In the tiny tourist town of Rothenberg, (pop. 20,000) nestled in the southeast corner of Bavaria in Germany, not far from the Czech border, Cedric Townsend is enjoying life. As the starting quarterback of the Franken Knights (Division 2 in Germany), and the offensive coordinator, Townsend, in his third season of American football in Europe, is feeling good.
"I played in Sweden for two years with the Carlstad Crusaders, but hurt my knee prior to the championship game last year," he said. "I had surgery in the offseason and with the proper rehab back in North Carolina I am back at 100%. I feel lucky that I could continue to play here."
Due to his European experience and game film, Cedric had an opportunity to try out for the Hamilton Tiger Cats of the Canadian Football league but opted to return to Europe rather than go through tryouts and then training camp.
A native of Kenansville, North Carolina, Townsend attended Rocky Mount College, and in his senior year he guided his team to a 9-3 record. After graduation, one of his coaches was contacted by Rikard Borg, President of the Crusaders in Sweden and through Europlayers he was able to upload game film and record. Borg signed him and Cedric's European adventure began.
In 2008 the Crusaders, with the 6'5" Townsend at quarterback and running the offense, (1,536 yards rushing and 23 touchdowns as well as 2,241 yards passing for 30 touchdowns and only 3 interceptions) reached the Swedish semi-finals, losing to eventual champions, the Arlanda Jets. Last year, Carlstad went undefeated (10-0) and Townsend had another great season rushing for 1,045 yards and 19 touchdowns while passing for 2,164 yards and 30 TDs and a mere 2 interceptions) but with Cedric favoring the knee that he injured the game before, the Crusaders lost in the championship game to the Stockholm Meanmachines.
"I learned so much about football, playing in Sweden taking on the offensive coordinator's role, and I grew up.'" Said Cedric. "I really enjoy Rothenberg though. People love football here and with all the tourists from all over the world, the atmosphere is really friendly."
For now, it seems that Cedric Townsend is relishing the life of an American football player in Europe.
My name is Roger Kelly, and with my partner we run the largest website of its kind in the world to help American football players and coaches find football teams in Europe - http://www.europlayers.com - and we now have more than 15,000 registered members and 750 teams throughout Europe on the site.
http://www.europlayers.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roger_Kelly
Monday, 7 June 2010
How Do I Stop the Speed Running Back in Youth Football?
Speed is king in all sports, but especially in Pop Warner football. If you have a player that cannot be caught, you will have a great season without having to do much coaching. If you are facing a team with great speed then you need a game plan.
How your speed matches up versus their speed will dictate how you design your defensive game plan. You have to devise a scheme to contain, or at the minimum harness, the quickest player in the opposing team.
I have become a big believer in no surprises as a coach. I believe using intense scouting, with complete reports so you have an idea of what you will be facing. A complete scouting report is your most valuable tool.
As a coach preparing the game plan for the upcoming opponent, the first inquiry a defensive coordinator must ask himself is who is the fastest player on the other team? You will set up your defensive backs and ends based on this guide. There goal is to get their speed back outside your containment defender so he can run free down the sidelines.
Your primary defensive strategy must be not to allow this to happen. You must convey to your players that they need to contain the speed running back. By using team defense, you will have your containment players force their fast running back towards the middle of field and back to where you other defenders are. You can minimize the speed advantage by forcing him to run to the middle of your defense. It sound easy, but trust me it isn't. It is not impossible and with the right preparation you should be able to harness the speed back.
When designing your defensive scheme, line up your defensive ends and corner backs at a minimum of 4-5 yards closer to the sidelines than you would in your base set. This will make it hard to run around the ends and get to the outside freely. This helps the ends see the play as it develops. When a running back sees a defender, his instinct is to run the other way, even if it is back in traffic.
The opposing offensive coordinator rapidly gets frustrated and has to make over his game plan live while the game is in progress. Even if you have a back up plan in place, it is hard to adjust on the fly.
I have witnessed quite a few opposing coaches enter half time, yelling at his speed back, blaming the kid when he, as the coach, has no idea what is happening.
In conclusion the best way to negate speed is to make your opposition run to the middle. The other reward is you are making the speed back go where you have more defenders to help make the tackle.
Jim Oddo has been coaching pee wee, flag, Pop Warner and youth football for over 23 years. He has attained an 80+% winning percentage. Read how to win with over 400 FREE tips and posts regarding every area of little guy football at: http://footballplaybooks.info. In addition to coaching tips, there are many different offensive and defensive playbooks all modified in Youth Football Playbooks.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Oddo
How your speed matches up versus their speed will dictate how you design your defensive game plan. You have to devise a scheme to contain, or at the minimum harness, the quickest player in the opposing team.
