Matt Parker and I arrived very early at BMO Harris Bank Centre in Rockford for the big battle between the Chicago Rush and the San Antonio Talons. The first place Rush (7-5) held a slight lead on the second place Talons (5-6).
While from the end zone we watched the Rush go through some pre-game warm-ups, a deep voice greeted us from behind. We were pleasantly surprised to see Rush offensive lineman Steve Edwards approaching us. It is always extra special when a player recognizes us.
Edwards talked to us about playing in Rockford. He also gave us insight about the need to alter kickoffs to avoid the low hanging scoreboard. Sure enough, as we watched Rush kicker Jose Martinez, we saw him lining up way off center and curving his kicks around the scoreboard.
Edwards also predicted a big play by special teams. Midway though the fourth quarter, Jorrick Calvin returned a kickoff 48 yards to expand the Rush lead to 54-42. Once again, we saw the wisdom of Edwards play out on the field.
Unfortunately, nobody (not even Edwards) could have predicted the 4th quarter tumble which occurred after Calvin’s return. Three unanswered touchdowns by the Talons made the score 61-54, shocking coach Bob McMillen, the Rush and the Rush fans.
After the game, we talked to Talons’ coach Lee Johnson, McMillen, J.J. Payne and Calvin. Obviously Johnson was in a great mood. He looked drained and relieved, but very happy to have pulled out the win.
On the other hand, McMillen, Payne and Calvin were disappointed, frustrated, angry and more. I give them credit for being stand up guys and facing the media. They took the hard questions and answered them directly.
McMillen called out his quarterback, his kicker, some other players and the team in general. He promised changes and I have no doubt he will deliver.
I walked away from this game with mixed emotions and thoughts swirling in my head. There were several very nice plays and the Rush played a solid game for about 57 minutes (as McMillen states in the interview). Also, after the game, the Rush took the heat and shared the emotions of the fans.
I also need to keep thinking about the roller-coaster ride it has been over the last several months for the team. I continue to give the entire organization all of the credit in the world for continuing to play at a high level and also for being a positive, first class organization.
The sad facts are that the team lost (or gave away) one win. This win would have put the Rush clearly in control of the division. Now, once again, the Rush is left to fight for what they want.
Maybe that is not a bad thing though. This team has been fighting to stay alive
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