Vipers Travel to Take on Twisters

Coming off another disappointing performance by the Tennessee Valley Vipers offense and special teams, quarterback Kevin Eakin blames himself for the poor play as of late. "As the leader of this offense and one of the leaders on this team, I need to step up and make the plays that I need to make," he said. "I think if I do that, everything will start to roll."

Getting things rolling tonight against the Arkansas Twisters will be difficult.

"They've got a good team," head coach Dean Cokinos said. "They've got a veteran quarterback, good receivers, a solid defense and they're well-coached. We'll have to play our best game to win."

Twisters quarterback Kyle Rowley has been special since coming into the league in 2004. Last season, Rowley was the af2's offensive player of the year.

This season, Rowley has racked up 16 touchdowns and 747 yards through the air. He has only thrown two interceptions on the season as well, whereas Eakin has thrown five passes to opposing defenses.

Turnovers have been the difference in the season for Tennessee Valley. With a turnover ratio of -5, the Vipers must take care of the football to be successful.

Defensive back Desmond Foster hopes to be able to cut into that margin. He has an interception this season and leads the team in pass break ups and tackles.

With the possibility of Demetrius Derico out with an injury Foster will have to step up and play the middle defensive position.
The tough task of defending Twisters receiver Steve Bergeski tonight will go to Foster, most likely.

Bergeski has hauled in 28 passes from Rowley, but only one touchdown. The touchdowns have come to Rod Harper.

Harper is leading the Twisters with seven touchdown catches.

Defense for Tennessee Valley has been inconsistent so far this season. In last week's first half, the Vipers defense made two big stops, but the offense could not capitalize for the Vipers.

This week, the defense will be key for the Vipers, along with not giving Arkansas extra possessions to take control of the game.

With Rowley and Eakin under center for their respective teams, barring turnovers, this game could be very exciting.

Pit Prediction: UPSET ALERT
Tennessee Valley 58
Arkansas 57

Key Players:
Tennessee Valley - QB Kevin Eakin, WR Chris Bocage, DB Desmond Foster, WR/LB Bradly Chavez
Arkansas - QB Kyle Rowley, WR Steve Bergeski, WR Rod Harper