I have become a big believer in no surprises as a coach. I believe using intense scouting, with complete reports so you have an idea of what you will be facing. A complete scouting report is your most valuable tool.
As a coach preparing the game plan for the upcoming opponent, the first inquiry a defensive coordinator must ask himself is who is the fastest player on the other team? You will set up your defensive backs and ends based on this guide. There goal is to get their speed back outside your containment defender so he can run free down the sidelines.
Your primary defensive strategy must be not to allow this to happen. You must convey to your players that they need to contain the speed running back. By using team defense, you will have your containment players force their fast running back towards the middle of field and back to where you other defenders are. You can minimize the speed advantage by forcing him to run to the middle of your defense. It sound easy, but trust me it isn't. It is not impossible and with the right preparation you should be able to harness the speed back.
When designing your defensive scheme, line up your defensive ends and corner backs at a minimum of 4-5 yards closer to the sidelines than you would in your base set. This will make it hard to run around the ends and get to the outside freely. This helps the ends see the play as it develops. When a running back sees a defender, his instinct is to run the other way, even if it is back in traffic.
The opposing offensive coordinator rapidly gets frustrated and has to make over his game plan live while the game is in progress. Even if you have a back up plan in place, it is hard to adjust on the fly.
I have witnessed quite a few opposing coaches enter half time, yelling at his speed back, blaming the kid when he, as the coach, has no idea what is happening.
In conclusion the best way to negate speed is to make your opposition run to the middle. The other reward is you are making the speed back go where you have more defenders to help make the tackle.
Jim Oddo has been coaching pee wee, flag, Pop Warner and youth football for over 23 years. He has attained an 80+% winning percentage. Read how to win with over 400 FREE tips and posts regarding every area of little guy football at: http://footballplaybooks.info. In addition to coaching tips, there are many different offensive and defensive playbooks all modified in Youth Football Playbooks.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_Oddo
American Football in Europe Offers Players and Coaches a Great Opportunity For Football and Travel
Most people in North America would be surprised to discover that American football is thriving throughout the world, especially in Europe. For football coaches and players who like to travel, Europe offers a great opportunity with American football leagues almost everywhere. Although NFL Europe disbanded three years ago, interest in the game has continued to grow, with championship games in countries such as Germany attracting between 20,000 and 30,000 fans.
In fact, there are more than 750 American football clubs in 28 countries, ranging from France and Italy to Hungary and Serbia. Each one has at least three divisions of football with an average of eight teams in each. Basically, you can't find a country in Europe that doesn't have an American football league.
Last fall Jonathan Koidis was preparing to finish off his college degree and his Canadian college football career at Queens University playing offensive right guard for the Queen's University Gaels. The team went on to win the Vanier Cup, the Canadian College championship and with no pro aspirations Jon still wanted to play another year or two. He signed up on Europlayers (www.europlayers.com), and it wasn't long before he had a few offers. He chose the Zurich Renegades of Switzerland playing in the Swiss first division.
"The team flew me over in February to one of the most beautiful cities I have seen," says Koidis. "They had housing, transportation and everything else arranged and we hit the field in March for practice. The season ends in late July but what a great experience I have had. I never expected to be playing football again least of all in Europe."
The caliber of the game varies from country to country and sometimes from season to season. Import rules also vary. Germany, for example, allows more imports (divided between North American and European imports) on the roster and on the field. Seasons also change from country to country. For instance, the Belgian season ends late May while Finland, in contrast, starts play at that time.
Coaches, though, do not have to worry about import rules and more and more ex-pro, college and even high school football coaches are discovering the challenge and enjoyment of coaching in Europe.
Brian Gaylor from Texas is in his first year coaching the Lubeck Seals of the German fourth division. "A good friend of mine who now coaches in Sweden, recommended the European coaching adventure to me," says Galyor. "I registered on the Europlayers website and within a short time had an offer from the Seals. I am enjoying myself thoroughly and plan to stay another two to three years."
For coaches and players interested the plan is simple. Register on Europlayers, follow the instructions under How to use Europlayers and find a team. The site makes it easy.
I help run the largest website of its kind in the world to help American football players and coaches find football teams in Europe - http://www.europlayers.com - and we now have more than 15,000 registered members and 750 teams throughout Europe on the site.
http://www.europlayers.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roger_Kelly
In fact, there are more than 750 American football clubs in 28 countries, ranging from France and Italy to Hungary and Serbia. Each one has at least three divisions of football with an average of eight teams in each. Basically, you can't find a country in Europe that doesn't have an American football league.
