XFL 2001

Re: XFL 2001

Postby BengalErnst » Sat Nov 27, 2021 9:53 am

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XFL Week 12: Desperados Defeat Stars to Take Over 2nd Place

May 5, 2003

Dallas, TX - Through twelve games, the Dallas Desperados find themselves at 8-4 after reeling in a home win against the defending champions that looked far more competitive than their two game losing streak and recent game film would’ve led one to expect. It wasn’t the biggest margin of victory – and a curious 4th-down decision by Stars head coach Al Luginbill in the 3rd quarter might’ve made all the difference – but such is the nature of wins in the XFL. They’re wins all the same. This one moves the Desperados, at least jointly, atop the Western Conference. Dallas winning without their starting quarterback, running back and second leading wide receiver is beaming with confidence after the victory.

-- (8-3)Stars 21 - 24 Desperados(7-4)
(LA): QB McNown - 25/49 295 yards, 3 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Shehee - 15 carries, 33 yards, WR McDonald - 5 catches, 110 yards, 2 TDs, WR Copeland - 7 catches, 74 yards
(DAL): QB Barnes - 17/34 198 yards, 2 TDs, RB Battle - 17 carries, 99 yards, 1 TD, WR Hundon - 5 catches, 113 yards, 2 TDs

-- (3-8)Ghosts 24 - 27 Guardians(5-5)
(COL): QB Germaine - 26/41 256 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT, RB Keaton - 11 carries, 23 yards, WR Furrey - 10 catches, 136 yards, 1 TD, WR Dugans - 4 catches, 36 yards, 2 TDs
(NY): QB Kanell - 22/35 209 yards, 3 TDs, RB Aska - 11 carries, 69 yards, WR Green - 7 catches, 113 yards, 2 TDs, WR Dar Dar - 8 catches, 63 yards

-- (4-6)Enforcers 17 - 20 Rage(9-1)
(CHI): QB Jackson - 26/47 253 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, RB Moss - 10 carries, 103 yards, WR Chatman - 4 catches, 57 yards, 1 TD, WR Johnson - 5 catches, 75 yards
(ORL): QB Fasani - 18/27 261 yards, 2 TDs, RB Black - 9 carries, 26 yards, WR Floyd - 7 catches, 107 yards, WR Burks - 4 catches, 75 yards, 1 TD

-- (2-8)Sea Devils 15 - 47 Commanders(7-3)
(SEA): QB Smith - 18/46 198 yards, 3 INTs, RB Simonton - 11 carries, 46 yards, 1 TD, 6 catches, 36 yards, WR Looker - 4 catches, 48 yards
(SA): QB Bishop - 18/33 177 yards, 1 TD, 14 carries, 99 yards, 2 TDs, RB Stecker - 20 carries, 59 yards, WR Chiaverini - 7 catches, 49 yards, 1 TD

-- (4-6)Wild 35 - 27 Outlaws(3-7)
(MIN): QB Druckenmiller - 21/33 312 yards, 4 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Salaam - 25 carries, 122 yards, WR Morey - 4 catches, 89 yards, 1 TD, WR Prentiss - 5 catches, 94 yards, 1 TD
(LV): QB Grieb - 14/24 238 yards, 2 TDs, RB Phillips - 20 carries, 52 yards, WR Nash - 7 catches, 95 yards, WR Vanover - 6 catches, 115 yards, WR Moses - 5 catches, 85 yards, 2 TDs

XFL Week 12: Express Fall to Steel

May 6, 2003

Memphis, TN - Unable to overcome a sleepy start, the Express missed an opportunity to take a step towards the .500 mark as it fell to the Birmingham Steel 23-20 in front of 23,805 fans. QB Tee Martin threw a six-yard touchdown pass to WR Tony Simmons in the fourth quarter to give the Express a 20-16 lead with 3:50 remaining, but Birmingham responded with a late touchdown of its own. QB Spergon Wynn hooked up with WR Stepfret Williams on a 30-yard pass in the corner of the end zone with one minute remaining to give Birmingham its eventual margin of victory.

The Express had a great chance to seize the game on its final possession. Facing a 4th down situation in Birmingham territory, the Steel gave Memphis new life as LB Jamal Brooks was called for an offsides penalty, giving the Express a first down with less than 20 seconds to play. After an incomplete pass to WR Quincy Jackson, Martin was unable to find an open receiver as the pocket collapsed around him. He was hit by DL Reggie McGrew with 10 seconds to go, fumbled the ball and the Steel recovered to ensure the victory.

Head coach Bart Andrus said that his team's inability to hold onto the ball cost them a chance at winning. "It's awfully tough to turn the ball over and give such a great offense so many opportunities," Andrus said. "We let one slip away today."

-- (6-4)Steel 23 - 20 Express(4-7)
(BIRM): QB Wynn - 18/27 129 yards, 1 TD, RB Bostic - 15 carries, 69 yards, WR Williams - 3 catches, 38 yards, 1 TD
(MEM): QB Martin - 17/37 212 yards, 1 TD, 3 INTs, RB Autry - 16 carries, 33 yards, 1 TD, WR McCullough - 7 catches, 49 yards, WR Minnis - 3 catches, 65 yards
Last edited by BengalErnst on Sat Nov 12, 2022 6:14 pm, edited 6 times in total.
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Re: XFL 2001

Postby BengalErnst » Sun Nov 28, 2021 2:43 pm

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XFL Week 13: Stars Grind Out Defensive Battle

May 12, 2003

Los Angeles, CA - QB Michael Bishop and the San Antonio Commanders were left wondering why a penalty that could have saved them on the final play was wiped out. QB Cade McNown threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Ted Ginn Jr. with 59 seconds left, and Los Angeles held off San Antonio 18-13 on Monday night when officials picked up a flag in the end zone.

After McNown drove the Stars 83 yards on 13 plays for the go-ahead touchdown, the Commanders had a chance at an improbable comeback when Bishop moved San Antonio to the Los Angeles 18 with 3 seconds left and fired into the end zone as time expired. DB Dell McGee intercepted the pass, but an official at the back of the end zone threw a flag for pass interference on LB Juan Long, who had both arms wrapped around TE Rodrick Monroe. The officials quickly gathered, however, and waved off the penalty, ruling Monroe could not have caught the ball, which was underthrown.

"So it was determined at that point in time that when the primary contact occurred on the tight end that the ball, in essence, was coming in underthrown and in essence it was immediately at that point intercepted at the front end of the end zone," XFL commissioner Oliver Luck said. "So there was a determination that, in essence, uncatchability, that the ball was intercepted at or about the same time the primary contact against the receiver occurred."

"There was no explanation given to me. Officials ran off the field. I didn't see anything," Commanders head coach Mike Riley said. "It was the last play of the game. There was a flag thrown, and then the game was over."

A pass-interference call would have put the ball at the 1-yard line and given the Commanders(8-4) one more shot at a game-winning touchdown with no time on the clock.

-- (8-3)Commanders 13 - 18 Stars(8-4)
(SA): QB Bishop - 19/30 149 yards, 1 INT, 2 carries, 77 yards, RB Stecker - 14 carries, 54 yards, WR Merritt - 5 catches, 39 yards
(LA): QB McNown - 18/30 199 yards, RB - Oxendine - 17 carries, 70 yards, 1 TD, WR Copeland - 7 catches, 101 yards

-- (8-4)Desperados 27 - 20 Rage(10-1)
(DAL): QB Stoerner - 23/37 178 yards, 3 TDs, RB King - 14 carries, 45 yards, WR Hundon - 5 catches, 52 yards, 3 TDs
(ORL): QB Fasani - 15/39 153 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, RB Clark - 7 carries, 56 yards, WR Burks - 3 catches, 47 yards, WR Bailey - 6 catches, 73 yards

-- (7-4)Steel 16 - 23 Guardians(6-5)
(BIRM): QB Wynn - 25/34 192 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, RB Alexander - 10 carries, 72 yards, WR Jackson - 6 catches, 47 yards, 1 TD, TE Smith - 6 catches, 53 yards, WR McGuire - 7 catches, 57 yards
(NY): QB Kanell - 17/30 277 yards, 1 TD, RB Aska - 10 carries, 51 yards, 1 TD, WR Green - 5 catches, 113 yards, TE Hinton - 6 catches, 46 yards, 1 TD

-- (2-9)Sea Devils 14 - 11 Outlaws(3-8)
(SEA): QB Smith - 25/43 207 yards, 3 TDs, RB Simonton - 16 carries, 89 yards, WR Looker - 6 catches, 58 yards, 2 TDs, WR Sutherland - 7 catches, 73 yards
(LV): QB Grieb - 17/28 157 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, RB Phillips - 26 carries, 98 yards, 1 TD, WR Nash - 5 catches, 56 yards

-- (5-6)Wild 16 - 26 Enforcers(4-7)
(MIN): QB Bonner - 16/23 166 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs, RB Salaam - 17 carries, 62 yards, WR Prentiss - 6 catches, 73 yards, 1 TD, WR Morey - 5 catches, 44 yards
(CHI): QB Jackson - 15/32 194 yards, 2 TDs, RB Moss - 11 carries, 68 yards, WR Chatman - 5 catches, 91 yards, WR Bailey - 6 catches, 62 yards

Bruce Resigns as Head Coach

May 16, 2003

Columbus, OH - Earle Bruce has resigned as the head coach of the Columbus Ghosts. Bruce informed Ghosts' owner James Renacci of his decision Wednesday afternoon. He will remain with the team as a consultant. Over the last year, it was getting harder for Bruce to have to work on turf everyday in practice and at games. The condition of his knees no longer permits him to stand for long periods of time.

"Earle has been a tremendous asset to this organization," said Renacci. "We look forward to Earle's contribution as a consultant. We plan to initiate a search for a new head coach immediately."
Last edited by BengalErnst on Sat Nov 12, 2022 6:32 pm, edited 5 times in total.
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Re: XFL 2001

Postby BengalErnst » Sun Nov 28, 2021 2:58 pm

Sponsors Sign on for Million Dollar Game

May 16, 2003

Greenwich, CT - Champs Sports and Foot Locker have reached a joint agreement with the XFL to become the Official Sporting Goods Retailer of the Million Dollar Game. "This partnership represents another sign of how the XFL continues to grow nationally and now draws the interest of major sporting goods retailers in Champs Sports and Foot Locker in over 2,000 stores," said Glenn Horine, Executive President-XFL Properties. "This type of opportunity can lead to the XFL's first major presence at retail with our authentic line."

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XFL Week 14: Steel Beat Commanders But Miss Playoffs

May 19, 2003

Birmingham, AL - For the second consecutive week, the Birmingham Steel found themselves in an early hole when they hosted the San Antonio Commanders on Monday Night at Legion Field in front of 25,312 Steel fans. After falling behind 20-3 with 4:25 remaining in the second quarter, Steel QB Spergon Wynn connected with WR Quincy Jackson setting Birmingham up on the 1-yard line. RB James Bostic then used the vintage leap over the top on third-and-goal for the score, cutting the San Antonio Commanders' lead to 20-10 and giving the Steel a sign of life heading into the halftime break.

Wynn completed 27 of 34 passes for 281 yards with three passing touchdowns. WRs Jackson and Stepfret Williams was featured in the passing game once again. Jackson hauled in 6 receptions for 108 yards, helping spark the comeback. The Steel escapes with a 30-27 overtime victory on a 36-yard field goal with 5:08 remaining in overtime. Despite the win, the Steel come up just short on their playoff bid but was successful at knocking the Commanders out of the Western Conference playoff race.

-- (7-5)Steel 31 - 28 Commanders(8-4)
(BIRM): QB Wynn - 27/34 281 yards, 3 TDs, RB Bostic - 17 carries, 67 yards, 1 TD, RB Alexander - 15 carries, 54 yards, WR Jackson - 6 catches, 108 yards, 1 TD, WR Williams - 5 catches, 80 yards, 1 TD
(SA): QB Bishop - 18/28 287 yards, 2 TDs, RB Stecker - 14 carries, 32 yards, 1 TD, WR Merritt - 6 catches, 90 yards, 1 TD, WR Stevens - 4 catches, 107 yards, 1 TD

-- (7-5)Guardians 31 - 14 Express(4-8)
(NY): QB Kanell - 11/19 146 yards, 2 TDs, RB Edwards - 15 carries, 75 yards, 2 TDs, WR Dar Dar - 6 catches, 61 yards, WR Green - 4 catches, 50 yards
(MEM): QB Martin - 14/28 132 yards, 2 TDs, RB Autry - 9 carries, 48 yards, WR McCullough - 6 catches, 68 yards, WR Minnis - 5 catches, 33 yards, 1 TD

-- (10-2)Rage 21 - 16 Ghosts(3-9)
(ORL): QB Fasani - 7/14 164 yards, 1 TD, RB Black - 14 carries, 41 yards, WR Burks - 3 catches, 66 yards, 1 TD
(COL): QB Covington - 23/44 210 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs, RB Wiley - 10 carries, 80 yards, WR Rambo - 7 catches, 104 yards, 1 TD, WR Furrey - 6 catches, 63 yards

XFL Week 14: Enforcers Leaving Las Vegas Happy

May 20, 2003

Las Vegas, NV - In a town known for its evil ways, the Chicago Enforcers committed the fewest sins Sunday afternoon against the Las Vegas Outlaws en route to a 33-27 win before 18,324 fans at Sam Boyd Stadium. With a combined 34 penalties and eight turnovers, both teams were guilty of making many mistakes. Fortunately for Chicago, Las Vegas committed their sins at the deadliest times. "It was a crazy game, that's for sure," said Enforcers head coach Mike Singletary. "We made far too many mistakes today, but I'm proud of the way our team overcame the adversity."

Enforcers WR Antonio Chatman played another superb game, amassing more than 200 total yards while grabbing six catches for 116 yards and two touchdowns. Outlaws' QB Ryan Clement, was under constant siege from the Enforcers defensive line. He completed 19 of 34 passes for 245 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions and was sacked five times, twice each by DL Sterling Palmer and Nathan Davis. "Our defense stepped up to the challenge again," said Singletary. "Clement was constantly being forced out of the pocket which gave our secondary some easy chances."

