Week 9 Preview: Chicago Rush at Tulsa Talons

The Chicago Rush is in Oklahoma this weekend to battle a division opponent, the Tulsa Talons on Saturday night in the Arena Football League. Looking to keep pace with the Dallas Vigilantes (5-2) in the Central Division, the Rush (5-2) could use a victory over the Talons (2-5).

The Talons

Much like Chicago's last opponent, the New Orleans VooDoo, the Talons are usually a low-scoring team. They rank #17 in the league in scoring offense and passing offense, putting up an average of 39.4 points and 215.9 passing yards per game. Tulsa does, however, have the league's leading rushing offense, piling up 58.1 rushing yards per game. Matt Bassuener is usually good for 27.8 rushing yards per game on top of his 214.2 passing yards per game and has led the team on the ground and through the air in each of the past four games.

Troy McBroom anchors the receiving corps, hauling in 42 receptions for 503 yards and seven touchdowns in only four games. Brandon Copeland is the Talons' other receiving threat, posting over 100 receiving yards in each of Tulsa's last two games.

The defense, however, gives up only 49.1 points per game, good for sixth best in the league. Jamar Ransom is the team's leading tackler, with J.C. Neal and Darien Williams hot on his heels. Ransom also leads the team with two interceptions on the season. Chicago's offensive line is going to have to contend with Nekos Brown (3 sacks on the season) and Colin Bryant (2 sacks).

The Rush

The Rush continues to dominate on defense, giving up only 42.9 points per game, second best in the league, and recording a +9 turnover margin, tied for best in the league. Chicago is also tied for the league lead in sacks, bringing down opponents' quarterbacks 15 times already.

Jason Simpson and Vic Hall are tied for the league lead in interceptions, while Simpson leads the league in tackles. The defensive line is pretty good at what they do, too. Quartez Vickerson is third in the league in sacks (5) and second in tackles for loss (6). Mark Weivoda isn't far behind with three sacks and four tackles for loss.

The Rush picked up WR JJ McKelvey this week to try to add some punch to the offense. Beau Elliott returns from Injured Reserve, too, to help fortify the offensive line and keep Russ Michna on his feet. As usual, Big Play Reggie Gray will be out there, looking to improve on his 112 receiving yards per game and 18 touchdowns on the season, while FB Johnie Kirton provides the punch in the mouth on the ground.

Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. Central Time tonight, and the game can be seen on NiFTy TV .

Websites of Interest:

Arena Football League
Chicago Rush
Tulsa Talons

This article also appears on Arena Pigskin.