The Massachusetts Pirates (6-6) will host the Iowa Barnstormers (1-11) tonight at the Tsongas Center. The Pirates will be looking to sweep the season series and continue their climb toward a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, currently sitting just one win behind Tulsa for the final berth.
Tonight’s game marks the second meeting between these two teams this season, with the Pirates dominating the last meeting on June 14th in Iowa, 66-35 victory – their highest point total of the season. In that game, the Pirates’ offense was clicking on all cylinders, with quarterback Kenji Bahar throwing for 158 yards and five touchdowns, and running back Tiyon Evans contributing with 66 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown, plus a receiving touchdown in his Pirates debut. Wide receiver Teo Redding had a monster game with 144 receiving yards and a touchdown, including a team-record 49-yard touchdown pass. The Pirates’ defense also had a strong showing, forcing three turnovers, including two interceptions.
The Barnstormers, despite their difficult season, have shown flashes of offensive prowess. Quarterback James Cahoon leads the league in passing yards per game, averaging 219.8, and is third in the league with 33 touchdowns. Wideout Quian Williams is also a significant threat, ranking third in the league in touchdowns (15) and close to the league lead in receiving yards per game. Defensive back Caleb Streat leads the league in interceptions, and Tyler Tate also plays a key role on the Barnstormers’ defense.
While the Barnstormers boast some individual talent, their overall record reflects struggles on both sides of the ball. They’ve been particularly susceptible to high-scoring offenses, as evidenced by their 82-46 loss to the Vegas Knight Hawks and the aforementioned 66-35 defeat to the Pirates.
The Pirates, coming off a 56-35 loss to the Quad City Steamwheelers, will be eager to bounce back and solidify their playoff aspirations. With the home crowd behind them and a previous dominant performance against Iowa, Massachusetts will be looking to capitalize on the Barnstormers’ struggles and secure a crucial victory. Expect the Pirates to lean on their diverse offensive attack and aggressive defense to overwhelm a struggling Iowa squad.
Key Matchups to Watch:
Pirates Offense vs. Barnstormers Defense: Bahar and the Pirates skill group should have a field day against the worst defense in the IFL. The running game should have a big day too. Again, Iowa’s defense has been generous this season so the Pirates should have a field day.
Barnstormers Passing Game vs. Pirates Secondary: Will James Cahoon and Quian Williams be able to find success through the air against a Pirates defense that picked off Cahoon twice in their last meeting? We will see. Bahar had a big day in the last match up as did Teo Redding. Expect Redding and Owens to have a big game.
Pirates’ Playoff Motivation: With a playoff spot within reach, how will the Pirates respond to their recent loss and utilize the home advantage? Expect Tom Menas squad to get off to a fast start. Iowa comes to town at the right time for a Pirates team that needs a win to stay in the playoff hunt.
Final Prediction: The Pirates should take care of business in what is a winnable game. Iowa could pose some problems with Cahoon and Williams but I don’t think it will matter because their defense is that bad.