Orlando Predators game notes

Published on April 20, 2005 under Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Orlando Predators News Release


GAME DETAILS
Georgia Force (9-3) at Orlando Predators (8-4)
Date: Friday, April 22, 2005
Toe-To-Leather Time: 7:30 p.m.
Site: Hummer Field, TD Waterhouse Centre (13,692)
Officials: Referee: Tom McCabe ; Umpire: Rick Lowe;
Head Linesman: Mike McCabe ; Line Judge: Bob McElwee;
Back Judge: Keith Washington
Radio: WQTM 740 AM (Marc Daniels and Dan Pearson)
TV: Sun Sports (Sunshine); Tape Delay 10 p.m. (Live in Central Florida on Channel 75)
Series Streak: Georgia has one-game winning streak in series.
Series Record: Georgia leads all-time series, 2-5-0
Tickets: Available by calling 407-44-PREDS
Coaches: Orlando: Jay Gruden (6th season, 61-34, .642); Georgia: Doug Plank (1st season, 9-3, .750)

SHORTHANDED PREDS LOOK TO SOLIDIFY PLAYOFF CHANCES AGAINST DIVISION LEADING FORCE
After a hard-fought win over New York last Friday, the Orlando Predators have just four days to get ready for division-leading Georgia. The game will be a re-match of a 49-47 loss to the Force on March 19 -- a contest where the Predators lost three-time Defensive Player of the Year Kenny McEntyre in the first quarter. Orlando will most likely face the Force without the services of starting quarterback Joe Hamilton, who suffered a grade 3 separation of his left shoulder (AC joint) in last week's game against New York. Hamilton is one of just many players to get banged up in that game, as Orlando also finished that game without the services of McEntyre (bruised ribs), FB/LB Kevin Jefferson (torn ACL), and Justin Skaggs (neck spasms). OL/DL Justin Cleveland (leg) was also injured. The team played that game without starting DS Reggie Doster (groin) and starting FB/LB Marlon Moye-Moore (quad). Only Cleveland is listed as probable for this week's game.

"We're an extremely banged up right now and we're playing one of the best teams in the league," Head Coach Jay Gruden said. "This game is going to be the toughest challenge we have faced all season and we must find a way to respond."

Orlando Predators (7-4-0) *All Times Eastern
Date Opponent W/L Score
Jan. 30 Colorado W 39-36
Feb. 3 At Arizona W 51-40
Feb. 11 Tampa Bay W 61-46
Feb. 17 At Dallas L 28-42
Feb. 25 At Chicago W 48-35
Mar. 6 San Jose L 38-57
Mar. 13 At New Orleans W 63-52
Mar. 19 At Georgia L 47-49
Mar. 25 Austin W 51-21
Apr. 3 Los Angeles W 55-54 (ot)
Apr. 9 At Tampa Bay L 42-54
Apr. 15 New York W 72-60
Apr. 22 Georgia 7:30 p.m.
May 1 At Philadelphia 1 p.m.
May 7 At Austin 8:30 p.m.
May 20 New Orleans 7:30 p.m.

Georgia (9-3-0)
Date Opponent Result Score
Jan. 29 New Orleans W 46-44
Feb. 4 At Los Angeles L 41-46
Feb. 12 Arizona W 61-47
Feb. 20 At Las Vegas W 38-13
Feb. 25 At Austin W 66-63
Mar. 6 Columbus W 55-48
Mar 12 At New York L 51-53
Mar. 19 Orlando W 49-47
Mar. 26 At New Orleans W 43-40
Apr. 2 At Tampa Bay L 38-48
Apr. 8 Austin W 56-53
Apr. 15 Grand Rapids W 41-62
Apr. 22 At Orlando 7:30 p.m.
May 8 Tampa Bay 1:00 p.m.
May 14 Dallas 7:00 p.m.
May 21 At San Jose 10:30 p.m.

QUOTE/UNQUOTE
"He's a professional and understood all along that he was one snap from becoming the starter. That's why he worked so hard all season long. He came into the game in a tough situation and proceeded to do what he had to do to give us a chance to win. So to answer your question, no I wasn't surprised that he did so well."

--WR/LB Cory Fleming on Chris Sanders role in Orlando's 72-60 win over New York.

THE COACHES
PREDS HEAD COACH JAY GRUDEN
JAY GRUDEN is in his second stint and his 6th year overall as Head Coach and Director of Football Operations for the Orlando Predators. After a Hall of Fame career as a quarterback for the Tampa Bay Storm, Gruden began his coaching career in 1997 by serving as offensive coordinator for the Nashville Kats. One season later, the Predators made him the youngest head coach in the AFL. Gruden would go on to lead the Predators to three consecutive appearances in the ArenaBowl and a pair of championships. After guiding the Predators to a fourth consecutive trip to the playoffs in 2001, Gruden announced his intentions to resign in order to return to the playing field after a five-year layoff. In two seasons as Predators quarterback, Gruden directed Orlando to back-to-back appearances in the semifinals, falling one game short of his goal of returning to the ArenaBowl as a player. In 2003, he recorded a 10-0 mark with 49 touchdown passes and two interceptions as a starting quarterback. Off-season surgery, combined with the tragic loss of former Head Coach Fran Papasedero in a June 19, 2003 traffic accident, resulted in Gruden returning to the sideline. Gruden will take a 61-34 (.642) all-time coaching record into the Georgia game. He is 53-31 in regular season games (.631) and a solid 8-3 as a head coach in playoff games (.727).

