The Pirates are coming off of a tough a 36-33 loss to the Green Bay Blizzard last week. It has been a tough stretch for Massachusetts as they dropped four of their last five games. 

Today they take on a San Antonio team that has been good of late, winning three of their last four games. With little more than a month left in the season, the Pirates are entering must win territory and need this game. 

Here are three keys to the game.

1. Offensive consistency: The Pirates need to get on track offensively, especially in the passing game. Their inability of late to consistently string drives together and finish them has been a problem.

2. Defense needs to rise to the occasion: The defense will have their hands full against the IFL’s top offense. Coach Miller will have to throw a bunch of different looks at Gunslingers quarterback Sam Castronova and try to throw him off of his spot. If he doesn’t, it will be a long night for the D especially the secondary.

3. Ball control: The running game will take an added importance in this game as the Pirates will have to play keep away at times to help out the defense. Shootouts are common in the IFL but this week isn’t a good idea so controlling the clock will help.

Final Thoughts: The Pirates need to turn their season around do a win over a good San Antonio team would be a good start. The Gunslingers offense is potent but the their defense is generous. The Pirates need to capitalize on that and try to win in a shootout if they can.