In a thrilling overtime showdown, the undefeated Houston Gamblers held off the Memphis Showboats, 44-38, in Week 7 of the 1985 USFL season. Houston’s running back Sam Harrell delivered a standout performance, scoring three touchdowns, including the game-winner in overtime with a 19-yard run. Quarterback Jim Kelly orchestrated a well-rounded offensive attack, throwing for 428 yards and three touchdowns, helping Houston maintain their perfect record at 7-0. The game was a back-and-forth affair with multiple lead changes, as Memphis gave their toughest test yet, pushing the Gamblers to the brink.
Memphis, entering the game with a 6-1 record, struck quickly with two early touchdowns—a Harry Sydney 3-yard run and a 31-yard pass from Walter Lewis to Mark Raugh—giving them a 13-0 lead. Houston responded as Harrell scored twice on the ground to swing momentum back to the Gamblers. Memphis’ Tim Spencer was a force in the backfield, rushing for 151 yards and two touchdowns, keeping the Showboats within striking distance. With under a minute left in regulation, Memphis kicker Alan Duncan nailed a 25-yard field goal to send the game into overtime tied at 38.
In overtime, the Gamblers relied on their strong ground game and a crucial 91-yard drive, capped by Harrell’s third and final score to seal the victory. Houston’s defense bent but didn’t break, recording six sacks and two interceptions on Walter Lewis, whose 293 passing yards and two touchdowns weren’t enough to pull off the upset. Memphis drops to 6-2, but their resilience against the top team proves they’re a formidable force in the league.
