In the sixth week of the USFL, the Stallions and Panthers will compete against each other across divisions.
The Birmingham Stallions lost to the Houston Gamblers last week, who have won three straight games while Birmingham has lost two of its last three. They’ve slipped to third in FOX Sports’ USFL power rankings, yet with the New Orleans Breakers losing their most memorable game last end of the week, the South remaining parts completely open.
[USFL Power Rankings for Week 5: Gamblers rise to the top by riding chaos.] Additionally, even though the South is wide open, the North is deadlocked between all four teams. The Panthers could gain significant ground if they win their first game at home, as each North team is 2-3.
Is it possible for the Stallions to re-equip?
The Stallions are at a critical juncture as they attempt to get their offense back on track, despite the fact that both teams have shown glimpses this season. Alex McGough, the quarterback, will be the focus of all attention as he attempts to rekindle the Stallions’ scoring machine.
In recent weeks, offensive struggles have become a regrettable theme for Birmingham. After a promising beginning to the season, the Steeds’ creation has faltered. The Stallions scored an impressive 28 points per game in their first three games, but over the past two weeks, they have only scored 14 points per game. It is abundantly clear that they require an urgent spark to rekindle their offensive firepower.
This is where McGough comes into the image. The former NFL signal-caller’s arm talent and ability to extend plays with his legs were anticipated to be the Stallions’ driving force this season. In the loss last weekend, McGough completed 24 of 37 passes for 209 yards and rushed for 76 yards with two touchdowns. Assuming he keeps that up, the Steeds could be right back in the race for the South division.
Michigan still trying to get its first win at Ford Field The Panthers are in a dangerous spot as they try to get their first home win. With the Steeds coming to town, the Jaguars are expecting to at long last convey triumph before their old neighborhood fans. However, this crucial matchup is further complicated by the ongoing quarterback rivalry between Josh Love and Carson Strong.
Love and Strong have both had their good times, but their performances have been inconsistent. When it comes to choosing which quarterback will give the team the best chance of securing that elusive victory at home, head coach Mike Nolan is forced to perform a delicate balancing act.
Love started the fifth week before being pulled in the second half. Strong had entered for a drive several weeks earlier, and Love had resumed his position as center in the second half. Last week, that wasn’t true. Strong entered the game near the end of the first half and remained in the game for the second. Despite not scoring on their first possession, the Panthers lost the game to the Pittsburgh Maulers 23-7.
Notwithstanding the quarterback circumstance, the Jaguars’ offense in general should track down its musicality. The ground game specifically needs a flash given that the Jaguars are averaging simply 98.4 surging yards per game, which positions 6th in the association.
Will Strong’s potential or Love’s experience pave the way for the Panthers? As Michigan continues its quest for its first home victory, only time will tell.
