The 3-2 Barnstormers look for a little revenge this week in Utah. Break it down, we shall.
OFFENSE
Utah:
The Utah Blaze have been very efficiently lead by Tommy Grady this year, who absolutely tore a hole in the Barnstormer defense last time they met. They also feature Aaron LeSue, who is one of the only WRs in the league with more TDs than Jesse Schmidt.
Iowa:
The Barnstormer offense stayed on pace with the potent pass offense of the Arizona Rattlers the whole game, coming away with a big win. The 6 TD performance by Jesse Schmidt was huge, and if he can have another big day like that, things definitely look good for the Barnstormers.
ADVANTAGE - Iowa
DEFENSE
Utah:
Last time these teams met, the Utah Blaze defense came away with an AFL record 10 sacks in one game, as well as plenty of scoring. This defensive line is not one to be taken lightly.
The Barnstormers have so far employed a strange bend-don't-break defense, featuring 2 of the top interceptors in the league, but yet still managing to be the worst statistical defense in the league. However, the Barnstormer D has stepped up when they've needed to, and they definitely need to on the road this week.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Utah:
Kyle Brotzman has been decent for the Blaze, and they've proven they have what it takes to bring back the occasional kickoff.
Iowa:
The Barnstormers special teams is a concern. The long snapper/holder exchange has been shoddy as of late, and Craig Camay has had trouble recovering from it. Jason Simpson coughed up a kick return to start off last week, as well. Special teams can't be giving up points if the Barnstormers hope to continue winning.
OVERALL
The Barnstormers come into this game in a strange situation. They sit at second in the Central Division, and haven't lost an away game yet this year. However, they come into this game having a huge loss to the Blaze at home earlier this year. Utah embarrassed this offensive line, causing turnovers and disruption that was clearly reflected in the score. However, this offensive unit has been renewed since Rodney Filer's return, and the sacks have decreased dramatically. Not only that, but the momentum is on the side of the Barnstomers after their huge win against Arizona, and I expect them to be looking for some serious revenge.
ADVANTAGE - Iowa
Fun Fact - The Barnstormers have already won 1 more away game than they did last year after playing 5 games this season.
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