Last fall Jonathan Koidis was preparing to finish off his college degree and his Canadian college football career at Queens University playing offensive right guard for the Queen's University Gaels. The team went on to win the Vanier Cup, the Canadian College championship and with no pro aspirations Jon still wanted to play another year or two. He signed up on Europlayers (www.europlayers.com), and it wasn't long before he had a few offers. He chose the Zurich Renegades of Switzerland playing in the Swiss first division.
"The team flew me over in February to one of the most beautiful cities I have seen," says Koidis. "They had housing, transportation and everything else arranged and we hit the field in March for practice. The season ends in late July but what a great experience I have had. I never expected to be playing football again least of all in Europe."
The caliber of the game varies from country to country and sometimes from season to season. Import rules also vary. Germany, for example, allows more imports (divided between North American and European imports) on the roster and on the field. Seasons also change from country to country. For instance, the Belgian season ends late May while Finland, in contrast, starts play at that time.
Coaches, though, do not have to worry about import rules and more and more ex-pro, college and even high school football coaches are discovering the challenge and enjoyment of coaching in Europe.
Brian Gaylor from Texas is in his first year coaching the Lubeck Seals of the German fourth division. "A good friend of mine who now coaches in Sweden, recommended the European coaching adventure to me," says Galyor. "I registered on the Europlayers website and within a short time had an offer from the Seals. I am enjoying myself thoroughly and plan to stay another two to three years."
For coaches and players interested the plan is simple. Register on Europlayers, follow the instructions under How to use Europlayers and find a team. The site makes it easy.
I help run the largest website of its kind in the world to help American football players and coaches find football teams in Europe - http://www.europlayers.com - and we now have more than 15,000 registered members and 750 teams throughout Europe on the site.
http://www.europlayers.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roger_Kelly
Carolina Panthers Set to Run Over Competition in 2010 - Stewart, Williams and Gross Keys to Success
Things are really looking up for the Panthers. Not only did they have an outstanding 2010 NFL draft, but they are also in prime position to surprise some folks in the NFC. Many of the experts are saying that the Panthers are going to be average at best, and nothing could be further from the truth. The Panthers are at or near the top of the heap in the NFC South, in spite of the Super Bowl champion Saints residing there. The Panthers are ready to roll in 2010.
Jordan Gross is back from injury and healthy as ever, and both of the great running backs that the Panthers have cultivated are entering the primes of their careers as running backs. That is a scary proposition for the rest of the NFL, as they were already among the best in the league. Williams had yet another 1000 yard season, and has learned to catch a few passes out of the backfield. Stewart is now beyond the rookie jitters and looks about as dominant as one could hope for in only his third year. Both are ready to have huge years.
The Panthers are also likely to benefit from a renewed quarterback position. Not only is Matt Moore playing like a man possessed, they actually have some depth behind him to push the competition. Jimmy Clausen is as talented as any NFL rookie in the league and could end up being the steal of the draft. He fell all the way to the Panthers in the second round of the NFL Draft, and will likely be the quarterback of the future.
What is really exciting in Carolina is the potential of the new set of receivers. Steve Smith will continue to anchor the unit, but new draft picks Armanti Edwards and Brandon LaFell will also give the Panthers some new targets. Who will end up being the primary target is not likely in question, but all the other positions are wide open. The Panthers also have some of the most improved tight ends in the NFL with Dante Rosario in tow.
For those that are overlooking the Carolina Panthers, they might want to look in the rearview mirror. The Panthers will be coming up fast, and could end up being the New Orleans Saints of 2010 - Super Bowl Champions from out of nowhere. (You read it here first)
Rodney Southern has been writing on the Carolina Panthers and NFL action since they first came into the league. He runs popular blogs on several players and the Carolina Panthers in general, as well as making NFL predictions weekly. If you are looking for content to be written, or just simply want to enjoy reading the hottest Panther and NFL news, then you should check out his work today.
All Carolina Panthers fans need to head on over today for the hottest Panther action and most entertaining Panthers blogs on the Internet! Come visit Carolina Panther Fanz today! Carolina Panthers rule in 2010!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rodney_Southern
Jordan Gross is back from injury and healthy as ever, and both of the great running backs that the Panthers have cultivated are entering the primes of their careers as running backs. That is a scary proposition for the rest of the NFL, as they were already among the best in the league. Williams had yet another 1000 yard season, and has learned to catch a few passes out of the backfield. Stewart is now beyond the rookie jitters and looks about as dominant as one could hope for in only his third year. Both are ready to have huge years.
The Panthers are also likely to benefit from a renewed quarterback position. Not only is Matt Moore playing like a man possessed, they actually have some depth behind him to push the competition. Jimmy Clausen is as talented as any NFL rookie in the league and could end up being the steal of the draft. He fell all the way to the Panthers in the second round of the NFL Draft, and will likely be the quarterback of the future.
