Rampage face Chicago Sunday in divisional round playoff matchup
Saturday July 5, 2008
Grand Rapids Can Advance to American Conference Championship with Fifth Straight Win
ROSEMONT, Ill. – After capturing their first playoff win since 2001 and first road playoff victory ever, the Grand Rapids Rampage will take on the Chicago Rush tomorrow (July 6) for the chance to advance to the American Conference Championship. Arguably the hottest team in the Arena Football League, the Rampage have won their last four games including three straight on the road.
Last Monday night (June 30) Grand Rapids knocked off the favored Arizona Rattlers, 48-41, in an unconventional fashion. While the Rampage’s offense ranked as the second most prolific in the AFL this season, it was the team’s defense that won the game. With less than one minute remaining, Arizona had a first-and-goal situation from Grand Rapids’ three-yard line with a chance to tie the game or even take the lead. The Rampage denied four straight Rattlers rushing attempts, however, preserving a historic win.
Rampage defensive back William “Roc” Haith (Washington, D.C.) made the game-winning tackle, slicing past a block and bringing down Arizona quarterback Jeff Smoker short of the goal line. Meanwhile, Grand Rapids receiver/linebacker and 2008 AFL All-Ironman Team member Jermaine Lewis (Waukegan, Ill.) intercepted Smoker on the Rattlers’ opening drive, allowing the Rampage to take an early lead it would never relinquish.
Grand Rapids will face a daunting task Sunday when it tackles the Central Division champion Rush. Chicago captured both Amtrak Classic contests between the two clubs this season, and has won the last six meetings overall.
Rampage fans can hear every snap of Sunday’s game with play-by-play voice Joe Parson at RampageFootball.com beginning at 2:45 p.m. (EDT). Kickoff is slated for 3:00 p.m. The game will also be broadcast live nationally on ESPN. For additional information including updated schedules, rosters, and ticket options, visit RampageFootball.com.
