Wild and Bandits to Renew Rivalry on Saturday
May 28, 2009 - Indoor Football League (IFL)
Wichita Wild News Release
The Wichita Wild of the Indoor Football League (IFL) will travel to Iowa this week as they take on a Central Division foe in the Sioux City Bandits (2-6). The two teams met earlier in the year with the Bandits pulling off the 30-28 upset win over the Wild (4-5). Kick-off for the game on Saturday is scheduled for 7:05 PM at Gateway Arena. Fans can view the game for $7 online at www.b2livetv.com.
In the previous meeting between the teams, the offense for the Wild was slowed by turnovers and injuries to key players. Even though the teams played earlier in the season, this will mark the first time the Bandits have had to go up against a playmaker like wide receiver Clinton Solomon. Solomon leads the IFL in receptions per game and receiving yards. On the season, Solomon has totaled 45 receptions for 720 yards and 14 touchdowns, all of which are franchise records for a single season.
The Wichita defense will be led by defensive back Randy Kelly who also returns kicks for the Wild. Kelly was named the IFL Special Teams Player of the Week for his performance in week 11 against the Odessa Roughnecks. In that game, Kelly returned a kick-off for a touchdown, a missed field goal for a touchdown, brought back an interception 30 yards for a touchdown and recorded 9 tackles in the convincing 61-42 victory. Kelly ranks 2nd in the IFL with three kick returns for touchdowns.
Sioux City should be well rested after coming off their bye week. The Bandits currently occupy last place in the Central Division, however they have won two out of their last three games and put up 64 points in their win over the Colorado Ice on May 16. Since taking over at quarterback in the 4th game of the season, Scott Jensen has provided much stability for the Bandits offense throwing 13 touchdown passes while managing only 2 interceptions.
Linebacker Rudy Jones has been a standout all season for the Sioux City defense. Jones has tallied 47 tackles, 2 sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery on the season. However, the Bandits have had their struggles on defense as well. The Bandits rank 16th in total defense among IFL teams and is allowing an average of 5.7 yards per play. Sioux City has also displayed an inability to pressure the opponents quarterback, managing only 4 sacks this season.
The Wild will return home on Saturday, June 13 to face the Omaha Beef. The game is sure to have major playoff implications. Tickets for all home games are available at the Hartman Arena Box Office, by phone at 316-927-3999, stage1tickets.com and all Stage 1 Ticket Outlets.
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Indoor Football League Stories from May 28, 2009
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- Wild and Bandits to Renew Rivalry on Saturday - Wichita Wild
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