The Birmingham Stallions history reflects a legacy of strength and determination in professional football. Competing as part of the UFL Birmingham Stallions, the team has built a strong reputation for excellence. Over the years, Birmingham Stallions football has captured fans’ hearts with thrilling performances and consistent success on the field.
Established
1983
City
Birmingham
League History
2024 - Present / UFL
1983 – 1986, 2022 - 2024 / United States Football League
Team History
1983 – 1985, 2022 - Present / Birmingham Stallions
Nickname
Stallions – The Birmingham Stallions of the United States Football League (USFL) have a unique nickname that has been around since their inception in 1983. The name “Stallions” was chosen to honor the city of Birmingham and its rich history with horses.
Birmingham Stallions Origin
Birmingham is located in Jefferson County, Alabama, home to several horse racing tracks, such as Talladega Superspeedway and Fair Park Race Track. Horse racing has been popular throughout the area for centuries and is a significant part of local culture today. The name “Stallions” was chosen as an homage to this long-standing tradition, representing strength, power, courage, and determination—qualities shared by horses and football players alike!
In addition to honoring local equestrian heritage through their nickname choice, many believe that it also reflects on some other aspects of Birmingham itself—specifically its industrial heritage from being heavily involved in steel production during the World War II era when they were known as "Steel City." This connection between steel production/manufacturing & stallion strength makes perfect sense, given how important these industries were at once for providing jobs and helping build America into what it is today!
Overall, we can see why the USFL chose ‘Stallions’ for their team based out of Birmingham – it pays tribute both directly & indirectly towards everything this great city stands for hard work ethic combined with strong traditions rooted deeply within its history! Learn more about Birmingham Stallions history below!
Championship
UFL Championships 1
2024
USFL Championships 1
2022
Stadium
2022 - Present / Protective Stadium
1983 – 1985 / Legion Field
Owner
2022 - Present / National Spring Football League Enterprises Co
1983 – 1986 / Marvin L. Warner
- 1983
- 1985
- 1986
- 2022
- 2022
- 2022
- 2024
-
Birmingham Stallions Team Formation
The owner was Cincinnati financier and Birmingham native Marvin Warner. The team’s coach was Rollie Dotsch, who was previously an assistant with the Pittsburgh Steelers during its Super Bowl years and ended up with the second-most wins in USFL history. The Stallions starting QB in 1984 & 1985 was Cliff Stoudt, a long-time backup to Terry Bradshaw with the Steelers. ... -
The Stallions repeated as Southern Division champions
In 1985: The Stallions repeated as Southern Division champions with a 13-5 record, earning another playoff spot. Stoudt, Cribbs and Smith remain as the team’s offensive leaders, ranking fourth, sixth, and fifth in passing yards (3,358), rushing yards (1,042), and receiving yards (1,252) respectively. The Stallions defeat the Houston Gamblers 22-20 in the divisional round of the playoffs but lose ... -
USFL suspends operations – Birmingham Stallions Suspended
In 1986: The USFL suspends operations after losing an antitrust lawsuit against the NFL. The Stallions are one of eight teams that agree to play in a proposed fall season in 1986, but the league ultimately folds before it can take place. -
The Re-Formation of the Stallions
The Birmingham Stallions were one of eight teams that were officially announced as a USFL franchise on The Herd with Colin Cowherd on November 22, 2021 On January 6, 2022, It was revealed that NCAA Coach Gene Chizik would become the head coach of the Stallions. Chizik confirmed the report, but the parties never reached an agreement and he ultimately ... -
Skip Holtz is named as the head coach
In the year 2022, a significant announcement echoed through the sports world as Skip Holtz, an esteemed figure in American football, was declared as the head coach and general manager of the team. Holtz, known for his tactical acumen and leadership skills, took over the reins of both pivotal positions in a stride to propel the team to new heights ... -
Stallions wins their first USFL title
The Stallions defeated the New Orleans Breakers 31-17 in the divisional championship game and advance to the USFL Championship Game. The Stallions defeated the Philadelphia Stars 33-30 at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, winning their first USFL title. Victor Bolden Jr. wins the USFL Championship Game Most Valuable Player Award. -
UFL Inaugural Crown Goes to Birmingham: Stallions Run Wild
The 2024 UFL Championship game was a dominant display of power by the Birmingham Stallions, who defeated the San Antonio Brahmas 31-0 to claim the inaugural UFL title. The Stallions, led by quarterback Adrian Martinez, showcased a suffocating defense that completely shut down the Brahmas’ offense. The game was a testament to the Stallions’ experience and consistency as they continued ...
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Birmingham Stallions History
The Birmingham Stallions history is filled with pride, perseverance, and success that define their place in professional football. Competing as part of the UFL Birmingham Stallions, this team has become a symbol of dedication and passion in modern football. The Birmingham Stallions football franchise first gained recognition for its consistency and ability to produce competitive rosters year after year.
Originally founded in 1982 by Bill Putnam Jr., the Birmingham Stallions football franchise was created to bring professional football to the heart of Alabama. With Putnam’s leadership and local investment, the team began its journey in the United States Football League (USFL), where it quickly became a fan favorite. The Stallions captured the city’s attention with their relentless energy and growing reputation for toughness and teamwork, laying the foundation for what would later evolve into the UFL Birmingham Stallions legacy.
During the early years, the team faced its share of challenges but steadily improved through strong coaching and talented players. Between 1983 and 1985, the Birmingham Stallions football team reached the playoffs three consecutive times, facing formidable opponents like Jim Kelly’s Houston Gamblers and Steve Young’s Los Angeles Express. Each of those appearances strengthened the franchise’s resolve and fan loyalty, cementing its reputation as one of the most respected football programs in the South.
The 1986 season marked a major turning point in Birmingham Stallions history when the team acquired quarterback Doug Williams from the Oklahoma Outlaws. His leadership and skill helped the Stallions reach the Championship Game, where they fought bravely against the Tampa Bay Bandits at the Pontiac Silverdome in Michigan. Despite a close loss, the team earned national respect for its grit and resilience.
Stallions Achievements
The following season in 1987 saw the Birmingham Stallions football team return with determination, facing the Denver Gold in another fierce playoff run. Though they finished as runners-up once again, their effort and spirit made them one of the most admired teams in American football. Over time, their legacy carried forward as the franchise became part of the UFL Birmingham Stallions, blending tradition with a new era of professional football.
2023 UFL Championship Victory
In the modern era of UFL Birmingham Stallions competition, the team achieved a historic milestone by winning the 2023 UFL Championship. Led by strong coaching and balanced offense and defense, the Stallions showcased elite-level performance throughout the season. This victory not only strengthened the Birmingham Stallions history but also established them as one of the most successful teams in Birmingham Stallions football legacy.
The UFL Birmingham Stallions continue to represent excellence, dedication, and southern pride. Their inspiring journey, from their USFL beginnings to their present-day triumphs, ensures that the Birmingham Stallions history remains one of the most celebrated in American sports.
Sports Fan Products
Accomplishments
1985 / Conference Championship Game (vs Baltimore Stars 14 – 28)
1984 / Conference Championship Game (vs Philadelphia Stars 10 – 20)
1985 / Division Champions (vs Houston Gamblers 22 – 20)
1984 / Division Champions (vs Tampa Bay Bandits 36 – 17)
Averaged 22,046 in 1983, 36,850 in 1984 and 32,065 in 1985 (71,594 seat stadium)
*Blue is this team’s history