The Baltimore Stars were one of the most successful teams in USFL history. Known for their disciplined style and strong roster, the Baltimore Stars football team achieved remarkable success during their short existence. The franchise built a strong legacy in the league, making the Baltimore Stars USFL team a memorable part of spring football history.
Established
1983
City
Philadelphia – Baltimore
League History
1983 – 1986, 2022 - Present / United States Football League
Team History
1985 / Baltimore Stars
1983 – 1984, 2022 - Present / Philadelphia Stars
Nickname
Stars – The Baltimore Stars were a professional American football team that played in the United States Football League (USFL) from 1983 to 1985. The team was based in Baltimore, Maryland, and had an impressive record of 27-11 during their three seasons of play. Despite their success on the field, many fans may not know how they got their name.
Baltimore Stars Origin
The story behind the Baltimore Stars’ nickname goes back to 1982 when USFL founder David Dixon wanted each franchise to have a unique identity and chose names associated with stars or constellations for all 12 teams. Dixon felt these cosmic symbols would bring out the heroic nature of football players while giving each franchise its distinct brand image – something that has been embraced by sports teams ever since!
When it came time for naming his new Baltimore club, Dixon turned to local folklore about the “Baltimore Star” – a mythical figure said to have appeared over Fort McHenry during times of great crisis or danger centuries ago as if guiding ships into safety through troubled waters; this legendary character became closely linked with patriotism and protection throughout generations so it only made sense that he should become part of USFL history too!
Today there are still remnants around town honoring this beloved symbol, including street signs featuring star insignias along Pratt Street near Camden Yards - where baseball's Orioles now call home - as well as flags bearing five-pointed stars at various locations throughout downtown, which serve as reminders about our city's proud past...and future! So next time you're rooting for your favorite NFL team, remember: even though we may not know who first coined 'the Star' moniker here in Charm City, we can always thank Mr. Dixon for bringing us such an iconic representation today!
Championship
USFL Championship 1
1985, 1984
Stadium
1985 / Byrd Stadium
*Philadelphia*
2022 - Present / Protective Stadium/Legion Field (Birmingham, Alabama)
1984 Post Season / Franklin Field
1983 – 1984 / Veterans Stadium
Owner
2022 - Present / National Spring Football League Enterprises Co
1983 – 1986 / Myles Tanenbaum
- 1985
-
1985 USFL Champs
As a result, attendance sagged to the point that the Stars might have lost home-field advantage for the playoffs even with a winning record. ABC Sports, embarrassed at the dwindling attendance from around the league, told Usher it did not want to televise playoff games in near-empty stadiums. Since ABC had a disproportionate influence on league affairs due to the ...
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Baltimore Stars History
The Baltimore Stars were a professional American football team that competed in the United States Football League (USFL) from 1983 to 1985. Originally established as the Philadelphia Stars, the franchise relocated to Baltimore before the 1985 season. Owned by Myles Tanenbaum and led by head coach Jim Mora, the Baltimore Stars football team became one of the most dominant forces in USFL history.
Under Mora’s leadership, the Baltimore Stars quickly rose to prominence, capturing division titles in their first two seasons. Their disciplined defense and efficient offense helped them win back-to-back USFL championships in 1984 and 1985. These achievements made the Baltimore Stars football franchise one of the most successful teams in league history, earning widespread recognition across the USFL landscape.
The Baltimore Stars USFL roster featured several standout players, including quarterback Chuck Fusina, who earned MVP honors during their championship seasons. Other key contributors included running back Kelvin Bryant, wide receiver Scott Fitzkee, linebacker Sam Mills, and kicker David Trout. Their teamwork and consistency turned the Baltimore Stars football squad into a powerhouse, known for their resilience and tactical gameplay.
Stars Achievements
After relocating from Philadelphia, the Baltimore Stars faced several challenges, including low attendance and financial instability within the league. Despite these hurdles, they managed to win the 1985 USFL Championship, solidifying their place as one of the league’s all-time great franchises. Unfortunately, the USFL folded later that year, marking the end of an impressive era for the Baltimore Stars USFL team.
Back-to-Back USFL Championships
The Baltimore Stars football team achieved a rare feat by winning consecutive USFL titles in 1984 and 1985. This back-to-back triumph highlighted their dominance and established their legacy as one of the league’s most successful franchises.
Kelvin Bryant’s Stellar Performance
Running back Kelvin Bryant was a key player in the Baltimore Stars USFL success. His consistent rushing performances earned him league honors and cemented his reputation as one of the greatest players in USFL history.
Defensive Excellence Under Jim Mora
Head coach Jim Mora built one of the toughest defenses in Baltimore Stars football history. Led by Sam Mills and John Walker, the defense became the foundation of the team’s championship success.
Even decades later, the Baltimore Stars USFL franchise remains a symbol of excellence, teamwork, and competitive spirit—leaving a lasting legacy in the world of American football.
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Accomplishments
1985 / USFL Championship (vs Oakland Invaders 28 – 24)
1984 / USFL Championship (vs Arizona Wranglers 23 – 3)
1983 / USFL Championship Game (vs Michigan Panthers 22 – 24)
1985 / Conference Champions (vs Birmingham Stallions 28 – 14)
1984 / Conference Champions (vs Birmingham Stallions 20 – 10)
1985 / Divisional Champions (vs New Jersey Generals 20 – 17)
1984 / Divisional Champions (vs New Jersey Generals 28 – 7)
1983 / Divisional Champions (vs Chicago Blitz 44 – 38 OT)
Averaged 14,275 fans (34,680 seat stadium)
*Blue is this team’s history