-- (4-8)Enforcers 33 - 27 Outlaws(3-9)
(CHI): QB Jackson - 29/42 290 yards, 2 TDs, RB Moss - 9 carries, 60 yards, 1 TD, WR Bailey - 7 catches, 86 yards, WR Chatman - 6 catches, 116 yards, 2 TDs
(LV): QB Clement - 19/34 245 yards, 2 TDs, 3 INTs, RB Phillips - 15 catches, 101 yards, 1 TD, WR Vanover - 3 catches, 79 yards, 2 TDs, WR Nash - 4 catches, 73 yards

-- (5-7)Wild 13 - 17 Sea Devils(3-9)
(MIN): QB Bonner - 13/30 188 yards, 1 INT, RB Salaam - 18 carries, 83 yards, 1 TD, WR Morey - 6 catches, 83 yards, WR Prentiss - 3 catches, 62 yards
(SEA): QB Husak - 26/49 209 yards, 1 INT, RB Simonton - 21 carries, 59 yards, 2 TDs, WR Sutherland - 7 catches, 92 yards

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CFL Returns to USA with Machine

May 22, 2003

Windsor, ONTARIO - In an obvious attempt to steal some XFL playoff thunder, the CFL commissioner Tom Wright alongside with the new CFL Detroit-Windsor owners, announced today the arrival of the Detroit-Windsor Machine. The Detroit–Windsor region is an international transborder agglomeration comprising the American city of Detroit, Michigan, the Canadian city of Windsor, Ontario, and the Detroit River between them. The Detroit–Windsor area acts as a critical commercial link straddling the Canada–United States border and has a total population of 5,976,595 and serves as the perfect location for the CFL to re-enter the United States for the first time in almost a decade. The Machine will begin play for the 2004 CFL season, and they will be coached by former Detroit Lions and Michigan Wolverines' head coach Gary Moeller. The Machine will be playing half of their home games at Windsor Stadium and the other half at Ford Field.

XFL 2003 League Leaders Finalized

May 24, 2003

Greenwich, CT - These are the regular season stat leaders for the 2003 XFL season.

Top 10 Passing Leaders:
1. Michael Bishop(SA) - 2951 yards, 22 TDs, 9 INTs
2. Cade McNown(LA) - 2878 yards, 24 TDs, 14 INTs
3. Danny Kanell(NY) - 2849 yards, 21 TDs, 9 INTs
4. Jarious Jackson(CHI) - 2822 yards, 26 TDs, 9 INTs
5. Spergon Wynn(BIRM) - 2809 yards, 22 TDs, 8 INTs
6. Clint Stoerner(DAL) - 2660 yards, 22 TDs, 9 INTs
7. Akili Smith(SEA) - 2356 yards, 12 TDs, 17 INTs
8. Joe Germaine(COL) - 2297 yards, 18 TDs, 6 INTs
9. Tee Martin(MEM) - 2166 yards, 18 TDs, 14 INTs
10. Brian Kuklick(ORL) - 1048 yards, 8 TDs, 1 INT

Top 10 Rushing Leaders:
1. Rashaan Salaam(MIN) - 1092 yards, 10 TDs
2. Lawrence Phillips(LV) - 986 yards, 2 TDs
3. Ken Simonton(SEA) - 869 yards, 7 TDs
4. Aaron Stecker(SA) - 844 yards, 5 TDs
5. James Bostic(BIRM) - 773 yards, 12 TDs
6. Curtis Alexander(BIRM) - 757 yards, 2 TDs
7. Michael Bishop(SA) - 687 yards, 5 TDs
8. Robert Edwards(NY) - 603 yards, 7 TDs
9. Ken Oxendine(LA) - 599 yards, 2 TDs
10. Rashaan Shehee(LA) - 548 yards, 3 TDs

Top 10 Receiving Leaders:
1. James Hundon(DAL) - 1078 yards, 9 TDs
2. Mike Furrey(COL) - 1058 yards, 7 TDs
3. Sean Morey(MIN) - 1032 yards, 6 TDs
4. Jermaine Copeland(LA) - 1019 yards, 5 TDs
5. Dialleo Burks(ORL) - 1014 yards, 8 TDs
6. Stepfret Williams(BIRM) - 1010 yards, 11 TDs
7. Marcus Nash(LV) - 958 yards, 7 TDs
8. Antonio Chatman(CHI) - 944 yards, 11 TDs
9. Darnell McDonald(LA) - 941 yards, 7 TDs
10. Yatil Green(NY) - 920 yards, 6 TDs
Last edited by BengalErnst on Wed Nov 16, 2022 4:13 pm, edited 31 times in total.
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Re: XFL 2001

Postby BengalErnst » Mon Nov 29, 2021 6:05 pm

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XFL Semi-Final: Desperados Knock Out Stars in Shootout

May 26, 2003

Los Angeles, CA - The Desperados drew first blood with QB Clint Stoerner completing a 3-yard TD pass to WR Brian Roberson. Afterwards, Stoerner went right back to work with a 35-yard flea-flicker TD pass to WR James Hundon. In the second quarter, the Stars finally got going with QB Cade McNown completing a 24-yard TD pass to WR Jeremaine Copeland, but Dallas responded with RB Terry Battle getting a 33-yard TD run. Los Angeles answered with RB Ken Oxendine getting a 5-yard TD run, yet the Desperados closed out the half with getting a 24-yard field goal. In the third quarter, the Stars played some catch-up with McNown completing a 24-TD pass to WR Damon Gibson. However, after sharing Field Goals, Dallas would respond with Stoerner completing a 51-yard TD pass to WR Damian Vaughan. Los Angeles would get another score with RB Oxendine getting a 2-yard TD run at the end of the third quarter. However, in the fourth quarter, the Desperados took control for the rest of the game as backup RB Jamie Reader jumped over the pile for the TD to make the score 41-32. The Stars would add a McNown to McDonald TD late with a two point conversion, but it wasn't enough.

-- (9-4)Desperados 41 - 40 Stars(9-4)
(DAL): QB Stoerner - 27/36 360 yards, 3 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Battle - 5 carries, 65 yards, 1 TD, WR Hundon - 7 catches, 198 yards, 1 TD, WR Roberson - 5 catches, 49 yards, 1 TD
(LA): QB McNown - 36/54 431 yards, 3 TDs, RB Oxendine - 12 carries, 58 yards, 2 TDs, RB Shehee - 11 carries, 62 yards, WR Copeland - 7 catches, 108 yards, 1 TD, WR McDonald - 6 catches, 136 yards, 1 TD, WR Gibson - 7 catches, 51 yards, 1 TD

-- (8-5)Guardians 10 - 45 Rage(11-2)
(NY): QB Kanell - 16/25 367 yards, 4 TDs, RB Edwards - 15 carries, 41 yards, 1 TD, WR Dar Dar - 5 catches, 145 yards, 1 TD, WR Green - 4 catches, 118 yards, 1 TD, WR Davis - 5 catches, 126 yards, 1 TD
(ORL): QB Fasani - 18/32 235 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, RB Clark - 10 carries, 54 yards, WR Gaiter - 7 catches, 98 yards, 1 TD, WR Burks - 5 catches, 49 yards

Carpenter Signs With NFL's 49ers

May 29, 2003

Memphis, TN - The Memphis Express announced LB Dwaine Carpenter has signed a two year contract with the NFL's San Francisco 49ers. Carpenter, who will play safety, suited up for the 49ers mini-camp. Carpenter earned first team All-XFL honors this season after finishing third in the XFL with 26 pass defenses. He was also tied for fifth in the league with eight interceptions and sixth with 84.0 tackles.

In two seasons with Memphis, Carpenter recorded 148 tackles, 11 interceptions and 29 pass breakups, all team records. "This is a great opportunity for Dwaine and we are excited for him," said Express head coach Bart Andrus. "I think Dwaine is a good fit with the type of defensive schemes that San Francisco runs."

XFL Names 2003 All-League Team

May 30, 2003

Greenwich, CT - The league wanted to honor the most standout players from the 2003 regular season. There are no restrictions to this list, this is just the list of the best players in the league voted on by all coaches, general managers and media outlets.

The 2003 All-XFL Team:
QB Michael Bishop San Antonio, RB Rashaan Salaam Minneapolis, RB Lawrence Phillips Las Vegas, FB Joel Mackovicka New York, WR James Hundon Dallas, WR Mike Furrey Columbus, WR Stepfet Williams Birmingham, TE Marcus Hinton New York, OL Jason Gamble Orlando, OL Jeremy Akers Orlando, OL Robert Hicks Memphis, OL Bobby Singh Los Angeles, OL Scott Scifres Dallas, DL Ron Warner Minneapolis, DL Dwayne Missouri Dallas, DL DeAngelo Lloyd Memphis, DL Reggie McGrew Birmingham, LB James Burgess Orlando, LB Brendon Ayanbadejo Los Angeles, LB Dwaine Carpenter Memphis, DB Kevin Cobb Minneapolis, DB Brandon Sanders Las Vegas, DB Kareem Larrimore Orlando, DB Duane Butler Birmingham, K Lawrence Tynes Birmingham

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XFL Million Dollar Game: Desperados Keep Title in the West

June 2, 2003

Orlando, FL - The Rage drew first blood with a field goal, on their next attempt, Dallas QB Clint Stoerner led his team 8-play, 79-yard drive that ended with RB Carlos King running the ball in from a yard out. The Guardians tried to respond with a touchdown, but Dallas' defense made them settle for a 39-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Stoerner led his team on a 3-play, 15-yard drive and he concluded it with a 10-yard pass to WR James Hundon. Again, the Guardians tried to respond with a touchdown of their own, but again, the Desperados' defense made them settle for another field goal and Dallas would quickly respond with a 3-play, 79-yard drive that ended with WR Will Pettis running 29 yards for a touchdown. With only two minutes left until halftime, the Guardians desperately needed a touchdown to keep up with Dallas. At first, their drive showed promise as they started from their own 44-yard line and managed to get to Dallas' 9-yard line. Unfortunately, the drive stalled once the Guardians got there and they had to settle for a 27-yard field goal.

At halftime, the Desperados had a comfortable 24–9 lead. In the third quarter, New York got the ball to begin the second half and on their opening drive and they managed to get to Dallas' 1-yard line where RB Robert Edwads converted a 4th and 1 attempt for the score. Stoerner lead his team on a 10-play, 99-yard drive that ended with a 1-yard touchdown strike to TE Brian Roche. Heading into the fourth quarter, the Guardians trailed 34-17 and only a miracle could save any hope of winning the title. Alas, New York would respond with a 5-yard touchdown pass from QB Danny Kanell to WR Yatil Green making the game 34-25 and they weren't finished. Kanell led another touchdown drive when he found WR Zola Davis down the sideline for a 29 yard strike. However, after Dallas converted a first down on their final drive, the Desperados would take home the championship.

-- (10-4)Desperados 34 - 33 Guardians(12-2)
(DAL): QB Stoerner - 25/41 257 yards, 3 TDs, RB King - 10 carries, 60 yards, 1 TD, WR Hundon - 9 catches, 100 yards, 1 TD, WR Pettis - 8 catches, 92 yards, 1 TD
(NY): QB Kanell - 16/36 268 yards, 4 TDs, RB Edwards - 15 carries, 56 yards, WR Davis - 6 catches, 52 yards, 2 TDs, WR Dar Dar - 5 catches, 102 yards, WR Green - 3 catches, 73 yards, 1 TD

Broncos sign Kanell to Bolster Depth

June 5, 2003

New York, NY - The Denver Broncos signed quarterback Danny Kanell. Kanell, a former starter for the New York Giants, signed with Denver in the offseason after two years of playing minor league baseball and in the XFL with the New York Guardians. "Danny Kanell is an intelligent, intense and productive quarterback who has been successful at every level he's played," said Guardians head coach Rusty Tillman. "He possesses the talent and qualities to play in the NFL, similar to other talented XFL players. Given the proper opportunity by the Broncos, he will help them be a better football team. We wish him nothing but great success and a wonderful future."

The league also lost five other elite players to the NFL. The Columbus Ghosts announced that star WR Mike Furrey has left the team to sign with the NFL's St. Louis Rams. "I am very excited about the opportunity that I have in St. Louis. This was a very difficult decision," said Furrey. "I would love to continue playing for the Ghosts and the XFL fans that have supported me for the last two seasons, but I needed to do what was best for me and my family. Getting a contract in the NFL fulfills a lifelong dream."

Dallas Desperados DB Jermaine Jones has signed with the Cleveland Browns, Seattle Sea Devils DB Clinton Hart signed with the San Diego Chargers and WR Will Pettis signed with the New Orleans Saints. "Will Pettis did a great job in his rookie season for the Desperados," said Desperados assistant head coach Joe Avezzano. "Given the time necessary to develop, Will can play in any league. He is a quality, coachable young man who can only get better."

Los Angeles Stars' K Clay Rush has signed with the New York Jets and FB Keala Keanaaina signed with the Cleveland Browns. "It is well deserved for Clay to get a shot in the NFL," said Stars head coach Al Luginbill. "Clay did a tremendous job this season as he was selected Kicker of the Year, we wish him well with the Jets."

XFL Announces 2003 Individual Awards

June 15, 2003

Greenwich, CT - After passing for 2951 yards, and 22 TDs while leading the Commanders to 9 wins, QB Michael Bishop was named as the 2003 XFL MVP. New York Guardians' QB Danny Kanell was named Offensive Player of the Year with his 2849 yards and 21 TDs on the season while Birmingham Steel DL Reggie McGrew recorded 42 tackles, 23 sacks, 4 forced fumbles and 3 fumbles recovered on his way to the Defensive Player of the Year award. Seattle Sea Devils' RB Ken Simonton was honored as the Rookie of the Year after compiling 1252 yards and 9 TDs from scrimmage.

"I'm honored to receive this award because of the number of other worthy candidates who had some great years," Bishop said. "It was just fun for me, truly, to watch them. I'm just glad to be a part of this league."