What is really exciting in Carolina is the potential of the new set of receivers. Steve Smith will continue to anchor the unit, but new draft picks Armanti Edwards and Brandon LaFell will also give the Panthers some new targets. Who will end up being the primary target is not likely in question, but all the other positions are wide open. The Panthers also have some of the most improved tight ends in the NFL with Dante Rosario in tow.
For those that are overlooking the Carolina Panthers, they might want to look in the rearview mirror. The Panthers will be coming up fast, and could end up being the New Orleans Saints of 2010 - Super Bowl Champions from out of nowhere. (You read it here first)
Rodney Southern has been writing on the Carolina Panthers and NFL action since they first came into the league. He runs popular blogs on several players and the Carolina Panthers in general, as well as making NFL predictions weekly. If you are looking for content to be written, or just simply want to enjoy reading the hottest Panther and NFL news, then you should check out his work today.
All Carolina Panthers fans need to head on over today for the hottest Panther action and most entertaining Panthers blogs on the Internet! Come visit Carolina Panther Fanz today! Carolina Panthers rule in 2010!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rodney_Southern
Pop Warner Football - What to Expect If This Your First Year Playing
If this is your first year playing Pop Warner Football, here is what you can expect. It will not be running around playing catch or playing pick up games during practice. To start you will be doing a lot of running. You have to be in good condition to play football. You will also be doing a lot of agility drills like Back Pedal, High Knees, Carioca, and Calisthenics like Jumping Jacks and Push Ups. Every team does different drills this is just an example of a few basic ones. This will be done before every practice.
Just about all teams do the same things in practice just not in the same order. Each team will run team drills. This will be going over Offense and Defense. You will practice the plays that you will run during games. You will run these plays over and over in order to learn what to do. The Defense will do the same thing.
You also be doing position drills. Depending on what position you will be playing QB, RB, etc. you will be doing drills that will help you get better at playing that position. Again you will be doing those drills over and over again.
There will be times when the coach will do different things from time to time but for the most part practice will be the same each time.
Another thing you need to be prepared for is playing with equipment like Shoulder Pads and a Helmet. You will have to get used to catching with the pads and seeing with your helmet on because it will feel different.
One of the most important things you will have to get used to is the contact. Football is a sport that is played with aggression. Especially when you play at the B (12-14 y/o) & A (14-15 y/o) level. There are kids on these levels who may have been playing Pop Warner since they were 8 and most are very physical once they get older.
In my 5 years of coaching Pop Warner (1 year B, 4 years A), I have seen many 1st year players come in and do very well despite having never play organized football before. A good thing to do is find a camp that is run for kids planning on playing Pop Warner. This way you will get a good idea of organized football
You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:
Article written by Mark Hazlewood. I have a very interesting Pop Warner blog full of useful information. Find Articles and Videos of Drills, Exercises and Conditioning Tips for Kids and Young Adults. From Pop Warner to High School. Everything Related Football. Visit pop-warner-youth-football. Today
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_A_Hazlewood
Just about all teams do the same things in practice just not in the same order. Each team will run team drills. This will be going over Offense and Defense. You will practice the plays that you will run during games. You will run these plays over and over in order to learn what to do. The Defense will do the same thing.
You also be doing position drills. Depending on what position you will be playing QB, RB, etc. you will be doing drills that will help you get better at playing that position. Again you will be doing those drills over and over again.
There will be times when the coach will do different things from time to time but for the most part practice will be the same each time.
Another thing you need to be prepared for is playing with equipment like Shoulder Pads and a Helmet. You will have to get used to catching with the pads and seeing with your helmet on because it will feel different.
One of the most important things you will have to get used to is the contact. Football is a sport that is played with aggression. Especially when you play at the B (12-14 y/o) & A (14-15 y/o) level. There are kids on these levels who may have been playing Pop Warner since they were 8 and most are very physical once they get older.
In my 5 years of coaching Pop Warner (1 year B, 4 years A), I have seen many 1st year players come in and do very well despite having never play organized football before. A good thing to do is find a camp that is run for kids planning on playing Pop Warner. This way you will get a good idea of organized football
You are free to copy this article to your site as long as you include the following resource information with an active link to my site:
Article written by Mark Hazlewood. I have a very interesting Pop Warner blog full of useful information. Find Articles and Videos of Drills, Exercises and Conditioning Tips for Kids and Young Adults. From Pop Warner to High School. Everything Related Football. Visit pop-warner-youth-football. Today
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_A_Hazlewood
Eight Little Known Facts About the Quarterbacks of the Cincinnati Bengals
There have been a very impressive amount of very good players play the position of quarterback over the years for the Cincinnati Bengals. From Ken Anderson, to Boomer Esiason, to Jon Kitna, and Carson Palmer, the Bengals have often had one of the better passing games in the league. Here is a look at nine interesting facts about some of the players who have played quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals.
