Thunder Upbeat Even At 0-3
March 15, 2006 - American Indoor Football Association (AIFA)
Daytona Beach Thunder News Release
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - An 0-3 start would cause even the most solid of coaches concern. And yes, Daytona Beach Thunder Head Coach Ervin Bryson is concerned right now, but feeling as positive as he can be in this situation.
"We will turn this thing around," Bryson said after the Thunder suffered a 50-46 heartbreaking loss Sunday on the road against the defending American Indoor Football League champion Richmond Bandits. "We're so close. Just remember one thing ... the Pittsburgh Steelers were 7-5 at one point and look what happened there."
Daytona Beach erased a 15-point first half deficit and held a pair of 10-point leads in the second before the Bandits scored the game's final touchdowns. Even after the Bandits took the lead with 37 seconds, Daytona Beach moved to the Richmond 4-yard line in the last seconds only to have two game-winning chances fall incomplete.
"This team never gave up," Bryson said. "Two road games have come down to the final play. It's great for the league, just not for us."
The Thunder outgained the Bandits 305-218 in total yards and held the ball for nearly 40 minutes, neutralizing an offense that scored 81 points the week before.
"We went in with a balanced attack that allowed us to control the pace of the game," Bryson said. "A couple of things need to be worked on, but the guys responded to what we wanted them to do."
Oscar Davenport made an immediate impression in his first Thunder appearance, throwing for 205 yards and four touchdowns. Wide receiver Tarion Hubbard enjoyed his best day as a professional, catching six passes for 87 yards and two touchdowns to complement Lucas Greene's 107 yards and three scores.
"Oscar makes a difference, doesn't he? Bryson asked. "And remember, he's still a bit rusty. Imagine what you'll see in a couple of weeks. I'm also proud of the way Tarion and Kwasie Kwaku (three catches for 43 yards on offense and 64 return yards and three tackles on special teams) stepped us this week."
Nick Allison had two interceptions for the Thunder defense, which also got strong efforts from Durell Preston (7.5) tackles and former backup quarterback Marcus Walker (two tackles, two breakups).
"There are a lot of positives to build on," Bryson said. "We're in a very competitive league now and we're going to have to step up our game. And we will."
The Thunder is off this week, returning to action Friday March 24 at the Augusta Spartans. NOTES: In additon to Davenport, the Thunder have added DE Bryan Collins and K Anil Periera to the roster ... Linebacker P.J. Jack has been released ... Greene has consecutive three touchdown games and Nick Allison consecutive two pick games ... The Thunder's first three opponents have a combined 7-2 record, but the next three are a collective 2-6.
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American Indoor Football Association Stories from March 15, 2006
- Davis, defense lead Riverhawks past Soldiers - Johnstown RiverHawks
- Thunder Upbeat Even At 0-3 - Daytona Beach Thunder
- Rebels' Williamson AIFL defensive player of the week - Raleigh Rebels
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