Las Vegas Makes Coaching Changes

June 24, 2003

Las Vegas, NV - The Las Vegas Outlaws announced today that the team will not renew the contract of Head Coach Jim Criner for the 2004 season. "Criner did an absolutely terrific job in establishing the Outlaws and delivering a playoff team," said Gavin Maloof, Outlaws owner. "Obviously, we took a step backward this year, and with the 2004 season only six months away, now is the time to make adjustments. We're looking forward to a fresh start at training camp in January."

Fontes Relieved Of Coaching Duties With Wild

June 27, 2003

Minneapolis, MN - The Minneapolis Wild have relieved head coach Wayne Fontes of his duties, the team announced. Assistant Eddie Khayat will take over the position on an interim basis until a replacement is named. "As owner, I felt that in the best interest of our team, fans and sponsors, it was time to make a change," said Wild Owner Bob Naegele Jr.. "This is the first step in our commitment towards putting a winning team on the field in 2004."

"I didn't do the job they asked me to do and that was to win football games," said Hold. "It's the nature of the beast as a coach. I didn't fulfill my end of the bargain. I want to thank Mr. Naegele for the opportunity. I just feel bad that I let him down."

Ghosts Announce Restructuring of Football Operations

June 28, 2003

Columbus, OH - The Columbus Ghosts announced that Chris Spielman has assumed the role of General Manager and Interim Head Coach, while previous head coach Earle Bruce has been named Vice-President of Football Operations. Bruce will be actively involved in advance scouting and personnel evaluation of Ghosts and XFL players and will continue to provide his input and expertise to the coaching staff. He will also play an important part in finding the franchise's next head coach.
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Re: XFL 2001

Postby BengalErnst » Wed Dec 01, 2021 8:32 pm

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Year Three Financial Report Released

July 1, 2003

Greenwich, CT - The XFL television numbers increased in 2003 which should help them with negotiations with both NBC and FOX next summer, but for the first time, league attendance averages (18.7k) were down which has the league concerned for future growth as the salary cap continues to rise. The salary cap is currently set to rise to $2.8M($62.2k per player) for 2004, $3.2M($71.1k) for 2005, $3.6M($80k) for 2006 and $4M($88.8k) for 2007.

The report states that the league is 25% owned by Alpha Entertainment LLC(McMahon), 25% Legendary Field Exhibitions LLC(Ebersol), 4.2% Dallas Football LLC(Jones), 4.2% for Naegele Sports LLC(Naegele Jr.), 4.2% Kroenke Sports & Entertainment LLC(Walton Kroenke), 4.2% NYSports Executives LLC(Wang), 4.2% Speros Ventures LLC(Speros), 4.2% Benson Sports LLC(Benson), 4.2% Maloof Sports LLC(Maloof), 4.2% FedEx Express Sports LLC(Smith), 4.2% Williams Corporation Sports LLC(Williams), 4.2% Wirtz Sports Corporation LLC(Wirtz), 4.2% Foundation Ohio Sports LLC(Renacci) and 4.2% Seattle SuperSports LLC(Schultz).

Expenditures totaled $107M for the 2003 season. Costs consisted of $30M from player contracts, $9M for Player Bonuses, $30M in front office/coaching contracts, $3M on league staff contracts, $12M in stadium leases, $12M in traveling expenses, $5M on insurance, $3M on equipment, and $1M on marketing.

The league did receive $14M from TV contracts, $4.5M from the nine returning owners, $14.5M from Wirtz Sports Corporation LLC(Wirtz), $14.5M Foundation Ohio Sports LLC(Renacci) and $14.5M Seattle SuperSports LLC(Schultz), $38M in ticket sales, and $12M in merchandise totaling $148M.

The league ended the 2003 season $41M in surplus. The league will continue to operate under a hybrid franchise model, as each franchise is individually ran and operated, but all profits and costs are still league orientated.

"It's been a great growth year in television for us," said XFL Commissioner Oliver Luck. "With Fox Sports Net coming on board, in addition to NBC Sports, we were fortunate to have 93 percent of our games on television. We think that there is an opportunity to have 100 percent of our games on television next year. That represents 60 million people who saw XFL this year."

Cuban is Newest League Owner in XFL

July 15, 2003

Dallas, TX - The XFL announced last week from its annual meetings in Greenwich, CT., that Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, along with 2929 Sports & Entertainment LLC, is the newest league owner, joining Vince McMahon and Dick Ebersol. Cuban is investing $50M in the league rather than owning an individual team. "I didn't want to take on the responsibility of a franchise," he said. Cuban had interest in joining the XFL ownership group in the early planning stages but initially chose to focus his attention on his NBA Dallas Mavericks, along with the launching of his television network, HDNet. Which now as an established network will help give the XFL some leverage in broadcast negotiations in the future. HDNet will broadcast any unaired NBC and FOX games.

"It's good football," Cuban said. "There are guys, obviously, that have NFL experience, guys who have been all-stars in the NFL, guys who've gone from the XFL to the NFL. It was kind of still in beta the last few years and I think the next few years is when it really starts to kick in. I want to help get this league to that next level. In order to do that, we have to get the salary cap up to $12M-20M, and we can eventually do that. It's a valid league and it's about to be made more interesting."

"Once viewers see a XFL football game with the crystal-clear picture quality and widescreen format of HDTV, they will be hooked on XFL in HD," added Cuban. "HDNet is committed to providing HDTV viewers with a wide variety of sports, news and entertainment programming, and the hard-hitting action of the XFL is a great addition to our broadcast schedule."

XFL Introduces Rule Changes

July 25, 2003

Greenwich, CT - With the goal of further enhancing the fan experience by reducing the number of overall penalties, the XFL's Board of Directors have approved several key rule changes for the 2004 season. "Every year, our Rules and Competition Committee recommends game adjustments to the Board of Directors," said XFL Commissioner Oliver Luck. "But this year, after the most intense penalty-study ever, we felt we needed to reduce the number of penalties in our game in order to enhance the fan experience and formed the Blue Ribbon Committee strictly for that purpose. The ultimate goal of the XFL is to be the most fan-friendly league in the world."

-No consecutive time outs from the same team.
-Offside or encroachment by the defense is a 5-yard penalty and an automatic first down.
-Linebackers have no forward or lateral movement prior to the snap.
-Each team will carry an "emergency quarterback," only to be used when other two are injured and cannot return to the contest.

"We've really fine-tuned our game," said XFL Rules and Competition Committee Chairman Gene Nudo. "The focus of both committees was on the pace of the game and to reduce unnecessary penalties in an effort to streamline our already great game. The changes will give us a cleaner and quicker presentation heading into 2004."

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Washington DC and the Valor Join the XFL

August 2, 2003

Washington, DC - On Tuesday it was announced that Doug Williams will serve as the Head Coach of XFL’s new expansion team in Washington, DC. “For me, it’d be a blessing,” Williams, MVP of Super Bowl XXII with the Washington Redskins, told the Newport News’ Daily Press. “The only thing I’d ask for is for the community to come and support their team.”

The new team in the District of Columbia will be known as the Valor, and with Williams running the show, the team can expect to bring in some great talent and compete early on in the XFL. The Valor will begin play immediately for the 2004 season. The league says it plans to expand to up to 14 teams for 2004 and to 16 teams for 2005. The XFL granted Washington businessman Ted Leonsis and Monumental Sports & Entertainment LLC(MSE), the expansion franchise. Leonsis and MSE, including former Redskin Joe Theismann, are also the owners of the NBA's Washington Wizards, the NHL's Washington Capitols and the WNBA's Washington Mystics. Theismann will also serve as the team president and general manager. Joining Williams with the Valor will be Williams' former teammate Jay Schroeder as the offensive coordinator and Doug Graber as the defensive coordinator. Schroeder has been a High School head coach since 2000 while Graber last served as the defensive coordinator for the New York Guardians in 2001. Former University of Maryland and Buffalo Bills' QB Frank Reich and former Pittsburgh Steelers' RB Barry Foster will also be joining the staff as the QBs and RBs coaches.

“I am very fortunate to be able to bring a spring pro football team to the region,” Leonsis said in a statement. “There is already a lot of football history in this area and I believe the Valor will become the shining star of the XFL.”

"The Washington Valor are here to unite, defend and protect the capitol. We are fearless, full of passion and heart, determined to make our fans proud," said Theismann. "We are bringing the football, you bring the noise."

“We love the market, and it fits our strategic plan,” XFL Commissioner Oliver Luck said. “It’s a great football town, if you look at the support the Redskins have had over the years, and the other teams in the area. The population density, the media attention, the fact that we’re looking for more presence on the East Coast. It’s a nice strategic fit for us geographically. More importantly, we really like the Monumental group. We think they have a tremendous organization, and that’s really where it starts, in getting the right people and building around that.”
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Express Name Steve DeBerg as New Offensive Coordinator

August 3, 2003

New York, NY - The Memphis Express introduced Steve DeBerg as the second offensive coordinator in team history. Following his illustrious 19 year NFL playing career, DeBerg served as the quarterback's coach for the New York Giants (1996) and Atlanta Falcons (1999). "Today is a new beginning in the Express organization," said Express general manager Steve Ehrhart. "Steve brings a wealth of football knowledge and experience to the table and we are confident that he will end up being one of the best offensive coaches in the XFL. I am looking forward to the start of the 2004 season."

Jaws and Hearst III Purchase Guardians

August 14, 2003

New York, NY - George Randolph Hearst III, the CEO of the Times Union newspaper, along with Trifecta Sports Entertainment LLC, which includes former Philadelphia Eagles' QB Ron Jaworski, have purchased the XFL's New York Guardians for $10M from NYSports Executives LLC. Jaworski will be serving as the Team President and General Manager, relieving Steve Ehrhart of his duties.

"I am very excited to take charge of the New York franchise and bring a winner to The Meadowlands." said Jaworski. "XFL football features high-powered offense, played in a setting that brings fans right into the heart of the game. I am especially proud to own a franchise in this area, which is a pro football hotbed and a represents a proud history of the Giants and Jets. I believe this is a great project to undertake with Mr. Hearst. With few players and staff, my strength as an evaluator of football talent will be put to the test while I learn the other aspects of the business including ticket sales and overall management of a franchise. The addition of a successful coach is critical. I know we're well on our way in establishing a winning Guardians' tradition."

Jaworski announced that the ownership group would be looking at future XFL expansion opportunities in addition to now owning the New York Guardians. Philadelphia and Toronto were at the top of the priorities list.

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New Orleans VooDoo Join XFL

August 20, 2003

New Orleans, LA - New Orleans Saints' majority owner and San Antonio Commanders' minority owner, Tom Benson, has brought the XFL to the Bayou. Benson Sports LLC becomes the first group to own two XFL franchises, as brothers Larry and Tom, have again joined forces. The Voodoo will be coached by former Los Angeles Raiders' head coach Art Shell. Shell worked for the Raiders from 1983 to 1994 before spending six seasons as an OL coach in the NFL. Shell will be joined by Ken Margerum as offensive coordinator and former Las Vegas Outlaws head coach Jim Criner as the defensive coordinator. Steve Livingstone will be serving as the general manager. The VooDoo will be playing their homes games at the SuperDome.

According to Shell, it should be a fun style of football. “You’re gonna see a variety of football,” Shell said. “I know it will be fast-paced because that is almost regulated. I mean the rules are going to make everybody have a fast pace of football. We want a shorter game, but all the action of a football game. That’s the number one thing for us, let’s make sure we have good players. We play good football and it’s something that the fans are willing to come back and watch.”
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New Teams Take Shape with Expansion Draft

September 15, 2003

New York, NY - Wide Receiver Shannon Culver became the first player in New Orleans VooDoo history when the team made him the first overall selection in the 2004 XFL Expansion Draft. The VooDoo also selected QB Ryan Clement, RBs Michael Black and Autry Denson, WR Kevin Prentiss, OL Joe Wong and Josh Warner, DL Lamanzer Williams and Nathan Davis and DB Than Merrill. The Valor selected QBs Brian Kuklick and Sherdrick Bonner, WRs Luther Leverson and Rashied Davis, OL Jerry Wisne, Chris Janek and Chris Polinder, DL Winfield Garnett and DB Kareem Larrimore.

"We certainly understand the challenges of an expansion team, but we can't look at it that way," said New Orleans head coach Art Shell. "We have to believe in our mindset that we can do what's necessary to win and, more importantly, reward the fanbase and ownership with a quality product in year one. It all starts with the expansion draft."

"Its tough when you lose quality players," said Enforcers head coach Mike Singletary. "But when expansion teams enter the league everybody is going to lose somebody."

Under Armour and XFL Partner Up

September 20, 2003

Baltimore, MD - The XFL and Under Armour announced today a multi-year, multi-million dollar partnership that designates Under Armour the official on-field and sideline supplier to the XFL starting in 2004, with all the teams getting new uniforms for the 2005 season. As part of the agreement, Under Armour will provide uniforms, sideline apparel, footwear, gloves and accessories to all XFL clubs. In the largest licensing partnership in the history of the XFL, Under Armour also becomes an integrated marketing partner over the term of the agreement.

"It is exciting to have the opportunity to bring Under Armour's vast resources in sports licensing, marketing, and product development to the XFL," says new XFL owner Mark Cuban. The tradition and passion shared by the league and its fan base presents a mutual opportunity for Under Armour, the XFL and its partners over the coming seasons.

Seattle Sea Devils Strikes Big with Territorial Allocations

October 15, 2003

New York, NY - The Territorial Allocations have been protected from next month's Supplemental Draft. QBs Brock Huard, Jesse Palmer, Brad Banks and Kurt Kittner, RBs Dan Curley and Travis Stephens, WRs Jacquez Green, Freddie Milons and JJ Stokes, OL Ben Sobieski, Jeff Grau, Blake Brockermeyer, J.P. Machado and Bruce Nelson, DL Charles Hill, Reggie Grimes and Talance Sawyer, LB Cie Grant and DBs Steve Bellisari, Keyuo Craver, Ike Charlton, Jacoby Shepherd and Dennis Weathersby were announced. "I am very excited to have these three players joining the Seattle Sea Devils," said head coach Rick Neuheisel. "Our coaching staff has been working hard this off-season to identify players that we felt could help take this team to where we want to be and I truly believe we have started that with Brock, Dan and Dennis. The talent level and experience that they possess will instantly give our team the added boost we were looking to add for next season."