- The first TD pass Carson Palmer ever threw in his NFL career was a six yard pass in a 31-24 loss to the New York Jets in 2004. It happened in the third quarter and was thrown to receiver Kenny Watson. This was the only touchdown pass he would ever throw to Watson.
- While with the Cincinnati Bengals, Jeff Blake appeared in his only Pro Bowl in 1995. He set the Pro Bowl record for longest touchdown pass by throwing a 92 yarder to Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Yancey Thigpen.
- Ken Anderson quarterbacked the Bengals to a 33-21 win over the Buffalo Bills in 1975. This would be Cincinnati's first win on Monday Night Football. The team would also establish records for passing yards in a game (447) and total offensive yardage (553).
- No Bengals quarterback has thrown more touchdown passes in one season than Carson Palmer who threw 32 in 2005.
- In 1988, Boomer Esiason led the entire NFL in yards per pass attempt (9.2) as well as in quarterback rating (97.4).
- Longtime Bengals backup quarterback Turk Schonert played five seasons with the team from 1981 to 1985, he then spent one season with the Atlanta Falcons in 1986, before returning and spending the final three seasons of his NFL career with the Bengals from 1987 to 1989.
- The most touchdown passes Boomer Esiason ever had in one game was five. He did this twice, both times as quarterback of the Cincinnati Bengals. The first time came in a 52-21 victory over the New York Jets in 1986 and the second time it happened was in a 56-23 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the 1989 season.
- In 1969, the Bengals drafted quarterback Greg Cook who had played collegiately at the University of Cincinnati with the fifth pick overall in the draft. He was the team's starting quarterback during his rookie season, but then a rotator cuff injury forced him to retire following the season, ending his professional career with just one season played.
Check out the history of the Cincinnati Bengals quarterbacks at IQFB.com! There is also a nice selection of Cincinnati Bengals trivia located there too. IQFB... Get Football Smart!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Peters
- The first TD pass Carson Palmer ever threw in his NFL career was a six yard pass in a 31-24 loss to the New York Jets in 2004. It happened in the third quarter and was thrown to receiver Kenny Watson. This was the only touchdown pass he would ever throw to Watson.
- While with the Cincinnati Bengals, Jeff Blake appeared in his only Pro Bowl in 1995. He set the Pro Bowl record for longest touchdown pass by throwing a 92 yarder to Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Yancey Thigpen.
- Ken Anderson quarterbacked the Bengals to a 33-21 win over the Buffalo Bills in 1975. This would be Cincinnati's first win on Monday Night Football. The team would also establish records for passing yards in a game (447) and total offensive yardage (553).
- No Bengals quarterback has thrown more touchdown passes in one season than Carson Palmer who threw 32 in 2005.
- In 1988, Boomer Esiason led the entire NFL in yards per pass attempt (9.2) as well as in quarterback rating (97.4).
- Longtime Bengals backup quarterback Turk Schonert played five seasons with the team from 1981 to 1985, he then spent one season with the Atlanta Falcons in 1986, before returning and spending the final three seasons of his NFL career with the Bengals from 1987 to 1989.
- The most touchdown passes Boomer Esiason ever had in one game was five. He did this twice, both times as quarterback of the Cincinnati Bengals. The first time came in a 52-21 victory over the New York Jets in 1986 and the second time it happened was in a 56-23 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the 1989 season.
- In 1969, the Bengals drafted quarterback Greg Cook who had played collegiately at the University of Cincinnati with the fifth pick overall in the draft. He was the team's starting quarterback during his rookie season, but then a rotator cuff injury forced him to retire following the season, ending his professional career with just one season played.
Check out the history of the Cincinnati Bengals quarterbacks at IQFB.com! There is also a nice selection of Cincinnati Bengals trivia located there too. IQFB... Get Football Smart!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Peters
Rush Snag Win From Cleveland
After giving up a long touchdown to the Cleveland Gladiators with under 20 seconds remaining to play in the game, all hope looked lost for the Chicago Rush. But kick returner Chris Martin still believed.
Moments later, Martin made the rest of the Rush believe as he returned the kickoff 57 yards the other way to seal the 52-49 win for Chicago.
"We needed to make a play, and we didn't," Cleveland wide receiver Steve Sanders said to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. "No excuses. We've got to make a play right there. A game can change in 10 seconds."
The Gladiators started off hot taking a 28-14 lead late into the second period of play. But that was when Chicago got hot and started their run.