ORLANDO PREDATORS
HEAD COACHING RECORDS
Coaches, Years Record Pct.
Jay Gruden, 1998-2001, 2004-05 61-34 .642
Fran Papasedero, 2002-03 22-13 .629
Perry Moss, 1991-97 67-31 .684

Force Head Coach Doug Plank
After guiding the Arizona Rattlers to three consecutive appearances in the ArenaBowl as that team's defensive coordinator, former NFL star Doug Plank is in his first season as Head Coach of the Georgia Force.

In his first year, Plank has the Force out to a league-best tying 9-3 record (.750), including a 49-47 win over the Orlando Predators earlier this year in Orlando.

Under Plank, the Force have recorded a 5-1 record in the tough Southern Division and also hold a 6-2 mark in National Conference games. Prior to joining the Rattlers as defensive coordinator, the former Ohio State star spent several seasons as a broadcaster on Rattler radio and TV.







GRUDEN RANKED IN TOP 10 FOR ALL-TIME AFL COACHING WINS

ALL-TIME AFL WINNINGEST COACHES
1. Tim Marcum 173
2. Danny White 141
3. Mike Hohenssee 91
4. Perry Moss 86
5. Mike Dailey 82*
6. Mike Trigg 80
7. Darren Arbet 78*
8. John Gregory 73
9. Jay Gruden 61*
10. Todd Shell 50

*Active Coach

SERIES HISTORY AND NOTES:
This week's game marked the eighth game ever between the Predators and Georgia Force...after being sold to Virgi Williams and moved from Nashville after the 2001 season, the team became known as the Georgia Force and elected not to assume the records of the Nashville Kats...the team played in the Phillips Arena in downtown Atlanta in 2002, moved to Gwinnett Center in Duluth, GA for the 2003-2004 seasons, and then moved back to the Philips Arena prior to the 2005 season when Arthur Blank – CEO and owner of the Atlanta Falcons and co-founder of Home Depot – purchased the team...Georgia leads the all-time series over the Predators, 5-2-0 – including a 49-47 win in Atlanta on March 19...the Predators fell behind early by two touchdowns in that game and could never get any closer than one-point the rest of the way...Predators OS Jimmy Fryzel posted the first of his Orlando Predators' record-tying five consecutive 100-yard receiving games in that contest – catching seven passes for 110 yards...the Predators matched touchdowns with the Force for the entire game but missed an extra point and also had a failed two-point conversion which proved the difference the game...four of the previous seven games were decided by eight points or less...the Predators allowed just seven points to the Force in a game last season – one of the top 10 defensive games in AFL history for points allowed...Preds Head Coach Jay Gruden had nearly 1,000 passing yards (996) in three games against the Force (2002-03).

Series Results vs. Georgia Force
Georgia Leads 5-2

Date ORL OPP
Apr. 20, 2002 (A) 49 67
July 13, 2002 (H) 40 41
March 23, 2003 (H) 36 38
March 12, 2004 (H) 44 52
April 18, 2004 (A) 30 7
March 19, 2005 (A) 47 49



GAME SUMMARY FROM LAST MEETING

GEORGIA 49, ORLANDO 47
Mar. 19, 2005 - Atlanta
14,226


ATLANTA, GA – Matt Nagy threw for five touchdowns and former Orlando Predators defensive specialist Kevin Gaines returned an interception 37-yards for a touchdown as the Georgia Force slipped by the Orlando Predators, 49-47, in a game played for first place in the Southern Division.

Orlando fell behind 28-14 and Georgia was driving for a potential three score lead at the half when the Predators forced a fumble in the closing seconds of the half. Rupert Grant would score on a 1-yard run and Marlon Moye-Moore added a 1-yard run on the Preds first possession of the third quarter, but Brian Gowins missed the potential game-tying extra point.

The teams traded touchdowns the remainder of the way and Orlando came up two points short -- failing to tie the score on a two-point conversion attempt at 3:48 mark. A few mistakes were the difference between losing and winning tonight's game," a dejected Jay Gruden said. "We lost this game on special teams play and an errant pass."

Orlando 7 14 6 20--47
Georgia 7 21 7 14--49

TEAM STATS ORL GA
First Downs 23 19
Rush Yards 31 39
Passing Yards 304 239
A-C-I 31-23-1 34-23-2
Fumbles/Lost 1-1 1-1
Penalties/Yards 9-62 13-84
Sacks By 0-0 1-3

Rushing
O: Grant 7-14, Brown 3-6, Hamilton 2-5, Moye-Moore 3-(-3)
GA: Thomas 5-24, Aldridge 2-15

Passing
O: Hamilton 31-23-1-307-4 TD
GA: Nagy 34-23-2-239-5 TD

Receiving
O: Fleming 8-87, Fryzel 7-110, Brown 5-89, James 3-21
GA: Lee 9-86, Montgomery 4-52, Parker 4-44, Bergeron 4-41, Smith 1-1



How The 2005 Predators Were Built
Veterans Retained From 2004 Season (13): Bret Cooper, Idris Price, Michael Brown, Cory Fleming, Joe Hamilton, Kenny McEntyre, Justin Cleveland, Greg Krause, Buck Gurley, EJ Burt, Doug Miller, Reggie Lee, Marlon Moye-Moore

Veteran Free Agents Signed (6): Reggie Doster, Chris Sanders, Johnnie Harris, Herman Bell, Arkee Thompson, Kevin Jefferson

Rookie Free Agents (4): Jimmy Fryzel, David Upchurch, Jerrian James and Justin Skaggs.

