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  • Braga Warriors Aim to Upset Defensive Powerhouse Lisboa Navigators in Crucial Portugal Matchup

    Sunday, April 7th sees the Braga Warriors (1-2) host the Lisboa Navigators (2-0) in a pivotal game for the Warriors' playoff hopes. With a record of 1-2, victory is crucial for them to stay relevant in the postseason chase. Warriors in Must-Win Situation For the Warriors, this is a do-or-die situation. Their passing offense, averaging 15 points per game, needs to click on all cylinders. The defense, which displayed flashes of brilliance in their previous outing against the Bulldogs, must replicate that performance to contain the Navigators' run game. The unpredictable weather conditions, with the possibility of rain or even surprising heat, add another layer of intrigue to the Warriors' already challenging task. Navigators Aim to Solidify Playoff Position The Navigators, boasting the league's joint-best defense (allowing only 12 points per game on average), enter the contest as favorites. A win would practically guarantee them a playoff spot which would be a great thing because they haven't entered the playoffs since 2019. Their primary strategy on offense will likely revolve around their strong running game. Can the Warriors Pull Off the Upset? Despite the Navigators' defensive prowess, the Warriors cannot be entirely counted out. Their passing attack, if executed flawlessly, has the potential to surprise. The unpredictable weather adds a wildcard element to the matchup. This encounter promises a compelling battle between a desperate Warriors team fighting for their playoff lives and a well-rounded Navigators squad aiming to solidify their position in the postseason race.

