JUNE 14TH, 2022 MOLINE, IL – GAME-PREVIEW STEAMWHEELERS VS. BUCKS |

The last time these two teams met, the Quad City Steamwheelers defeated the Bismarck Bucks 47-44 in a thriller that took place in the TaxSlayer Center. Before that, they defeated the Bucks 36-17 in Bismarck. This Friday night, the Bucks return to Quad City for the final 2022 matchup between these two Eastern Conference rivals.

After 2 consecutive losses, the Wheelers look to return fresh, rested and ready to compete for a spot in the 2022 postseason. To do that, they'll need to begin by sweeping the Bucks. Last week, in relief of quarterback Jayru Campbell, the Bucks started new addition Giovanni Sanders. Sanders completed 65.2% of his passes and produced 3 total touchdowns (1 passing, 2 rushing) in a toughly contested 49-44 loss to the Sioux Falls Storm.

Since quarterback E.J. Hilliard's 2022 IFL return to the Steamwheelers, he has produced multiple touchdowns in every game he's played in (8 consecutive). In 2 games against Bismarck this season, Hilliard has produced 10 total touchdowns (6 passing, 4 rushing).

Despite losing 31-13 vs. the Blizzard in Week 13, the Steamwheelers defense notched their 8th game of the season holding their opponent to 36 or fewer points. They'll look to continue that defensive dominance against Bismarck.

What will happen when these two teams clash for the third time this season? Tune in Friday June 17th at 7:05 PM CT to find out.