The Rush scored right before the half to cut the lead down to 28-21 going into the locker room. Coming out of the half, Chicago scored again, but missed the extra point to bring the deficit down to one.
After the Gladiators scored on a fourth-and-goal to put the lead back up 35-27, Chris Gould tacked on a 24-yard field goal to cut it down to 35-30. On the ensuing Cleveland possession, Josh Ferguson intercepted a John Dutton pass, his first interception thrown since May 1, setting up a Russ Michna to Samie Parker touchdown pass to give the Rush the lead for the first time.
The lead, however, didn't last very long. Cleveland answered with a Russell Monk two yard touchdown run to reclaim the lead at 42-36. But it take the Rush long to tie the game back up as Michna found Alan Turner a couple plays later to bring the game to 42 all.
And then, the Rush defense finally got the biggest break of the night.
The Rush defense was able to stop the ensuing Gladiator drive and gave their offense a shot to take hold of the game with one minute left. And the offense didn't disappoint.
Despite being unable to punch it in, Gould knocked home a 23-yard field goal to give the Rush the 45-42 lead.
But Cleveland didn't go away quite so easily, scoring on their next possession to take a 49-45 lead with 21 seconds left to go. That set up Martin's big return to give the Rush the final lead.
But the Rush still had to keep the Cleveland offense at bay on their final possession which they did when Gladiator kicker Matt Denny missed a 34-yard field goal at the buzzer.
"One hallmark of this team is that we just don't give up," said Rush head coach Mike Hohensee to ArenaRush.com. "We struggled at times, but we got a big interception from Josh Ferguson in the third quarter and then Martin's return was huge. He's been close to breaking a few the last several games and he finally got one."
Michna finished 22 of 29 for 272 yards and four touchdowns. His favorite receiver, Parker, finished with eight receptions for 114 yards and two scores.
Dutton ended 28 of 39 with 351 yards and five touchdowns.
With the win, the Rush improve to 6-2 on the season and remain tied with the Milwaukee Iron. They will head home to take on the surprising Jacksonville Sharks next Friday night.
The Gladiators fall to 3-5 this year and remain at the bottom of the Midwest Division. They will remain at home and take on the faltering Utah Blaze next Friday night.
Jacob is an avid fan of the Arena Football League and loves to write about it. You can check some of his other amazing articles on the AFL at http://arenapigskin.byethost5.com and subscribe to his content.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jacob_Martella
Moments later, Martin made the rest of the Rush believe as he returned the kickoff 57 yards the other way to seal the 52-49 win for Chicago.
"We needed to make a play, and we didn't," Cleveland wide receiver Steve Sanders said to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. "No excuses. We've got to make a play right there. A game can change in 10 seconds."
The Gladiators started off hot taking a 28-14 lead late into the second period of play. But that was when Chicago got hot and started their run.
The Rush scored right before the half to cut the lead down to 28-21 going into the locker room. Coming out of the half, Chicago scored again, but missed the extra point to bring the deficit down to one.
After the Gladiators scored on a fourth-and-goal to put the lead back up 35-27, Chris Gould tacked on a 24-yard field goal to cut it down to 35-30. On the ensuing Cleveland possession, Josh Ferguson intercepted a John Dutton pass, his first interception thrown since May 1, setting up a Russ Michna to Samie Parker touchdown pass to give the Rush the lead for the first time.
The lead, however, didn't last very long. Cleveland answered with a Russell Monk two yard touchdown run to reclaim the lead at 42-36. But it take the Rush long to tie the game back up as Michna found Alan Turner a couple plays later to bring the game to 42 all.
And then, the Rush defense finally got the biggest break of the night.
The Rush defense was able to stop the ensuing Gladiator drive and gave their offense a shot to take hold of the game with one minute left. And the offense didn't disappoint.
Despite being unable to punch it in, Gould knocked home a 23-yard field goal to give the Rush the 45-42 lead.
But Cleveland didn't go away quite so easily, scoring on their next possession to take a 49-45 lead with 21 seconds left to go. That set up Martin's big return to give the Rush the final lead.
But the Rush still had to keep the Cleveland offense at bay on their final possession which they did when Gladiator kicker Matt Denny missed a 34-yard field goal at the buzzer.
"One hallmark of this team is that we just don't give up," said Rush head coach Mike Hohensee to ArenaRush.com. "We struggled at times, but we got a big interception from Josh Ferguson in the third quarter and then Martin's return was huge. He's been close to breaking a few the last several games and he finally got one."
Michna finished 22 of 29 for 272 yards and four touchdowns. His favorite receiver, Parker, finished with eight receptions for 114 yards and two scores.
Dutton ended 28 of 39 with 351 yards and five touchdowns.