"Stokes will give us good depth at wide receiver," said Stars head coach Al Luginbill. "He will be another strong veteran to help lead this team through the season."

"Being able to bring in individuals with the talent to play at the NFL level, can only help us and this league grow," explained Wild head coach Jim Skipper. "These are the caliber of lineman that we will need to be competitive now and in the future. If these players can adjust to our game quickly, it will be an asset to the depth of our team."

"The free agent crop that we have acquired will serve as a great building blocks for our teams as we enter our fourth season of play," said XFL Commissioner Oliver Luck. "Many of these guys have extensive NFL experience and are expected to be significant contributors in 2004 as we go forward and look to be competitive from the start."

Valor Makes First Splash in Supplemental Draft

November 15, 2003

New York, NY - The XFL held their Supplemental Draft with the Washington Valor selecting WR Geroy Simon with the first overall selection and the New Orleans VooDoo selecting DL Travis Claridge with the 2nd pick. The rest of the first round saw seven offensive lineman selected as Mo Collins, Marques Sullivan, Gennaro DiNapoli, Greg Randall, Jamie Nails, Mike Mabry and C Barret Robbins concluding the first round. DL Jamal Reynolds, Kavika Pittman, Lamar King and Eddie Freeman, RB Trung Candiate and WRs Terry Vaughn and Robert Baker also were selected. "Once the expansion draft started on September 15th, we were able to add a lot of veteran offensive firepower to this team by drafting WRs Shannon Culver and Kevin Prentiss. Now we have created that same spark with the additions of Robert and Travis," explained VooDoo head coach Art Shell.

"You can't get enough offensive lineman in this league and Barret is a good one who has started a lot of games for the Raiders," said head coach Jerry Glanville. "Center is one of the most important positions on the team, that's where it all starts for the offense. And on the other side of the ball, Barret has also shown an ability to make plays on defense. He's a hard worker and we feel fortunate to have been able to get into the draft and pick up a player of Barret's caliber with the 16th pick."

Arena Football League Cancels 2003 Season

December 12, 2003

Philadelphia, PA - The Arena Football League's commissioner David Baker announced that the league would be cancelling their 2003-2004 season after having four teams(Los Angeles Avengers, Chicago Rush, New York Dragons and Austin Wranglers) fold over the summer. He announced that the league was currently $14M in debt and that the remaining owners voted to shut down the upcoming season in order to find "a long-term plan to improve it's economic model." Efforts to reformat the league's business model were placed under the leadership of Baker, assistant commissioner Ed Policy along with Buffalo Destroyers' owner Jim Renacci.

For most of the 1990s, the average annual salary for an arena football player was around $22k. In order to compete for players with the CFL and XFL, the league bumped that number up to $35k, a number that the league couldn't sustain causing this current situation. The Arena Football League announced that they are looking at all options including a partnership with either the NFL, CFL or XFL.

XFL Looks at Expansion for 2005

January 5, 2004

Greenwich, CT - The XFL will begin the process to approve it's expansion teams for the 2005 season at the league pre-season meeting in New York City. All expansion candidates must have their applications filed with the League by July 20. It is unlikely that the XFL would approve more than two additional expansion teams for 2005 but, given the demand, the XFL may consider as many as four total expansion teams for the 2005 season.

"Our TV agreements, committed owners and fan-friendly time-proven product has attracted more ownership groups than ever before," said Commissioner Oliver Luck. "By adding the best applicants to our league for the 2005 season, we are maximizing this opportunity while at the same time preserving the high quality of play our fans expect."

Stoerner and Hundon Anchor Explosive Offense

January 5, 2004

Dallas, TX - In their 2004 Championship run, the Dallas Desperados were ranked in the top five of virtually all important offensive statistical categories including scoring offense (2nd), total offense (2nd), passing offense (1st) and passer rating (2nd). Much of the credit for this achievement should go to offensive coordinator Danny White's clever game plan. 'Its about how Coach White prepares everything and how he puts the game plan together," quarterback Clint Stoerner said. "A lot of it is the preparation, the talent and how hard guys on our team work at it."

But a well-designed scheme doesn't translate into points without good execution and it all starts with the quarterback. In Stoerner and WR James Hundon, Dallas has a tandem that can turn White's effective designs into touchdowns. Coming off an XFL Championship, it's easy for some players to become complacent. But for Stoerner, it's business as usual. "The number one goal I come in with every year is to win a championship," he said. "To me, the only thing that's important are the team goals and winning the championship."

While defensive coordinators across the country are losing sleep trying to figure out how to stop the Desperados potent offense, Dallas can rest assured that they are in good hands with Stoerner and Hundon running the show.

Vince McMahon and John Elway Star in Mini-Movie to Kickoff XFL's 2004 Season Promotional Campaign

January 6, 2004

Los Angeles, CA - XFL co-founder Vince McMahon and Los Angeles Stars' minority owner John Elway will star in a two-minute mini-movie to promote the XFL's upcoming 2004 season. The XFL and Regal CineMedia announced an agreement that will run the entertainment segment in nearly 400 Regal Entertainment Group theaters nationwide. "Movie theaters provide a unique distribution vehicle that resonates with the always evasive young demographic," said XFL co-founder Dick Ebersol. "The Regal CineMedia partnership provides us an outlet to showcase our game to consumers nationally. Sports and entertainment are alive and well in the XFL."

"The XFL has created an entertaining, rockin' and rollin' segment that is certain to create interest among moviegoers," said Cliff Marks, Regal CineMedia’s vice president, marketing and sales. "When you've got Vince McMahon and John Elway, two of the biggest names in sports and entertainment as leading men, you can count on some big screen fun."

Elias Sports Bureau Named XFL's Official Statistician

January 14, 2004

Greenwich, CT - The XFL and the Elias Sports Bureau, the world's premier statistical company, have entered into an agreement for Elias to become the Official Statistician of the XFL. According to terms of the three-year agreement, beginning with the 2004 season, Elias will host the XFL's statistics, distribute statistical reports and will provide state-of-the-art research capabilities.

The XFL is a proven product and one of the fastest-growing sports leagues in the country," said Seymour Siwoff, President of Elias Sports Bureau. "We are excited to be a part of that growth and to lend our expertise to the XFL's statistical needs.

"We are thrilled to be working with the best statistical company in the world," said Chris McCloskey, XFL Senior Vice President of Communications. "Fantasy football is a major initiative for us this year and statistics are the backbone of fantasy football. Fantasy players can rest assured that with Elias hosting the XFL's statistics, the XFL fantasy game will be as accurate, timely and credible as any in sports."

Steve Spurrier 'interested in the XFL,' but Still Taking a Year Off

January 15, 2004

Greenwich, CT - The Head Ball Coach isn’t sure when, or if, he’ll next be patrolling the sidelines as the head of a professional football team. The recently unemployed Spurrier said he’s staying busy as a Gators ambassador and working with the university after his latest coaching job disappeared when the Washington Redskins decided to move in a new direction. Coaching opportunities, such as Vince McMahon’s XFL, could come open soon, but for now Spurrier said he’s enjoying time with his wife, Jerri, and their family.

“I’m not in for XFL, I’m taking another year off,” Spurrier said. “I may be finished, I don’t know. You never know. Never say never, but I’m off this year. Something like that would probably be more my style if it came up again, coach about four months a year. Four, five, something like that. I need a year off. I coached sixteen games with Washington, I need a year off.”

"I’m really interested in the XFL. They play in the spring time slot. February, March, April. I really believe with Fox and NBC behind that league, they have a chance to hang around. They’ve got plenty of money behind them and a good TV contract. And there’s so many really good football players out there that can play.”

Outlaws Acquires Milanovich

January 23, 2004

Las Vegas, NV - The Las Vegas Outlaws announced that they have acquired QB Scott Milanovich from the Los Angeles Stars in exchange for DL Kelvin Kinney and QB Mark Grieb. "It's very important that we solidify the quarterback position," said Outlaws Head Coach Bruce Coslet. "With the recent acquisition of Quinn Gray, and now bringing in Scott, this now gives us two number one quarterbacks with plenty of experience and two guys I have a lot of confidence in."

NFL Players Participate in XFL League internships

February 2, 2004

Greenwich, CT - NFL players interested in becoming coaches and game officials will receive first-hand experience this offseason in an internship program with the XFL. The Internship Program is a joint effort of the XFL and the NFL Players Association. The goal is to provide participants with comprehensive training, work experience and an evaluation of their coaching and officiating abilities. The players include safety Rodney Harrison from the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots, three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Robert Porcher of the Detroit Lions, Ben Coates, D'Marco Farr, Ron Heller, Amp Lee, Albert Lewis and Tracy Simien.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for players to gain experience in coaching and officiating," said John Beake, NFL vice president of football operations. "The internship opens the door for these players to begin another football-related career."

"Our players have such a deep personal investment in football that this is a natural progression, to get hands-on coaching and officiating experience at the professional level," said Mike Haynes, NFL vice president of player and employee development.

"We are glad to see players receive an opportunity to pursue a career through the XFL," said Oliver Luck, XFL Commissioner. "This program is an excellent training ground for players looking to gain further experience."

Outlaws Receive Three Players from Desperados for Smart

February 5, 2004

Las Vegas, NV - RB Rod Smart announced that he would be returning to the Las Vegas Outlaws after being released by the Philadelphia Eagles, however the Outlaws had different plans shipping the running back to Dallas. In exchange for his rights, the Outlaws will receive defensive specialists Anthony Derricks and Delvin Hughley as well as offensive/defensive lineman Chris Janek, Outlaws general manager Bob Ackles confirmed.

"This is a very exciting day in the history of the Outlaws organization," said Ackles. "With Lawrence Phillips currently on our roster, we are able to secure three solid young players in this transaction, it is a great move for the team. We think all three will have an immediate impact on our program and will help us get back to winning football again."
Last edited by BengalErnst on Wed Jan 11, 2023 6:17 pm, edited 56 times in total.
BengalErnst
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Re: XFL 2001

Postby BengalErnst » Wed Dec 01, 2021 8:40 pm

XFL 2004 Roster Update

February 15, 2004

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2003 Recap -

2004 Dallas Desperados - HC Jerry Glanville, OC Danny White, DC Steve Carson, GM Drew Pearson, QBs Clint Stoerner, Pat Barnes and Chris Griesen, RBs Rod Smart, Carlos King, Jamie Reader and Terry Battle, WRs James Hundon, Bobby Sippio, Damian Vaughn, Adrian Madise, LaTarence Dunbar and Brian Roberson, TEs Brian Roche, Joe Kavanaugh and Mike Banks, OL Scott Scifres, Bernard Holsey, Calvin Collins, Blake Brockermeyer, Cliff Washburn, Jamain Stephens, Barret Robbins and Solomon Page, DL Mike Sutton, Albrey Battle, Clenton Ballard, Eric England, Shante Carver, Ja'Mar Toombs, Dwayne Missouri and Jermaine Miles, LBs Otis Floyd, DeShone Myles, Jon Haskins, Marcus Wilkins, Antonio Wilson and Darren Hambrick, DBs Wendell Davis, Dwayne Harper, Jack Brewer, Michael Booker, Terrance Joseph, John Keith and Darrius Johnson, P Fred Capshaw and K Mike Panasuk

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2003 Recap -

2004 Los Angeles Stars - HC Al Luginbill, OC Wes Chandler, DC Bob Valesente, GM John Elway, QBs Mark Grieb, Marquel Blackwell and Cade McNown, RBs Ken Oxendine, Brian Allen, Malaefou MacKenzie and Rashaan Shehee, WRs Darnell McDonald, Jeremaine Copeland, JJ Stokes, Kareem Kelly, Reggie Barlow and Todd Doxzon, TEs Tremayne Allen, Sean Brewer and Josh Wilcox, OL Donta Kendrick, Tim Provost, Scott Whittaker, Bobby Singh, Jeff Grau, Jose Portilla, Nate Miller and Zack Quaccia, DL Ramondo Stallings, Damonte McKenzie, Daved Benefield, Curtis Eason, Eric Johnson and Kelvin Kinney, LBs Brendon Ayanbadejo, Sekou Sanyika, Ryan Nece, Jamir Miller, Larry Atkins and Markus Steele, DBs Clifton Abraham, Reggie Durden, Leomont Evans, Dell McGee, Shea Showers, Antuan Simmons and Terry Billups, P Damon Duval and K Jason Malecki

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2003 Recap -

2004 Las Vegas Outlaws - HC Bruce Coslet, OC Dwain Painter, DC Jeff Reinebold, GM Bob Ackles, QBs Scott Milanovich, Quinn Gray and Giovanni Carmazzi, RBs Lawrence Phillips, Marlion Jackson, Sedrick Irvin and Chrys Chukwuma, WRs Marcus Nash, Tamarick Vanover, DeVeren Johnson, Steve Papin, Scott McCready and R.Jay Soward, TEs Rickey Brady, Werne Hippler and Keith Jennings, OL Tony Berti, Dustin Rykert, Josh Lovelady, Matt Hill, Marques Sullivan, Pita Elisara, Doug Kaufasi, Justin Bates and Lonnie Palelei, DL Antonio Edwards, Stacy Evans, Dorain Boose, Talance Sawyer, Carl Simpson and Angel Rubio, LBs Joe Tuipala, Masafumi Kawaguchi, Rob Fredrickson, Ryan Phillips, Mike Crawford and Toran James, DBs Jamel Williams, Hurley Tarver, Chris Akins, Vernon Cox, Wade Davis, Brandon Sanders and Chris Bayne, P Marcus Williams and K Owen Pochman

