Predators look to retool
February 16, 2004 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Orlando Predators News Release
ORLANDO, Fla. (Feb. 16) -- Orlando Predators Head Coach Jay Gruden wasted little time in trying to improve his roster on Monday, waiving two defensive specialists on Monday â just 48 hours after a 49-48 setback to the Austin Wranglers.
Gruden released rookie defensive backs Paul Miranda and LaVar Glover and hinted other changes could be coming to the roster. "Coming into the season, our top concern was having a rookie quarterback. But Joe has played extremely well in the first two games. Our problem has been on defense and we need to get better on the defensive side of the ball, particularly in our pass defense coverage."
In Friday's loss to Austin, the Predators won the turnover battle (2 to 1) and recorded four quarterback sacks, but still allowed veteran quarterback John Kaleo to throw for more than 300 yards and five touchdowns. On offense, Orlando scored touchdowns on all but one possession.
In addition to allowing Kaleo to complete more than 70% of his passes, Orlando allowed either first downs or touchdowns on 11 of 14 key third and fourth down conversions, something Gruden says is unacceptable.
"We simply have to find a way to get better. We'll bring in some new guys until we find a combination that works."
Season Tickets Still Available Fans that purchased single game tickets to Orlando's thrilling season opener on Friday night against the Austin Wranglers are reminded that season tickets are still available for the 2004 campaign.
The Predators are making an eight-game package available at pro-rated prices. The package will include the seven regular season games, along with the first playoff game. Should Orlando not host a 2004 playoff game, fans will have the option of obtaining a refund or applying the unused amount to 2005 season tickets.
Purchasers of the eight-game package will receive the same benefits enjoyed by all season ticket holders. To order season tickets, visit the tickets section of www.orlandopredators.com or call 407-44-PREDS.
• Discuss this story on the Arena Football League (1987-2008) message board...
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from February 16, 2004
- Rattlers Release Kelvin Ingram, Place Pete Tramontanas on Injured Reserve - Arizona Rattlers
- San Jose SaberCats game notes - San Jose SaberCats
- Carolina Cobras game notes - Carolina Cobras
- Avengers Winners in Vegas - OSC Original by Tim Peterson - Mid Valley News
- Avengers Winners in Vegas - OSC Original by Tim Peterson - Mid Valley News
- Georgia Force fans put a little black magic on New Orleans - Georgia Force
- Predators look to retool - Orlando Predators
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.
