MAY 18TH, 2023 MOLINE, IL – WEEK 10 GAME PREVIEW PRESENTED BY QC TIMES

Half-way through the 2023 regular season, the Quad City Steamwheelers are playing their best football of the year. Back-to-back Eastern Conference wins—a 60-34 win over the Iowa Barnstormers and a 47-30 win over the Sioux Falls Storm—have put the Wheelers in prime position to capture a Top-2 spot in the IFL postseason.

Their next challenge will be a road matchup with the Massachusetts Pirates. The last time these two teams squared off, sQUAD City left the Vibrant Arena at The MARK with a 49-44 win. The last time they squared off in Worcester, MA—the Steamwheelers toppled the then- defending IFL Champions 39-38 in overtime of the 2022 postseason.

The Pirates will look to bounce back from a devastating 73-43 loss to a Barnstormers team that entered the game 0-6. Wide receiver Isaac Zico was a bright spot, catching 14 passes for 157 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Anthony Russo struggled against Iowa's defense, completing only 19 of 36 passes (52.8%) and averaging only 5.3 yards per passing attempt.

The Wheelers hope to continue to build upon the momentum generated against Sioux Falls. MVP front-runner, Quarterback E.J. Hilliard Jr., produced a season-high 7 total touchdowns (3 passing, 4 rushing), brining his 2023 total to 44 (No. 1 in the IFL). Keyvan Rudd led the Wheelers in receptions (5), receiving yards (49) and touchdown receptions (2). Defensive back Darreon Jackson continued to make his case for IFL Defensive Player of the Year, notching 7 total tackles (5 solo) and hauling in another interception. Jackson now leads the IFL with 6 interceptions this season.

What will happen when the defending Eastern Conference Champions of the IFL travel to the East Coast to face the Pirates? Tune in Saturday May 20th at 6:05 PM CT to find out.

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