This week in the AFL

by Mark Sargent
May 22, 2002 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)

It seems hard to believe, but more than one-third of the AFL season is already over. As we near the mid-point of the year, we see that one-half of the entire league is tied, with identical 3 and 2 records and only one team, San Jose, remains undefeated. For the thousands of Arena Football League fans across North America, we couldn't ask for anything more. Whatever team you support, chances are they still have a great opportunity to win the Arena Bowl Championship in this very exciting and highly competitive 2002 campaign. As week six approaches, let's take a closer look at some of this weekend's games.

On Friday night, the New Jersey Gladiators visit the Toronto Phantoms in an Eastern Division battle. Both teams are currently tied for first place along with the Buffalo Destroyers. New Jersey is coming off an impressive 76-69 win over the New York Dragons, while Toronto was defeated by Buffalo 49-46. Both teams have great offensive power and can put up big numbers. Second year WR/LB Sedrick Robinson had an outstanding game last week for New Jersey, hauling in 10 passes for 116 yards and two touchdowns. Toronto's Damian Harrell, had similar success last weekend, grabbing seven receptions for 109 yards and three scores. This game may come down to defense and in that area, I give the edge to Toronto. They have given up the least amount of points of all 16 teams in the league.

In another important American Conference match-up, the 3-2 Chicago Rush are visiting the 4-1 Arizona Rattlers. The Rattlers are led by one of the top quarterbacks in the entire league, Sherdrick Bonner. Now in his ninth AFL season, Bonner has thrown for over 1,300 yards and 31 touchdowns already in just five games this year. The Rattlers also have a host of quality receivers with players such as Hunkie Cooper, Chris Horn and Randy Gatewood. Although the Rattlers lost their opening game, they were defeated by just one point, 52-51, at the hands of the San Jose Sabercats. Since that game, Arizona appears to be getting stronger with each contest. Last weekend they easily handled the Dallas Desperados 53-30.

Now in their second season, the Chicago Rush are off to a great start. Led by quarterback Billy Dicken, the Rush are coming off a victory over the Georgia Force. Dicken had a solid game against the Force, completing 18 of 25 passes for 336 yards and seven touchdowns. Cornelius Bonner is a strong two-way player for the Rush and last week he received the "Ironman of the game" award for his outstanding effort. This game could go either way, and like a lot of the games this season, it is just too close to call.

In other action this weekend, Dallas is visiting San Jose and will try to slow down the undefeated Sabercats. The Buffalo Destroyers are on the road visiting the Arena Bowl Champion Grand Rapids Rampage. This game should be another close contest as both teams are coming off key victories and both are fighting to remain on top of their respective divisions.

Once again, buckle up and get ready for another exciting AFL weekend.

Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from May 22, 2002

• This week in the AFL - OSC Original by Mark Sargent
• The Deuce Scoop - AFL I
• Hot Questions - AFL I
• Cobras to Host Benefit Golf Tournament - Carolina Cobras
• Arena Football League Transactions - AFL I

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer(s), and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.