The Pirates will look to bounce back after a tough 52-51 loss to the San Antonio Gunslingers last week. 

The offense did their part but the defense struggled once again. The league’s top rated offense had their way, especially in the second half.

Tonight is a must win for the Pirates if they want to stay in playoff contention in the Eastern Division. This will be the second meeting all-time between the Pirates and Sharks. Massachusetts beat Jacksonville 26-21. The Sharks are 2-9 thus far this season but they have been competitive. 

Here are three keys to tonight’s game.

1. Defense must play better: The defense has struggled all season long and a lot of that has to do with a new coach and new faces on a weekly basis. Regardless, the defense has to play well tonight, The Sharks have struggled on offense so the defense has no excuse but to play well. The match-up is right. 

2. Sharks the perfect cure: Jacksonville has struggled in their inaugural season in the IFL. The Sharks are 15th in the league in both offense and defense as they score 35.5 points per game while giving up 50.9 per contest. They are the perfect opponent to pick up a win against and start a turnaround.

3. Hey Mr. Robinson: Pirates’ running back Jimmie Robinson leads the IFL in rushing yards. He is the only back in the league with over 500 yards rushing. His 19 rushing touchdowns rank fourth in the IFL and his 22 total touchdowns (two receiving and one kick return) are tied for second. Robinson is also tied for third as he averages 13.2 points per game. The league’s top back for the last two seasons also leads the IFL with over 145 all-purpose yards per game. Feed the man! Feed him! He’s your ticket to a turnaround.

Final Thoughts: Winnable game but Jacksonville almost won the season opener. The Pirates are not playing well enough, especially on defense to take anyone lightly. All that being said, they should win tonight. If the don’t, the season could be over.