Kickoff: The Pirates will take on the undefeated Jacksonville Sharks tonight. This will be the Pirates’ first road game of the season. Massachusetts is coming off of their first win of the season last week, beating Fishers Freight 50-47. 

Here are four keys to the game for the Pirates:

1st Down: O must carry the momentum over: The offense finally came to life last week in a much needed win. They just carry the momentum over to this week.

2nd Down: Bahar Down: Kenji Bahar played his best game of the season, completing 15 of 22 passes for 179 yards and three touchdowns. He also ran 10 times for 28 yards with four scores. He needs to keep being the centerpiece of the offense.

3rd Down Pooka-Boo! Pooka Williams returned last week and racked up 103 all-purpose yards in the win. It is imperative that the Pirates get him going early if they want to pull off the upset.

4th Down: Stop Jimmie: Old friend Jimmie Robinson is a Shark now and he played a big part in their win three weeks ago. He is too good a player yo stop but the Pirates must find a way to slow him down. 

Extra Point: The Sharks hold a 6-3 record vs. the Pirates all-time. 

Final Drive: Big early season game for both teams. If the Pirates want to be in playoff contention later this season, they need this one. It won’t be easy against one of the best teams in the IFL. Getting off to a good start and playing ahead will be key.