  • Oslo Vikings Welcome Tyresö Royal Crowns in Super Serien Opener

    Sweden’s Super Serien kicks off this weekend, with one game being played in Norway, as the Oslo Vikings play host to the Tyresö Royal Crowns this Saturday at Frogner Stadium. Both teams are expected to be contenders to play in the Super series Final at the end of the season. THE BACKGROUND Tyrsö Royal Crowns are a storied franchise in Sweden, but this is not story time. More recently, the Royal Crowns have been a team full of talent every season, since their return to the Super Serien in 2022. It’s common knowledge that the Tyresö area produces some of the best Swedish football players in the country, and the Royal Crowns have easy access to those players. Despite this access, Tyresö has shown to be very inconsistent in the previous two seasons in the Super Serien. The team has lost games when they were clearly the better team, normally due to unforeseen injuries or player participation issues. No matter the excuses, the level of talent of Tyresö Royal Crowns is always to be respected as one of the best in the league. The Oslo Vikings are 15-time National Champions of Norway, including the previous 2023 season. Throughout their history, the Vikings have always competed internationally in addition to their domestic league. Participating in the Scandinavian Cup in 2022 & 2023 allowed Oslo to play against 3 of their Super Serien opponents (Stockholm Mean Machines, Örebro Black Knights, Carlstad Crusaders), and helped them make the transition to the Super Serien for the 2024 season. Despite not defeating any of the Swedish teams in that span, the Vikings have proven they can compete with their Swedish counterparts. Unfortunately, most of that Scandinavian Cup experience goes out the window in 2024, as they have to compete in a full Super Serien season this year. KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH Sweden football is known for producing some of the best domestic players in Europe, and the Super Serien is a direct beneficiary of that production. In addition to great domestic talent, the Super Serien also attracts some of the top foreign players from around the world. The Oslo Vikings have a history of producing the top Norwegian players in the country, and also contract some of the best foreign players from across the globe. Here are a few key players to keep a look out for heading into this weekend’s matchup. OSLO VIKINGS Will Sewell (Linebacker) Sewell is a physical specimen, entering his 3rd consecutive season with the Oslo Vikings. At 6’1, 230 pounds, the former defensive end will be playing linebacker this season. Sewell is inevitable on the field, his speed and relentless pursuit to the ball is second to none. Wearing his traditional #1 on the field, expect to see him involved in every play whether it be a run or pass attempt. CJ Fowler (Quarterback) Fowler is an experienced Euro-traveler having spent time with the Tychy Falcons (Poland) and most recently the Swarco Raiders (Austria) before joining the Vikings. He is battle tested in college having played for both Mississippi Valley State University (Division I) and Western New Mexico University (Division II) during his collegiate career. Fowler is a talented southpaw with a throw-first mentality, despite being an obvious dual-threat because of his athleticism and speed. CJ Fowler will be one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the Super Serien this year. Linn Byrd (Wide Receiver) Byrd is returning to the Vikings after being an integral piece to their offensive success in 2023. The athletic receiver is a great route runner with a great feel for the game, allowing him to create separation and give his quarterback an easy target to get the ball to. Byrd is expected to receive a lot of targets in this matchup. Sigurd Stenseng (Linebacker) Stenseng is 6’3, 205 pounds and resembles an NFL size cornerback! The young player is slated to be an outside linebacker for the Vikings and brings a very unique skill set to the position. Stenseng brings the thunder when making tackles, but possesses the athleticism to cover wide receivers like a nickel back when needed. His versatility allows the Vikings defense to be adjustable throughout the game without the need for constant personnel changes. Sigurd Stenseng will be moved all over the field and make plays from everywhere. TYRESÖ ROYAL CROWNS Kevin Börzsei (Wide Receiver) Börzsei is currently one of the best receivers in Sweden. He has played on a few different teams in the Super Serien, so his reputation is well known, and defenders respect his ability each week. As expected, Börzsei is fast and runs very good routes, but what sets this player apart from his competition is his aggression. Börzsei has a hunger for the ball and high points it at all costs, and has been known to make miraculous catches look routine. If the ball is thrown to Kevin Börzsei, it is almost certain it will be a completion. Jared Heywood (Quarterback) Heywood is entering his first season in Europe, so a lot will be unknown about the young signal caller. He is coming from a college career playing at both University of Nevada, Las Vegas (Division I) and University of Rhode Island (Division I). What is known about Jared Heywood is his dual-threat ability that will have defenses scared every week. Malcolm Engström (Defensive Lineman) Malcolm Engström is easily one of the best defensive players in Sweden. The defensive lineman has a large arsenal of defensive moves to defeat opposing players, and will use them all if necessary. His ability to win matchups in the trenches makes him a constant double team option for opposing offenses, but even that won’t stop Malcolm Engström from making plays. MATCHUP ANALYSIS There is not much analysis involved in this game, it’s all speculation. The Tyresö Royals Crowns are expected to be the more talented team in this matchup. Across the board, their roster is bursting with playmakers and all-star caliber players. The main concern for the Royal Crowns is what team will show up to Oslo? Will it be the talented roster that has become expected, or will it be a team full of excuses for why they didn’t play to their level? There is no real way to know until the game is played. The Oslo Vikings will show up with everything they have. It has been well documented that the team has prepared hard during the offseason, including practice games against Swedish competition. The Vikings will have the luxury of playing this game at home, in a familiar environment in front of their supportive fans. The excitement and atmosphere combined should have the team in high spirits. But the game is played on the gridiron, and there is no way to determine if the Vikings talent will match what the Tyresö squad is capable of. GAME OUTCOME I believe the Royal Crowns should be considered the favorite to win this game. They possess all the necessary tools to defeat the Oslo Vikings, on paper. Good thing these games are not played on paper, because I believe that the Oslo Vikings are in a must-win situation to start their tenure in the Super Serien. I won’t be surprised by any outcome of this game, but I expect the Vikings to get home victory, and start the season 1-0.

  • Sweden’s Super Serien Season Opener: Mean Machines vs. Black Knights!

