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Storm vs. Soul Game Preview

April 1, 2014 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Tampa Bay Storm News Release


TAMPA BAY - After a heartbreaking loss at the hands of South Division rival the Orlando Predators, the Storm look to right the ship as it takes on the Philadelphia Soul on Faith and Family Night this Friday, April 1 at 7:30 p.m. on AMALIE Motor Oil Field at the Tampa Bay Times Forum.

This weekend's matchup will be the 10th in series history with the Soul holding a 6-3 advantage over the Storm. The teams are tied 2-2 when Tampa Bay hosts Philadelphia. The Storm is winless when facing Soul head coach Clint Dolezel, who holds a 2-0 advantage over Tampa Bay.

The Storm's Week 3 loss came during the final seconds of regulation. With just six seconds left on the clock, Orlando receiver Greg Carr reeled in the game-winning touchdown leading Orlando to a 56-52 victory. While the Storm lost, the defense was the story of the night. Storm defensive back Chris Smith led the way with two interceptions on the night, the second consecutive game he has accomplished this feat. Smith is tied for the league lead with five interceptions on the season. He had a total of eight in 2013.

Tampa's defensive line also got in on the action sacking Orlando quarterback, Jason Boltus, four times. Nose guard Richard Clebert had two sacks on the night, putting him in a tie for the league lead at three. Storm rookie defensive end Matt Hardison earned the first sack of his career. Look for the defensive line to continue to apply the pressure as it looks to increase its current league-leading sack total of six.

Philadelphia is a team looking for answers. The ArenaBowl XVI runner-ups are off to an 0-2 start and will want to come out fast against the Storm. Equipped with the team's top rushing offense, look for the Soul to put the ball on the ground. The team averages 43 rushing yards per game and is tied for the league lead in rushing touchdowns with seven. The Soul's ground game will rely heavily on Derrick Ross, as the Storm will have to contain him if it wants to prevent a ground attack. The three-time All-Arena candidate rushed nine times for 15 yards and three touchdowns the last time he faced the Storm.

The Soul will also test the Storm defensive backfield. The team will rely on receivers Tiger Jones and Ryan McDaniel to make an impact with both combining for six touchdowns and 322 yards. Last time out both Jones and McDaniel had over 100 receiving yards and accounted for five total 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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