive specialist, which would be the case for both Ryan and Cecil.   Free Agent Ranks Swell Two weeks into the postseason and we have yet to talk about the free agent pool that will open up on the Monday after the Summer Bowl.  With 20 teams now out of the playoffs (16 after Week 16, and another 4 eliminated this week), the potential pool of talent in the free agent ranks is looking pretty solid, with only 8 teams still alive in the league’s playoffs.  Here is our look at the 20 teams already eliminated and the players of most interest from each.   BIRMINGHAM: HB Joseph Addai, DE Quentin Groves, LB D’onte Curry, G Herman Johnson, DT Nick Eason   CHARLOTTE: HB Fred Jackson, OT Tyson Clabo, DE Kemerion Wemberley, HB Shonn Greene, QB Jeff Tuel   CHICAGO: DT Ellis Wyms, OT Xavier Fulton, CB Marlin Jackson, TE Anthony Hill   DALLAS: K Stephen Haushka, G Luis Vasquez, WR Ryan Whalen, P. Frank Whalen, LB  Manny Lawson, TE Robert Royal, LB Clint Simtim   DENVER: SS Roy Williams, TE Daniel Graham, G Matt Slauson, DE Bryce Fisher   JACKSONVILLE: SS Mike Brown, WR Johnny Knox, HB Lamar Miller, SS Atari Bigby, QB Josh McCown, WR Rashaun Woods   LAS VEGAS/SAN DIEGO: CB Josh Sewell, WR T. J. Houshmandzadeh, DT Linval Joseph   LOS ANGELES: LB Will Overstreet, WR Ronald Johnson, K Damon Duvall, DT Gabe Watson, WR Jerrel Jernigan,, FS Nick Collins   MEMPHIS: WR Greg Jennings, WR Lee Evans, QB Matt Cassell   NASHVILLE/LAS VEGAS: WR Robert Meachem, FB Sean Smith, FS Stevie Brown   NEW JERSEY: DT Ian Scott, LB Donterrious Thomas, G Paul Zakauskas, HB Tatum Bell, QB Bryan Hoyer, OG Sean Mahan   OAKLAND: LB Keith Bullock, SS Pearson Prioleau, LB Joe Odom, WR Tiquan Underwood, C Eric Olsen   OHIO: WR Arrelious Benn, QB Chris Weinke, TE Lee Smith, CB Corey Webster   ORLANDO: WR Doug Gabriel, CB Cortland Finnegan, TE Greg Olsen, WR Dwayne Harris, G Ben Hamilton, WR Roberto Wallace   PITTSBURGH: DT Dan Klecko, G Chester Adams, DE Jerome McDougle   PORTLAND: LB Mark Simoneau, G Mike Iupati, WR Koren Robinson, G Paul McQuistan, LB Jonathan Casillas SEATTLE: HB Cadillac Williams, DT Amobi Okoye, FS Corey Hall, WR Dwayne Jarrett, WR Kevin Kasper, OT Kenyatta Jones, TE Bennie Joppru   ST. LOUIS: DT Brandon Mbane, HB William Bethea, LB  Brandon Short   WASHINGTON: CB Sheldon Brown, SS Gibril Wilson, FS Ed Reed   We have 4 games this week, two with the 6 seeds facing the 2 seed and two with the 4 seed headed off to face the 1 seed.  Three of four are divisional matchups, which always adds another level of complexity to the planning, as well as a higher level of animosity on the field.  Let’s break down the 4 games and see who we think is headed to the USFL Conference Finals.   (6) Atlanta Fire (10-6)  @  (2) Tampa Bay Bandits (12-4) Saturday, July 12 @ 3pm ET Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL Bandits -2   The Fire split their series with the Bandits, with both games happening before Daunte Culpepper’s injury.  After upsetting New Orleans last week, the Fire seem primed to spoil Tampa Bay’s playoff party.  Atlanta has a team that can do it too, with a Top 10 offense as well as a Top 10 defense, including one of the best run stopping front 7’s in the game.    Tampa, playing with Ryan Lindley at QB, are sure to want to get the run going,  Jahvid Best and Rex Burkhead are a 1-2 punch that can do some damage, so expect Atlanta to play a lot of 1-back safety with DaJuan Morgan spending quite a bit of time near the line, daring Lindley to put the ball up.  How well the Bandit QB can locate Vincent Jackson will be a big piece of this game.   OUR PICK:  We know that without Culpepper, the Bandits are just not the same team, but this is a Bandits squad that has one of the best pass defenses in the league, so the challenge for Kyle Orton is just as daunting as that of Lindley.  We like the deeper roster that Tampa Bay has on hand.  Our pick is a narrow Bandit victory: Bandits 18-17. (6) Houston Gamblers (9-6-1) @  (2) Michigan Panthers (10-6) Saturday, July 12 @ 8pm ET Ford Field, Detroit, MI Panthers -4   Houston has been a solid club all year, but not the most consistent.  