This game could have a much different look than when these two teams first met in Week 3, the Valor were unable to score in the second half in that game, losing 49-31. Since then they've been able to average 15 points after halftime, 21 against Tampa Bay last week, although with Meyer going down late in the game things may be tougher than expected going forward. The Soul show no signs of wear and are coming off a 64-46 home victory over Cleveland. Philadelphia quarterback Dan Raudabaugh threw for eight touchdowns and no interceptions. Three to wide receiver Darius "Money" Reynolds who should be a key stop for the Valor defense going into this weekend.

 

Reynolds is averaging about 85 receiving yards and at least two touchdowns per game, they call him "Money" for a reason. WR Ryan McDaniel and Sean "SK" Kauleinamoku continue to put up great numbers as well, SK hauled in three touchdowns on just three receptions last week. On the ground, Soul fullback Mykel Benson wants to break records. In a league where much of the focus is on passing, Benson already has nine touchdowns and over 120 rushing yards in six games. The Valor have been looking strong at the line over the last few weeks and this could help slow down Philly on the ground.

 

Over the last two games against Tampa Bay, Washington had eight sacks and over forty tackles from players like Tracy Belton, who was the 2016 AFL Defensive Player of the Year, defensive linemen Brandon Sesay and Jake Payne, and linebacker Jimmy Gordon. Gordon also had a hand in the first touchdown last weekend in Florida, pushing QB Erik Meyer into the end zone. If the defense can continue to build on their recent success then Washington will have more chances to score this Saturday. Valor WR Roger Jackson was voted Offensive Player of the Game last week and racked up over 130 receiving yards to help get him the nod. It's the fourth time in his career he's made it over the 100 receiving yard mark, if QB Sean Brackett has the opportunity to get him the ball more it might be good for two touchdowns.

 

 

Well with Meyer to IR and Bernard Morris leaving the team for the Monterrey Steel of the National Arena League, the Valor needed a quarterback fast so they reactivated Brackett. He's been on their roster since the start of the season and will now get a chance to show what he's made of. Brackett didn't see much action last season in the AFL but in 2015 he played for the Las Vegas Outlaws, throwing for a total of 1,109 yards and 22 touchdowns. He finished that season with a QB rating of 92.2, Meyer is sitting at a 96.6. Maybe with the Valor receiving corps at his disposal Brackett will have a shot at boosting that rating to over 100 for the first time in his career?

 

Since Memorial Day Weekend is upon us it's going to be Red, White and Blue Jeans Day at Verizon Center. There's a Denim Koozie Giveaway and fans are encouraged to wear denim and also bring a pair of new or gently used jeans to donate to families in need through the Purple Heart Foundation. It's also Military Appreciation Day, special discounts will be available for veterans and active military and don't forget every game features Valor Hour, where you can grab $4 draft beer specials starting one hour before kickoff at designated stands.

Jon studied Business Management at the University of Pittsburgh and is originally from Maryland. An avid DMV sports fan, he often attends Capitals, Orioles, Wizards and Redskins games. Now a Washington Valor season plan holder and columnist for ArenaFan, he`ll be at every home game covering the team. He spends his free time with friends and family and freelancing graphic design projects. You can follow Jon on Twitter @5FIFTY3