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Storm falls to the SaberCats, 64-34

Saturday May 11, 2013

San Jose, CA – The Tampa Bay Storm (5-3, 2-1) fell to the San Jose SaberCats (5-2) Friday evening at the HP Pavilion, in front of a crowd 8,001 fans, by a score of 64-34. The game saw Storm quarterback Adrian McPherson rush for his 23rd touchdown of the season, breaking the Arena Football League record for most rushing touchdowns in a season by a quarterback.

The Storm started off slow and could not generate much offense putting only 34 points on the board. McPherson converted 13-of-29 passes for 166 yards and two touchdowns. He rushed twice for five yards and two touchdowns. His second rushing touchdown gave him 23 on the season, breaking the league record for most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback in a single season. The receiving corp. was led by local Tampa,FL product Greg Ellingson. He had eight receptions for 143 yards and a season high three touchdowns including a 37-yard score in the second quarter.

Storm defensive back and Palmetto product, Chris Smith, reeled in two interceptions bringing his season total to six. He is now tied for the league lead for most interceptions on the season. The team now has multiple interceptions in six consecutive games. He lead the team in tackles, along with Jean Fanor, with six.

The SaberCats scored on its first two drives of the night, and never looked back. Former Storm receiver, and South Florida Bull, Huey Whittaker led the San Jose receivers with seven receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown. Whittaker also made his presence known on defense as well, recovering a fumble for a touchdown and a pass breakup. San Jose defensive back Ken Fontenette got in on the action, reeling in two interceptions, and returned one 36 yards for the score.

The loss halted the Storm’s win streak at three games, and gave the team its first road loss of the season.

The Tampa Bay Storm continues its road trip as the team makes its way to Pittsburgh for a matchup with the Pittsburgh Power at the CONSOL Energy Center this coming Saturday, May 18…Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM ET.