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2004 Minneapolis Wild - HC Jim Skipper, OC Joe Paopao, DC David Catapano, GM Steve Ortmayer, QBs Jim Druckenmiller, Brad Banks and Craig Whelihan, RBs Rashaan Salaam, Ketric Sanford, Dan Alexander and Roosevelt Potts, WRs Matthew Hatchette, Jeff Ogden, Brian Alford, Willis Marshall, Sean Morey and Herb Haygood, TE Jay Tant, Mark Anelli and Byron Chamberlain, OL Harry Boatswain, Ryan Young, Ben Sobieski, Bruce Nelson, Lucas Brigman, Matt Anderle, Evan Pilgram, Mike Sheldon, Glenn Rountree and Mo Collins, DL Antonio Anderson, Christian Peter, Ron Warner, Tramont Lawless, Marvin Thomas, Daniel Benetka and Leonta Rheams, LBs Richard Hogans, Cornell Menafee, Tarek Saleh, Jamie Burrow, Patrick Sapp and Caspor Stiles, DBs Corey Sawyer, Mike Echols, Scott Frost, Keyuo Craver, Roosevelt Williams, Damien Robinson, Kevin Cobb and Tom Knight, P Derrick Frost and K Ola Kimrin

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2004 San Antonio Commanders - HC Mike Riley, OC Paul Chryst, DC Bill Bradley, GM John Peterson, QBs Michael Bishop, Kevin Daft and Glenn Foley, RBs Aaron Stecker, Ontiwaun Carter, Jesse Haynes and Troy Davis, WRs Thabiti Davis, Justin Swift, Marco Martos, Calvin Shexnayder, Darrin Chiaverini, Ahmad Merritt and LC Stevens, TEs Johnny Huggins, Chris Luzar and Rodrick Monroe, OL Rome Douglas, John Feugill, Steve Herndon, Chance Pearce, Derek West, Chris Watton, Octavious Bishop, Marcus Spriggs and Mathias Nkwenti, DL Jomo Cousins, David Hoelscher, Chartric Darby, Barron Tanner, Rameel Connor, Daryl Gardener and Jamal Reynolds, LBs Corey Atkins, Muadianvita Kazadi, Jason Sykes, Will Overstreet, Levar Fisher and Kelvin Moses, DBs Duane Hawthorne, Bashir Levingston, DeAuntae Brown, Darrick Vaughn, Lloyd Harrison, Jacoby Shepherd and Tay Cody, P Steve Cheek and K Jesus Angoy

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2004 Seattle Sea Devils - HC Rick Neuheisel, OC Kerwin Bell, DC Dennis Thurman, GM Eric Tillman, QBs Akili Smith, Marcus Crandell and Brock Huard, RBs Ken Simonton, Travis Jervey, Jamal Robertson and Dan Curley, WRs Dane Looker, Craig Yeast, Dameane Douglas, Onome Ojo, Ron Dixon and Jimmy Cunningham, TEs Darnell Dinkins, Mikhael Ricks and Jeremy Brigham, OL Jonathan Himebach, Tom Ackerman, Scott Peters, Greg Randall, Jeff Hatch, Mike Houghton, Lui Fuata, Scott Sanderson, Reggie Nelson and Alcender Jackson, DL DeVone Claybrooks, Mike Ulufale, Jeremy Staat, Ahmad Miller, Terrell Jurineack, Moses Harper, Cleveland Pinkney and Terdell Sands, LBs Hakim Akbar, Keith Adams, Khari Samuel, Antico Dalton and Jonathan Jackson, DBs Deke Cooper, Dennis Weathersby, Delphfine Lee, Alex Molden, Matt Stevens, Ahmad Hawkins and Earthwind Moreland, P Dirk Johnson and K Hayden Epstein

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2003 Recap - The New Orleans VooDoo are a 2004 expansion franchise.

2004 New Orleans VooDoo - HC Art Shell, OC Ken Margerum, DC Jim Criner, GM Steve Livingstone, QBs Craig Nall, Ryan Clement and Tory Woodbury, RBs Michael Black, Jarrett Ferguson and Autry Denson, WRs Robert Baker, Shannon Culver, Charlie Adams, Kevin Prentiss, Chris Jackson, Michael Jennings, Edell Shepherd and LaVell Boyd, TEs Chad Mustard, Chad Hayes and Bryan Fletcher, OL Travis Claridge, Troy Andrew, Josh Warner, Edward Ta'amu, Mathias Vavao, Joe Wong, Yusuf Scott and Craig Osika, DL Kevin Aldridge, Nathan Davis, Oliver Gibson, Henry Ford and Lamanzer Williams, LBs Josh Symonette, Jody Littleton, Sam Rogers, Brant Boyer, Louis Green and Byron Thweatt, DBs Kareem Larrimore, Travis Coleman, Than Merrill, Emmanuel McDaniel, Daryon Brutley, Jykine Bradley and Clint Finley, P Nick Murphy and K Jason Witczak

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2004 New York Guardians - HC Rusty Tillman, OC Joe Lombardi, DC Jim Tomsula, GM Ron Jaworski, QBs Tim Hasselbeck, Moses Moreno and Wally Richardson, RBs Robert Edwards, Herbert Goodman, Joel Makovicka and Joe Aska, WRs Yatil Green, Kirby Dar-Dar, Zola Davis, Vinny Sutherland, Randy Gatewood and Zuriel Smith, TEs Terry Hardy, Marco Battaglia and Marcus Hinton, OL Ed Ellis, Harvey Goins, Mike Mabry, Jason Thomas, Curtis McGee, Juan Porter, Dave Wohlabaugh and David Camacho, DL Dwayne Sabb, Israel Raybon, Christian Maumalanga, Delbert Cowsette, Tom Barndt, James Cotton and Henry Slay, LBs Kevin Mitchell, Khari Samuel, Lee Woodall, Tyrell Peters and Ron Merkerson, DBs Damen Wheeler, Tawambi Settles, Calvin Branch, Butler B'ynote, Joey Eloms, John Keith, Cecil Doggette, Mark Tate and Tyree Talton, P Filip Filipovic and K John Markham

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2003 Recap -

2004 Orlando Rage - HC Jay Gruden, OC Jeff Brohm, DC Pete Kuharchek, GM Tom Veit, QBs Joe Hamilton, Jesse Palmer and Randy Fasani, RBs Derrick Clark, Santonio Beard, Luke Staley and Brian Shay, WRs Mario Bailey, Dialleo Burks, Randy Hymes, DeAndrew Rubin, Jacquez Green and Tony Gaiter, TEs Lawrence Hart, David Sloan and Nate Jackson, OL Jeremy Akers, Kaulana Noa, Dan Collins, Jason Gamble, Damion Cook, Char-ron Dorsey, Antoine Mirambeau, Cheston Blackshear and Jamie Nails, DL Randy Chevrier, Sedric Clark, Kenny Holmes, Bill Duff, Tron LaFavor, Andre Purvis and James Roberson, LBs Eugene McCaslin, Twan Russell, Johnny Rutledge, James Burgess, Henri Crockett and Rashad Harris, DBs Ricky Bell, Derrick Gardner, Clevan Thomas, Tremain Mack, Tommy Henry, Fred Weary, Billy Parker and Stephen Fisher, P Rodney Williams and K Jay Taylor

2004 Preview -

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2003 Recap -

2004 Birmingham Steel - HC Gerry DiNardo, OC Gene Dahlquist, DC Curley Hallman, GM Tim Berryman, QBs Spergon Wynn, Todd Husak and Eric Kresser, RBs Curtis Alexander, Doug Chapman, Deon Dyer and James Bostic, WRs Stepfret Williams, Quincy Jackson, Trevor Insley, Randy Hymes, Marcus Knight and Freddie Milons, TEs Ed Smith, Scott Thompson and Reggie Johnson, OL Gennaro DiNapoli, Garin Patrick, Jarvis Borum, Matt Hill, Chad Beasley, Waverly Jackson, Kelvin Ingram and Antonio Fleming, DL Quinton Reese, Charles Preston, Chad Bratzke, Emarlos Leroy, Cedric Pittman, Shane Burton, Reggie Grimes and Reggie McGrew, LBs Trev Faulk, Keith Franklin, Orantes Grant, Bryan Knight, Jamal Brooks and James Willis, DBs Duane Butler, Calvin Jackson, Rodregis Brooks, Tyrone Drakeford, Toya Jones, Tim Wansley, Eric Kelly, Eric Sloan and Central McClellion, P Mat McBriar and K Lawrence Tynes

2004 Preview -

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2003 Recap -

2004 Memphis Express - HC Bart Andrus, OC Steve DeBerg, DC David Duggan, GM Michael Lang, QBs Tee Martin, Kevin Thompson and Tony Graziani, RBs Darnell Autry, Shyrone Stith, Trung Canidate and Travis Stephens, WRs Andy McCullough, D'wayne Bates, Milton Wynn, Frank Sanders, Jarrick Hillary, Snoop Minnis and Tony Simmons, TEs Marlon Chambers, Hunter Goodwin and John Waerig, OL Dennis O'Sullivan, O'Lester Pope, Oliver Ross, Reggie Coleman, Damian Lavergne, Brad Williams, LeShun Daniels, Lennie Friedman and Robert Hicks, DL DeAngelo Lloyd, Stalin Colinet, Mao Tosi, Bruce Adrine, Joe Johnson, Bryant McNeal, Gillis Wilson, Jabbar Threats and Johnathan Brown, LBs Donnie Spragan, Jude Waddy, Marc Megna, OJ Childress and Brad Jackson, DBs Blaine McElmurry, DeShone Mallard, Jahi Henley, Darwin Brown, Corey Chamblin, Rashad Holman, Tim Strickland, Teddy Gaines and Nick Ferguson, P Bill LaFleur and K Axel Kruse

2004 Preview -

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2003 Recap -

2004 Chicago Enforcers - HC Mike Singletary, OC Peter Vaas, DC Doug Plank, GM Dick Butkus, QBs Jarious Jackson, Kurt Kittner and Kevin McDougal, RBs LeShon Johnson, John Avery, Derek Watson and Fred Jackson, WRs Roell Preston, Antonio Chatman, Aaron Bailey, Marquis Walker, Charles Jordan, Zechariah Lord and JaJuan Dawson, TEs Dan O'Leary, Rod Rutledge and Jabari Holloway, OL Paul Janus, Tim Ruddy, Derrick Turner, Chris Perez, JP Machado, Tupe Peko, Brennan Curtin, Rob Murphy and Tony Ramirez, DL Jim Flanigan, Sterling Palmer, Grant Irons, Glen Steele, Lamar King, Montique Sharpe, Colston Weatherington and Cyron Brown, LBs Jamie Baisley, Chike Egbuniwe, Carlos Timmons, Tyreo Harrison, Cornelius Anthony and Jason Short, DBs JoJuan Armour, Kory Blackwell, Jordan Younger, Ligarius Jennings, Shane Walton, Scott Turner, Troy Saunders and Kerry Cooks, P Andrew Bayes and K Brad Palazzo

2004 Preview -

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2003 Recap -

2004 Columbus Ghosts - HC Kippy Brown, OC Brent Pease, DC Fred Pagac, GM Chris Spielman, QBs Joe Germaine, Dave Ragone and Scott Covington, RBs Michael Wiley, Travis Prentice, Curtis Keaton and Joe Montgomery, WRs Ken-Yon Rambo, Reggie Germany, Avion Black, Ron Dugans and Danny Farmer, TEs Dwayne Blakley, Ryan Prince and Chris Eitzmann, OL Victor Leyva, Melvin Tuten, Dan Greer, DeMingo Graham, Javiar Collins, Scott Rehberg, Antwan Kirk-Hughes, Lewis Kelly and Terrance Simmons, DL Jevon Langford, Jerome Davis, Tom Briggs, Norris McCleary, Eddie Freeman, Joey Evans and Matt Walters, LBs Courtland Bullard, Julian Duncan, Cie Grant, Khalid Abdullah and Riall Johnson, DBs Cornelius Coe, Dwayne Stukes, Steve Bellisari, Damon Moore, Derek Combs, LaVar Glover, Clarence Love, Rashidi Barnes and Sam Garnes, P Travis Dorsch and K Matt Bryant

2004 Preview -

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2003 Recap - The Washington Valor is a 2004 expansion franchise.

2004 Washington Valor - HC Doug Williams, OC Jay Schroeder, DC Doug Graber, GM Joe Theismann, QBs Brian Kuklick, Sherdrick Bonner and Shaun Hill, RBs Ahmaad Galloway, Antwoine Womack, Corey McIntyre and Maurice Hicks, WRs Geroy Simon, Luther Leverson, Eugene Baker, Rashied Davis, Atrews Bell and Justin Skaggs, TEs Kori Dickerson, Josh Whitman and Rashod Kent, OL Mike Clare, Paul LaQuerre, Jerry Wisne, Chris Janek, Joe Jackson, Dwayne Ledford, Chris Polinder, Luke Butkus and Dave Costa, DL Radell Lockhart, Keith McKenzie, Kavika Pittman, Derrius Monroe, Charles Hill, Winfield Garnett, Buck Gurley and John Schlecht, LBs Idris Price, Dane Krager, Shannon Taylor, Dustin Cohen and Fred Jones, DBs Kalvin Pearson, Kahlil Carter, Dyshod Carter, Ike Charlton, Dainon Sidney, Deveron Harper, Chris Young and Jeremy Unertl, P Kevin Stemke and K Todd France

2004 Preview -
Last edited by BengalErnst on Tue Feb 21, 2023 7:03 pm, edited 55 times in total.
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Re: XFL 2001

Postby BengalErnst » Thu Dec 02, 2021 9:19 pm

XFL's First Ever National Weekly Television Program to Debut on Fox Sports Net

February 19, 2004

New York, NY - The XFL announced a new weekly television program that will make its national debut on Fox Sports Net (FSN). The 30-minute program, XFL Weekly, will air on FSN each Monday at 3:30 p.m. local time. FSN regionals will also have the opportunity to air the program at other times throughout the week. A total of 18 episodes will air during the 2004 season. "XFL Weekly is another outlet to showcase XFL players and the game to fans throughout the season," said Marc Lowitz, XFL Vice President of Broadcast and New Media. "The show, along with Fox Sports Net's audience, complements and supports our games on NBC and our teams local broadcasters while providing an additional avenue for our corporate partners."

"With the current XFL management and owners showing a strong desire and the capability to bring the XFL to the next level, this show allows us to be more involved with the league," said Marc Fein, Vice President, Fox Sports Net. "Telecasting a weekly highlights show is a perfect complement to the XFL games several of our regions air."

