Talons Begin 4 Game Road Trip against Chicago Rush
June 11, 2013 - Arena Football League (AFL)
San Antonio Talons News Release
The San Antonio Talons (5-6) are looking to bounce back against the Chicago Rush (7-5) on Saturday, after suffering a tough loss at home by the AFL defending champion Arizona Rattlers in Week 12. Kickoff is scheduled @ 7:00pm CST from BMO Harris Bank Center.
This will be the second and final meeting between the two teams this season. After the Rush handed the Talons a loss at home in Week 3 by a score of 48-41. The game was never really that close, as the Talons defense continuously failed to stop Chicago on numerous third down situations. The Rush began the game 4 of 4 on third down with two of the four conversions, resulting in touchdowns.
The Talons passing attack in last week's game vs. Arizona was lacking. While they did account for 241 passing yards, much of those yards came in garbage time as Interceptions were ultimately the tale of this game, Quarterbacks Xavier Lee and Nick Fanuzzi combined for six interceptions on the night, as neither player could seem to find a rhythm. If the Talons want a victory this week they have to cut down on their turnovers.
On the other hand, Chicago has been on a tear of late. The Rush recorded their third victory in a row on Saturday night vs. the Utah Blaze 67-43 and, extended their lead in the Central Division to two games. Rush receiver Braylon Bell was impressive in the game, hauling in three long touchdowns from fellow teammate Carson Coffman.
The Talons pass defense must find a way to stop Bell this week after allowing six touchdowns to Rattler receivers Jared Perry and Rod Windsor. Joe Sykes has been the only real bright spot for the defense in the past two games, recording three sacks and two tackles for a loss. San Antonio must find a way to do what they do best this week and force Chicago into turnovers.
The injured D.J. Stephens has proven to be a huge loss. The wide receiver from Arkansas-Monticello was a huge boost on special teams and offense for the Talons, accounting for seven total touchdowns in his last four appearances. Newly acquired Talon Brent Holmes will be counted on to help replace Stephens and fill the void while he is gone.
Turnovers hurt San Antonio in a major way vs. Arizona so the question is, will they be a factor again against Chicago's dominant defensive front?
The San Antonio Talons are in their second season in the Arena Football League (AFL). The team won the AFL's Central Division title, as well as hosted their first AFL playoff game in the 2012 season. For more information or to ask about season tickets please call 210.227.TEAM.
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