A playoff birth is on the line as the Pirates host the Quad City Steamwheelers in a rare Monday night game in the IFL. Both teams have a shot st making the playoffs and need to win this game in order to enhance their chances or get in,

With a win, the Pirates are in. Quad City will still need to win another game in order to qualify. The Pirates are coming off of a big win last week in Jacksonville. The win put them in a position where they can qualify with a win tonight.

Here are our three keys to the game.

1. Keep the good times rolling on O: The Pirates offense has been good the past three weeks and they finally have their groove back. Look for Alejandro Bennifield and the offense to stay hot against a Quad City secondary that is vulnerable. 

2. Defense needs to keep improving: Rod Miller’s defense is finally starting to get into a groove. The revolving door with personnel has not helped but guys like defensive lineman Adam Plant Jr. and Israel Antwine along with defensive backs Cyrus Fagan and CJ Holmes have helped stabilize things.

3. Big plays: The Pirates offense has been known for making big plays through the years. Those big plays haven’t been there this season but they have of late. The Pirates offense is starting to get back to its identity and that is not good for the rest of the IFL. Look for a big night from Bennifield and company.

Final Thoughts: The Pirates know what is at stake. They need to come out hot and jump on Quad City early. Despite the team’s struggles the past six weeks, they are in prime position to make the playoffs. The Pirates are playing their best football at the right time of the season. Now they need to finish the deal, win and get in.