With the win, the Rush improve to 6-2 on the season and remain tied with the Milwaukee Iron. They will head home to take on the surprising Jacksonville Sharks next Friday night.
The Gladiators fall to 3-5 this year and remain at the bottom of the Midwest Division. They will remain at home and take on the faltering Utah Blaze next Friday night.
Jacob is an avid fan of the Arena Football League and loves to write about it. You can check some of his other amazing articles on the AFL at http://arenapigskin.byethost5.com and subscribe to his content.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jacob_Martella
On the Football Field
I work in the media. This has allowed me to be around the big names in different sports like basketball, tennis, and football. I work as a sports reporter by the way and of all the sports that I have covered, football is my favourite. Ever since I was young I was interested in football. In fact I was playing in the junior football league back in my hometown as a goalkeeper wearing goalkeeper shirts.
When I was in high school until when I was in college I continued to play football and was really doing good in my role in the field in my goalkeeper shirts. Football also paved the way for me to finish my college as a beneficiary of the sports scholarship in the university. I finished a degree in mass communication. I figured out that this is really what I wanted to do since I was young. Playing football is just my second love.
Many were disappointed in my decision to stop playing football and stop wearing my goalkeeper shirts after I finished college. They said, they would have wanted to see me continue playing and may be make it to any of the national teams. I really appreciate it and I took it as a compliment. More often than not I find myself explaining that I love playing football. I have always enjoyed being out there in the field and experience the rush and exhilaration of being able to entertain and be a part of a working team achieving a common goal to win the match. Although, I don't actually find myself out there in the field for long, and to be a part of a major media network and be a sports journalist is what I really dreamed of.
My personal experience in football while I was still wearing my goalkeeper shits during my early days in school became an advantage for me when I applied in one of the country's best media network. I used what I have learned when I was still a football player and applied my own personal techniques in covering different football matches and my bosses seemed to like it. I also get positive feedback from viewers.
I guess having the personal experience in football gave me ideas and personal insights on the player's side of the story. It couldn't be more interesting than me injecting my thoughts and views when I'm doing interviews and reporting the happening in the football field. I may not be wearing my goalkeeper shirts anymore but I'm still very happy.
I didn't regret any single decision I made with regard to my quitting football and giving up my goalkeeper shirts. In fact I think all of those experiences prepared me for this; and I know something greater is yet to come.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_J._Parker
When I was in high school until when I was in college I continued to play football and was really doing good in my role in the field in my goalkeeper shirts. Football also paved the way for me to finish my college as a beneficiary of the sports scholarship in the university. I finished a degree in mass communication. I figured out that this is really what I wanted to do since I was young. Playing football is just my second love.
Many were disappointed in my decision to stop playing football and stop wearing my goalkeeper shirts after I finished college. They said, they would have wanted to see me continue playing and may be make it to any of the national teams. I really appreciate it and I took it as a compliment. More often than not I find myself explaining that I love playing football. I have always enjoyed being out there in the field and experience the rush and exhilaration of being able to entertain and be a part of a working team achieving a common goal to win the match. Although, I don't actually find myself out there in the field for long, and to be a part of a major media network and be a sports journalist is what I really dreamed of.
My personal experience in football while I was still wearing my goalkeeper shits during my early days in school became an advantage for me when I applied in one of the country's best media network. I used what I have learned when I was still a football player and applied my own personal techniques in covering different football matches and my bosses seemed to like it. I also get positive feedback from viewers.
I guess having the personal experience in football gave me ideas and personal insights on the player's side of the story. It couldn't be more interesting than me injecting my thoughts and views when I'm doing interviews and reporting the happening in the football field. I may not be wearing my goalkeeper shirts anymore but I'm still very happy.
I didn't regret any single decision I made with regard to my quitting football and giving up my goalkeeper shirts. In fact I think all of those experiences prepared me for this; and I know something greater is yet to come.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_J._Parker
Matt Moore and Jimmy Clausen Set to Do Battle in Carolina
Jimmy Clausen certainly seems to have the swagger of a champion. He has spent an ample amount of time saying the right things around the Carolina Panthers training sessions, and the Panthers have not said a whole lot about who will be leading the Panthers into the 2010 season. They named Matt Moore as the starter during the offseason, but that was before they used their top draft pick to draft Notre Dame product Jimmy Clausen. Since then, they have been largely quiet about who will lead the Panthers.
Moore has to be the odds on favorite to be under center on opening day, but he faces a number of challenges moving forward. Most of the problems he has are not related to his football skills. Moore is one of many Carolina Panthers starters that are to be free agents come the off season, and the Panthers clearly are not going to be able to sign them all. That group of free agents also includes all-world running back DeAngelo Williams, and the Panthers are sure to have him at the top of their list. Where does Moore fit in?
