"We played well at their place," said Stills. "But they had us down by 13 points early on. They have an explosive offense and the league's leader in rushing. It's going to come down, once again, to our defense stopping a good offense. We have been relying on them all season and that won't change in the playoffs. Our offense is going to have to come to play as well. We should have good field position to work with thanks to our defense and kick return game. We just need to make sure our guys take advantage of what is given to them."
The Bandits come into play with the UIF's top rusher in running back John Bentley who is averaging 61.9 yards on the ground per game. He ran for 57 yards against the Rage in their previous meeting, however, 28 of those yards came on one carry. Sioux City also brings the league's third ranked quarterback in Chris Kapanui. The University of Hawaii alum sits third in passing yards (171.6 per game), total offense (181.6), and touchdown passes (40).
The Rage defense will have its hands full on Saturday. However, they do come in to play ranked in the top four in several categories: scoring defense (3rd, allowing 34.3 points per game), pass defense (2nd, allowing 141.2 yards per game), turnover margin (3rd, +5), rushing defense (4th, allowing 69.9 yards per game) and total defense (3rd, allowing 211.2 yards per game). The Rage defense also boasts the newly crowned UIF Defensive Player of the Year in linebacker, Joe Bevis, as well as all-star safety Milton Proctor.
"We know what we have to do to beat these guys," added Stills. "If we play our game, dictate the pace and time of possession, and limit our mistakes, there is nothing this team can't do. We, as a staff, are all looking forward to the playoffs, and I know the players are as well. Some of these guys have been here for all four trips into the playoffs and have never won the whole thing. That's what I was brought in to do and I look forward to the challenge ahead."
The gates open at 6:00 at the Family Arena and the first 1,000 fans in attendance will receive a free team poster. The Rage are also thanking their fans for another great season by offering $1 hotdogs all night. Tickets are available right now and the prices could not be better. Front Row seats $10, Lower Level for $8 and Upper Level for just $5. Order yours today by calling (636) 896.4285 or visit ragefootball.com.
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