ROSEMONT—The Rush (3-0) defeated the San Jose SaberCats (2-1) by a score of 54-41 in the return of one of the greatest rivalries in the Arena Football League.The Rush team was led by a dominating performance by QB Russ Michna in which he passed for 229 yards with five touchdowns. Michna also rushed for 38 yards and two of Chicago’s three rushing touchdowns.
“We are really proud of the way our team performed tonight,” said Head Coach Bob McMillen. “The first half both teams played pretty sloppy but our players came out in the second half with a lot of intensity. They fought back and came away with a huge win against San Jose.”
Rush WR Reggie Gray again proved to be a familiar target for Michna. He started the game quickly for the Rush with a 46 yard touchdown reception. Gray led the team with 149 yards receiving and two touchdowns.
“Russ places the ball really well and I just did my job,” said Gray. “I feel great about the 3-0 start, and I plan on continuing to work hard, executing and improving.”
The Rush defense also had a strong performance on the night holding the SaberCats offense to just seven points in the third quarter. Despite veteran SaberCat QB, Mark Grieb’s, 279 yard passing performance, the Rush defense found a way to stop San Jose in the second half. Defensive Backs Vic Hall and Jason Simpson led the defense throughout the night. Hall ended the night with nine tackles, a tackle for a loss and an interception, while Simpson totaled eight tackles, two interceptions and took home Ironman of the Game honors.
“Jason has been a key element on our defense,” said McMillen. “His intensity is unmatched. He works hard and he consistently finds a way to deliver.”
The Rush travel to Cleveland to take on the Gladiators (1-0) next Saturday, April 2nd.
RUSSELL ATHLETIC OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE GAME: Russ Michna-CHI
RIDDELL DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE GAME: Gabe Nyenhuis-SJ
JLS IRONMAN: Jason Simpson-CHI
NIFTY PLAYMAKER OF THE GAME: Reggie Gray-CHI
CUTTER CATCH OF THE GAME: Reggie Gray- CHI 39 yard touchdown reception
SPALDING HIGHLIGHT OF THE GAME: Michna 2nd touchdown run