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Game Preview: Thunder vs Shock

May 30, 2014 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Portland Thunder News Release


PORTLAND, OR - The Portland Thunder and Spokane Shock feel completely different about themselves compared to the first time the teams met.

Earlier in the season, the Thunder were on their third quarterback to take snaps in the first four weeks, searching for an answer. With the loss of 2013 AFL MVP Erik Meyer to a broken collarbone, the Shock find themselves on their third person playing quarterback since his departure.

The Thunder, however, are riding high off a win over the San Antonio Talons that put them in the driver's seat for the fourth playoff spot in the National Conference. With Spokane on a three-game losing streak since Meyer's injury, the third seed is also starting to look like it may be up for grabs.

In order to get it, the Thunder offense will have to continue improving. With the re-acquisition of Jeffrey Solomon, the Thunder now have two receivers that are consistent threats for big games, in yardage and in touchdowns. Solomon and Eric Rogers are a tandem that can strike fear in even the best defenses in the league.

The Thunder defense has continued its excellent play, picking off three passes and recovering a fumble against the Talons last week - they lead the league in turnovers forced with 31.

DBs Eric Crocker and Varmah Sonie continue a spirited battle to see who can create the most turnovers. Crocker has six interceptions; Sonie has five. Sonie, however, has forced two fumbles to Crocker's one.

Spokane's Terrance Sanders has proven adept at taking the ball away, as well. Two of his five interceptions this season came in the first matchup betweent these two teams, where he helped turn the game into a blowout with a fourth-quarter interception return for a touchdown.

QB Danny Southwick was held to just three passing touchdowns last time he visited Spokane - after putting up 5-plus touchdowns in each of his other full contests since then, he'll look to continue that streak.

Whatever happens Friday night, it's unlikely to end up like the matchup on April 12. The Thunder hope things have changed enough to walk out of Spokane with another win.

This week's game can be watched in the Portland area on ESPN3 or at the official Thunder away-game viewing party at The Fields Bar & Grill in the Pearl District. The game will also be broadcast on 750 AM The Game. To join in a Twitter post-game press conference, tweet questions for coaches or players at #ThunderFPC; they'll respond on the @pdxthunder Twitter account.

To keep up with everything going on with the Thunder, visit our website at www.portlandthunder.com or keep up with us on Facebook (facebook.com/PDXThunder), Twitter or Instagram (@PDXThunder).



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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.

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