Category: Expansion

Introducing the Houston Gamblers

by: Gail Yorke, Houston Chronicle

Partway through this first season, the USFL announced a massive expansion for 1984, adding 6 teams. They chose to spread the announcements over the final weeks of the season. Last week, the Jacksonville Bulls debuted their helmets and introduced themselves to their fans.

This week, I get the honor of introducing our Houston team. While we already have an NFL team in the Oilers, the city is large enough for two professional football teams, especially when one plays in the Spring and Summer. Like other cities with an NFL and USFL team, the teams will share the Astrodome as their home stadium.

You may have noticed that I kept discussion of the team name until last. With a team rumored to be coming to Vegas either this round of expansion or the next, the Houston ownership snapped up the Gamblers name for their team. I, for one, hope they live up to that name.

Introducing the Jacksonville Bulls

by: Len Landyn, Florida Times-Union.

The USFL announced a huge expansion for 1984, adding 6 teams to the league for next year. In spite of this, they remain committed to their goals for the league. I get the honor of introducing the first of those teams, right her in Jacksonville, Florida. Get ready for your Bulls next year!

Home to the University of Florida Gators, this area knows football. But, other than other Florida teams, we’ve never known professional football. Anticipation is already high for the Bulls if ticket sales are any indication.

I know that I, for one, welcome the USFL to our town. We are proud to be a part of the league and the fans will bring the intensity to the Gator Bowl like they always do. Keep reading in the weeks and months ahead as news breaks.