Gladiators win big at home, 75-39 over Blaze
Friday June 4, 2010
Cleveland native Tim Cheatwood shines in victory
CLEVELAND – The Cleveland Gladiators snapped a two-game losing streak with a 75-39 win over the Utah Blaze, in front of 7,751 fans at Quicken Loans Arena on Friday night. Cleveland improves to 4-5 heading to Milwaukee next week, while the Blaze fall to 1-7 in 2010.
Gladiators linebacker Tim Cheatwood, a product of Cleveland Benedictine High School and Ohio State University, recovered three fumbles, returning one 11 yards for a touchdown. Cheatwood also registered two tackles, one forced fumble, and a sack for seven yards.
John Dutton led the Gladiators through the air, completing 22-of-37 for 226 yards, five touchdowns and one interception while connecting with six different receivers. Dutton’s favorite target was Ben Nelson, who hauled in a game-high 10 passes for 114 yards and two touchdowns. Nelson was one of three Cleveland receivers to catch multiple touchdowns in the game.
Kevin McCabe saw his first action at quarterback, taking over for Dutton in the fourth quarter. He finished the night 4-of-6 passing for 57 yards and two touchdowns.
After consecutive scores, Utah pulled within 13 at 40-27 with 3:12 left in the third quarter, but the Blaze fumbled on their next two possessions. Utah committed six turnovers on the day.
Utah quarterbacks Michael Affleck and Mark Thorson combined to complete 20-of-33 passes for 198 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. Chris Francies led the Blaze receiving corps with eight catches for 83 yards and a touchdown. Defensively, Brandon Hampton returned an interception 52 yards for a score.
Cleveland travels to Milwaukee next Saturday to take on the Iron. Kickoff is set for 8:00 p.m. ET.
The Gladiators return to The Q on Saturday, June 19 at 7:00 pm when the Iowa Barnstormers come to town. Tickets are on sale now! For more information, call 216.685.9000 or visit www.clevelandgladiators.com. Don’t miss all of the hard-hitting, helmet-popping excitement of arena football! Get ready to Rock the Q and Roll with the Gladiators!
