Sunday, March 16, 2008

SaberCats: Week 3 Report

Yesterday the SaberCats played their first home game of the year against the Arizona Rattlers, and won their second straight matchup. The SaberCats defense was in control all game long, forcing 4 turnovers, 1 of which was a touchdown.

Leading the way for the SaberCats defense was Steve Watson, who has two sacks which amounted for a total loss of 9 yards. And Clevan Thomas, who had 4 tackles and a fumble return touchdown.

Once again carrying the SaberCats offense was Mark Grieb, who threw 20 completions for 264 yards and 3 touchdowns. And giving him all the support he needed was Cleannord Saintil, who reeled in 2 catches for touch. The running game also had a significant contribution to the SaberCats' victory, as they had 3 touchdowns on the ground.

The SaberCats defeated the Rattlers 43 to 63, and better their record to 2-1, putting them in an excellent spot in the West. They'll come back to HP Pavilion next week, as they look to knock off the Dallas Desperados in front of a home crowd.

-Dennis Higgs, SaberCats Weekly; March 2008

Saturday, March 15, 2008

SaberCats: Week 2 Report

The SaberCats traveled to Grand Rapids last week to take on the Rampage, who were yet to play a game. They would better their record to 1-1, but it wouldn't come easy, as they had to come back from a 13-0 deficit in the first half.

It was an ugly start for the SaberCats. Mark Grieb threw four straight incompletions on the SaberCats' first drive, immediately giving the ball right to the Rampage offense. The Rampage scored instantly on a pass from McPherson to Hines, and the SaberCats were down early 6-0. And on the ensuing kickoff, the ball went off the iron over Tristian George's head and into the arms of Higgins, who rolled in for a 2-yard net return which put the Rampage ahead 13-0.

But in characteristic fashion, the SaberCats would immediately strike back. On the ensuing drive, Grieb threw to James Roe for an 8-yard touchdown pass, and the SaberCats were back in it, down by a mere 6 points. And on the following Rampage drive, the ball was put on the ground at the 15, and picked up by Ron Jones at the 12, who would carry it in for a touchdown.

It was all SaberCats from there, and they went on to win 66-58. Mark Grieb led the way for the SaberCats, throwing 22 completions for over 200 yards and 6 touchdowns. And Rodney Wright helped him out, as he netted 3 touchdown catches.

The SaberCats are tied for second in the Western Division, and they'll make the trip home to HP Pavilion next week and take on the 1-1 Arizona Rattlers.

-Dennis Higgs, SaberCats Weekly; March 2008.