Rush looks to extend winning streak
The Chicago Rush (4-2) returns to the Allstate Arena Saturday night to face off against the Philadelphia Soul (2-3) at 7 p.m., marking the Soul’s first visit since 2011.
The Rush continued their winning ways last weekend with the team’s fourth consecutive victory of the season over divisional rival Iowa. Quarterback Carson Coffman connected with wide receiver Jared Jenkins to complete a two-point conversion following a Kelvin Morris touchdown run in overtime to seal the win. Reggie Gray collected 234 receiving yards and six touchdowns on 12 catches in the game. His six-score mark tied Bobby Sippio’s individual franchise record.
Chicago finished 4-0 in April; it’s the first time the Rush has earned that record in a month since April 2010 and just the seventh time in franchise history. This year the Rush are 3-0 on the road following an 0-2 start at the Allstate Arena to begin the season. In those three road victories, the Rush outscored San Antonio, Utah, and Iowa by just 11 total points.
In addition to Coffman’s consistent play at quarterback, the Rush has benefitted from standout work by defensive backs Jorrick Calvin, Joe Phinisee, Semaj Moody, and Vic Hall. Calvin had 12.5 tackles and an interception against Iowa, and he leads the entire league in tackles (48.5) and passes defended (14).
Philadelphia is alone atop the American Conference East Division, ahead of the 1-4 Cleveland Gladiators and Pittsburgh Power. They venture into Chicago following two close losses at home against Cleveland and Jacksonville. Last month, Philadelphia head coach Clint Dolezel was inducted into the AFL Hall of Fame as one of the AFL’s greatest quarterbacks. Current Soul quarterback Dan Raudabaugh is second in the league in passing average per game, and fullback Derrick Ross has been the most explosive rusher in the AFL the last two seasons. This season he’s aiming for his third consecutive All-Arena nod, and once again leads fullbacks in multiple categories.
On Saturday, the Rush will also celebrate Latin Heritage Night, highlighted by appearances by notable local Hispanic leaders and groups.