Birmingham shuts down Generals in 2nd half for 27-10 win

BIRMINGHAM — It was deja vu all over again as the Birmingham Stallions upended the New Jersey Generals on opening night for the second straight season with a 27-10 win.

The Generals only loss of the 2022 regular season came at the hands of Birmingham. But when it seemed New Jersey would get a chance to avenge that loss in the USFL title game, the Generals lost to Philadelphia in the semifinals.

But Birmingham wouldn't let the Generals get their revenge.

Despite a back-and-forth first half, the game was still tied at 10-10 late in the second half. Plus, the Stallions lost their starting quarterback J’Mar Smith to an injury of his non-throwing hand.

Smith finished 10-for-15 for 160 yards with a touchdown and interception.

Birmingham called on backup quarterback Alex McCough to replace Smith.

It didn't take long for McCough to make a statement, as he threw a 6-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jace Sternberger on his first snap, to give the Stallions a 17-10 halftime lead.

McCough completed 7 of his 11 passes for 68 yards with one passing and one rushing touchdown.

In sort of a role reversal, McGough’s game-winning performance was identical to last year’s Stallions season opener. In that game, Smith was the one who replaced an injured McGough to lead the Stallions past the Generals.

New Jersey a chance to take the lead right before halftime, when DJ Daniel intercepted a pass from Smith’s to give the Generals’ the ball at Birmingham’s 15-yard line.

But the Generals had to settle for a 25-yard field goal by Nick Sciba, to tie the game at the break.

The Stallions put the game away in the third quarter when they forced New Jersey quarterback Dakota Prukop to fumble at the New Jersey 45.

A few plays later McCough scored on a 29-yard touchdown scamper to give the Stallions a 24-10 lead and take control of the momentum.

New Jersey 0 10 0 0 = 10

Birmingham 7 10 7 3 = 27

First Quarter

BHM—A. Watkins 61 pass from J. Smith (B. Aubrey kick), 12:26.

Second Quarter

NJ—D.Prukop 2 run (N.Sciba kick), 12:10.

BHM—B. Aubrey 23 field goal,8:13.

NJ—N.Sciba 25 field goal, 1:51.

BHM—J.Sternberger 6 pass from A. McGough (B. Aubrey kick), 0:04.

Third Quarter

BHM—A.McGough 29 run (B. Aubrey kick), 9:41.

Fourth Quarter

BHM—B. Aubrey 49 field goal, 6:49.