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Storm heads to Spokane for a matchup with the Shock on ESPN2 this Monday, July 21

July 15, 2014 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Tampa Bay Storm News Release


TAMPA BAY- The Tampa Bay Storm (8-8, 4-3) heads to Spokane for its second consecutive road game to take on the Shock (9-7, 3-2) this Monday, July 21, at the Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena. A win for the Storm will give the team a winning record and keep its playoff chances alive with one week left to play in the regular season. Fans can catch all of the action on ESPN2, or watch the game on ESPN3 and the WatchESPN app. Fans can listen to Jack Harris and Darek Sharp call the action for 1250 AM WHNZ. Kickoff is set for 8:30 p.m. EST.

This is the seventh meeting between the Storm and Shock and sixth regular season meeting between the two. The Shock leads the overall series 4-2 and the regular season series 3-2. The Storm has visited Spokane four times in the series and holds a record of 2-2 away from the Tampa Bay Times Forum. The Shock defeated the Storm in ArenaBowl XXIII and has outscored the Storm by a total of 31 points over the series history.

Last week saw the Storm drop its second consecutive game, falling to the SaberCats, 43-52, in San Jose. The game brought the team to a .500 record and Tampa Bay will have to continue to fight for a playoff opportunity. Storm quarterback Randy Hippeard led the team on offense, completing 18-of-31 passes for 234 yards, throwing for six touchdowns and one interception. Hippeard's favorite target, potential All-Arena candidate, Joe Hills had a dominant game against a strong SaberCats defense, hauling in three touchdowns. Hills has had a remarkable season this year, bringing in 83 passes, for 1,009 yards, and 33 touchdowns. Currently he ranks third in scoring (16.8), third in scoring - TDs (16.8) and fifth in receiving touchdowns (33).

Defensively, the Storm will look to bring everything they have against an electric Shock offense that is led by reigning AFL MVP quarterback Erik Meyer. Meyer has guided the Shock to three consecutive wins, including last week's stunner against the top-seeded Rattlers. Storm defensive back Jean Fanor will look to play a big role in this contest, as he leads the AFL in tackles with 116. Defensive back James Harrell is also primed for a big game, as he has been one of Tampa Bay's best defensive players this season, totaling 56.5 tackles, five interceptions, and three fumble recoveries. Look for both to be a big factor against the Shock offense.

Offensively, the Shock will be led by Meyer, who has thrown for 49 touchdowns this season. His top target, wide receiver Mike Washington, has 96 receptions for 1,232 yards, and 20 touchdown receptions. Look for that hook-up to try to get going early against the Storm defense.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Shock is led by defensive lineman James Ruffin, who is the current AFL sack leader with 14.5 on the season. Ruffin's linemate, Derrick Summers is also having a strong season, totaling 10.0 sacks, good for fifth in the AFL. Look for Hippeard and the rest of the Storm offense to avoid these two pass-rushers in this week's matchup.

After losing its past two games, the Storm will be looking to get on track with a win against Spokane. With playoff hopes on the line, these next two games are the most critical for Tampa Bay's 2014 campaign. Look for the team to come out aggressive and hungry for a win.

The Five-Time World Champion Tampa Bay Storm enters its 27th season in the Arena Football League. The Storm will host "Fan Appreciation Night" Saturday, July 26 when it takes on the Cleveland Gladiators, on AMALIE Motor Oil Field at the Tampa Bay Times Forum. 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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