Veterans Obtained by Trade (1): William Carr

BY THE NUMBERS...ORLANDO PREDATORS
Orlando Predators by the numbers for 2005:

2005 Overall Record: 8-4-0
National Conference Record: 5-3-0
Against American Conference: 3-1-0
Southern Division Record: 3-2-0
At Hummer Field: 5-1-0
On the road: 3-3-0
When scoring first: 4-1-0
When other Team Scores First: 4-3-0
When leading after one quarter: 5-0-0
When trailing after one quarter: 2-2-0
When tied after one quarter: 1-2-0
When leading at the Half: 6-0-0
When trailing at the Half: 2-4-0
When tied at the Half: 0-0-0
When leading after three quarters: 8-0-0
When trailing after three quarters: 0-4-0
When tied after three quarters: 0-0-0
Overtime Games: 1-0-0
By Days of the Week:
Thursday: 1-1-0
Friday: 4-0-0
Saturday: 0-2-0
Sunday: 3-1-0
All-Time Home Record: 82-33-0
All-Time Road Record: 68-45-0*
Consecutive Seasons Winning Record: 14**
Consecutive Seasons In Playoffs: 14

*Includes neutral site away game at Lakeland, Fla. Against the Florida Bobcats in 1998.

**Includes playoff games. Team finished at .500 in 1999, but won two playoff games to finish with a 9-8 record.




PREDS NEWS, NOTES, QUOTES, AND TRENDS
PREDATORS HURING AFTER WIN OVER NEW YORK
With less than a week remaining before Orlando (8-4) hosts Georgia (9-3) in a game that will go a long way on deciding the Southern Division championship, Predators head coach Jay Gruden is more concerned about finding 20 healthy bodies for the showdown with The Force.

Friday night's 72-60 win over New York was a costly one for the Predators. Starting quarterback Joe Hamilton was among the casualties, suffering a separation of the AC Joint (shoulder). A Monday's doctor appointment revealed a Grade 3 separation, which was more serious than first thought. If Hamilton can't play, the starting job will fall to Chris Sanders, who led the Predators on five, second half touchdown drives in the come-from-behind win. Sanders completed 12 of 17 for 130 yards and two scores and added two rushing touchdowns. Orlando would probably look to sign a back-up quarterback if Hamilton can not play.

FB/LB Kevin Jefferson, who was brought in to replace the injured Marlon Moye-Moore last week, sustained a suspected torn ACL (knee). "He'll undergo and MRI later this week, but our team physicians are pretty certain its torn," Head Trainer Kevin Mercuri said. "If that prognosis is correct, it will require surgery and sideline Kevin for the year." The loss of Jefferson leaves the Predators with just one healthy fullback/linebacker in Idris Price. Moye-Moore is eligible to return from the injured reserve list this week, but is still being listed as questionable with a quad injury. Orlando could counter by using lineman Doug Miller at that position or could look to bring in another player early this week,

Both DS Kenny McEntyre (bruised ribs) and WR/LB Justin Skaggs (neck spasms) were also forced out of Friday's game with injuries. Skaggs left at halftime after sustaining a blow to the head. He was transferred to an Orlando-area hospital underwent neurological testing before being released at around 3 a.m. Saturday morning. The injury to McEntyre forced Sanders to play cornerback on New York's final offensive series. Only Skaggs is considerable probable for this week.

The rash of injuries came during a three-week stretch when the Predators lost Moye-Moore and Defensive Specialist Reggie Doster. Price also missed one week with an ankle injury. Doster could return this week. "Maybe we should have an open tryout on Monday," Gruden joked after the game. "Seriously though, the injury situation is really starting to get critical. But we need to find a way to overcome them and get ready for a real good Georgia team on Friday."
NEW YORK GAME: THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY:
The Good: The Predators rallied to win, despite losing starting quarterback Joe Hamilton in the first half with a separated shoulder...Orlando offense put up a season-best 72 points and put points on the board on 10 of 11 possessions – including nine touchdowns...Orlando was able to move the ball when they had to, picking up a touchdown on a key second and long-play in the final seconds of the game to ensure a victory. The Bad: The Predators defense struggled in the first half, giving up 40 points before halftime after allowing just 44 points a game on the season...for a second consecutive game, the Predators pass rush was non-existent with no sacks recorded. The Ugly: Injuries became an issue, with Hamilton, Kenny McEntyre, Justin Skaggs, and Kevin Jefferson all leaving the game with injuries. OL/DL Justin Cleveland also played a bad leg that will required an MRI on Monday.

IMPORTANT RADIO/TV/INTERNET INFORMATION
The Predators game with Georgia is being televised on Sun Sports (formerly Sunshine Network). But previous broadcast commitments have forced the Sun Sports to broadcast the game on a tape delay basis (10 p.m. start). But thanks to the cooperation of Brighthouse Networks, the game will be shown line in the Central Florida area on channel 75. The game may also be seen live on DirecTV Ch. 635 and DISH Ch. 448 in all areas. Rick Peckham and James Bates will call the action. The game will also be broadcast on WQTM 740 AM the Team with Marc Daniels and Dan Pearson calling the action. For news, updates and other information on the Orlando Predators, visit our website: www.orlandopredators.com.

