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Preview, Game Notes: Thunder vs. Rattlers, May 11

May 11, 2014 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Portland Thunder News Release


PORTLAND, OR - The Thunder went to Florida a winless team. They roll back into Portland with a two-game win streak and back-to-back eight-touchdown performances from their quarterback position.

Things are looking up in the Rose City, but the undefeated Arizona Rattlers come to town to try to spoil the party.

The Rattlers bring the league's top offense, a 66-points-per-game juggernaut, into the Moda Center. The Thunder defense, fresh off of stifling Tampa Bay's offense for the better part of 60 minutes, will have to continue their big-play ways against a team that doesn't give many of them away.

The Thunder lead the AFL in takeaways with 25, having pulled away 12 fumbles and picked off 13 passes. The Rattlers have given the ball away the fewest times, fumbling just once and throwing just four interceptions in seven games.

Thunder JLB Bryce Peila has played a part in a turnover in every game so far in his career after another forced fumble and return against Tampa Bay.

While the Arizona offense vs. Thunder defense is a battle of strength on strength, the Thunder offense has been making strides of its own.

In each of the past two weeks, the team has put up 60+ points. In each of the past two weeks, a receiver has posted at least four touchdowns. In each of the past two weeks, the Thunder quarterback has thrown for more than 300 yards.

They'll look to continue their success against a team that doesn't force many turnovers - the Rattlers are tied with the Soul for fewest forced turnovers in the league. They do force four-and-outs, however - 12 of them, to be exact, so the Thunder will have to continue to keep the ball moving forward.

In order to pull off the upset, the Thunder will have to again manage to limit their penalties. Against the Storm, they were flagged fewer times than their opponent for the first time all season and walked away with a three-score victory.

The two-time defending champs will provide a tough test for the young Thunder as they seek to establish themselves as playoff contenders after a rough start. Can the Thunder pass this midterm?

To keep up with everything going on with the Thunder, visit our website at www.portlandthunder.com or keep up with us on Facebook (facebook.com/PDXThunder), Twitter or Instagram (@PDXThunder).



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