Arizona Rattlers (9-2) vs Orlando Predators (7-5) Game Preview

Thursday June 18, 2015

 Phoenix, Ariz. – The Arizona Rattlers will be looking to win their sixth straight game when they host the Orlando Predators this Saturday, June 20th at 5:00 PM at U.S Airways Center.

The Arizona Rattlers are coming off of a commanding 69-42 victory over the Portland Thunder (3-8) thanks in part to an explosive offensive performance by the Rattlers for the second game in a row. Constant pressure from Arizona’s defensive line also placed Portland’s quarterbacks Kyle Rowley and Alex Carder in very uncomfortable positions throughout most of the game.

The Rattlers started the game with a quick touchdown when defensive back and kick returner AJ Cruz returned the opening kickoff for 6-0 lead. It was, however, the second quarter that did Portland in. The Thunder surrendered four touchdowns, and threw two interceptions, giving the three-time defending ArenaBowl Champions a 48-21 halftime lead. Arizona quarterback Nick Davila completed 13 of his 18 passes, for 146 yards and four scores in his second start since returning from a foot injury that had kept the two-time AFL MVP out of action since Week 5. Backup quarterback Shayne Boyd relieved Davila due to the Rattlers’ decisive lead at the start of the fourth quarter.

The Orlando Predators are coming off of an impressive victory over the team with the second best record in the AFL, the Philadelphia Soul (10-2), by a score of 45-42. Quarterback Bernard Morris did most of his damage on the ground, rushing for 79 yards and three touchdowns while adding 174 yards and two scores through the air. Wide receivers Larry Brackins and Brandon Thompkins each hauled in six passes as Brackins led the way with 70 yards and a touchdown. Thompkins registered 59 receiving yards and another score while also adding 119 yards and a touchdown on kickoff returns.

This will be the first time these two teams face off this season. Last season, the Predators came from behind to beat Arizona late in the season finale. The Rattlers, however, still have an overall winning record of 11-9 over Orlando going back to 1992. The game will be nationally televised on CBS Sports Network.