Michna to backup Bonner against Crush

Quarterback Russ Michna, a 1999 Conant graduate, found out last Wednesday he would be making his first career start when the Rush played at Grand Rapids.

Even though his parents and younger sister were going to the game, he elected to keep the news a surprise.

"I thought I might as well make it interesting for them," Michna said with a smile.

Sherdrick Bonner, who started the Rush's first two games, was in Denver to witness the birth of his first child. His wife, Lindsey, gave birth to a boy named Mason.

Michna made the most of his opportunity. He completed 18 of 26 throws for 245 yards and 5 touchdowns in the Rush's 64-35 victory. On the Rush's first play from scrimmage, he tossed a 45-yard touchdown to Damian Harrell.

Bonner will be behind center when the Rush (2-1) plays host to the Colorado Crush (1-1) at 7 p.m. today at Allstate Arena. Harrell, who spent the last five seasons with the Crush, is one touchdown reception away from tying Eddie Brown for the league's all-time lead.

It is a measure of Michna's promise that coach Mike Hohensee was not surprised at how efficiently he led the offense.

"He's confident in his ability and knowledge," Hohensee aid. "He has a good understand of our system and it's his job to be prepared. His day will come. He'll end up being a great quarterback in this league."

Michna's playing time in the previous two games came when the Rush was near the goal line. He enjoyed the opportunity to take all the snaps.

"I'd like to have a couple of throws back but that will happen throughout a game," Michna said. "The guys up front did a nice job. We have talented receivers and my job was to get the ball in their hands."

The Rush defense put together another in a string of fine performances that dates back to last season.

"We count on them to be consistent," Hohensee said. "Nothing they do surprises me."

After playing its first three games in 11 days, the Rush had eight days to prepare for Grand Rapids. As a result, Hohensee was comfortable calling off Friday's walkthrough because of the inclement weather.

"We'll be (fine)," Hohensee said. "We had a nice long week of preparation."