USFL players in the running for MVP
#3 - Bryan Scott, QB, Philadelphia Stars
Bryan Scott started to make a name for himself in Canada before the option to return to the United States and the USFL. The decision has paid off as he has 558 yards and five touchdowns in three games.
He also has the best quarterback rating of any quarterback who has been a regular starter. But for Scott to win MVP, he will need to get the Philadelphia Stars back on the winning track. The team is 1-2 but just one game behind in the North Division standings. Notably, Scott did suffer an injury last week. Yet if he doesn't miss too much time, his MVP case stands.
#4 - Johnnie Dixon, WR, New Orleans Breakers
We go back to the Breakers to highlight the play of receiver Johnnie Dixon. While Sloter has done well under center, Dixon has elevated his game significantly.
The receiver has three touchdowns and 165 yards in three games. He is also second in the league in catches with 16. If he continues to be Sloter's top target, Dixon could be a dark-horse MVP contender, given his pace continues throughout the remainder of the season.
#5 - J'Mar Smith, QB, Birmingham Stallions
The injury to Scott could open the spot for J'Mar Smith to climb into the MVP conversation. The Birmingham Stallions quarterback has 581 passing yards and five touchdowns and has added 101 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground.
The rushing component is what will set Smith apart in the MVP discussion. Finishing with several thousand passing yards and anywhere around 500-700 rushing yards would be a significant feat in such a short season.
This would set him apart as a true dual-threat option who has the chance to change the way USFL defenses operate when facing the Stallions.