Orlando Predators Travel to Cleveland to Take on the Gladiators

Published on April 6, 2012 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Orlando Predators News Release


After losing their third straight game to the San Antonio Talons in Week Four, the Orlando Predators are traveling to Cleveland to fight the Gladiators for their first win of the season on Easter Sunday. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. EST. Last week, the Preds lost 34-47 to the Talons, moving their record to 0-3 for the season.

The Predators were led statistically by Collin Drafts. Drafts was 25 of 38, threw for 232 yards, and four touchdowns. T.T. Toliver had his most productive game of the season, hauling in 12 receptions for 113 yards and one touchdown reception.

Travis Coleman was the star for the defense, totaling four tackles, recovering a fumble and returning an interception for a touchdown.

The Preds defense will be put to the test this week as they face off against the Cleveland Gladiator offense, led by quarterback John Dutton, who has passed for 783 yards and 18 touchdowns this season.

Cleveland's receiving core is one of the strongest in the AFL, with three of their receivers having at least 23 receptions and four touchdown receptions for the season. Dominick Goodman is the Gladiators reception leader with 27 receptions and seven touchdowns on the season. The Predators defense has been one of the best in the AFL this season. They are currently ranked second in the league in scoring defense and eighth in total defense. They are ranked first in interceptions, second in tackles for losses, and third in sacks.

Fifth year defensive back Travis Coleman has played a key role for the Preds defense this season. Through two games, Coleman has 9.5 tackles, two interceptions, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and a touchdown. In the Predators Week Four loss to the San Antonio Talons, Coleman showed his athleticism by intercepting a pass and returning it for a touchdown, his second touchdown of his career. Coleman is currently tied for third in forced fumbles and ranked seventh in the AFL in interceptions.

The Predators hold a favorable lead in the all-time series record against the Gladiators. Orlando holds a 10-5 record against Cleveland, including a win last season against them. The Preds won 56-26 when the two teams squared off last season on May 14, 2011.

Up next, the Predators will travel to Pittsburgh to face off against the Power for the second time this season, after a tough season opening loss. The game will broadcast live on OrlandoPredators.com/Live.



Arena Football League Stories from April 6, 2012


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