PREDATORS MAKE ROSTER MOVES, MORE EXPECTED
The Orlando Predators announced the signing of defensive specialist Arkee Thompson, to a two-year contract last week. Thompson was signed to alleviate injury concerns the Predators had at defensive back.

A free agent at the time of his signing, Thompson began the season with Philadelphia – starting six games. He recorded 35.5 tackles, including 31 solo stops to go with nine assists, two pass defenses and a pair of interceptions. He was released prior to Week 8 of the AFL season.

Thompson began his AFL career with the Georgia Force in 2004, but was waived in pre-season camp. The Orlando Predators picked him up at mid-season. He made 16.5 tackles with one pass defense with Orlando while playing in six games and making two starts. Thompson left the Predators as a free agent after the 2004 season.

He also played for The Louisville Fire of the af2 in 2003. He was a defensive specialist that recorded a total of 10 interceptions and became af2's all-time interception leader. The Predators look forward to seeing what Thompson can bring to the table come game day.

The Predators signed Thompson after both Reggie Doster and Johnnie Harris suffered groin injuries against Tampa Bay last week. Harris is probable for the New York game, while Doster is questionable.

In other moves last week, the Predators activated wide receiver / linebacker, Justin Skaggs (ankle) from injured reserve this week. Orlando also placed OL/DL Buck Gurley (sprained ACL) on the injured reserve list. He will not be eligible to return until the Philadelphia game on May 1.

On Thursday of last week, Gruden activated lineman David Upchurch from the injured reserve list. Upchurch has played in two games this season, recording 2.5 tackles. The team also announced that it had signed free agent WR/DB Herman Bell to its practice squad.

Bell began his Arena Football League career with the Orlando Predators in 2003, but was traded to the Detroit Drive in the pre-season. In two years with the Fury, Bell played in 19 games, catching 72 balls for 724 yards and 11 touchdowns. He played WR/DB in 2003, making 22 tackles with an interception. He was an offensive specialist in 2004. Bell will not be eligible to play in games for the Predators unless he is activated from the practice squad to the active squad.

Orlando received additional bad news on Thursday when it was determined that fullback/linebacker Marlon Moye-Moore's leg injury was serious enough to put him on the team's injured reserve list. Moye-Moore will be not be eligible to return until the Georgia game on April 22.

With the injuries to Joe Hamilton and Kevin Jefferson this week, the Predators are expected to make several more roster moves before the Georgia game.

INJURY SLOWS DOWN THE HAMILTON EXPRESS
As the chart below indicates, Joe Hamilton was on his way to posting an outstanding second half of the 2005 season prior to being injured against New York last week. Hamilton was having a great game, completing 15 of 18 passes (83.3%) for 189 yards and five touchdowns in the first half. The totals marked the third time Hamilton had hit 80% or more of his passes in a single game – giving him four of the top 10 games in Orlando Predators history in completion percentage (12 or more attempts in a game). As the chart below indicates, Hamitlon's numbers over the last six games were significantly better than the first six games of 2005.

Games A-C Yards Pct. YPG TD INT
First 6 201-119 1340 59.2 223 24 7
Last 6 163-117 1571 71.2 262 33 4
HAMILTON REACHES TOP TEN FOR THIRD
TIME IN 2005
For the third time in four weeks, Orlando Predators quarterback Joe Hamilton has broke into the Orlando Predators top 10 for single game completion percentage. Hamilton completed 15 of 18 passes (83.3%) against New York. Counting 2004 games against Austin (22-26, 84.6%) and Tampa Bay (15-20, 75%), Hamilton now has recorded five of the best 11 games in Orlando Predators history in terms of completion percentage.

Highest Single Game Completion Percentage
By a Predators Quarterback
1. 89.4%, Ben Bennett (17-19) vs. Milwaukee, 1994
2. 86.6%, Bennett (13-15) vs. Arizona, 1992
3. 84.6 %, Joe Hamilton (22-26) vs. Austin, 2005
4. 83.3%, Pat O'Hara (10-12) vs. Arizona, 1995
5. 83.3% Hamilton (15-18) vs. New York, 2005
6. 82.7%, Hamilton (24-29) vs. Los Angeles, 2005
7. 82.4%, Hamilton (14-17) vs. New York, 2004
8. 78.6%. Jay Gruden (22-28) vs. Chicago, 2002
9. 75.9%, Bennett (22-29) vs. Miami, 1994
10. 75.0%, Gruden (24-32) vs. Tampa Bay, 2002
75.0%, Hamilton (15-20) vs. Tampa Bay, 2004

McENTYRE EXTENDS STREAK; TIES WAGNER BUT IS DOUBTFUL FOR THIS WEEK
With Sunday's start against New York, Kenny "The Glove" McEntyre's streak of consecutive games played moved to 117 (counting playoffs), the longest streak in franchise history. In addition, with 117 games played, tied Barry Wagner for the most games played in Orlando Predators history. McEntyre did not play the last defensive series for the Predators in the win over New York after severely bruising his ribs early in the third quarter. McEntyre's status for next week's game against Georgia is officially listed as questionable. McEntyre had a Monday afternoon doctors appointment.

FLEMING STEAK REMAINS ALIVE
With two touchdown receptions against the New York last week (8-78, 2 TD), Cory Fleming has now caught a touchdown pass in 36 consecutive games played with Orlando. Including playoff games, Fleming has at least one touchdown catch in 44 of 46 career games with the Preds. Fleming moved David Cool for second place on the all-time points scored list with the Predators four weeks ago and is one of only two players in Orlando history to score 500 or more points in an Orlando Predators uniform.

