The San Francisco Demons were a professional football team in the 2001 XFL season, representing the Bay Area with pride. As part of the XFL San Francisco Demons franchise, they played home games at Pacific Bell Park and became known for their dedicated fanbase, fierce gameplay, and lasting impact on the city’s football culture.
Established
1999
City
San Francisco Demons
League History
2001 / XFL
Team History
2001 / San Francisco Demons
Nickname
Demons – The San Francisco Demons of the XFL have a long and storied history that dates back to 2001. The team was founded by Vince McMahon, who owns World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). While many theories about the name “Demons” came about, one popular theory suggests an old Bay Area legend inspired it.
San Francisco Demons Origin
As the story goes, in 1849, during California's Gold Rush era, a group of miners discovered what they believed to be gold near San Francisco. Unfortunately, their discovery was only iron pyrite or "fool's gold." In frustration and anger over being tricked into believing they had struck it rich, these miners cursed at their misfortune and referred to themselves as "demons" due to their disappointment with not finding real gold.
This legend has been passed down through generations in San Francisco. This could explain why Vince McMahon chose this nickname when creating his XFL franchise in 2001 – because it pays homage both geographically and culturally to its roots deeply embedded within local folklore.
For sports fans living in or around San Francisco, this connection between past events from so long ago can still bring joy today, thanks primarily to those same Demons bringing excitement each week on game day! Whether you’re cheering for your home team or just visiting town for some football action, take time out before kickoff each weekend at least once season-long journey through history that started all way back during California’s Gold Rush days!
Championship
XFL Championships 0
Stadium
2001 / Pacific Bell Park
Owner
2001 / World Wrestling Federation
- 2001
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Demons Team Formation
The San Francisco Demons (originally named San Jose Demons) was a short-lived springtime American football team based in San Francisco, California. This team was part of the failed XFL begun by Vince McMahon of World Wrestling Entertainment and by NBC, a major television network in the United States. Originally they were to be based in San Jose but prior to ...
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San Francisco Demons History
The San Francisco Demons were a professional football team that competed in the XFL San Francisco Demons 2001 season. The team was based in San Francisco, California, and played their home games at Pacific Bell Park. They were among the eight original teams formed when Vince McMahon’s XFL launched, aiming to create a faster and more entertaining brand of football.
The San Francisco Demons quickly became one of the league’s most popular teams due to their fierce defense, passionate fanbase, and high-energy atmosphere. The team was led by head coach Jim Skipper and featured standout players such as quarterback Mike Pawlawski, wide receiver Brian Roberson, and running back Kelvin Anderson. Their commitment and grit made the XFL San Francisco Demons a strong competitor throughout the season.
During the 2001 XFL campaign, the San Francisco Demons finished the regular season with a 5–5 record, securing a playoff berth. They shocked many by defeating the Orlando Rage in the semifinals, advancing to the league’s only championship game, the Million Dollar Game, where they faced the Los Angeles Xtreme. Despite a hard-fought effort, the Demons fell short with a 38–6 loss, ending their impressive run.
The XFL San Francisco Demons were celebrated for their loyal fanbase, known as the “Demon faithful,” who packed Pacific Bell Park every weekend. The team drew some of the largest crowds in the league, proving that San Francisco had a true passion for football beyond the NFL. Their games were known for their energy, with fans waving red flags and chanting throughout.
Demons Achievements
Even though the XFL folded after one season due to financial issues and declining TV ratings, the San Francisco Demons left a lasting legacy. They represented the heart and determination of alternative football, showing that passion and community spirit could create something memorable, even in a short time.
XFL Championship Appearance (2001)
The San Francisco Demons reached the XFL Championship Game in 2001, a major achievement during the league’s inaugural season. Their playoff victory over the Orlando Rage remains one of the most memorable upsets in XFL history.
Strong Fanbase Recognition
Among all XFL teams, the XFL San Francisco Demons had one of the highest average attendances. Their dedicated following made their home games some of the most electrifying atmospheres in the league, earning recognition as one of the XFL’s best fan experiences.
Coach
2001 / Jim Skipper
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history