Keys to the Game: Philadelphia Soul vs. Tampa Bay Storm
The Tampa Bay Storm (6-8, 3-4) will host the Philadelphia Soul (12-3, 4-2) tonight on Amalie Motor Oil Field at the Tampa Bay Times Forum. The game will kickoff at 7:30 PM.
Key 1: Give Hill Time
The Storm lost at home last week for the first time all season. They fell to a very talented Talons team, who forced three turnovers of the Storm. Despite only allowing one sack, the Storm was only able to score 28 points through three quarters of play. The Soul ranks first in the AFL in total offense with an average of 67.6 points per game. Tampa Bay has to keep up with them and to do that Hill must be protected. Protecting Hill helps him get the ball to his talented receivers, Amarri Jackson, Prechae Rodriguez and newcomers De'Cody Fagg and Joes Hills. Protecting Hill is a must do in this important matchup for the Storm.
Key 2: Slow Down the Soul Offense
Mentioned above was the fact that the Soul rank first in the league in points scored per game. With that being said the Storm defense needs to do the best they can to contain Philadelphia's weapons. QB Dan Raudabaugh has 4,084 yards and a franchise record 94 touchdowns this season. The Soul have a impressive rushing attack led by Derrick Ross, who has carried the ball for 481 yards and 27 touchdowns. Also, WR Tiger Jones is on pace to break every Philadelphia single-season reception record with his current 114 receptions for 1,688 yards and 38 touchdowns. Slowing down this Soul offense is a tall task for the Storm, but with the right intensity and level of play it can be done. Pernell Phillips and Steve Octavien will be looked upon to provide constant pressure on a Soul offensive line that has allowed a league low four sacks.
Key 3: Play Sound Football
Playing with speed and concentration could lead to a big 7th win for the Storm. Amarri Jackson has reeled in 30 receptions for 428 yards and eight touchdowns since QB Nick Hill took over under center. Prechae Rodriguez found his way into the endzone last week as well as newcomer De'Cody Fagg. The talent level is clearly there. The Storm needs to capitalize on its best assets on both sides of the ball and play sound, fundamental football. This is an important game considering only three games remain on the schedule for the Storm following this one. The road to the playoffs starts now.