The Arizona Outlaws were one of the standout teams in the Arizona Outlaws USFL era, representing the United States Football League with determination and energy. Formed through a merger, the team brought exciting football to Arizona fans. Their brief but impactful journey in the USFL remains a cherished part of spring football history.
Established
1983
City
Tempe – Oklahoma City – Tempe
League History
1983 – 1986 / United States Football League
Team History
1985 / Arizona Outlaws
1983 – 1984 / Arizona Wranglers
1984 / Oklahoma Outlaws
Nickname
Outlaws – The Arizona Outlaws of the USFL are a storied franchise with a unique nickname. The name derives from an old Western term that refers to someone outside the law and beyond its reach. This perfectly encapsulates the spirit of football in America, representing those who go against convention and strive for greatness despite any obstacles they may face.
The team’s logo also reflects this sentiment, featuring two crossed pistols symbolizing strength and power while conveying defiance towards authority or status quo thinking. The colors chosen were black and gold, further emphasizing their rebellious attitude by representing wealth without being ostentatious or flashy, like some other teams in professional sports tend to be.
Arizona Outlaws Origin
Aside from just looking cool, there is a lot of history behind why this moniker was chosen for Arizona's USFL team in 1983 when they first joined the league. It all began with owner William Tatham Jr., who wanted something that would capture his vision for what he hoped his organization could become: one that went against conventional wisdom but still achieved success on its terms regardless of how much opposition it faced along the way – just like an outlaw!
This idea resonated strongly with both players and fans alike, which helped make them one of the most popular teams during their three-year run before eventually folding after the 1986 season due to financial difficulties caused by a lack of support from other owners throughout the league at the time (as well as general instability caused by various issues related USFL). Despite not lasting very long, the legacy lives on through stories shared between generations about “the wild bunch” known collectively as “Arizona Outlaws,” - proving once again why sometimes going your way can have great rewards even if the path isn't always easy!
Original USFL Team
No
Final USFL Team
Yes
Team’s Final Outlook
The Outlaws were one of eight teams slated to play in 1986. After the Portland Breakers folded while the antitrust trial was still underway, the Outlaws were the only team west of the Mississippi River left in the league.
Championship
USFL Championship 0
Stadium
1983 – 1985 / Sun Devil Stadium
*Oklahoma*
1984 / Skelly Stadium
Owner
1984 – 1986 / William R. Tatham Sr., William R. Tatham Jr.
1984 / Dr. Ted Diethrich
1983 / Jim Joseph
Coaches
1985 / Frank Kush (8 wins – 10 losses)
1984 / Woody Widenhofer (6 wins – 12 losses)
1984 / George Allen (12 wins – 9 losses)
1983 / Doug Shivley (4 wins – 14 losses)
- 1985
-
Teaming Up with the Outlaws
Ultimately, Diethrich agreed to merge the Wranglers with the Outlaws. The merged team was to be known as the Arizona Outlaws and would take the Wranglers’ place at Arizona State University’s Sun Devil Stadium. Initially, the Tatham’s owned 75 percent of the merged team, with Diethrich retaining 25 percent. However, Diethrich quickly decided to get out altogether. Since the Tatham’s ...
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Arizona Outlaws History
The Arizona Outlaws were a professional American football team that competed in the United States Football League (USFL) during its short but impactful run from 1983 to 1985. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, the team was owned by businessman William Tatham Jr. and quickly became one of the more recognizable names in spring football. Under the guidance of head coach Frank Kush, the Arizona Outlaws USFL team built a reputation for toughness and strong on-field discipline, qualities that reflected Kush’s coaching legacy.
During their time in the league, the Arizona Outlaws recorded a solid overall performance, finishing with 24 wins and 16 losses. The 1984 season, in particular, was one of the franchise’s most memorable campaigns. That year, they posted a 12-6 record, earning a spot in the USFL Championship Game against George Allen’s Baltimore Stars.
The game, played on June 30, 1984, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, ended in a narrow 28–24 loss. Despite falling short, the Outlaws’ appearance in the title game marked one of the highlights of Frank Kush’s career — joining his previous successes at Arizona State University, where he led the Sun Devils to multiple major bowl appearances, including their first Rose Bowl.
Outlaws Achievements
The Arizona Outlaws USFL team faced growing challenges off the field despite strong performances. Financial instability became a recurring problem for the ownership group. Declining attendance, high player salaries, and the league’s overly ambitious plan to compete directly with the NFL strained team finances. In an effort to survive, the team eventually merged with the Oklahoma Outlaws, forming a combined franchise that carried on the Arizona Outlaws name for the 1985 season.
Unfortunately, the merger was not enough to save the team or the USFL itself. The league’s collapse after the 1985 season brought an end to the Arizona Outlaws football journey. Still, the franchise left behind a legacy of memorable players and moments that helped shape the history of alternative professional football in the United States.
Strong 1984 Season Performance
The Arizona Outlaws USFL squad’s 1984 campaign remains one of their most successful seasons, highlighted by a 12–6 record and an appearance in the USFL Championship Game. This achievement showcased their resilience, competitiveness, and commitment to high-level play despite being a relatively new franchise.
Player Success and Legacy
The team featured talented athletes, including quarterback Doug Williams, who later became Super Bowl XXII MVP with the Washington Redskins. His success in both the USFL and NFL symbolized the talent level that emerged from the Arizona Outlaws football program.
Coaching Excellence
Head coach Frank Kush brought his signature toughness and leadership to the Arizona Outlaws, turning them into a disciplined and aggressive football team. His contributions to both Arizona State University and the USFL further solidified his status as one of Arizona’s most respected football figures.
The Arizona Outlaws may have existed for only a short time, but their influence in the USFL remains significant. They are remembered for their grit, passion, and the key role they played in the history of American spring football.
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Accomplishments
Averaged 17,881 fans (40,235 seat stadium)
*Blue is this team’s history
