1983 Denver Gold: USFL's Most Supported Team
Denver was hungry for more pro football regardless of having the NFL’s Denver Broncos. Colorado residents showed their approval of their new team at the stadium turnstiles by leading the league in attendance with an average of 41,700 fans per game. This attendance came despite posting a losing record of 7–11 and while other team scrambled to ad star players, the Gold made due by signing strategic and affordable players.
Offensively, the Gold was led by the solid running game of Harry Sydney and Larry Canada but their passing game was a problem with neither Ken Johnson nor Jeff Knapple could generate many points. Former Bronco Craig Penrose and former Steeler Joe Gilliam didn’t offer much relief either. Defense was another story and placed third in the league in 1983. Led by defensive lineman Calvin Turner and linebacker Greg Gerken, the Gold defense kept the games close. Other standouts were David Martin, David Dumars, and Putt Choate.
RetroCards offers this 20-card set from their expansive 1983T Preview USFL set: Larry Canada, Putt Choate, Tom Davis, David Dumars, Greg Gerken, John Gilliam, Steve Gortz, Victor James, Ken Johnson, Jeff Knapple, David Martin, Bob Niziolek, Lonell Phea, Andy Poremba, Steve Rogers, Brian Speelman, Harry Sydney, Calvin Turner, Larry White, and head coach Red Miller. Order yours here!