Blaze Squeak By Rush

By: Jerome Cusson

In a long and excruciating game for the Chicago Rush, the team lost on a last second 18-yard field goal after losing an attempted onside kick to the Utah Blaze. The Blaze took advantage of what appeared to be a fatigued Rush team early and often en route to a 51-48 victory.

The Blaze jumped out to a 21-0 lead, but the Rush came all the way back to tie the game at 41 with just nine minutes remaining in the game. Joe Germaine, quarterback of the Blaze, had a fantastic game as he threw for 331 yard and five touchdowns. Germaine also proved why he remains one of the best quarterbacks in the game by using seven different receivers. Aaron Boone led the team with 10 catches, 88 yards, and two touchdowns.

On the other hand, Rush quarterback Russ Michna had his worst start of the season as he was just 17-30 for 206 yards, with five touchdowns and one interception. Damian Harrell also had his best game as a Rush player with 10 catches and 147 yards. The other two primary receivers, Travis LeTendresse and Donovan Morgan, could never seem to get in a rhythm.

Onside kicks hurt both teams. The Blaze attempted one when they were up 48-41, but fortunately for the Rush DeJuan Alfonzo recovered. The Rush then attempted an ill-advised onside kick after tying the game at 48. The Rush still had two time-outs remaining, and considering how well this defense has played, the Rush should have just kicked straight up and hoped for a turnover or overtime. The Blaze were given excellent field position, and it allowed for the game-winning field goal by kicker Steve Videtich.

With this loss, the Rush had their five game winning streak snapped and are now 9-3. They’ve got the division all wrapped up, but must still win two of their final four games to insure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Their next opponent certainly won’t make it easy.

The Kansas City Brigade’s 3-9 record may not look all that impressive, but they are coming off a major upset of the Philadelphia Soul in Philadelphia. The Rush struggled in Kansas City, but have shown a tendency to blow teams out at home. After a bad loss in Utah and Kansas City coming up, the Rush must be well-prepared next week. Judging by how the 2008 season has gone so far, they will be.

Want more Rush coverage? Then be sure to check out Jerome Cusson’s first take at jeromecusson.nationalsportsreview.com.

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Jerome Cusson is a proud graduate of Columbia College Chicago. Currently, he is a freelance writer and a contributer to such websites as The Cool Kids' Table and giveawaytheending.com. Check out his NSR blog as well.

Share This Article

No Comments

No comments yet.

Comment On This Article