The Pittsburgh Power (3-10) saw their playoff hopes all but evaporate in the wake of last week’s 50-35 loss to the Orlando Predators, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t something to keep playing for this season. The team would surely like to improve on last season’s 5-13 record and this week’s opponent is one the Power beat earlier in the year 46-43.
This is a matchup that figures to help a struggling Power offense that has scored a combined 49 offensive points in their last two games. The New Orleans VooDoo (3-10) enters this contest as the most scored upon team in the AFL (758 points against). This defense made Jordan Jefferson look legitimate as he threw for 223 yards, five touchdowns and zero interceptions in his only winning effort of the season. Hopefully Steven Sheffield can take it up a notch against this defense this week.
The carousel at the receiving position opposite of Mike Washington continues this week as the Power have placed Oderick Turner on injured reserve. Ironman Christian Wise, who plays both wide receiver and defensive back, has rejoined the team and figures to see a few looks in the offense this week. Don’t be surprised if Alvin Ray Jackson sees a bit of action at wideout against his former team should any further injuries occur during the game.
New Orleans benched starter Kurt Rocco during last week’s game and Chris Dixon came in to nearly spark the comeback. Chris Dixon was 10 of 15 for 151 yards, and had six touchdowns (four passing, two rushing) with no interceptions. It should be an interesting choice for coach Pat O’Hara on who to use this week at quarterback. My money is on Dixon as the VooDoo are likely planning for next season already and might as well see what the kid can do.
New Orleans has played a lot better after getting Donovan Morgan back from injury. He is one of the elite talents at wide receiver in the AFL and will be the chief focus of the Power secondary. He’s had some issues holding onto the ball this year, something we saw firsthand in the earlier meeting between these two teams. He lost two fumbles in that game so hopefully the Power put on their hitting pads this week and try to jar the ball loose from him.
For the VooDoo defense, James Bryant had 10 total tackles, two sacks and a safety last time as he terrorized the Power offensive line. The protection up front has been a lot better for the Power in recent weeks so hopefully they will have found a way to neutralize him. Cameron McGlenn has five interceptions for the VooDoo this year for 100 yards and a touchdown. If he gets his hands on an errant pass he’s tough to bring down. Steven Sheffield will need to be aware of where he is on the field at all times.
Pittsburgh’s defense needs to be opportunistic and continue to force turnovers to help their ailing offense. Sergio Gilliam added another interception last week against Orlando running his season total to 5, three of which he’s returned for touchdowns. Alvin Ray Jackson has been solid all season, even if his interception numbers are down from last year. He’d like nothing more than to make some big plays against his former team.
The key to the game is getting Steven Sheffield and the Power offense back on track. I’m feeling pretty confident the Power defense can do their part once again in this game. Also the offensive line for Pittsburgh has to contain James Bryant. If he’s a non-factor, it should be easier to complete passes downfield and score some points.
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