Michigan, after starting the year at 1-4, have jumped all over their opponents, winning 9 of their final 11.  Their defense came alive, and now sits as the 3rd best in the league in scoring, allowing only 17.6 points per game.  Houston will need a big game from their two rookie stars, Carlos Hyde and Mike Evans, to overcome the Panther D.   Houston will also need a good defensive game.  The Panthers are not the most explosive offense around, but they are balanced, able to pound the ball on the ground with LeVeon Bell or go up top with Hines Ward.  They lack alternative targets in the passing game, but Ward is the kind of receiver who will find ways to beat double coverage.   OUR PICK:  We are going with the hotter team  here, and that is the Panthers.  They looked really solid late, and that defense is an underrated squad.  Michigan 21-13. (4) Baltimore Blitz (12-4) @ (1) Philadelphia Stars (13-3) Sunday, July 13 @ 1pm ET Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA Stars -3   Ooh, this will be a good one.  These two know each other so well, and they tend to match up well also.  They split their regular season series, with both clubs winning on the road.  That has to make Baltimore feel good about heading to Philadelphia, but playoff football is a whole different animal.  The Blitz have the top rated offense in the league and they are also the best in the league in holding down the opposition scoring.  That is a nasty combination.   But don’t sleep on the 13-3 Stars.  Their stats don’t look quite as impressive as the Blitz’s, but you don’t get to 13 wins without a deep and talented roster.  Philadelphia can beat you in multiple ways, either with a tough ground game and a “slow the tempo” philosophy, or by going for the big play with Stevie Johnson and Travis Kelce.   OUR PICK:   We like the Stars here. They have so much playoff experience and they can attack you in so many ways that it is really hard to prepare for them.  The Blitz could be the right team to match up with them, but we still think Philadelphia has the edge here.   Stars 28-26.   (4) Arizona Wranglers (11-5) @ (1) Texas Outlaws (11-4-1) Sunday, July 13 @ 6pm ET The Alamodome, San Antonio, TX Outlaws -2   Another killer matchup as two more division foes go head to head.  Joe Flacco will be back, so that bodes well for Texas, but Arizona is playing about as well as anyone right now.  They beat the Outlaws 3 weeks ago by a count of 43-31, but that was with Kyle Boller at QB for Texas.  When the two met in Week 5 it was Texas on top 22-17.    Our best guess is that the team that can set up a run game will be the one that can win this one.  Frank Gore should be good to go after missing nearly all of the Denver game.  Texas has had some good outings from Chris Johnson, the NFL import as well, though they tend to be more pass happy than just about any other team in the league.  If either team can show balance, it will make it just that much harder for the defenses to keep pace.   OUR PICK:  We are going with the hot hand, and a team that has Summer Bowl experience, so we are picking the slight underdog.  Sorry, Texas, our pick is Arizona by a score of 24-20.

PLAYER OF THE WEEK: All the pressure of playoff football fell on Kyle Boller and the Texas backup came through big, throwing for 4 touchdowns to help Texas not only hold on to the division, but home field throughout the playoffs. He came up big when the Outlaws needed it most. PLAYOFF PICTURE: The playoffs are now set. Neither Ohio nor Las Vegas could leap into the top 6 in the West, and both leaders for the 1 seed held onto that honor in Week 16 action. We also saw Philly, Tampa Bay, Michigan, and Oakland lock up division titles. Here is the seeding as we enter the playoffs, with the 1 and 2 seeds in each conference getting a bye in the Wild Card round. EAST: 1-PHI 2-TBY 3-NOR 4-BAL 5-ATL 6-CHA WEST: 1-TEX 2-MGN 3-OAK 4-HOU 5-ARZ 6-DEN