Enforcers Acquire Three Prospects for Avery

February 19, 2004

Chicago, IL - The Chicago Enforcers received WR Rashied Davis and OL Paul LaQuerre and RB Ahmaad Galloway in trade from the Washington Valor, in exchange for RB John Avery, who just announced his XFL return. "This organization is indebted to John for the role he played in our inaugural season in 2001, and the manner in which he represented the Enforcers in the community," said general manager Dick Butkus. "However, the results of our last two seasons have shown that it takes much more than just a great running back to win. We think we have significantly upgraded our team by acquiring two of the XFL's best young prospects in Galloway and Davis, as well as a steady lineman in LaQuerre."

"Rashied was the key to this deal," said head coach Mike Singletary. "He's a dynamic, exciting returner and receiver who is, in our opinion, already one of the best players in the league."

NFL Age Requirement Briefly 'Sacked'

February 20, 2004

New York, NY - The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York ruled that the National Football League’s age requirement violated Section 1 of the Sherman Act. This decision led Ohio State sophomore Maurice Clarett, USC sophomore Mike Williams and Florida State sophomore Adrian McPherson to declare for the 2004 NFL draft. It also led to a vehement appeal by the National Football League, and the filing of amicus briefs on the NFL’s behalf by the National Basketball Association, National Hockey League, and even the National Collegiate Athletic Association.

The plaintiff, Maurice Clarett, had rushed for a record-setting 1,237 yards and 18 touchdowns the previous year as a freshman at Ohio State University. However, Clarett was declared ineligible to play college football as a sophomore based on accusations that he had received improper benefits from boosters in violation of the NCAA rules. Wanting to continue to play football on some level, Clarett filed an antitrust claim in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York that argued the NFL's league-wide age requirement served as a form of illegal group boycott. In response, the NFL argued that the league's age restraint was exempt from antitrust scrutiny because it was a topic eligible for collective bargaining and thus was subject only to review under labor law.

After reviewing party briefs and hearing oral arguments, the U.S. District Court decided in favor of Clarett. As a result, Clarett, Williams and McPherson declared their eligibility for the 2004 NFL draft. Nevertheless, Clarett's legal victory was short-lived, as the decision was reversed on appeal by a three judge panel that included now Supreme Court justice Sonia Sotomayor. As a result, Clarett, WIlliams and McPherson weren't ultimately allowed to enter the NFL. Making matters worse, the NCAA also denied the opportunity to return to college football.

NFL's Loss is XFL's Gain

February 23, 2004

Greenwich, CT - The XFL season starts in seven days, but that didn't stop the league from making the decision to allow underclassmen to participate in their league. Maurice Clarett, Mike Williams and Adrian McPherson all announced that they have signed one year contracts with the league that would allow them to enter the 2005 NFL Rookie Draft. RB Maurice Clarett signed with the hometown Columbus Ghosts that should help the team repeat as the champions in league attendance while both the former Florida State QB Adrian McPherson and former USC WR Mike Williams have joined with the New York Guardians.

As a sophomore in 2002, McPherson started four games, completing 80 of 156 passes for 1,017 yards, 12 touchdowns and one interception while rushing for 180 yards on 48 carries but was dismissed from the football team by Florida State coaches in November 2002 amid reports that police planned to question him in connection with check theft and forgery charges.

In his final season, as a sophomore, Williams started all 13 games at wide receiver, and led the Trojans in receiving yards and touchdowns which resulted in 95 catches leading to 1,314 yards and 16 touchdowns. Williams was a finalist for the 2003 Biletnikoff Award while finishing eighth in Heisman Trophy voting. He also earned first team All-American honors. Williams also was a 2003 All-Pac-10 First Team selection.

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XFL Week 1: Desperados Grind Steel for First Win

March 1, 2004

Dallas, TX - In a prime time match up under the lights, the Dallas Desperados defeated the Birmingham Steel 22-20 in front of their 33,215 enthusiastic fans. The Desperados were outstanding in the first half. They did not allow the Steel to convert a third down attempt in the entire first half forcing the Steel to go 0-6 on third down attempts. On the day, Dallas QB Clint Stoerner went 20 of 31 for 212 yards and 2 touchdowns. WR Bobby Sippio led all receivers with 6 catches for 116 yards and a touchdown. The Desperados now have an extended break as they prepare for a showdown with the Chicago Enforcers in Week 3.

-- (0-0)Steel 22 - 24 Desperados(0-0)
(BIRM): QB Wynn - 24/44 216 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Bostic - 11 carries, 57 yards, RB Alexander - 12 carries, 36 yards, 1 TD, WR Insley - 6 catches, 68 yards, 1 TD, WR Williams - 7 catches, 62 yards
(DAL): QB Stoerner - 20/31 212 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, RB Smart - 16 carries, 71 yards, WR Sippio - 6 catches, 116 yards, 1 TD, WR Smith - 6 catches, 45 yards, 1 TD

-- (0-0)Enforcers 14 - 28 Wild(0-0)
(CHI): QB Jackson - 22/33 219 yards, 2 TDs, RB Johnson - 10 carries, 17 yards, WR Chatman - 5 catches, 92 yards, 2 TDs
(MIN): QB Druckenmiller - 24/28 222 yards, 4 TDs, RB Salaam - 22 carries, 44 yards, WR Hatchette - 5 catches, 63 yards, 1 TD, WR Haygood - 4 catches, 30 yards, 2 TDs

-- (0-0)Rage 23 - 3 Express(0-0)
(ORL): QB Hamilton - 23/38 309 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs, RB Shay - 15 carries, 43 yards, WR Green - 6 catches, 107 yards, WR Burks - 5 catches, 93 yards, 1 TD
(MEM): QB Thompson - 6/27 42 yards, 1 INT, RB Canidate - 19 carries, 64 yards, WR Wynn - 4 catches, 26 yards
*Memphis QBs Tee Martin and Tony Graziani missed game due to injury

-- (0-0)Stars 29 - 19 Sea Devils(0-0)
(LA): QB McNown - 19/29 215 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT, RB Oxendine - 9 carries, 68 yards, WR Copeland - 7 catches, 88 yards, 2 TDs, WR Stokes - 6 catches, 72 yards
(SEA): QB Smith - 18/36 228 yards, 2 TDs, 3 INTs, RB Simonton - 11 carries, 68 yards, WR Looker - 10 catches, 80 yards, WR Yeast - 7 catches, 71 yards

XFL Week 1: Outlaws Move Past Last Year

March 2, 2004

Las Vegas, NV - The Las Vegas Outlaws began the 2004 season on a high note as they trounced the Washington Valor 67-41 behind the arm of QB Quinn Gray and a stingy second-half defense. The new-look Outlaws received contributions from a variety of new faces in the contest. Gray paced the club, completing 28-of-39 passes for 282 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for a four-yard score. WR Marcus Nash was his favorite target, reeling in 10 passes for 134 yards and two touchdowns but newcomer WR RJ Soward added six catches for 59 yards and a touchdown.

The Outlaws led 24-16 entering the fourth quarter. Carolina’s defense caused two turnovers to keep Washington's offense off the board in the final frame. The Outlaws continued to pile on the points as Quinn found Nash for a nine-yard scoring pass and added a four-yard touchdown run for the game's final points. "We've put last year behind us," said Quinn. "We just wanted to come out here and get a win. The coaches worked hard getting guys in here in the offseason and we knew we had the talent. It was just a matter of catching some breaks and going out and doing our thing."

-- (0-0)Valor 16 - 37 Outlaws(0-0)
(DC): QB Kuklick - 14/30 184 yards, 1 TD, 3 INTs, RB Avery - 17 carries, 77 yards, WR Simon - 5 catches, 73 yards, 1 TD, WR Baker - 4 catches, 55 yards
(LV): QB Gray - 28/39 282 yards, 3 TDs, RB Phillips - 11 carries, 90 yards, WR Nash - 10 catches, 134 yards, 2 TDs, WR Soward - 6 catches, 59 yards, 1 TD

-- (0-0)Ghosts 31 - 16 Guardians(0-0)
(COL): QB Germaine - 27/32 293 yards, 2 TDs, RB Clarett - 13 carries, 58 yards, RB Keaton - 9 carries, 22 yards, 2 TDs, WR Rambo - 8 catches, 112 yards, WR Dugans - 6 catches, 70 yards
(NY): QB McPherson - 14/26 254 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs, RB Aska - 6 carries, 57 yards, WR Green - 6 catches, 108 yards, 1 TD, WR Williams - 4 catches, 74 yards

Week One Attendance up 26 Percent

March 2, 2004

Greenwich, CT - Attendance for the first week of the 2004 XFL season was up 26 percent vs. the first week of the 2003 season, and up 31 percent vs. the 2003 season average. "Our Week 1 attendance numbers verify that the XFL continues to grow its already fervent fan base," says Commissioner Oliver Luck. "Our teams worked harder than ever to fill their arenas. We expect another season-average attendance increase this year."

"Yesterday's three terrific games illustrated that XFL Football is an exciting, fast-paced game, featuring players with enormous ability," said Ken Schanzer, NBC Sports President. "As more and more people are exposed to the game, they are going to become fans of the league and in turn, Sunday afternoon viewers."

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XFL Week 2: Outlaws Barely Escape VooDoo Magic

March 8, 2004

New Orleans, LA - The XFL intelligently didn't want to compete with the opening weekend of the March Madness NCAA basketball tournament so only had three games on the weekend's slate but that doesn't mean we didn't get some great XFL action. The Las Vegas Outlaws defeated the New Orleans VooDoo 31-29 in the first ever XFL game in New Orleans.

The Outlaws started the game up 14-0 on the back of two WR R. Jay Soward TD catches against a beleaguered New Orleans secondary. However, the VooDoo defense settled in and actually went into the half with a 16-14 lead. The third quarter was more of the same as the VooDoo added two more FGs compared to a 32 yard Gray to WR Tamarick Vanover TD catch that had New Orleans winning 22-21 entering the final frame.

After an Outlaws field goal, VooDoo QB Craig Nall led his team down the field in a drive that took eight minutes off the clock and found WR Kevin Prentiss for a 7 yard touchdown. However, the Outlaws didn't need long to retake the lead and the game as Gray found Vanover again on a 21 yard strike to give the Outlaws an impressive 2-0 start to the season.

-- (1-0)Outlaws 31 - 29 VooDoo(0-0)
(LV): QB Gray - 17/29 288 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT, RB Phillips - 19 carries, 36 yards, 1 TD, WR Nash - 4 catches, 62 yards, WR Soward - 4 catches, 46 yards, 2 TDs, WR Vanover - 3 catches, 68 yards
(NO): QB Nall - 28/45 242 yards, 2 TDs, RB Denson - 15 carries, 27 yards, WR Jackson - 6 catches, 96 yards, WR Prentiss - 5 catches, 81 yards, 1 TD

XFL Week 2: Bishop Uses Feet and Arm to Defeat Stars

March 9, 2004

San Antonio, TX - The Commanders(1-0) used the screen pass and QB Michael Bishop's ability to buy time with his feet and then score on short runs to dictate the pace of the game and keep the Stars on their heels. Bishop ran for three touchdowns and also threw two TD passes in the Commanders' first game of the season. Bishop's first touchdown pass was a 38-yarder to WR Ahmad Merritt in the second quarter. Bishop got rid of the ball quickly to Merritt on the outside, who after the catch, made two moves to get in the open and then raced downfield for the score. Bishop also connected with WR Darrin Chiaverini on a 39-yard scoring pass that was very similar to the one that Merritt caught. "We were very excited at the beginning of the game and we had a few penalties, but then we got our timing and our legs," Bishop said. "We felt we could do a few things with the screen pass. Our timing was good and guys like Lindsay and DeJuan have the kind of speed and moves to make a lot of big plays. I look forward to being a part of this team the rest of the season."

The Commanders defense did an outstanding job of shutting down the Los Angeles offense. The Stars had just 192 passing yards and 207 total yards. DeAuntae Brown and Darrick Vaughn each had interceptions for San Antonio.

-- (1-0)Stars 13 - 35 Commanders(0-0)
(LA): QB McNown - 20/37 192 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs, RB Shehee - 9 carries, 15 yards, WR Copeland - 8 catches, 98 yards, 1 TD, WR Stokes - 4 catches, 49 yards, 1 TD
(SA): QB Bishop - 21/34 289 yards, 2 TDs, 8 carries, 53 yards, 3 TDs, RB Stecker - 12 carries, 69 yards, WR Chiaverini - 6 catches, 89 yards, 1 TD, WR Merritt - 5 catches, 83 yards, 1 TD

-- (1-0)Rage 21 - 11 Valor(0-1)
(ORL): QB Hamilton - 15/31 259 yards, 2 TDs, RB Clark - 16 carries, 96 yards, 1 TD, WR Burks - 6 catches, 129 yards, 1 TD, WR Bailey - 4 catches, 72 yards
(DC): QB Kuklick - 22/43 158 yards, 1 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Avery - 16 carries, 38 yards, WR Simon - 7 catches, 87 yards, 1 TD, WR Baker - 6 catches, 56 yards
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Re: XFL 2001

Postby BengalErnst » Fri Dec 03, 2021 1:52 pm

Ghosts Garnes Out 8-12 weeks

March 12, 2004

Columbus, OH - Columbus Ghosts DB Sam Garnes has been placed on the XFL's injured reserve list and will miss eight to 12 weeks after undergoing surgery to repair a ruptured tendon in his hand, the Ghosts announced. "Losing Sam is a big blow to our defense," said Ghosts head coach Kippy Brown. "We pursued him to help lead our secondary and we will have to have other players step up to cover his loss."

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XFL Week 3: Young Guns Shine in Guardians Victory

March 14, 2004

New York, NY - A rookie quarterback's breakthrough. An exiled receiver's dominance. A brawl. Oh yeah, and a comeback win. Nothing normal seems to happen this season for the New York Guardians. New York stormed from behind to win, beating the undefeated Orlando Rage as the rookie combination of Adrian McPherson and Mike Williams took the stage. "Man, that was an emotional one," said Williams, who scored his first XFL touchdowns. "They are close games, so I know that coach (Rusty) Tillman is losing some hair. Pro football is just different."

