DBs Varner, Thomas Earn Weekly AFL Awards
March 25, 2014 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Orlando Predators News Release
ORLANDO, FL - The Arena Football League announced today that two Orlando Predators defenders earned weekly honors for their role in the team's 69-63 victory over the LA KISS on Friday night. Jack linebacker Tanner Varner was named the Riddell Defensive Player of the Week, while defensive back Phillip Thomas earned Cutters Catch of the Week Accolades.
Varner (6-0, 195, Northern Iowa) put forth a game-changing effort on the defensive side of the ball, accounting for two of the Predators four takeaways as he totaled a team-high six tackles with two interceptions. With Orlando trailing 35-28 late in the first half, Varner broke on a pass by KISS quarterback J.J. Raterink and secured the interception before racing 44 yards to the end zone for the touchdown.
With the game tied at 56-56 in the final frame, Varner helped Orlando earn its first lead of the night with another momentum-shifting play. Facing fourth-and-goal, Raterink attempted another throw over the middle, only to have it tipped into the arms of Varner. Varner gained 30 yards on the return to set up a short touchdown run by quarterback Jason Boltus, giving the Predators a 63-56 lead with under a minute remaining in the contest.
Varner made his presence felt once again in overtime, but it was defensive back Phillip Thomas (6-0, 195, Syracuse) who ultimately made the game's deciding play to earn the Cutters Catch of the Week. On the first play from scrimmage during the overtime period, Raterink would have his final throw tipped over the middle as Varner once again got his hands in the passing lane. With the ball in the air, Thomas put his physical prowess on display as he elevated off the turf and outmuscled a receiver to come down with the interception. Thomas advanced the turnover 17 yards up field, setting up a one-yard game-winning touchdown run by Boltus to seal the Predators victory.
Later this week, the Arena Football League will also announce its MVP of the Week following a fan vote. Candidates include Predators wide receiver Khalil Paden, who registered six receptions for a game-high 154 yards with two touchdowns. Fans will have 24 hours to vote on ArenaFootball.com beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Wednesday, March 26. The winner will be announced on Thursday, March 27.
The Orlando Predators take to the road for the first time during the 2014 season in Week 3, as the team renews its rivalry with the Tampa Bay Storm in the "War on I-4." The matchup is set to be nationally televised on CBS Sports Network.
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