The 2023 USFL playoffs witnessed an intense clash between two of the league’s top teams, the New Orleans Breakers and the Birmingham Stallions. With both teams boasting impressive regular-season records and high-scoring offenses, the South Division title game promised to be a thrilling showdown. Ultimately, it was the Stallions who emerged victorious, overpowering the Breakers with a dominant performance. Birmingham’s quarterback Alex McGough played a pivotal role, leading his team to a resounding 47-22 victory. With this win, the Stallions earned a ticket to the USFL Championship game, where they will face the Pittsburgh Maulers on July 1 in Canton, Ohio.
The High-Stakes South Division Title Match:
The South Division title game was a highly anticipated clash between two exceptional quarterbacks: McLeod Bethel-Thompson of the Breakers and the Stallions’ Alex McGough. Bethel-Thompson, who led the league in passing yards during the regular season, faced off against McGough, who topped the USFL in completion percentage, passing touchdowns, and passer rating.
The Stallions Take Control:
Right from the start, the Stallions showcased their dominance on both sides of the ball. On the Breakers’ opening drive, their passing yardage leader, McLeod Bethel-Thompson, was intercepted by Stallions cornerback Brian Allen, who expertly read the play and capitalized on the opportunity. This interception set the tone for the game.
Although the Breakers defense put up a fight, the Stallions managed to secure an early lead with a 41-yard field goal, taking a 3-0 advantage. The Breakers quickly retaliated, as Bethel-Thompson orchestrated an impressive drive, culminating in a touchdown pass to grab a 7-3 lead.
However, the Stallions’ potent offense soon took control. McGough connected with tight end Jace Sternberger, a former Green Bay Packers draft pick, for significant gains. Sternberger’s contributions set up Birmingham for a touchdown, putting them ahead 9-7 after a missed extra point. The Stallions continued their onslaught, with McGough and Davion Davis combining for two more touchdowns before halftime, extending their lead to 26-7.
Birmingham’s Dominance Continues:
The Stallions carried their momentum into the second half, scoring 37 unanswered points. McGough remained exceptional, amassing 310 passing yards and accounting for five total touchdowns. He became the first player in two USFL seasons to surpass 300 passing yards and 75 rushing yards in a single game. Despite the Breakers’ efforts to break the streak with a fourth-quarter touchdown, the Stallions’ lead proved insurmountable.
USFL Championship Match Set:
With their convincing victory over the Breakers, the Birmingham Stallions secured a place in the USFL Championship game. On July 1 in Canton, Ohio, they will face the Pittsburgh Maulers, winners of the North Division title. The championship game promises to be a clash of high-octane offenses, pitting two of the league’s most successful teams against each other.
The 2023 USFL playoffs witnessed a dominant performance by the Birmingham Stallions, as they outclassed the New Orleans Breakers in the South Division title game. Led by the exceptional play of quarterback Alex McGough, the Stallions showcased their offensive prowess and secured a convincing 47-22 victory. Now, the stage is set for the USFL Championship game, where the Stallions will battle the Pittsburgh Maulers for the ultimate prize. Football fans can anticipate an exhilarating showdown between these two formidable teams on July 1 in Canton, Ohio.
