The Los Angeles Express were a standout team in the Los Angeles Express football legacy during the Los Angeles Express USFL era. Based in California, the team quickly earned attention for its young talent and exciting play style. Despite a short existence, the franchise made a lasting impact on spring football history.
Established
1983
City
Los Angeles
League History
1983 – 1985 / United States Football League
Team History
1983 – 1985 / Los Angeles Express
Nickname
Express – The Los Angeles Express was a professional American football team that played in the United States Football League (USFL) from 1983 to 1985. The Express had one of the most unique nicknames in all sports, and its origins are steeped in history.
Los Angeles Express Origin
The name “Express” was chosen by owner William Oldenburg as an homage to legendary 19th-century transcontinental railroad magnate Henry E. Huntington, who founded the Pacific Electric Railway Company - commonly known as “the Big Red Cars,” which connected many cities throughout Southern California during its heyday from 1901 to 1961. As such, when Oldenburg chose his team nickname, he wanted something that would conjure up images of transportation and speed – hence why he selected ‘Express.'
In addition to being a nod towards Huntington's railway system, another reason why Oldenburg opted for this particular moniker is that it also tied into Los Angeles' long-standing association with Hollywood movies, specifically those featuring trains or locomotives such as "Union Pacific" (1939), "Great Race" (1965) and even more recently "Polar Express" (2004). All these films featured express-style engines barreling down tracks at high speeds - much like how fans envisioned their beloved LA Express on game days!
So there you have it, sports fans! Next time you're cheering on your favorite USFL franchise, be sure not to remember its rich heritage behind its unique name: The Los Angeles EXPRESS!
Original USFL Team
Yes
Final USFL Team
No
Team’s Final Outlook
Unable to find a new owner for the Express, the league announced the team would suspend operations for the 1986 season.
Championship
USFL Championship 0
Stadium
1983 – 1985 / Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
Owner
1985 / United States Football League
1984 / J. William Oldenburg
1983 / Alan Harmon & Bill Daniels
Coaches
1984 – 1985 / John Hadl (14 wins – 24 losses)
1983 / Hugh Campbell (8 wins – 10 losses)
- 1983
- 1985
Express Team Formation
Cable television pioneers Alan Harmon and Bill Daniels were awarded a USFL franchise for San Diego when the league announced its formation in 1982. However, the city refused to grant the team a lease to play at Jack Murphy Stadium under pressure from the stadium’s existing tenants—baseball’s Padres, the NFL’s Chargers, and the NASL’s Sockers. The only other outdoor facility ...
Express Owner Problems
Then, just as quickly as the Express rose, they fell. Midway through the season, the FBI began investigating Oldenburg’s financial dealings. Multiple exposés by The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times revealed Oldenburg not only had a habit of luring savings and loans into questionable deals but was also nowhere near as well off as he had long ...
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Los Angeles Express History
The Los Angeles Express was a professional American football team that competed in the United States Football League (USFL) from 1983 to 1985. The team was based in Los Angeles, California, and was part of the exciting early era of Los Angeles Express football and Los Angeles Express USFL history. Competing against notable franchises like the New Jersey Generals, Birmingham Stallions, and Tampa Bay Bandits, the Express became one of the most talked-about teams in the league.
The franchise was founded by billionaire J. William Oldenburg, who paid a record $9 million for the team in 1983 — one of the highest prices ever for a USFL team at the time. Oldenburg invested heavily in talent, signing top college stars like Heisman Trophy winner Mike Rozier, future NFL Hall of Famer Steve Young, and offensive lineman Gary Zimmerman. Their presence brought instant credibility to the Los Angeles Express football scene, generating significant local and national attention.
During the 1984 season, the Los Angeles Express USFL team made waves by finishing with an 11–7 record under head coach John Hadl. Led by the young and athletic Steve Young, the Express became known for their thrilling offensive plays and strong defense. They advanced to the semifinals, where they faced the powerful Michigan Panthers. Despite a valiant effort, the Express fell short in a hard-fought 27–21 loss, ending what was their most successful season.
However, financial troubles soon overshadowed their on-field accomplishments. Owner Oldenburg defaulted on league payments and was later investigated for fraudulent business dealings, leading to instability within the organization. By 1985, the franchise was struggling to stay afloat, and the Los Angeles Express football operations were severely affected. The team often played in front of small crowds at the massive Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, marking a decline from its promising start.
Express Achievements
By the league’s final season, the Express were primarily supported by the USFL itself, with ownership uncertain and the roster depleted. Despite these hardships, they still managed to compete with determination, becoming a symbol of perseverance in the face of adversity. The Los Angeles Express USFL legacy remains significant for its contribution to spring football and for developing players who went on to shine in the NFL.
Memorable 1984 Playoff Run
One of the greatest achievements in Los Angeles Express football history came in 1984 when the team reached the USFL semifinals. With Steve Young showcasing his dual-threat ability and Gary Zimmerman anchoring the offensive line, the Express delivered some of the league’s most entertaining performances, proving that Los Angeles could be a strong football market outside the NFL.
Player Development and Legacy
Beyond wins and losses, the Los Angeles Express USFL was known for developing future NFL stars. Steve Young became a Super Bowl MVP, while Gary Zimmerman later entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Their journey from the Los Angeles Express to NFL greatness highlighted the team’s role in shaping professional football talent during the mid-1980s.
The Los Angeles Express may have been short-lived, but their influence remains a vital part of USFL history — representing ambition, talent, and the dream of creating a lasting spring football league.
Accomplishments
1984 / Conference Championship Game (vs Arizona Wranglers 23 – 35)
1984 / Division Champions (vs Michigan Panthers 27 – 21 OT)
Averaged 19,002 in 1983, 15,361 in 1984 and 8,415 in 1985 (93,607 seat stadium)
*Blue is this team’s history