The nasty game was marred by a fourth-quarter brawl near the Orlando sideline after Rage QB Joe Hamilton was blindsided by Guardians' DL Israel Rayborn during an apparent interception return. Rayborn and Rage OL Jason Gamble were ejected and then the INT was overturned. Williams credited Tillman's toughness with inspiring the Guardians. "That's the guy you want, the guy who gets you up to make play after play," Williams said. "Any time we felt like it was over, he wouldn't let us quit."

-- (0-1)Guardians 37 - 34 Rage(2-0)
(NY): QB McPherson - 17/30 351 yards, 4 TDs, RB Edwards - 6 carries, 26 yards, 2 catches, 68 yards, 2 TDs, WR Dar Dar - 4 catches, 113 yards, WR Williams - 3 catches, 94 yards
(ORL): QB Hamilton - 27/37 321 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT, RB Clark - 18 carries, 33 yards, WR Burks - 8 catches, 125 yards, 1 TD, WR Green - 6 catches, 86 yards, 1 TD, WR Floyd - 6 catches, 69 yards, 1 TD

XFL Week 3: Williams Makes Plays on Offense and Defense in Steel Victory

March 15, 2004

Birmingham, AL - Steel WR Stepfret Williams scored two touchdowns in the Birmingham Steel's 32-25 victory over the Minneapolis Wild, but none of them were his biggest play of the afternoon. Playing without DBs Eric Sloan, Toya Jones and Duane Butler, who were sidelined with injuries, Williams' top moment came after the final buzzer as he batted down a pass that denied WR Matthew Hatchette's game winning touchdown reception and kept the Steel undefeated at 2-0. Trailing 32-25 with 1:53 remaining, Wild QB Jim Druckenmiller got the football at his own 14-yard line and completed four passes, driving Minneapolis to the Steel thirteen yard line with eight seconds left. After failing to connect with WR Herb Haygood in the back of the end zone, Druckenmiller had one final attempt left as one tick remained on the clock. That's when Williams dove along the goal line, near the right sideline, breaking up the game's final play.

"Stepfret really came up big for us," Steel head coach Gerry DiNardo said. "But Rodregis Brooks and Central McClellion also stepped up and made some good plays, as well, especially at the end. Druckenmiller is so good with the ball and gets it out quick," DiNardo said. "That negates our pass rush a little bit. But at the end, we had the guys we wanted in there up front and I think that made a difference. We have to get a lot better. I told the team after the game, 'You don't get any points for being good, you have to earn them.' This game will serve as a little bit of a wake-up call for us. We've got to get back to business and improve if we are going to do the things we are capable of doing."

-- (1-0)Wild 25 - 32 Steel(0-1)
(MIN): QB Druckenmiller - 18/30 270 yards, 2 TDs, RB Salaam - 15 carries, 114 yards, 1 TD, WR Hatchette - 6 catches, 116 yards, 1 TD, WR Haygood - 4 catches, 95 yards, 1 TD
(BIRM): QB Wynn - 29/35 280 yards, 2 TDs, RB Alexander - 13 carries, 62 yards, 1 TD, RB Bostic - 11 carries, 80 yards, WR Williams - 6 catches, 96 yards, 2 TDs, WR Jackson - 6 catches, 80 yards

XFL Week 3: Desperados Stun Enforcers 34-33 On Final Play

March 16, 2004

Dallas, TX - QB Clint Stoerner found WR Bobby Sippio open in the back of the end zone for a six-yard touchdown with no time on the clock to cap a dramatic 34-33 come-from-behind victory for the Dallas Desperados. The Desperados, who fell behind by as many as 16 points by halftime, outscored Chicago 20-3 over the game's last 26 minutes to improve to 2-0 on the young season. A 24-yard field goal by K Brad Palazzo gave Chicago a 33-28 lead with just under two minutes remaining. On the ensuing drive, Stoerner completed five of six passes to drive the Desperados to the 15-yard line. After RB Rod Smart converted a fourth-and-one with a three-yard run, the Desperados found themselves on the 12-yard line with seven seconds on the clock. On the next play, the Enforcers were flagged for pass interference. The ball was spotted on the six-yard line with two seconds on the clock, setting the stage for the game's final play.

"Words can't even describe the feeling," said Stoerner. "I knew if our defense came through in the fourth quarter that we were going to win that ballgame. They couldn't really stop Rod too much today. I knew the whole time, he was going to open things up for us and he sure did."

-- (0-1)Enforcers 33 - 34 Desperados(1-0)
(CHI): QB Jackson - 23/38 190 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, RB Johnson - 9 carries, 86 yards, 1 TD, RB Jackson - 5 carries, 91 yards, WR Lord - 4 catches, 53 yards, 1 TD, WR Chatman - 6 catches, 44 yards
(DAL): QB Stoerner - 19/31 206 yards, 3 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Smart - 16 carries, 132 yards, WR Sippio - 6 catches, 60 yards, 1 TD

-- (1-0)Commanders 38 - 13 Sea Devils(0-1)
(SA): QB Bishop - 16/27 229 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, RB Stecker - 16 carries, 182 yards, 2 TDs, WR Merritt - 4 catches, 102 yards, 1 TD
(SEA): QB Smith - 23/44 204 yards, 1 TD, 4 INTs, RB Simonton - 22 carries, 31 yards, WR Looker - 8 catches, 77 yards, WR Cunningham - 5 catches, 34 yards, 1 TD

-- (1-0)Ghosts 24 - 27 Express(0-1)
(COL): QB Germaine - 33/47 284 yards, 2 TDs, RB Clarett - 16 carries, 62 yards, 1 TD, WR Rambo - 8 catches, 78 yards, 1 TD
(MEM): QB Martin - 23/36 236 yards, 1 TD, RB Canidate - 16 carries, 48 yards, WR Minnis - 8 catches, 76 yards, WR Simmons - 2 catches, 54 yards, 1 TD

-- (1-1)Stars 13 - 31 Outlaws(2-0)
(LA): QB McNown - 25/35 306 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs, RB Oxendine - 11 carries, 34 yards, WR Copeland - 8 catches, 111 yards, 1 TD, WR Stokes - 3 catches, 95 yards
(LV): QB Gray - 20/29 275 yards, 3 TDs, RB Phillips - 16 carries, 60 yards, WR Nash - 7 catches, 112 yards, 2 TDs, WR Soward - 5 catches, 74 yards

XFL Week 3: Late TD Run Halts Valor Rally

March 17, 2004

New Orleans, LA - New Orleans RB Michael Black ran the ball in from two yards out with no time remaining on the clock to lift the VooDoo to a 31-30 victory over the Washington Valor, in front of 24,236 fans. The Valor(0-3) outscored New Orleans(1-1) 24-13 in the second half, but fell one play short of earning the their first franchise win. Valor DB Ike Charlton, who finished the game with a team-high seven solo tackles and four pass breakups, forced a fumble with 2:40 left to play and the Valor leading 30-24, but a Todd France 56-yard field goal attempt fell about six inches short, giving the VooDoo one last chance to win.

New Orleans QB Craig Nall, starting his second career game in the XFL, started off slowly, but picked it up in the second half, finishing the game 19-of-34 for 178 yards and two touchdowns.

-- (0-2)Valor 30 - 31 VooDoo(0-1)
(DC): QB Bonner - 22/37 259 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Avery - 16 carries, 146 yards, WR Simon - 6 catches, 126 yards, 2 TDs
(NO): QB Nall - 19/34 178 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Denson - 13 carries, 74 yards, WR Culver - 6 catches, 95 yards, 1 TD, WR Jackson - 9 catches, 80 yards, 1 TD

XFL Signs Steve Spurrier

March 18, 2004

Greenwich, CT - Earlier this year, the NFL's Washington Redskins moved on from Steve Spurrier as head coach, but it didn't take long for the old ball coach to find a new gig as the XFL came calling this week. The XFL wanted Steve Spurrier so bad that they're paying him $2M this year to be a league consultant before he takes over a franchise next season. The plan is for the league to find an owner to create an expansion franchise in Florida, and for Steve Spurrier to be the head coach. List of possible cities include Miami, Tampa, Tallahassee and Gainesville. This year off should give Spurrier ample time to recruit his staff and to scout possible players for the 2005 season.
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Re: XFL 2001

Postby BengalErnst » Fri Dec 03, 2021 9:03 pm

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XFL Week 4: New York Avoids Ghost Upset

March 22, 2004

New York, NY - Only 19 seconds. That was how much time was left before the Guardians would fall to the Columbus Ghosts. But then, a miracle. On third and 10, Ghosts defensive coordinator Fred Pagac inexplicably called for a blitz and left his corners on an island. Guardians' QB Adrian McPherson would avoid pressure and step up to make one of the throws of his life to fellow rookie WR Mike Williams for a 46-yard game-winning touchdown pass with five seconds left.

The Silver and Black will have elation for a play of the year candidate and for the Guardians to make their first ever playoff appearance. Still, concerns won’t go away just because the Guardians managed to escape with a win. After a good first half effort defensively, that saw the Guardians force three turnovers, they nearly gave the game away in the fourth quarter when the Ghosts scored 15 points and took the lead. The Guardians also showed that right now they are a young team with many flaws -- a thin defense, a lacking running game, and a need for more playmakers on both sides of the ball. They had enough left to get through against the Ghosts, but against better teams, like the defending XFL champions, the Dallas Desperados in two weeks, it’s not going to be enough if they hope to get to the playoffs.

-- (1-1)Ghosts 28 - 31 Guardians(1-1)
(COL): QB Germaine - 35/50 364 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, RB Montgomery - 12 carries, 71 yards, WR Rambo - 7 catches, 120 yards, 1 TD, WR Germany - 6 catches, 111 yards
(NY): QB McPherson - 13/32 210 yards, 2 TDs, 7 carries, 89 yards, 2 TDs, WR Williams - 4 catches, 65 yards, 1 TD, WR Green - 3 catches, 73 yards

-- (0-2)Sea Devils 28 - 17 Valor(0-3)
(SEA): QB Smith - 22/38 300 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT, RB Simonton - 15 carries, 57 yards, 1 TD, WR Looker - 5 catches, 154 yards, 1 TD, WR Yeast - 6 catches, 61 yards
(DC): QB Bonner - 23/38 298 yards, 1 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Avery - 21 carries, 101 yards, 1 TD, WR Simon - 10 catches, 84 yards, WR Baker - 5 catches, 81 yards, 1 TD

-- (2-1)Rage 20 - 26 Enforcers(0-2)
(ORL): QB Hamilton - 15/26 247 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, RB Clark - 13 carries, 80 yards, WR Burks - 5 catches, 97 yards, WR Bailey - 4 catches, 77 yards, 1 TD
(CHI): QB Jackson - 24/37 239 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs, RB Jackson - 11 carries, 85 yards, 1 TD, WR Chatman - 6 catches, 118 yards

-- (1-1)Wild 24 - 32 Outlaws(3-0)
(MIN): QB Druckenmiller - 19/32 230 yards, 1 INT, RB Salaam - 15 carries, 28 yards, 2 TDs, WR Haygood - 5 catches, 126 yards, WR Hatchette - 4 catches, 45 yards
(LV): QB Gray - 21/35 242 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs, RB Phillips - 25 carries, 130 yards, WR Soward - 7 catches, 125 yards, 1 TD, WR Nash - 9 catches, 65 yards

XFL Week 4: Commanders Uses Running Game to Hammer Express

March 23, 2004

Memphis, TN - Don't tell the San Antonio Commanders that they can't run the ball in the XFL. Don't tell that to the Memphis Express, either. Using a combination of some precise passing and a effective running game, the Commanders(3-0) asserted itself in the second half and dominated Memphis(1-2) before 25,406 fans. Bishop threw two touchdown passes in the first half to loosen up the Memphis defense, however RBs Aaron Stecker and Ontiwaun Carter set the tone early with their ability to gain crucial yards at virtually any time. Stecker and Carter benefited from some excellent blocking and were able to pound the ball up the middle on the TD runs and to the edge for big gains while setting a team record with 56 carries.

Bishop's presence was felt from start to finish. He has the innate ability to sense the pass rush, buy time with his feet and find the open receiver. Using a precision offense that appears to be in midseason form, the Commanders scored on all four of their possessions of the first half. Bishop was once again on his game, directing the Commanders down the field with relative ease. "Our running game was all about attitude," Bishop said. "The whole thing was about taking it to them and we believed we could do it all along. As the game went on, we became more and more effective with that ground game. On defense, we wanted to put pressure on their quarterback. That was our goal all week. We were able to do just that. We had a real good game plan and we executed it well."

-- (2-0)Commanders 40 - 7 Express(1-1)
(SA): QB Bishop - 11/18 152 yards, 2 TDs, 10 carries, 90 yards, RB Stecker - 32 carries, 154 yards, 1 TD, RB Carter - 14 carries, 88 yards, 1 TD, WR Merritt - 6 catches, 56 yards, 1 TD
(MEM): QB Martin - 14/32 181 yards, 1 TD, 4 INTs, RB Canidate - 12 carries, 43 yards, WR McCullough - 2 catches, 51 yards, WR Simmons - 5 catches, 61 yards

XFL Week 4: Stars Fold the Steel

March 24, 2004

Los Angeles, CA - Stars WR Darnell McDonald had been a non-factor for the first three games of the 2004 season, but against Birmingham, McDonald made sure no one had forgotten him. McDonald finished the game with four catches for 42 yards and a touchdown, carried the ball twice for a another score, and even threw the game winner in the Stars 33-31 win over the Steel. QB Cade McNown outdueled QB Spergon Wynn, throwing for 274 yards and three touchdown passes. Wynn finished up with 206 yards, two touchdown tosses and two interceptions, but had to leave the game late in the 4th with an ankle injury.

It was a shoot out early, as neither defense could stop the other teams offense. Birmingham held a 28-26 lead at the break, as both defenses went into the locker rooms to lick their wounds. The second half was completely different from the first, as the two teams traded punts. However, the Stars offense seemed to get back on track as head coach Al Luginbill pulled out all the tricks to pull out a miracle win. The last drive saw McDonald take a double reverse and throw it to WR JJ Stokes for the game winner.

