Image courtesy of the IFL.

The Pirates are coming into their home opener of a season opening 44-40 win at Green Bay. Massachusetts trailed at the half but came from behind to pick a much needed season opening win. The  2023 National Arena League (NAL) champions, Jacksonville Sharks are making their IFL debut. On paper this is a winnable game for the Pirates but Jacksonville has some talent.

Here are three keys to the game.

1. Fast start offensively: The Pirates need to get off to a good start offensively. They did not bad in the first half last week but they need to build off of last week’s second half and score  early and often.

2. Go deep! Look for the Pirates to be aggressive early and push the ball down the field. Thomas Owens and Issac Zico should both match up advantages. Look for the Pirates to take advantage against an inexperienced and banged up Sharks secondary.

3. Defense must be better: The defense was expected to be better this season but they struggled out of the gate last week. They have a favorable match up tonight so this is a bounce back game for this revamped unit that is under the direction of new head coach Rod Miller.

Final Thought: The last time the Sharks and Pirates met was in July of 2019. An interception by Robert Brown led the Sharks to a 54-47 overtime win. The Pirates will look to avenge that loss and win in their home debut at Taongas Arena.