Must-see matchup: week 16
May 12, 2005 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I) News Release
NEW YORK QB AARON GARCIA vs. TAMPA BAY QB SHANE STAFFORD
Two teams in the thick of the Drive to ArenaBowl XIX Las Vegas postseason race, the New York Dragons (9-5) and Tampa Bay Storm (8-6), will faceoff this Sunday at 1 p.m. ET on NBC. The Dragons have a chance to capture the Eastern Division title with a victory, while the Storm can claim a berth with a victory and some help.
The week's matchup will focus on the quarterback spot â New York's AARON GARCIA (6-1, 195, Sacramento State) and Tampa Bay's SHANE STAFFORD (6-3, 210, Connecticut).
Garcia, the AFL's all-time passing touchdown leader (711), looks to make a push toward the postseason with another strong performance against the Storm. In last week's 56-44 victory over Columbus, Garcia posted 307 yards, seven touchdowns and one interception. Garcia was the first quarterback in professional football history to record 700 career touchdowns. This season Garcia has completed 298-of-453 (65.8%) passes for 3,577 yards and 76 touchdowns. Toughness, ability to find the open receiver and leadership are trademarks for the former Offensive Player of the Year.
Stafford will try to keep the Storm's 18-season postseason-appearance streak alive. The former Husky has completed 360-of-561 (64.2%) passes for 3,928 yards and 71 touchdowns, ranking him No. 2 in attempts and completions and No. 3 in yards. The four-year veteran has led the Storm to a 4-2 record over the last six weeks and has recorded 24 touchdowns with only five interceptions over that span. Stafford, who earned AFL Offensive Player of the Week honors twice this season, is known for his arm strength and pocket presence.
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from May 12, 2005
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