ORLANDO PREDATORS
All-Time Points Scored List
Name Seasons Points
1. Barry Wagner 8 1,766
2. Cory Fleming 2.5 512
3. David Cool 5 457
4. Bret Cooper 5.5 396
5. Herkie Walls 5 324

PREDATORS ARE 6-0 WHEN LEADING AT HALFTIME
When Orlando takes a lead into the locker room at halftime, the Predators usually hold it. The team moved their record to 6-0 this season when leading at halftime with a win against Los Angeles three weeks ago. Counting that game, the Predators hold an all-time record of 108 wins against just 22 losses when they lead at halftime (83.1% winning percentage). Conversely, the Predators have had some trouble when trailing at halftime. The team's come-from-behind win over New York was just the second time in six games the Predators have been able to pull out a win when trailing at halftime.

HAMILTON'S RECORD SETTING PACE IN SERIOUS JEOPARDY
With 57 touchdown passes in 12 games, Orlando Predators quarterback Joe Hamilton was on pace to throw 76 touchdown passes this season. That would have broken Jay Gruden's club record of 68 touchdowns set in 2002. With Hamilton's status doubtful for this week and his return date not known, it will be extremely difficult for second year player to catch Gruden if he misses significant time. He did manage to tie his own mark for 4th place on the all-time single season list with his first half performance against the Dragons.

1. Jay Gruden 2002 68
2. Pat O'Hara 1998 67
3. Craig Whelihan 2001 60
4. Joe Hamilton 2004 57
Joe Hamilton 2005 57
6. Connell Maynor 2000 54
7. Ben Bennett 1993 50
8. Jay Gruden 2004 49
9. Pat O'Hara 1996 45
Ben Bennett 1994 45

SANDERS BIG DAY
If the Predators manage to make it to the 2005 Arena Football League Playoffs and make a run at ArenaBowl XIX, they will look back to the second half of the New York game and the performance by back-up quarterback Chris Sanders. The former AF2 star stepped in for the injured Joe Hamilton and put points on the board on all six of his possessions, including five touchdowns in the second half. With seconds remaining in the half, Hamilton sustained a grade three separation of his left shoulder after being hit while passing. Sanders replaced him and led the Predators to a field goal. Upon returning the second half, Sanders passed for two touchdowns, ran for two and directed a fifth touchdown drive that was capped by a 15-yard Idris Price run. For the game, Sanders was 12 of 17 (70.6%) for 130 yards and two touchdowns. He also scored on touchdown runs of six and one yards, including a keeper on 4th down. "It was a day were the defenses were struggling and we needed a near perfect performance from our quarterbacks. We got it in the first half with Joe Hamilton and we certainly got it in the second half with Chris Sanders. He certainly didn't play like an inexperienced QB," Head Coach Jay Gruden said.

PREDS CAN EXTEND STREAK TO LEAGUE RECORD 14
Win a victory against the Georgia Force next Friday night the Orlando Predators can extend one of the most impressive streaks in Arena Football League history. A win would give the Predators a 9-4 record on the season and would ensure an overall winning record (including playoffs) for an AFL record 14th consecutive season. Orlando streak includes 11 regular seasons with winning records and two .500 marks (7-7-0 in both 1999 and 2002). The team managed to win a pair of playoff games in both of those seasons to finish with overall winning records. The 13 consecutive seasons with overall winning records is a league record, topping Tampa Bay's streak of 11 consecutive overall winning seasons from 1991-2001 (Storm went 6-8 in regular season and 7-9 overall in 2002).




PREDATORS RUN THE ROCK
With the exception of three seasons (2001-2002-1991), the Orlando Predators have always been one of the most effective teams in the AFL for running the football – finishing in the top five in rushing yards per game in 11 of their 14 seasons. After struggling against Tampa Bay two weeks ago, the Predators rushing game came alive against New York last week, as the team rushed 13 times for 44 yards (3.4 average) and three touchdowns. The totals came despite playing the game without starting fullback Marlon Moye- Moore and without back-up Kevin Jefferson in the second half. Idris Price, who started in place of Moye-Moore, led all Predators with 38 yards on just six carries. Averaging 33.8 yards per game, the Predators rank as the third most effective team in the Arena Football League in running the ball.

Year Yards Per Game TD League Rank
2005 406 33.8 24 3rd *
2004 606 37.9 29 1st
2003 367 22.9 25 3rd
2002 215 15.4 16 11th
2001 194 14.1 14 15th
2000 551 36.8 24 2nd
1999 430 30.7 12 2nd
1998 433 35.7 18 3rd
1997 655 46.8 27 1st
1996 606 42.9 37 2nd
1995 406 35.8 26 3rd
1994 503 45.6 24 2nd
1993 447 37.2 15 3rd
1992 413 41.3 12 4th
1991 303 30.3 14 6th
*Ranking through Week 12

PREDATORS PRODUCE COACHES
Maybe it would be going too far to call the Orlando Predators "The AFL Cradle of Coaches," but at least 20 current and former Predators players have gone on to the coaching ranks, including former Predators quarterbacks Mike Neu, who is head coach of the New Orleans VooDoo and Scot Semptimphelter, who was named QB coach of the Nashville Kats two weeks ago. Other former and current Predators players in the coaching ranks include: Doug Miller (High School), Chris Barber (High School), Ben Bennett (af2), Webbie Burnett (af2), Victor Floyd (High School), Rick Hamilton (AFL), Jay Gruden (AFL, NFL), Kevin Guy (AFL, af2), Bret Munsey (af2, AFL), Jerry Odom (High School, Colleges), Pat O'Hara (High School), Connell Maynor (College), Jeff Parker (College), Fred Ray (High School), Barry Wagner (College), Bill Stewart (High School), Durwood Roquemore (af2, high school) and Herkie Walls (High School). Miller, Wagner, and Ray remain active in the Arena Football League as players – coaching football in the off-season.