It appears that Matt Moore is going to be moving on regardless of his performance on the field. Of course, this could change with an incredible on the field performance, but it is not likely. He simply is not playing in the type of offense that allows a quarterback to put up big numbers. Sure, he has Steve Smith and some interesting rookie options at the receiver position, but the Panthers are really all about running the football. With Williams and Jonathan Stewart on the team, that is not going to change. The bottom line is, Moore is likely playing to make his trade value go up this year.
The Panthers need to recognize this, and get what they can from Moore. If they hope to make any type of trade and get something either from Moore or potentially Clausen if Moore is as good as he appears, they need to establish that Moore is their starter. They have been a bit dicey about coming out and saying so. That has to hurt Moore's confidence.
Hand Moore the football, tell him that he is the man, and then let the chips fall where they may. If the Panthers do this and Moore flops, it is easy enough to then bring in Clausen to see what he has got. There is no advantage to the Panthers to do otherwise. Moore needs to be named the starter and either win or lose the position with his on field play. By making it up in the air, the Panthers are essentially telling the rest of the NFL that Moore is not as good as they thought. That could hurt his trade value going into a tough off season next year.
Rodney Southern has been writing on the Carolina Panthers and NFL action since they first came into the league. He runs popular blogs on several players and the Carolina Panthers in general, as well as making NFL predictions weekly. If you are looking for content to be written, or just simply want to enjoy reading the hottest Panther and NFL news, then you should check out his work today.
All Carolina Panthers fans need to head on over today for the hottest Panther action and most entertaining Panthers blogs on the Internet! Come visit Carolina Panther Fanz today! Carolina Panthers rule in 2010!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rodney_Southern
Youth Football - The Defensive Contain Responsibility
One of the most difficult assignments in football is to contain the offense. That is, prevent the offense from getting outside to the side line, gaining the corner, and sprinting down the side-line. For the most part, a good athletic running back that gains the side-line will probably score the majority of the time as once they are in the open field will use their speed and athleticism to do damage.
The contain responsibility would be the assignment of either the outside linebacker or defensive end depending on your philosophy. My experience at the youth football level is that you will be more successful assigning an outside linebacker with the contain responsibility as opposed to the defensive end. A true defensive end would read the play and have both an inside and outside run responsibility, be able to scrape off his block and contain the outside run. However, these type of players are hard to find at the youth level and once double teamed are ineffective and give up the corner on the outside run play.
I have had more success by using a outside linebacker with primary contain responsibility and set up the defense so that the defensive ends work in tandem with the outside linebacker to maintain contain. Basically the outside linebacker would align on the line of scrimmage about two yards outside of the offensive tackle and on the snap of the ball would get up field to at least ball depth and turn in any outside runs or roll-outs, once they are disciplined on getting up field the next step would get them to collapse the pocket at ball depth and force the ball carrier to the inside. I like to align the defensive ends on the outside shoulder of the Offensive tackles and on the snap of the ball they would engage the tackle and control the C gaps while at the same time reading the play in case of an inside run. The outside shoulder alignment gives them the edge on the outside run and by engaging the offensive tackle they can help with the inside run as well.
The offense now has to choose who to double team either the outside linebacker or the defensive end and with the end and outside linebacker working in tandem you should still have solid defense versus the outside run.
Cheers
http://www.thecoacheschair.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_J._Burns
The contain responsibility would be the assignment of either the outside linebacker or defensive end depending on your philosophy. My experience at the youth football level is that you will be more successful assigning an outside linebacker with the contain responsibility as opposed to the defensive end. A true defensive end would read the play and have both an inside and outside run responsibility, be able to scrape off his block and contain the outside run. However, these type of players are hard to find at the youth level and once double teamed are ineffective and give up the corner on the outside run play.
I have had more success by using a outside linebacker with primary contain responsibility and set up the defense so that the defensive ends work in tandem with the outside linebacker to maintain contain. Basically the outside linebacker would align on the line of scrimmage about two yards outside of the offensive tackle and on the snap of the ball would get up field to at least ball depth and turn in any outside runs or roll-outs, once they are disciplined on getting up field the next step would get them to collapse the pocket at ball depth and force the ball carrier to the inside. I like to align the defensive ends on the outside shoulder of the Offensive tackles and on the snap of the ball they would engage the tackle and control the C gaps while at the same time reading the play in case of an inside run. The outside shoulder alignment gives them the edge on the outside run and by engaging the offensive tackle they can help with the inside run as well.
The offense now has to choose who to double team either the outside linebacker or the defensive end and with the end and outside linebacker working in tandem you should still have solid defense versus the outside run.
Cheers
http://www.thecoacheschair.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_J._Burns
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