Storm at Talons Game Preview

Published on March 18, 2014 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Tampa Bay Storm News Release


TAMPA BAY - The Tampa Bay Storm look to make it two in a row as it takes on the San Antonio Talons at the Alamodome Friday, March 21 at 8:30 p.m. This will be the seventh meeting between the two teams, and fifth time the Storm has faced the Talons away from Tampa Bay. The Talons hold an overall record of 5-1 against the Storm and a 3-1 record when facing Tampa Bay on its home turf.

The Storm started the 2014 season strong with a 62-57 victory against South Division rival, the New Orleans VooDoo. The win was historic as new head coach, Lawrence Samuels, earned the first win of his coaching career.

The win also marked the first career victory for quarterback Randy Hippeard. Hippeard completed 18-of-27 passes for 288 yards and six touchdowns. He connected with receivers Amarri Jackson, Andrew Helmick and Michael Lindsey; however his primary target for the night was Justin Hilton. Hilton caught nine passes for 147 yards and four touchdowns. Hilton has caught a touchdown in three consecutive games played dating back to last season.

The Storm defense did not disappoint either. Picking up where he left off last season, defensive back Chris Smith hauled in his first interception of the season and ninth of his career. The game also saw Lindsey, filling in at the jack linebacker position, reeling in an interception of his own. The defensive line applied pressure during the game, earning two sacks on the night.

The Talons enter Friday after suffering a last-second 41-38 defeat at the hands of the newly formed LA KISS. Looking for its first win, Talons head coach, Lee Johnson, will rely on quarterback Mitch Mustain who completed 27-of-46 passes for 256 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions. His favorite target of the night was wide receiver D.J. Stephens who caught 14 passes for 140 yards and three touchdowns. His 14 receptions was a Talons single-game franchise record.

Look for Tampa Bay to come out strong with the Storm attempting to start the season 2-0 for the first time since 2008. Hippeard will rely heavily on all receivers with a focus on spreading the ball around. The Storm defensive line will have to apply pressure on Mustain and force him out of his comfort zone. Doing so will lead to sacks and mistakes that could lead to turnovers.

The Talons also want to jump out to a quick start after losing as time expired in its season opener, San Antonio hopes to make a statement and avoid a 0-2 start. Mustain will look to receiver D.J. Stephens who has had big games against the Storm in the past. Last time Stephens faced the Storm, he hauled in 11 receptions for 184 yards and five touchdowns.

The five-time World Champion Tampa Bay Storm enters its 27th season in the Arena Football League. For more specific details regarding single-game pricing and availability, please contact the Storm ticket office at 813.301.6600 or visit www.tampabaystorm.com. Season tickets can be purchased by visiting TampaBayStorm.com or by calling 813.301.6600. For group sales fans can contact 813.301.6900. Additionally fans and sponsors can follow the Storm on Facebook (Tampa Bay Storm) or Twitter (@tampabaystorm) for up to date news and exclusive content.

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