    Sweden’s Super Serien kicks off this weekend with the reigning champs, Stockholm Mean Machines, hosting the Örebro Black Knights this Saturday at the Zinkensdamms IP. Both teams are accustomed to winning, but someone has to lose this week. Two Historic Teams Clash As for any season opener, there are a lot of unknowns, but one thing is for sure, these two teams will compete at a high level. The Mean Machines have appeared in each of the last 6 Super Serien Finals, winning four. Most recently, the Stockholm team has won back-to-back Super Serien titles, going undefeated in both the 2022 & 2023 seasons. It goes without saying, but they are the heavy favorites to win the league this season, following such dominance. The Örebro Black Knights are not to be slept on. Despite a disappointing 2023 campaign, the Black Knights have recently appeared in two Super Serien Finals, defeating the Mean Machines in 2021 for their most recent Super Serien title. Coincidentally, Örebro has reclaimed the Head Coach from that team to lead them into the 2024 campaign. As much as the history of these two teams is important to their legacy, it means NOTHING coming into week 1 of this season. Football games are played on the field, and these two teams will find out who is better on Saturday. Key Players to Watch Sweden football is known for producing some of the best domestic players in Europe, and the Super Serien is a direct beneficiary of that production. In addition to great domestic talent, the Super Serien also attracts some of the top foreign players from around the world. Here are a few key players to keep a look out for heading into this weekend’s matchup. STOCKHOLM MEAN MACHINES Kasper Wedberg (Running Back) It could be confusing for Super Serien fans to see Wedberg’s name under the Stockholm Mean Machines list instead of the Black Knights. Wedberg has been a consistent playmaker for the Black Knights in the past, but now dons the Navy and Red. Weberg is considered the “bowling ball” type of running back, mostly because of his short, yet stocky stature. And true to the prototype, Wedburg punishes defenders with his low center of gravity, and creates great velocity with the ball in hi shand, making him difficult to tackle. Mateo Renteria (Quarterback) Renteria played his college career at the College of Wooster Fighting Scots (Division 3), where he broke school records for passing yards and touchdowns. He spent last season with the Saint-ouen Cougars in the French Elite Division 1. I don’t know much about his skillset, but Mateo Renteria has stats suggesting he can sling it! Matthew Retzlaff (Wide Receiver) Retzlaff is one of the best receivers in Europe. He possesses the ability to play slot receiver as well as outside receiver, making it nearly impossible to accurately game plan for him. Retzlaff is also a great route runner, allowing him to make plays in a variety of ways. Physically the receiver has elite speed, great field awareness, and his hands are more reliable than a 2004 Toyota Corolla. Aleksi Olavuo (Defensive Lineman) The Finnish Olavuo has college experience from the United States (American International College) and was a standout for the Helsinki Wolverines in Finland’s Maple League. At more than 260 pounds, Aleksi Olavuo is a big body lineman with exceptional athleticism. His speed and quickness off the ball help him to be more than a run stopper, and make him a mismatch against most offensive linemen. Denny John (Defensive Back) Denny John is a veteran with a great football IQ. John makes plays without making plays. By putting himself in the right spot on the field, he prevents offenses from executing big plays based on his positioning. Whether it's run support or deep field coverage, Denny John will be there, making sure his defense has the best chance to stop opposing offenses. At his age, his interception rate has fallen, but he still has a great knack for being around the ball. ÖREBRO BLACK KNIGHTS Johannes Lindeus (Wide Receiver) Lindeus is #1 on the field, usually both literally and figuratively. The receiver has blazing speed, and great hands. His ability to leave defenders once he has the ball in his hands makes him a touchdown threat every time he touches the ball. Trevor Vasey (Quarterback) Vasey has NFL quarterback size, standing at 6’5 and weighing around 225 pounds, combined with a rocket attached to his shoulder. The big quarterback is deceptively athletic and can use his legs when the moment calls for, making him difficult for defenders to contain or sack. The most important aspect of Vasey’s gameplay is his decision making ability. Trevor Vasey is great at taking care of the football, and even better at getting it into the hands of his teammates to make big plays for the Black Knights Cewin Eriksson (Defensive Back) Eriksson is considered one of the best domestic defensive backs in Europe. The young star was a part of the 2021 Black Knights team that won the Super Serien title, and returns this season after playing internationally. Cewin Eriksson plays exactly as you would expect from a young 6’1, 175 pound defensive back, but what sets him apart is his football IQ. It's easy to tell that Eriksson is a student of the game, as he is often better at running routes than the receivers he is guarding. I expect the former Defensive Back of the Year to be a difference maker all season. Sebastian Nilsson (Defensive Lineman) Sebastian Nilsson looks like a man amongst boys on the football field. The 6’5 defender is easily over 275 pounds and towers above most players on the field. Nilsson has the expected strength that goes with a player of his size, but his speed and quickness is close to that of a running back, which makes him unstoppable on the field. Sebastian Nilsson demands a double team at all times, and when not given that type of attention, he will make the play. That is a fact, not an opinion. Nasim Shaverdian (Defensive Back) At 6’3, the converted cornerback is new to the Super Serien, having only appeared in a few Super Serien games last year. Shaverdian has not been properly tested in the top league, so it would be unfair to provide an analysis of his skills. What can be said is that his name has been a buzz all offseason as a potential breakout star, so watching him is a must. Matchup Analysis The Stockholm Mean Machines have made a change at the quarterback position, but it should be business as usual for the 2-time Champs. I expect to see a well balanced offense that will dictate the pace of the game to their liking. Stockholm will use their talented receiving corps to make the entire field available for the offense, while having a dynamic running game that will require the Black Knights to pick their poison. Defensively, the Mean Machines will attempt to resemble last year’s formula, a suffocating front seven combined with excellent coverage and playmaking by the defensive backs unit. The addition of Aleksi Olavuo will ensure that run stopping is a priority, but Denny John & company are playmakers against the pass game as well. The Örebro Black Knights will be slightly less predictable in this game. Offensively, it will be determined early if they are able to be balanced, as their running back situation is largely untested at this point. But what will not change is the passing attack led by quarterback Trevor Vasey and the Lindeus Brothers. If the run game is unsuccessful, Örebro is more than capable of scoring points on 40+ pass attempts. The Örebro defense will be tested thoroughly in this matchup. Their secondary is good, but the Mean Machines receiving corps is GREAT. It will be seen very early if this group can compete with Stockholm’s talent, as Stockholm’s running prowess will eventually force them into man to man situations at various times throughout the game. Who Will Win? This game could be a 27-24 final drive, or it could be a 35-7 blowout. There are too many unknowns to make an educated guess, so I won’t even try. Nonetheless, all eyes will be on this game, as it represents the kickoff of an 8 team league in Sweden to the international community. The Stockholm Mean Machines should be favored in this game, as they have been undefeated in their last two seasons of Super Serien play. They are largely returning the same team, with a few minor changes, which is a recipe for continued success. But the Black Knights have had a successful offseason and possess a talented roster that is more than capable of being a Super Serien contender. The winner of this game will be the team that is able to execute their style of play when the big moments arise. It will be interesting to see which of these two great teams comes out victorious.

