The Michigan Panthers successfully executed multiple trick plays on Friday night.
But it was a fundamental error that ultimately cost them a chance to win the game.
Trailing the Tampa Bay Bandits 27-20 with less than two minutes left to play, Michigan quarterback Shea Patterson completed a pass to Cameron Scarlett. However, as the running back turned to cross midfield he was hit from the side and fumbled the ball, which was recovered by Tampa Bay linebacker Emmanuel Beal.
The Bandits ran out the clock to win the game and send the Panthers to 1-4 on the season.
It was a disappointing end to what was by far Michigan’s most explosive offensive performance of the USFL season. Patterson, who has struggled through the air, was 23-for-37 for 304 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. He added eight rushes for 46 yards.
“It’s just more time, more reps, and the offense,” Panthers coach Jeff Fisher said of Patterson’s improved play. “You know, he settled down, made some really good throws, but that’s the immediate answer.”
Michigan used some trickery to take the early lead, executing a double pass when Patterson threw to WR Joe Walker, who then hit TE Ryan O’Malley for the 30-yard score to put the Panthers on the board early.
On Tampa Bay’s ensuing drive, the Bandits answered with an unconventional score of their own when running back Juwan Washington fumbled the ball, which was picked up by Bandits QB Jordan Ta’amu, who then tossed a 50-yard touchdown to wide receiver Derrick Dillon.
Another Michigan trick play led to more points. Kicker Cole Murphy connected with Scarlett for a 9-yard gain and a clutch first down. The drive ended with a field goal.
Washington scored the first of his two TDs on the next drive, scoring from three yards out to give the Bandits a 13-10 lead. A 41-yard field goal from Murphy tied the game 13-13 at halftime.
The offense opened up in the second half. Tampa Bay was the first to strike when QB Jordan Ta’amu launched a 43-yard TD bomb to WR John Franklin, giving the Bandits a 20-13 advantage.
A red zone interception stymied the next Michigan drive, but Patterson redeemed himself in the fourth quarter when he connected with tight end La’Michael Pettway, who made a sprawling, 25-yard catch to tie the game.
Washington added a 30-yard score in the fourth quarter that gave Tampa Bay the 27-20 lead, which they never gave up.
Michigan returns to action against the hometown Birmingham Stallions in Week 6. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 21. The game can be seen on NBC.
GAME NOTES
Michigan’s normally potent rushing attack never got going in this one. Running back Reggie Corbin, who has broken the 100-yard mark in three straight weeks, rushed for 28 yards on 12 carries.
Fellow running back Stevie Scott was even worse, gaining 7 yards on five carries.
Michigan’s field goal late in the first half was set up by a big play. Patterson connected with wide receiver Lance Lenoir for a much-needed 41-yard gain down the far sidelines. Lenoir finished with 6 catches for 86 yards.
Cornerback Tino Ellis led the Michigan defense with seven total tackles.
Michigan lost the game despite winning the possession battle by more than 10 minutes and outgaining Tampa Bay 407 to 273.
PREVIOUS GAMES
WEEK 1: Sloppy start dooms Shea Patterson, Michigan Panthers in opening USFL loss to Houston Gamblers
WEEK 2: Offense sputters as Michigan Panthers lose to New Jersey Generals, fall to 0-2 in USFL return
WEEK 3: Michigan Panthers run wild, shut out Pittsburgh Maulers for first USFL win
WEEK 4: Missed 21-yard field goal costs Michigan Panthers in 26-25 loss to Philadelphia Stars
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