Unbeaten Rush travel to face Cleveland

A pair of undefeated teams clash Saturday when the Chicago Rush (3-0) travel to Cleveland to take on the Gladiators (2-0), and if the Rush prevail it would match the team’s best start in franchise history.

A look at the numbers, however, show it’s not going to be an easy task.

The Gladiators rank first in scoring offense and average 63.5 points-per-game — not surprising with Steve Thonn coaching the club.

Thonn, who is in his second season at the helm, previously served as the head coach of Grand Rapids. In 2008 the Rampage set franchise records with 956 total points and a 59.5 points-per-game average.

But boding well for the Rush was the performance of its defense in the second half of last week’s 54-41 victory over San Jose.

The Rush defense allowed only 7 third-quarter points against the SaberCats with defensive backs Vic Hall and Jason Simpson leading the way.

Hall finished with 9 tackles and an interception while Simpson racked up 8 tackles, 2 interceptions and some hardware — taking home Ironman of the Game honors.

“Jason has been a key element on our defense,” Rush coach Bob McMillen said.”His intensity is unmatched. He works hard and he consistently finds a way to deliver.”

On the offensive side, quarterback Russ Michna put together his third strong performance of the season, passing for 229 yards and 5 touchdowns. For good measure, he also rushed for a pair of TDs.

“We were really proud of the way our team performed,” McMillen said.

Following the game against Cleveland, the Rush will enjoy a bye week ... but first things first.

“We have business to accomplish in Cleveland before the guys get time off,” McMillen said.