-- (1-1)Steel 31 - 33 Stars(1-2)
(BIRM): QB Wynn - 20/29 205 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Alexander - 9 carries, 53 yards, 1 TD, RB Bostic - 10 carries, 54 yards, 1 TD, WR Jackson - 7 catches, 93 yards, 1 TD, WR Williams - 5 catches, 94 yards, 1 TD
(LA): QB McNown - 28/37 274 yards, 2 TDs, RB Oxendine - 9 carries, 44 yards, WR Copeland - 7 catches, 99 yards, WR McDonald - 5 catches, 51 yards, 1 TD

-- (1-1)VooDoo 0 - 27 Desperados(2-0)
(NO): QB Nall - 13/26 59 yards, 1 INT, RB Black - 7 carries, 33 yards, WR Culver - 3 catches, 21 yards
(DAL): QB Stoerner - 17/23 141 yards, 2 TDs, RB Smart - 16 carries, 134 yards, WR Sippio - 6 catches, 80 yards, 2 TDs

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XFL Week 5: Rage Survive Monsoon and Sea Devils in Seattle

March 29, 2004

Seattle, WA - It was the type of game during which a Seattle rainstorm and the Sea Devils' defense shared the responsibility of harassing the Rage on the same series repeatedly in what transpired to be anything but typical. The Rage' 24-22 victory over the Sea Devils on Sunday afternoon in Cleveland fit that description, atypical. The Sea Devils took over at their 35-yard line trailing 24-16 with 3:37 left in regulation after stopping the Rage on downs. QB Akili Smith then directed a seven-play, 65-yard drive in 2:14 that ended on a 2-yard touchdown pass to WR Dane Looker. But the two-point conversion attempt that would have tied the game ended on an incomplete pass to WR Jimmy Cunningham. "We came, we fought, we came up short," head coach Rick Neuheisel said. "I appreciate the efforts. We just didn't make enough plays. It came down to one play, combination of didn't get it done as well as I thought the DB kind of slingshotted Jimmy a little bit."

"We lost, that's all that matters, Smith said. I gotta make a better throw there to send us into OT."

-- (2-2)Rage 24 - 22 Sea Devils(1-2)
(ORL): QB Hamilton - 10/28 276 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, RB Clark - 22 carries, 76 yards, WR Bailey - 2 catches, 92 yards, 1 TD, WR Burks - 2 catches, 69 yards, 1 TD
(SEA): QB Smith - 22/45 220 yards, 2 TDs, 3 INTs, RB Simonton - 19 carries, 179 yards, WR Looker - 5 catches, 53 yards, 2 TDs, WR Cunningham - 5 catches, 69 yards

-- (3-0)Commanders 0 - 16 Desperados(3-0)
(SA): QB Foley - 13/34 142 yards, RB Stecker - 19 carries, 45 yards, WR Merritt - 5 catches, 55 yards, WR Stevens - 4 catches, 66 yards
(DAL): QB Stoerner - 28/42 255 yards, 1 TD, RB Smart - 12 carries, 21 yards, WR Sippio - 6 catches, 100 yards, 1 TD, WR Hundon - 7 catches, 62 yards
*San Antonio's starting QB Michael Bishop missed game due to injury

XFL Week 5: Guardians Roll VooDoo

March 30, 2004

Seattle, WA - The New York Guardians wanted to start quickly when they took on the New Orleans VooDoo. WR Zuriel Smith got them started right away, taking the opening kickoff 94-yards for a touchdown that set the tone for the evening. New York held a 21-10 advantage at the half, thanks to the legs of QB Adrian McPherson. McPherson rushed for the Guardians second score, and his scrambling ability bought him enough time to find WR Mike Williams in the end zone near the close of the half. But New Orleans would answer back in the second on a QB Craig Nall to WR Kevin Prentiss 12-yard strike. Following another VooDoo touchdown that made it 25-24, it was the McPherson show for the remainder of the game.

"It was nice to be able to breathe in the fourth quarter," said Guardians head coach Rusty Tillman. "It was nice to come out and take control of them in the second half."

-- (2-1)Guardians 39 - 25 VooDoo(1-2)
(NY): QB McPherson - 17/30 220 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT, 6 carries, 30 yards, 1 TD, RB Edwards - 6 carries, 99 yards, WR Green - 5 catches, 90 yards, WR Williams - 3 catches, 61 yards, 2 TDs
(NO): QB Nall - 24/34 240 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Denson - 14 carries, 32 yards, WR Jackson - 5 catches, 113 yards, WR Culver - 5 catches, 49 yards

-- (1-2)Ghosts 17 - 23 Steel(1-2)
(COL): QB Germaine - 19/23 144 yards, 1 TD, RB Clarett - 16 carries, 73 yards, 1 TD, RB Montgomery - 14 carries, 91 yards, WR Rambo - 5 catches, 50 yards, TE Blakely - 5 catches, 40 yards, 1 TD
(BIRM): QB Wynn - 17/36 212 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs, RB Bostic - 19 carries, 52 yards, RB Alexander - 12 carries, 61 yards, WR Williams - 5 catches, 72 yards, WR Jackson - 7 catches, 71 yards, 1 TD

-- (1-2)Express 20 - 27 Stars(2-2)
(MEM): QB Martin - 25/41 285 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, RB Canidate - 10 carries, 27 yards, WR Simmons - 6 catches, 106 yards, WR McCullough - 5 catches, 64 yards
(LA): QB McNown - 19/25 269 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT, RB Shehee - 18 carries, 91 yards, RB Oxendine - 11 carries, 75 yards, WR Copeland - 6 catches, 113 yards, 1 TD

-- (1-2)Enforcers 6 - 38 Wild(1-2)
(CHI): QB Jackson - 25/39 167 yards, RB Jackson - 6 carries, 28 yards, WR Chatman - 7 catches, 62 yards, WR Jordan - 5 catches, 45 yards
(MIN): QB Druckenmiller - 16/18 182 yards, 2 TDs, RB Salaam - 27 carries, 160 yards, 1 TD, WR Haygood - 6 catches, 112 yards, 1 TD

-- (0-4)Valor 13 - 41 Outlaws(4-0)
(DC): QB Hill - 21/32 252 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs, RB Avery - 20 carries, 72 yards, WR Simon - 6 catches, 96 yards, WR Skaggs - 7 catches, 73 yards
(LV): QB Gray - 16/18 288 yards, 2 TDs, RB Phillips - 8 carries, 110 yards, 1 TD, WR Nash - 5 catches, 92 yards, WR Soward - 4 catches, 86 yards, 1 TD1, WR Vanover - 4 catches, 64 yards, 1 TD
Last edited by BengalErnst on Tue Nov 15, 2022 10:15 pm, edited 12 times in total.
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Re: XFL 2001

Postby BengalErnst » Sat Dec 04, 2021 12:48 pm

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XFL Week 6: Undermanned Guardians No Match For Dallas

April 4, 2004

Dallas, TX - The Guardians were completely undermanned entering this game, as they were missing RB Robert Edwards and their top two offensive tackles. The Desperados had a healthy roster, that health, along with some luck, allowed the Desperados to improve to 5-0 with a win. The Desperados were the better team, but were fortunate that some bounces went their way. One such instance was an amazing interception made by DB Michael Booker. A pass to WR Kirby Dar Dar was tipped and sailed into the arms of Booker, who hauled in the turnover while falling out of bounds and dragging his feet on the green turf. The Guardians were in field goal range, so this robbed them of at least three points.

Adrian McPherson's second interception was deflected by a defender in the pocket and just floated into the arms of a Dallas defender. Some awful calls went against the Guardians as well, including a horrible blind-side block call that wiped out a big gain. This was a tight game throughout despite the Dallas double-digit victory. It was a 27-24 affair for a while in the third quarter when RB Terry Battle took a pitch in the backfield and sprinted past the entire defense, including DB Butler By'note, who misjudged his speed. Battle scored on the 58-yard touchdown to give Dallas a 17-point lead, which the Guardians couldn't overcome with their depleted roster.

-- (3-1)Guardians 24 - 41 Desperados(4-0)
(NY): QB McPherson - 12/28 229 yards, 2 TDs, 3 INTs, 7 carries, 40 yards, RB Aska - 6 carries, 13 yards, WR Dar Dar - 3 catches, 78 yards, WR Williams - 3 catches, 95 yards, 1 TD
(DAL): QB Stoerner - 22/27 221 yards, 2 TDs, RB Smart - 8 carries, 98 yards, 1 TD, RB Battle - 10 carries, 61 yards, 1 TD, WR Sippio - 5 catches, 108 yards, 1 TD, WR Hundon - 5 catches, 66 yards

-- (3-1)Commanders 23 - 20 Outlaws(5-0)
(SA): QB Bishop - 24/42 266 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, RB Stecker - 21 carries, 53 yards, WR Merritt - 8 catches, 87 yards, 1 TD, WR Martos - 5 catches, 49 yards, 1 TD
(LV): QB Gray - 26/40 245 yards, 3 TDs, 10 carries, 85 yards, RB Phillips - 16 carries, 34 yards, 6 catches, 54 yards, WR Nash - 4 catches, 42 yards, 1 TD, WR Vanover - 4 catches, 86 yards

XFL Week 6: Ghosts Down Stars on the Road

April 5, 2004

Los Angeles, CA - With 23 seconds left in the game, Ghosts QB Joe Germaine threw a 25-yard dart to WR Ken Yon Rambo, who was wide-open downfield, for the game-winning touchdown, as Columbus(2-3) defeated Los Angeles(3-3), 31-29. On the ensuing kickoff, DB Rashidi Barnes forced a fumble and the Ghosts recovered the ball to seal the victory. Turnovers were the story from the start for Los Angeles. On their first offensive series of the game, McNown was sacked and lost the ball, and Columbus recovered it on the Stars 19-yard line. Subsequently, on the very next play, Germaine, who finished the game 22-of-33 for 248 yards and three touchdowns, connected with WR Reggie Germany for a 19-yard touchdown, giving Columbus the early 7-0 advantage.

-- (1-3)Ghosts 31 - 29 Stars(3-2)
(COL): QB Germaine - 22/33 248 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT, RB Clarett - 12 carries, 39 yards, 1 TD, WR Rambo - 7 catches, 141 yards, 1 TD
(LA): QB McNown - 21/39 210 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Shehee - 12 carries, 42 yards, WR Copeland - 5 catches, 86 yards, 1 TD, WR Stokes - 5 catches, 78 yards, 1 TD

XFL Week 6: Valor's Comeback Attempt Falls Short

April 6, 2004

Washington, DC - The Washington Valor saw their furious fourth quarter rally come up just short, as DB Scott Frost broke up a QB Shaun Hill's pass in the end zone on the final play of the game to preserve a 40-35 Minneapolis Wild victory. The Valor never led in the game and actually fell behind 20-0 early in the second quarter. Washington cut the Minneapolis lead to 33-28 with 6:35 left in the game when WR Geroy Simon hauled in a two-yard touchdown reception. But the Wild pushed the lead to 40-28 when RB Rashaan Salaam scored the touchdown on a 14-yard plunge with 2:57 left to play. After RB John Avery scampered for a score, the Valor recovered an onside kick and eventually drove to the four-yard line and had one play to win the game. But with four seconds left, Hill's tossed a fade pass to Simon, and Frost broke up the play in the end zone.

-- (2-2)Wild 40 - 35 Valor(0-5)
(MIN): QB Druckenmiller - 20/31 182 yards, 4 TDs, RB Salaam - 23 carries, 103 yards, 1 TD, WR Hatchette - 6 catches, 71 yards, 1 TD
(DC): QB Hill - 27/48 257 yards, 2 TDs, 3 INTs, RB Avery - 17 carries, 58 yards, 2 TDs, WR Simon - 4 catches, 77 yards, 1 TD, WR Baker - 4 catches, 76 yards

-- (2-2)Steel 29 - 34 Rage(3-2)
(BIRM): QB Wynn - 29/40 260 yards, 1 INT, RB Alexander - 17 carries, 40 yards, 2 TDs, RB Bostic - 10 carries, 38 yards, 1 TD, WR Williams - 11 catches, 72 yards, WR Jackson - 5 catches, 70 yards, WR Insley - 4 catches, 74 yards, 1 TD
(ORL): QB Hamilton - 20/34 256 yards, 3 TDs, RB Clark - 15 carries, 39 yards, WR Burks - 6 catches, 73 yards, 2 TDs, WR Green - 4 catches, 79 yards, WR Bailey - 4 catches, 77 yards, 1 TD

-- (1-3)Enforcers 20 - 48 VooDoo(1-3)
(CHI): QB Jackson - 17/31 215 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs, RB Jackson - 12 carries, 46 yards, WR Chatman - 5 catches, 77 yards, 1 TD, WR Bailey - 6 catches, 65 yards
(NO): QB Nall - 16/18 288 yards, RB Denson - 15 carries, 110 yards, 1 TD, RB Black - 7 carries, 53 yards, 3 TDs, WR Jackson - 5 catches, 104 yards, WR Culver - 4 catches, 90 yards

XFL Week 6: Sea Devils Drop Defensive Struggle

April 7, 2004

Memphis, TN - The Seattle Sea Devils lost a tightly contested defensive struggle, 34-25, to the Memphis Express in front of 17,666 fans. The Sea Devils got four Memphis turnovers in the first half, but could only turn them into 3 points, trailing 7-3 at the half. Memphis QB Tee Martin hit WR Andy McCullough from 37 yards out on the first play of the 2nd half. RB Ken Simonton's two-yard run got the Sea Devils as close as they would ever be at 14-10. Turnovers would plague the reminder of the game.

-- (1-3)Sea Devils 10 - 14 Express(1-3)
(SEA): QB Smith - 21/43 221 yards, 2 INTs, RB Simonton - 19 carries, 55 yards, 1 TD, WR Looker - 6 catches, 44 yards
(MEM): QB Martin - 16/29 186 yards, 1 TD, RB Canidate - 29 carries, 132 yards, WR McCullough - 4 catches, 42 yards
Last edited by BengalErnst on Tue Nov 15, 2022 10:18 pm, edited 14 times in total.
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