Gameday Recap

2017 Gameday Recaps

vs.
CHICAGO FORCE vs. Indianapolis Crash
[6/18/2011]

Result: 77-18 W

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Force Crush Indy, Host Playoffs Next Saturday

Indianapolis, IN – The undefeated Chicago Force traveled to Indy for their final regular season game seeking not just a win, but a large enough margin of victory to ensure home field hosting rights for playoffs the following Saturday. They got all that and more, as the Force exploded for 758 yards of total offense en route to a 77-18 victory. The win assured the Force of hosting at least the first two rounds of playoffs if they continue their winning ways.

The game kicked off in the midst of a steady downpour that had begun an hour earlier and would continue throughout the first half. Chicago ignored the elements and employed their usual potent mix of running and passing plays with the offense commanded by veteran QB Sami Grisafe. Chicago scored in just three plays on their first 2 drives and in four plays on their third drive, taking a 20-0 lead just 10 minutes into the game. All three touchdowns were running plays by RB Jessica Springer.

The Indy offense was kick-started by #21Terri Abraham as she caught a pass between two Force defenders who collided, while she then sprinted to the end zone. The PAT was no good, but Indy was on the board at 20-6. Chicago responded with another touchdown in just three plays and added a two point conversion to lead 28-6. On the ensuing possession Indy scored on another TD pass to Abraham this time for 48 yards in a 3rd down and 22 situation. PAT was no good, but Indy closed the gap to 28-12 as the first quarter ended.

On Chicago’s next possession Grisafe completed a pass to WR Jeanette Gray, who fumbled after a big hit. Indy recovered and had the ball at the Force 41 yard line. This was Indy’s best chance to make it a game, but the Chicago defense held for three plays and forced a punt. The Force offense once again scored quickly and added the two point conversion on a pass to WR Brandi Srda in the corner of the endzone. Force 36, Indy 12.

Another three and out by Indy gave Chicago the ball on their own 32 yard line. Five plays later Grisafe scored on a keeper, and on the PAT attempt she completed a pass to offensive linewoman Dawn Pederson, who had lined up as a tackle eligible on the play. This was the final score before the halftime buzzer, Force 44, Indy 12.

Chicago’s domination continued in the second half with 5 more touchdowns. Indy also had a score in the final minute on another pass to #21, who elevated and made a nice catch in the back of the end zone. Final score Chicago 77, Indy 18. The Force offense is in a groove due in large part to the play of its offensive line, who are creating consistent holes for RB’s Jessica Springer, Brandy Hatcher and Leslie Johnson.

Although the entire offense played well, it was Springer who changed the game with every touch of the ball. She had 438 yards on just 12 carries and scored 6 touchdowns. Grisafe continues to direct the offense and display precision passing, as she completed 28 of 35 passes for 212 yards, 3 passing TD’s and a rushing TD. WR Jeanette Gray had 11 receptions for 102 yards and 2 TD’s, making her a league leader in receptions. WR Albi Zhubi had 5 catches for 58 yards and 2 TD’s.

Defensive highlights included several thunderous hits by LB’s Amber Burns and Darcy Leslie, tackles for a loss by Jamie Menzyk, Kim Marks and Ashley Berggren, and an interception by CB Emma Finestone.

The Force (8-0) will host the Pittsburgh Passion (8-0) this Saturday June 25 in the first round of playoffs. Playoffs will not be held at the regular season field, but at

Evanston Township HS

at 1600 Dodge Ave. The field is at the corner of Church and Hartrey. Kickoff is at 7:30pm.