RECORD BREAKING ROOKIE: FRYZEL TIES MARK, ON TARGET TO HIT 1,000
Orlando Predators rookie wide receiver Jimmy Fryzel has tied a team record for the most consecutive 100-yard games with five. Fryzel's 9-catch, 134-yard, 3-touchdown performance against New York has given Fryzel five straight 100-yard games and tied Barry Wagner for the most consecutive 100-yard games by an Orlando Predators receiver. Fryzel is the first Predators player to post 5-consecutive 100 receiving yards in a single season, as Wagner's 5-game streak was stretched over two seasons (last three of the 1997 season, first two of the 1998 season). Averaging more than 116.5 yards per game, Fryzel is on pace to finish with 1,398 yards, which would rank him third on the Predators all-time single season list – despite playing in only 12 of the team's 16 regular season games. Fryzel's achievements included back-to-back 150-yard games and six 100-yard games in eight contests. With 932 yards on 61 receptions (17 touchdowns), Fryzel can reach the 1,000-yard mark in receiving next week with 68 yards – becoming the quickest player to 1,000 yards in a single season (9 games).

Highest Receiving Yards Per Game – Predators Season
1. Jimmy Fryzel 2005 116.5*
2. Barry Wagner 1999 103.5
3. Cory Fleming 2004 101.3
*Through 12 games of 2005 season.

TOP RECEIVING GAMES IN ORLANDO PREDATORS HISTORY
1. 229, Barry Wagner vs. Iowa, 1996
2. 200, Wagner vs. Charlotte, 1992
13. 159, Cory Fleming vs. Los Angeles, 2005
13. (t)159, Jimmy Fryzel vs. Tampa Bay, 2005
16. (t) 151, Jimmy Fryzel vs. Los Angeles,
2005

ORLADO IN OVERTIME
The game against Los Angeles three weeks ago marked the eighth overtime game in Orlando's 15-year history. The Predators have fared well when the game has gone to an extra stanza, posting a 6-2 record. Orlando lost the first overtime in club history, dropping a 43-40 decision to Detroit in their inaugural season. The Predators then proceeded to win five consecutive overtime games before dropping a 49-48 decision to Austin in Week 1 of the 2004 season. All overtime games involving the Predators came in the regular season with the exception of a 24-21 win over Tampa Bay in the 1992 semifinals. Three of Orlando's overtime games ended in a field goal, while the most unusual overtime game came in 1999 at New Jersey. The scored was tied at 38-38 in regulation. New Jersey won the toss and elected to defer. Orlando scored on its first possession on a Pat O'Hara 26-yard touchdown pass to Barry Wagner. Orlando linebacker Bill Hall then recovered a fumble on New Jersey's third play of overtime and returned it for a touchdown for the Predators 13-point win. Six of Orlando's eight overtime games have come at home.

Predators in Overtime (6-2-0)
June 21, 1991 Detroit 43, Orlando 40
Aug. 15, 1992 Orlando 24, Tampa Bay 21*
Aug. 5, 1996 Orlando 50, Anaheim 44
June 6, 1997 Orlando 40, Texas 34
May 22, 1999 Orlando 51, New Jersey 38
May 4, 2003 Orlando 46, Colorado 40
Feb. 13, 2004 Austin 49, Orlando 48
April 3, 2005 Orlando 55, Los Angeles 54


SOUTHERN DIVISION TOUGH
Through 12 weeks of the 2005 season, the Southern Division can claim the lead as the Arena Football League's toughest division. The Southern Division went 3-0 last week in inter-divisional games, as the Predators (New York), New Orleans (Columbus), and Georgia (Grand Rapids) all posted wins. That 3-0 mark gave the Southern Division a league-best mark of 21-8 against non-division opponents (.724).




BROWN UNDERGOES SURGERY
Orlando Predators defensive specialist Michael Brown underwent successful eye surgery last Tuesday to repair fractured orbital bones in his face. He was injured against Los Angeles on April 3 and is tentatively targeting a May 20 return to the Predators.

ORLANDO POSTS 72-POINTS, TIES TEAM RECORD
Long known as a defensive-minded team that prefers to keeps scores in the 40s, the Orlando Predators offense posted 70 points for just the seventh time in franchise history (238 games), tying a franchise-mark with 72 points against the New York Dragons. That total, tied the team record for most points in a single game, also occurring against the Dragons in 2003. Although rare for the Predators, 70-point games are not unusual in the Arena Football League. Through Week 12 of this season, a team has scored 70 or more points 16 times in 204 games. The Predators are 6-1 when scoring 70 or more points in a game, with the only loss coming to Albany (70-79) in 1998. Six of seven 70 point games have come during the Jay Gruden ERA in Orlando (1998-present).