  • VIDEO: Seinajoki Crocodiles Team Preview, 2024 - AFF Season 9, Ep. 2

    The AFF crew preview the Seinäjoki Crocodiles ahead of the 2024 Maple League Season. 4:30 - BIGGEST CHANGES 11:10 - CHRISTIAN WRANGSTÅL (HC) INTERVIEW 21:18 - OBSTACLES TO OVERCOME 26:30 - CHRISTIAN POWEL (RB) INTERVIEW 37:05 - KEYS TO SUCCESS 43:12 - LAST WORDS ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 📱 FOLLOW AMERICAN FOOTBALL IN FINLAND 📱 INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/AmericanFootballinFinland FACEBOOK: Facebook.com/AmericanFootballinFinland WEBSITE: AmericanFootballinFinland.com ☕️ BUY US A COFFEE: buymeacoffee.com/AFFPod 💰 DONATE: paypal.com/paypalme/AFF2k2/5 👕 GET MERCH: americanfootballinfinland.com/merch

  • ⁠Sweden's Super Serien Schedule & Key Matchups

    Sweden’s highest American Football division, the Super Serien, kicks off this weekend! The Super Serien is introducing an 8-team format in 2024, making this season a must-see attraction to anyone interested in European American Football. The Super Serien schedule will play a crucial part in determining the success of teams. The 2024 schedule is only seven games, with teams playing each other only once. Travel schedule will also play a factor, since the Oslo Vikings from Norway will also be competing in the league. The 2024 Super Serien will return last year’s Back-to-Back Champions, the Stockholm Mean Machines, and their rivals in the Tyresö Royal Crowns, Carlstad Crusaders, and Örebro Black Knights. Last year’s undefeated 2023 Division 1 Champions, the Limhamn Griffins, will join the Super Serien as well. The Kristianstad Predators and AIK also have moved up from Division 1 to compete in Sweden’s top league. The aforementioned Olso Vikings, Norway’s 2023 Elite Division Champions, round out the league at eight total teams. 2024 Super Serien is Different The 2024 season brings a lot of changes for Sweden’s premier league. The inclusion of eight teams has reinvigorated the competitive nature of all players, coaches, and fans in Sweden. The league has ensured this competition remains throughout the entire season, allowing the top six teams to compete in the playoffs. This will allow all teams in the league to fight until the very end for playoff spots and preferred seeding. The association, SWE3, has made preparations to have every Super Serien game televised on their streaming subscription service SWE3 Play. This will allow the entire world to watch the new format team on a weekly basis. To provide even more exposure to the league, Pro Football Sweden has started a podcast to keep fans updated with the happenings of the league all season long! The Schedule is Action Packed As great as the 8-team league is, games still have to be played, and not all matchups are created equal. Here is a look at some of the better matchups expected to be played each week, based on the available preseason information. APRIL 6, TRAVEL BACK TO 2021 Week 1: Stockholm Mean Machines vs Örebro Black Knights If you are a fan of football, this game will give you everything you need. These two teams have a long history against each other, but the Mean Machines have lost a Super Serien game in 2 years! The time the Stockholm team lost was in the 2021 Super Serien Final, to the Örebro Black Knights!! You might think that’s not important, but the 2021 Black Knights Head Coach, Sam Eisenstadt, has returned to Örebro to replicate his team’s previous success. It’s a great storyline that will playout in the first game of the Super Serien season, making this a must-watch matchup. Let’s not  forget that the Stockholm Mean Machines are Back-to-Back champions and will try to set the tone as the team to beat once again in Sweden. The anticipation for this game is through the roof! APRIL 14, REVENGE IS BEST SERVED COLD Week 2: Örebro Black Knights vs Oslo Vikings The Oslo Vikings have never beaten the Örebro Black Knights, and they know it. Last year the two teams met twice during the Scandinavian Cup. In Oslo, the Vikings put up a good fight, losing 21-13, but were crushed 37-7 when the team traveled to Örebro. Both teams