Gary Anderson Game-Issued Jersey #43 USFL Tampa Bay Bandits 1983 COA 100% Authentic

Presented is a rare 1983 USFL Tampa Bay Bandits game jersey. It was issued to running back, Gary Anderson.  The offered [size] “L” Champion jersey was from his USFL tenure (1983). It is a white mesh body, the craze among jerseys of the mid ’80s. It has Anderson’s number “43” in black with red outline on the front and back, as well as smaller versions on each shoulder. The Bandits logo is pressed into each sleeve. “ANDERSON” in black tackle twill on nameplate adorns the back. The jersey exhibits little to no playing wear (some discoloration from storage/age is present) making it game-issued.

The Tampa Bay Bandits were a professional American football team in the United States Football League (USFL) which was based in Tampa, Florida. The Bandits were a charter member of the USFL and was the only franchise to have the same principal owner (John F. Bassett), head coach (Steve Spurrier), and home field (Tampa Stadium) during the league’s three seasons of play (1983–1985).

The Bandits were one of the most successful teams in the short-lived spring football league both on the field and at the ticket booth. Spurrier’s “Bandit Ball” offense led them to three winning seasons and two playoff appearances, and their exciting brand of play combined with innovative local marketing helped the Bandits lead the league in attendance. However, the franchise folded along with the rest of the USFL when the league suspended play after the 1985 season.

Gary Anderson was drafted in the first round of the 1983 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers, but could not agree on a contract. Instead, Anderson signed to play for the Tampa Bay Bandits of the USFL in 1983 after a college football career at the University of Arkansas. Anderson started late in the season and quickly became the starting running back for the Bandits. He finished with 516 yards on 97 carries with 4 touchdowns in 1983. In 1984, Anderson rushed for 1008 yards on 268 carries and scored 19 touchdowns (league leader). In 1985, Anderson had his best USFL season as he rushed for 1207 yards on 276 carries and had 16 touchdowns. He was named to one All-Star team in his USFL career and is the 4th leading rusher in USFL history.