In the USFL North on Saturday, the Pittsburgh Maulers and Michigan Panthers face off, two of the league’s most surprising playoff teams this season. Pittsburgh controlled the first half in defense and had three takeaways in the first 30 minutes – two of which resulted in goals and took a comfortable 13-3 lead at halftime.
A 41-yard catch by Isiah Hennie 43 seconds from time set the Maulers up for a field goal that gave them a two-point lead at halftime. Chris Blewitt’s kick at half-time was blocked, leaving the score at 10-3.
The only touchdown of the game in the first half came from 2 yards from Garrett Groshek. The touchdown was set up after a Pittsburgh takeaway after a Reggie Corbin fumble at Michigan’s own 13-yard line. Pittsburgh also tricked Warren Saba into being sidelined in the fourth and first through as the Maulers tried but were ready to concede a goal and kick off a field goal. Groshek scored a goal in the next play.
The Maulers (4-6) ranked first in the division after being the USFL’s worst team last season, despite ending up on a losing streak.
The Panthers (4-6) also ended the game on a losing tally but managed to get into the postseason after a surprise win over the Philadelphia Stars last week. The teams with the two worst records of the last season will compete for a place in the championship game.
Pittsburgh earned their place thanks to one of the best defenses in the league. The Maulers ranked first in total defense and conceded 257.4 yards per game. They also led the league in pass breakups (53) and takeaways (21) while ranking second in points allowed per game (17.2). Michigan also has one of the best defenses in the USFL, leading the league in forced fumbles (8) and finishing with 19 takeaways.
Pittsburgh won both games against Michigan this season – and the Panthers have lost six of eight games before the playoffs. Michigan will start EJ Perry for the second straight year after leading the Panthers to a win over the Philadelphia Stars in his first start last week (169 yards, fast touchdown).
Can Michigan pull off the upset and advance to the USFL Championship Game? or will Pittsburgh win the season series? Be sure to follow all the action on our live blog below!