Predators 70-point Games
Apr. 15, 2005 New York W 72-60
Feb. 21, 2003 at Carolina W, 70-42
Mar. 2, 2003 ay New York W, 72-56
June 2, 2001 Toronto W, 70-22
May 19, 2000 at Nashville W, 71-54
July 25, 1998 at Albany L, 70-79
July 17, 1992 Arizona W, 71-21


PLAYOFF RACE WILL GO DOWN TO WIRE
With four weeks remaining in the 2005 regular season, Arena Football League fans have started to watch the scoreboard for playoff implications. For the first time ever, the ArenaBowl will feature a playoff format where the National Conference Champion will face the American Conference Champion in the ArenaBowl. Under this new format, each division champion is guaranteed a spot in the playoffs, with two "wildcard" spots available in each conference. This format also means that for the first time ever, a team with a better record could be sitting at home while a team in the other conference with a worse record could qualify for the playoffs. If the playoffs were to start this weekend, the Orlando Predators would make the playoffs, but things are extremely tight. Key games this week include:
Georgia at Orlando
Tampa Bay at Nashville
IF THE PLAYOFFS STARTED TODAY: NATIONAL CONFERENCE*
IN
Georgia 9-3-0*
Orlando 8-4-0
Dallas 6-4-1*
New Orleans 7-4-0
OUTSIDE LOOKING IN
Tampa Bay 7-4-0
New York 6-5-0

*Division Leaders – Source: arenafootball.com

PREDATORS PRACTICE SCHEDULE THIS WEEK
Monday 9:30-11 a.m. Citrus Bowl
Tuesday 9:30-11 a.m. Citrus Bowl
Wednesday 9:30-11 a.m. Citrus Bowl
Thursday 9:45-10:15 a.m. Citrus Bowl


VENTURE TO VEGAS: PREDATORS TEXAS HOLD'EM TOURNAMENT SLATES FOR SATURDAY, MAY 14

A trip to Las Vegas and ArenaBowl XIX will be at stake as the Orlando Predators Foundation in conjunction with The Apartment Association of Greater Orlando host "Venture To Vegas," a Texas Hold'Em Charity Tournament on Saturday, May 14 at Hotel Orlando North in Maitland.

The charity event begins at 7:30 p.m. and features an upscale "Las Vegas-style experience," including thirty tables of eight, professional dealers, and authentic casino script in a "no limit" tournament format. Major prizes will be awarded to all players making the final table (8 seats), with the grand champion winning a four-day, three-night trip for two to Las Vegas for a VIP weekend at ArenaBowl XIX. The prize includes roundtrip airfare, hotel, and tickets to the ArenaBowl concert, awards show, skills challenge and ArenaBowl XIX on June 11-13, 2005. The Las Vegas trip is valued at more than $2,500.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Orlando Predators Foundation, which provides financial support to the Community Coordinated Care for Children, Inc.(4C), Anthony House, and other local charities. "We are extremely excited to be able to support these wonderful charities. They should be commended for the work they do for the families, children, and for the homeless throughout our community. The Orlando Predators staff, players and coaches are committed to helping our community by raising funds to help these organizations continue their labors of love," said Sylvia Bova, Orlando Predators Foundation Director.

A suggested $150 donation to the Orlando Predators Foundation includes entry into the tournament, a "Venture To Vegas" raffle ticket, and complimentary upscale appetizers in an elegant casino atmosphere. Orlando Predators players and coaches will participate in the event. In addition to the silent auction, cash bar and "Venture To Vegas" raffle, there will be a special "Jackpot Raffle" with a top prize of an expenses-paid (includes round trip airfare, hotel and game tickets) trip for two to Super Bowl XL in Detroit.

For more information on Venture to Vegas or to learn of sponsorship opportunities, call Sylvia Bova at 407-447-3320 or e-mail her at sbova@orlandopredators.com.

ABOUT THE CHARITIES
ABOUT 4C
The Community Coordinated Care for Children, Inc. was founded in 1969 and is one of Central Florida's resources to help families and children grow together. Their mission is "To empower the community to provide for it's future through developing, coordinating and strengthening programs that care for children." The 4C's is national accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Children and Family Services. They believe that "every child deserves the right to a bright and successful future" and the Orlando Predators are excited to help support that belief.

ABOUT ANTHONY HOUSE
Anthony House is an organization that is based on the idea of "Helping the Homeless Help Themselves". Their emphasis is "giving people the opportunity to take responsibility for their own lives, to become self-sufficient, to be held accountable, to be exposed to and take advantage of educational opportunities and training".

