Sports stats



LA KISS-AZ Rattlers: 4 Things to Watch

May 20, 2016 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Los Angeles KISS News Release


The LA KISS will look to win back-to-back games for the first time in 2016 on Saturday when they visit the Arizona Rattlers at the Talking Stick Resort Arena. Here are four storylines to look for heading into the Week 8 matchup.

1) WILL THE LA KISS DEFENSE SLOW DOWN THE RATTLERS OFFENSE?

Last time out, the LA KISS defense had a monstrous game against the Steel in Week 6. As a whole, they tallied five interceptions, which was one more than they had in the first five games combined. With Rayshaun Kizer still sidelined with an injury he suffered in Week 5, Fredrick Obi and Josh Victorian will have to continue to play at a high level; Obi and Victorian lead the LA KISS in tackles and have combined for five of the team's nine interceptions. This week Rod Windsor and the high-powered Arizona Rattlers offense will test the LA KISS' defense. Windsor currently leads the league in every major receiving category and the Rattlers boast the highest scoring offense in the AFL. Keep an eye out for the LA KISS' defensive line to put pressure on the quarterback to limit Windsor's deep threat potential.

2) WILL THE LA KISS CONTROL THE THIRD QUARTER?

The third quarter has been one of the major deciding factors for the LA KISS this season. In their three losses, they have been outscored by 41 points in the third quarter and are plus 13 in games that they have been victorious. Furthermore the LA KISS are 0-3 in games where they have been outscored in the quarter and 3-0 in all other games. The LA KISS need to make sure they are rested at halftime and are firing on all cylinders to start the second half.

3) WILL THE LA KISS SPECIAL TEAMS BE ABLE TO IMPROVE?

The LA KISS' special teams has executed in some areas and needs improvement in others. Onside kicks, both by and against, have been the unit's strongest area. Their 60 percent (3 of 5) onside success leads the league and they are one of two teams that have not conceded a successful onside kick by their opponents. In addition, DJ Stephens has performed well as the LA KISS' kick returner, as his 15.9 yards per kickoff rank fourth in the AFL.

Converting on point after attempts is where the unit needs to improve. Currently the LA KISS are seventh in PAT conversion rate. Only the Tampa Bay Storm have a worse conversion rate than the LA KISS' 72.5 percent. After the LA KISS only converted 6 of 10 PATs last week, they were assigned a new kicker, Joey Cejudo. Cuedo, a rookie, is entering his first game in the AFL. Previously he attended Youngstown State for two years, making 14 of 17 field goals and 38 of 39 PATs. This will his first chance to prove that he can preform in the AFL.

Often overlooked, special teams performance is especially crucial when facing off against the league's top teams.

4) WILL RORY NIXON BE INVOLVED IN THE OFFENSIVE ATTACK?

Early in the season fullback Rory Nixon played a vital role in short-yardage goal line situations. Through the first four games, Nixon scored four rushing touchdowns, while rushing for 24 yards on nine attempts. However, in the last two games he has not been called upon to carry the ball very often, only recording two attempts for two yards. Nixon has been focused on protecting Stanley and allowing him time in the pocket to find receivers down the field. The AFL is primarily a passing league; the running game is only used in select instances. When the LA KISS are down in the red zone, look for Nixon and his 305 pound body to be called upon to punch the ball into the end zone.

• Discuss this story on the Arena Football League message board...

Arena Football League Stories from May 20, 2016


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.

Other Recent Los Angeles KISS Stories



Sports Statistics from the Stats Crew
OurSports Central