Lions Defeat Rage
March 27, 2017 - National Arena League (NAL)
Columbus Lions News Release
COLUMBUS GA-The Columbus Lions traveled all the way from their peaceful home in the Bi-city area to scenic Corpus Christi, Texas this weekend. Upon arrival they systematically destroyed the Corpus Christi Rage 85-18. The game wasn't even close from the start as the hungry defense knocked out the starting Corpus Christi QB in the first series of the game, forcing a fumble and creating a quick 7-0 Lions. After 1, the score was 23-6 good guys, and the Lions continued the onslaught on the offense and defense, causing several Corpus turnovers, en route to a 45-6 halftime score. The dominance continued in the second half, as the Lions refused to allow the Rage any leeway on either side of the ball. After the end of the 3rd quarter the score was 63-12, as the Lions continued to feast on the Rage. In the 4th quarter it was more of the same, as the Lions continued to punish the Rage, scoring three more touchdowns, finishing the fight with a vicious 85-18 victory.
The game also marked the first start of the season for QB Darren Daniel who was 9-17 for 134 yards and 6 TDs. Daniel was named the Little Caesars Offense Player of the Game. WR Mike Reeve scored 3 TDs for the Lions, and Jarmon Fortson added 5 grabs for 116 yds and TDs. The Spragues /NAPA catch of the week was hauled in by Tristin Purifoy, who raced by the defender and caught a mesmerizing 45 yd TD pass from Darren Daniel.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Lions caused 8 turnovers, 7 interceptions and one fumble recovery. Kyle Griswould had three interceptions, Chris Smith had two and Derrius Brooks and Tyler Stephenson added one each. Griswould, Smith and Brooks all returned a pick for a touchdown as the Lions defense outscored the entire Rage team, 20-18.
The Collisions Surgeon hit of the week is awarded to Joe Marshall, who landed a paralyzing block on a Rage defender during one of the interception returns. Joe Marshall also switched to Fullback after veteran Brandon Thomas went down with an injury in the first half and was taken to a local hospital after being carted off the field. It is unclear the extent of Thomas' injuries as he spent the night in the hospital and will undergo an MRI upon return to Columbus.
The Lions next game is April 2nd at home, versus in-state rivals the Georgia Firebirds. The gates open at 5pm and kickoff is at 6pm. For tickets, visit the Civic Center box office or go online to www.columbuslions.net.
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National Arena League Stories from March 27, 2017
- Lions Defeat Rage - Columbus Lions
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