Gameday Recap

Force Cruise to Victory 55-6

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kalamazoo, MI.In temperatures lingering above 90 degrees, the Chicago Force overcame the West Michigan Mayhem and the heat to record a 55-6 win and finish the regular season undefeated at 8-0. The Force won their division title and in the process secured a bye for the first round of playoffs.

The Chicago offense came out throwing, with QB Sami Grisafe connecting with WR Elizabeth Strozinsky for a 51 yard TD pass on the opening series. Grisafe threw for 211 yards and 3 TDs. WR Dana Vermilye had a break out game with 8 catches for 70 yards and a TD. Other offensive scores came from Melissa Smith (2 TDs), and Jeanette Gray and Brandy Hatcher each had one TD.

The defense was led by Sami Scurto, Darcy Leslie, Rebecca Thuestad, Brenda VanCuick and Martha Dantuma. The defensive highlights also included 3 fumble recoveries, an interception (by Scurto), and two separate goal line stands in which the Mayhem were denied a score on over a dozen plays inside the 10 yard line.

Special teams also contributed, with VanCuick returning the second half kickoff for an 80 yard TD as she followed a wall of blocks to the end zone. And on the last play of the game, Tami Engelman blocked the Mayhem's PAT attempt.

Chicago is now in the driver's seat for playoffs. In addition to earning a first round bye, the Force currently have hosting rights for all 3 remaining rounds in the single elimination playoffs. If the Force prevail throughout, they will play in the national championship at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh on August 4th.

The Force will be watching the scoreboard next week to see who their June 30th opponent will be. Chicago will play the winner of the Indy Crash vs Toledo Reign game.

Kick-off on June 30th is at 5pm at Lazier Field at Evanston Township High School. The field is located at 2285 Church Street, just west of Ridge Avenue across from the school.