KISS, Talons Set for CBS Sports Network Spotlight

Friday July 18, 2014

 LOS ANGELES – The LA KISS (3-13) host the San Antonio Talons (1-15) in a Week 1 rematch this weekend in “NET10 Wireless Arena Football Saturday” action on CBS Sports Network. Kickoff from Honda Center in Anaheim is set for 10:00 p.m. ET.

This will be the second meeting between the two squads and the first-ever hosted by LA in the series. The KISS came away with the first win in franchise history, 41-38, against the Talons in Week 1, thanks to a 35-yard Kenny Spencer field goal as time expired at the Alamodome.

This week’s contest is a de facto playoff game for the KISS, as a loss would officially eliminate the first-year franchise from playoff contention after falling to the Portland Thunder, 31-44, a week ago. The Talons, who have lost four games this season by three points or fewer including a 47-50 overtime heartbreaker to the 15-1 Cleveland Gladiators last week, will be looking to end their 2014 campaign on a high note.

Consistent quarterback play has been an issue for both teams all year, as no signal-caller on either active roster boasts an efficiency rating higher than 80. With the AFL’s all-time leading passer, Aaron Garcia, on injured reserve, LA figures to start veteran J.J. Raterink, who has passed for 29 touchdowns and 16 interceptions in 10 games with the team this year. In San Antonio, Matt Bassuener and Shane Boyd have combined for 51 scores and 35 turnovers this year. The Talons will rely on veteran leadership from Brent Holmes, PJ Berry and Robert Quiroga at the receiver position this week, while LA’s bright spot all season has been Donovan Morgan. “Captain” Morgan, who starred for the Talons while the franchise was in Tulsa, has hauled in 126 passes for 1,635 yards and 32 touchdowns with the KISS, including a score in all but one game this year.

The KISS defense took a major hit last week when Riddell Defensive Player of the Year candidate Beau Bell was placed on injured reserve. To soften the blow, LA will need to rely heavily on the play of defensive ends Michale Spicer and Nekos Brown. Beau’s brother, B.J. Bell, will also need to make an impact up the middle from the nose guard position. San Antonio will look for another big week from their secondary, which is led by veteran Kelvin Rodgers. Once only a kick return specialist, Rodgers has developed into one of the most opportunistic defensive backs in the League, snagging a team-high 10 interceptions on the year.

About the AFL
Since its inception in 1987, the Arena Football League has showcased a fast-paced and exciting game to millions of fans in a myriad of markets across the country. The ESPN family of networks and CBS Sports Network will nationally broadcast AFL games each week for the entire 2014 season. The AFL schedule culminates with ArenaBowl XXVII Saturday, August 23, 2014 on ESPN.