The reincarnated USFL begins its 2022 season on Saturday when the Birmingham Stallions host the New Jersey Generals.
The new USFL features eight teams in two divisions. The Stallions, Houston Gamblers, New Orleans Breakers and Tampa Bay Bandits are in the South Division; Generals, Michigan Panthers, Philadelphia Stars and Pittsburgh Maulers comprise the North Division.
The USFL held its draft on Feb. 22-23, with the Michigan Panthers selecting former Michigan Wolverines quarterback Shea Patterson with the No. 1 overall pick. Jeff Fisher (Michigan Panthers), Todd Haley (Tampa Bay Bandits) and Kevin Sumlin (Houston Gamblers) are among the notable head coaches.
USFL IS BACK: Players to watch as season kicks off this weekend
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The original USFL played three seasons, from 1983 to 1985, in the spring. A decision to move the league to a fall schedule ultimately brought its demise. Five future Pro Football Hall of Fame players came from the original USFL: quarterbacks Jim Kelly (Houston Gamblers) and Steve Young (LA Express), defensive lineman Reggie White (Memphis Showboats), offensive lineman Gary Zimmerman (LA Express) and linebacker Sam Mills (Philadelphia Stars).
How many games will USFL play in 2022?
The 2022 USFL schedule consists of a 10-game regular season, with the regular-season finales on June 19. The first round of the playoffs will be June 25, with the two top teams in each division qualifying for the postseason. The championship game – North champion vs. South champion – will be played July 3.
Where are USFL games played?
The entire regular season will be played in Birmingham, Alabama, at either Protective Stadium or Legion Field. The USFL’s playoff games will be played at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio.
How to watch USFL games
USFL games will be broadcast on Fox or NBC networks. Some games will stream exclusively on Peacock. Games can also be streamed live via FuboTV.
Here’s a breakdown of how many games will appear on TV this USFL season: Fox (14 games), NBC (9), USA Network (9), FS1 (8), Peacock (4).
How to watch USFL 2022 opening weekend
Saturday
New Jersey Generals at Birmingham Stallions, 7:30 p.m. ET (Fox and NBC)
Sunday
Houston Gamblers at Michigan Panthers, 12 p.m. ET (NBC)
Philadelphia Stars at New Orleans Breakers, 4 p.m. ET (USA)
Tampa Bay Bandits at Pittsburgh Maulers, 8 p.m. ET (FS1)
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: USFL 2022 opening weekend games: Live stream and TV info