HUMMER OF ORLANDO BECOMES
PREDATORS' FIRST TITLE SPONSOR
The Orlando Predators announced that Hummer of Orlando is the team's first title sponsor in the franchise's 15-year history. The three-year comprehensive partnership, which runs through the 2007 season, gives Hummer of Orlando name recognition in practically every aspect of the Orlando Predators operations. As the presenting sponsor, Hummer of Orlando will receive exposure on approximately 80 billboards throughout the 2005 season. Hummer will also be prominently featured on 100,000 schedule cards, all Predators newspaper advertising, website and all printed materials. Subject to final approval from the Arena Football League, Hummer of Orlando receives naming rights to the Predators playing field. The team will now list its home field as Hummer Field at the TD Waterhouse Centre. Advertising elements of the agreement include sideline dasherboard, turf logo, television and radio spots on Predators broadcasts, program advertising, player and cheerleading appearances, on-field and outside the arena promotions, and VIP and promotional season tickets. "Without question, this is the largest and most important corporate partnership in club history," Orlando Predators President and Managing General Partner Brett Bouchy said. "Hummer of Orlando was one of our larger sponsors last year and they have taken their commitment to Arena Football and the Orlando Predators to a whole new level. Our goal is to justify the faith they put in our product by showing the same faith and commitment to promote their products." "This promises to be a banner year for both the Orlando Predators and Hummer of Orlando, and we're excited to move forward as a team," Hummer of Orlando General Manager Gavin Hutchinson said. "It makes sense for the toughest vehicle on the road to partner with the toughest team in Arena Football. Hummer of Orlando is proud to be a part of the Predators' winning tradition." Hummer of Orlando is scheduled to open a new dealership on 434 in Altamonte Springs in late April.

This Week's Games
Dallas at Columbus
Georgia at Orlando
San Jose at Colorado
Austin at Arizona
New Orleans at Grand Rapids
Chicago at Los Angeles
Philadelphia at New York
Tampa Bay at Nashville

Last Week's Results
Georgia 61, Grand Rapids 41
Orlando 72, New York 60
San Jose 83, Dallas 71
New Orleans 64, Columbus 28
Chicago 75, Colorado 51
Nashville 51, Los Angeles 48
Las Vegas 56, Phiadelphia 49
Tampa Bay 54, Austin 42

2005 US ARMY IRONMAN, OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE GAME and ADT DEFENSIVE PLAYERS OF THE GAME (selected by media):
After each Arena Football League game, media in attendance select the "US Army Ironman of the Game" as well as the "ADT Defensive Player of the Game" and the "Offensive Player of the Game."

Week Opp. Player
1 Colorado Ironman: Cory Fleming (O)Offensive: Joe Hamilton (O)Defensive: Damon Mason (O)
2 Arizona Ironman: Cory Fleming (O)Offense: Joe Hamitlon (O)Defensive: Damon Mason (O)
3 Tampa Bay Ironman: Idris Price (O)Offensive: Michael Brown (O)Defensive: Rupert Grant (O)
4 Dallas Ironman: Will Pettis (D)Defensive: Duke Pettijohn (D)Offensive: Jason Shelley (D)
5 Chicago Ironman: Marlon Moye-Moore (O)Defense: Damon Mason (O)Offense: Jimmy Fryzel (O)
6 San Jose Ironman: James Roe (SJ)Defense: Tremain Mack (SJ)Offense: Mark Grieb (SJ)
7 New Orleans Ironman: Cory Fleming (O)Offense: Joe Hamitlon (O)Defensive: Kenny McEntyre (O)
8 Georgia Ironman: Ricky Parker (G)Offensive: Derek Lee (G)Defensive: Kevin Gaines (G)
9 Austin Ironman: Jerrian James (O)Offensive: Joe Hamilton (O)Defensive: Kenny McEntyre (O)
10 Los Angeles Ironman: Cory Fleming (O)Offensive: Jimmy Fryzel (O)Defensive: Greg Hopkins (LA)
11 Tampa Bay Ironman: Lawrence Samuels (TB)Offensive: Jimmy Fryzel (O)Defensive: Jonathan Ordway (TB)
12 New York Ironman: Cory Fleming (O)Offensive: Chris Sanders (O)Defensive: Kenny McEntyre (O)

League Wide Honors
Week 1:
Cory Fleming - - US Army Ironman of the Week
Week 2:
Damon Mason – ADT Defensive Player of the Week
Week 3:
Idris Price – US Army Ironman of the Week
Week 7:
Kenny McEntyre – ADT Defensive Player of the Week
Week 10:
Cory Fleming – US Army Ironman of the Week

2005 ROSTER MOVES
Date Action Player


1/23 Waived WR-LB Leroy McFadden, OS Kerry Watkins, QB Ryan Schneider, WR-LB Andre Cooper, DS Jamie Hatley, WR-DB Ernest Ross, FB-LB Chris Morrant, OL-DL Patrick Scott, OL-DL Joe Fantigrassi, OL/DL Deon White, OL/DL Thomas Pittman
1/23 Placed on IR FB/LB Marlon Moye-Moore
1/24 Waived OL/DL Shawn King, FB/LB Kevin Jefferson, OS Anthony Bright.
1/28 Placed on IR OS Jimmy Fryzel
2/7 Waived K Steve McLaughlin
2/7 Activated from NFL-Exempts OL-DL David Upchurch
2/23 Placed on IR WR/LB Cory FlemingOL-DL Bret Cooper
2/23 Activated from IR FB/LB Marlon Moye-MooreOS Jimmy Fryzel
3/22 Traded to Nashville FB/LB Rupert Grant
3/22 Released DS Damon Mason
3/22 Signed DS Johnnie Harris
3/24 Activated from IR OL/DL Cecil Caldwell
3/24 Placed on IR OL/DL David Upchurch
3/27 Trade OL/DL Cecil Caldwell to Grand Rapids for OL/DL William Carr
4/4 Placed on IR WR/DB Michael Brown
4/8 Signed to practice squad WR/DB Herman Bell
4/8 Activated from IR OL/DL David Upchurch
4/11 Waived from practice squad OS Anthony Bright
4/12 Signed WR/DB Arkee Thompson

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from April 20, 2005


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.

OurSports Central