Tampa Bay Falls to Orlando, 63-61

May 6, 2011 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Tampa Bay Storm News Release


Orlando - Wide receiver Amarri Jacakson led all receivers with 146 receiving yards on 10 catches and recorded three touchdowns, but that was not enough to overthrow an Orlando defense that recorded four turnovers, as the Storm narrowly missed out on taking the 47th edition of the "War on I-4", losing 63-to-61 to the Predators in front of 12,879 fans at the Amway Center in Orlando, FL on Friday night.

The Predators (5-3) were led by the play of defensive back Travis Coleman, who was responsible for two first half turnovers. Those turnovers allowed quarterback Nick Hill and the Predators offense to take a late first quarter lead, a lead that the Storm struggled to overcome despite outscoring Orlando 40-28 in the second half.

The Storm (2-5) defense was solid up front in the loss, with linemen Tim McGill and Alfred Peterson each recording a sack. The Storm defense also combined for three turnovers, a season-high. Wide receiver Huey Whittaker had another impressive showing, catching 11 balls for 117 yards and two scores, including a fourth quarter touchdown with twelve seconds left to bring the Storm within two points of the Predators.

The Storm was unsuccessful in recovering the ensuing onside kick, allowing Predator quarterback Nick Hill to run out the remaining time. Hill was responsible for every Orlando touchdown, including eight through the air as he completed 24 passes for 323 yards. Hill also proved vital in the running game, scrambling five times for 26 yards and a touchdown in the win for the Predators.

Storm quarterback Brian Zybdniewski completed 26-of-39 passes for four touchdowns and three interceptions in the loss.

The Storm head back to home to Amalie Motor Oil Field at the St. Pete Times Forum next week as they take on the Kansas City Command Friday, May 30th 2011 at 7:30 PM. For tickets call the McDonalds Box Office at (813) 301-6600 or go online to tampabaystorm.com. Be sure to tune into 1250 AM-WHNZ for all of the Storm Radio Network's coverage starting at 7:00pm or to Niftytv.com and download the AFL Live player to watch the game online.



Arena Football League Stories from May 6, 2011


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