TURN BACK THE CLOCK
How professional football in Houston just got a lot more interesting
Nov 23, 2021, 4:58 pm
The '80s football team is back. Photo by Stephen Dunn/Allsport/Getty Images.
How Texans fans could have something new and different to root for
Back in the '80s, Houstonians were in pro football bliss, with the Houston Oilers and bruising future Hall of Fame running back/human train Earl Campbell, and the high-flying run-and-shoot Houston Gamblers, led by Jim Kelly (also a future Hall of Famer).
Now, fans of that super-short Gamblers era (three seasons) can don their red and black jerseys, as the Gamblers are back as part of a return of the United States Football League. The USFL announced the Gamblers and seven other teams across the U.S. will kick off a new season in April 2022.
USFL organizers plan to launch the league in the spring that promises "high-quality, innovative professional football to fans," per an announcement.
No word yet on where the Gamblers will play home games, but ABC13 notes that published reports point to all first-season games being played in Birmingham, Alabama. Broadcast partners currently considered are USA Network, Fox Sports, Fox, and NBC.
Other teams in the USFL are the New Jersey Generals, Michigan Panthers, Philadelphia Stars, Pittsburgh Maulers, Birmingham Stallions, New Orleans Breakers, and Tampa Bay Bandits.
Continue on CultureMap to learn more.
Most Popular
SportsMap Emails
Are Awesome
Listen Live
The Astros have placed Lance McCullers on the 15-day injured list due to a blister on his right finger, retroactive to July 20. The setback adds another layer of uncertainty to McCullers’ return as he continues working his way back into form.
Right-hander Nick Hernandez has been recalled and will take McCullers’ spot on the active roster.
McCullers has struggled as of late, allowing 18 runs in his four starts since returning from the IL (foot). Lance has a 6.90 ERA over 44.1 innings this season.
We have made the following roster moves: pic.twitter.com/qkkXdrfrdJ
— Houston Astros (@astros) July 22, 2025
___________________________
*ChatGPT assisted.
Looking to get the word out about your business, products, or services? Consider advertising on SportsMap! It's a great way to get in front of Houston sports fans. Click the link below for more information!