Chicago Rush Defeat Rival Sabercats And Advance To 3-0
March 26, 2011 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Chicago Rush News Release
CHICAGO - The Chicago Rush (3-0) defeated the San Jose SaberCats (2-1) by a score of 54-41 in the return of one of the greatest rivalries in the Arena Football League.
The Rush team was led by a dominating performance by QB Russ Michna in which he passed for 229 yards with five touchdowns. Michna also rushed for 38 yards and two of Chicago's three rushing touchdowns.
"We are really proud of the way our team performed tonight," said Head Coach Bob McMillen. "The first half both teams played pretty sloppy but our players came out in the second half with a lot of intensity. They fought back and came away with a huge win against San Jose."
Rush WR Reggie Gray again proved to be a familiar target for Michna. He started the game quickly for the Rush with a 46 yard touchdown reception. Gray led the team with 149 yards receiving and two touchdowns.
"Russ places the ball really well and I just did my job," said Gray. "I feel great about the 3-0 start, and I plan on continuing to work hard, executing and improving."
The Rush defense also had a strong performance on the night holding the SaberCats offense to just seven points in the third quarter. Despite veteran SaberCat QB, Mark Grieb's, 279 yard passing performance, the Rush defense found a way to stop San Jose in the second half. Defensive Backs Vic Hall and Jason Simpson led the defense throughout the night. Hall ended the night with nine tackles, a tackle for a loss and an interception, while Simpson totaled eight tackles, two interceptions and took home Ironman of the Game honors.
"Jason has been a key element on our defense," said McMillen. "His intensity is unmatched. He works hard and he consistently finds a way to deliver."
The Rush travel to Cleveland to take on the Gladiators (1-0) next Saturday, April 2nd.
• Discuss this story on the Arena Football League message board...
Arena Football League Stories from March 26, 2011
- Blaze Fall To Predators, 68-53 - Utah Blaze
- Predators Win Home Opener - Orlando Predators
- Power Makes Roster Adjustments, Bernard Morris to IR, Anthony Morrelli Signed - Pittsburgh Power
- Chicago Rush Defeat Rival Sabercats And Advance To 3-0 - Chicago Rush
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
