Chicago Rush @ Iowa Barnstormers Preview

Rough home loss in week 2, but the Barnstormers are fresh off a bye week to take on the rival Chicago Rush? Matchups? I do believe so. Let's start digging.

OFFENSE

Chicago:

Russ Michna is good at keeping the ball out of the defense's hands through the air, and as a team the Rush have only fumbled once per game. However, they don't have any solid receiving threats besides Reggie Gray.

Iowa:

The offense had a rough showing against Utah, with the only bright point being Jesse Schmidt's solid performance. This is the game that they need to come back, protect Raterink, make better decisions, and get back on schedule before beginning to make their way down a slippery slope.

ADVANTAGE - Push

DEFENSE

Chicago:

The Chicago Rush defense is historically strong, and have already picked up 4 interceptions and 5 sacks on the year. They've also forced 5 fumbled, recovering three of them. Chicago is going to look to keep their turnover margin positive on the year. Also an important matchup: The Rush are statistically second in the league for sacks, while the Barnstormers are worst in the league for sacks allowed.

Iowa:

The Barnstormer defense played a passable game against the Blaze in week 2. Add in three dropped touchdown passes, and it was a winning performance. John Mohring is coming back off of his suspension for his hit on Shock QB Eric Meyer, which will give the defense a boost. Also, look for Justin Mincey to continue to improve.

ADVANTAGE - Chicago

SPECIAL TEAMS

Chicago

Mike Salerno has only missed 1 PAT on the year, and Reggie Gray and Kelvin Rogers are both threats in the return game.

Iowa:

Craig Camay remains perfect on extra points, and Jason Simpson was itching to take one back against the Blaze. Also of note, Camay was successful on the first onside kick attempt of the year.

ADVANTAGE - Iowa

OVERALL

Chicago:

Chicago historically have the advantage in this game, but their third game in a row, and on the road in Des Moines, is going to make this a tough win for them.

Iowa:

After a huge week 1 performance and a huge week 2 home letdown, the Barnstormers have a lot of explaining to do in Des Moines. The home crowd is always going to be fired up for a game against the Rush, and the Barnstormers absolutely have to capitalize on that energy.

ADVANTAGE - Iowa



Prediction - Two teams, tied for second in the league in turnover margin, go head to head in a matchup that will give the winner an early division lead. The Barnstormers edge the rush slightly, taking advantage of a fired up home crowd.

IA - 42  CHI - 35

-Shard
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