are expected to be much improved from last year’s teams, so this is a game to mark on you calendars. MAY 4, NORTH VERSUS SOUTH Week 5: Tyresö Royal Crowns vs Limhamn Griffins There is a regional separation in Sweden that has long been an excuse for “South” teams not to participate in the Super Serien because of travel times & expenses. It’s also rumored that Southern Sweden teams produce the best players, who often times leave to play for Super Serien teams. This is all speculation, but now can be proven or disproven as the Limhamn Griffins represent the best team of the “South”. Tyresö has alway been a talented team, and typically can win games against lesser opponents because they have so much talent to utilize. That makes them the perfect measuring stick for the Griffin in the Super Serien. Win or lose, how these two teams compare will set the tone for the rest of the league. If Limhamn is able to go toe to toe or event defeat the Royal Crowns, they will prove they belong in the Super Serien and the “South” is just as good as the north. If Tyresö beats up on the Griffins like a little brother, status quo will become evident that the “South” still has work to do. This game will be a great show of parity in the country of Sweden. JUNE 8, BYE WEEK CHALLENGE Week 10: Stockholm Mean Machines vs Tyresö Royal Crowns This matcup is quite presumptuous, but it’s a great job by the league to make every week count. Whoever wins this game is expected to be in 1st or 2nd place in the Super Serien. Without making too many assumptions, it’s logically to believe that both teams will be somewhere in the top 4 teams, meaning the game will separate them from each other by giving one team a higher seed and possibly a bye week in the playoffs. It is also completely possible that these two teams will both be undefeated in week 10 making this matchup one of the best in Europe. These two teams competed in the Super Serien final last season, and it’s a great move to have them play the final week instead of the customary opening weekend game that is usually not an accurate representation of the team by season’s end. If both squads play to the level expected of them, we could see one of the greatest regular season finals in the Super Serien. JUNE 8, NOT DIVISION 1 ANYMORE Week 10: Kristianstad Predators vs Limhamn Griffins It would be irresponsible to assume what these two teams will look like by the last week of the regular season. But what can be assumed is that neither organization has forgotten their last meeting in the 2023 Division 1 season, in which the Limhamn Griffins came out victorious by a close score of 42-43. Both teams have to assume that they “should” have won that game, meaning neither will feel like an underdog in week 10 for sure. No matter where these two teams are in the Super Serien standings, come week 10 they will both want to prove they are the better Super Serien team. The already established rivalry could see the next evolution if the teams are evenly matched and make it a closely contested game. This game is a must watch to see how Division 1 teams have developed throughout an entire Super Serien season.

  • VIDEO: Porvoo Butchers Team Preview, 2024 - AFF Season 9, Ep. 1

    The AFF crew preview the Porvoo Butchers ahead of the 2024 Maple League Season. 7:45 - BIGGEST CHANGES 12:15 - NIKO NOUSIAINEN INTERVIEW 20:00 - OBSTACLES TO OVERCOME 29:07 - MIKKO SEPPANEN INTERVIEW 37:07 - KEYS TO SUCCESS 52:30 - LAST WORDS ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 📱 FOLLOW AMERICAN FOOTBALL IN FINLAND 📱 INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/AmericanFootballinFinland FACEBOOK: Facebook.com/AmericanFootballinFinland WEBSITE: AmericanFootballinFinland.com ☕️ BUY US A COFFEE: buymeacoffee.com/AFFPod 💰 DONATE: paypal.com/paypalme/AFF2k2/5 👕 GET MERCH: americanfootballinfinland.com/merch

  • VIDEO: Super Serien Players to Watch: Defense - PFS Pod - Episode 3

    Get ready for an exhilarating episode as Pro Football Sweden shifts its focus to the defensive side of the ball in the 2024 SuperSerien season! Join us as we highlight the defensive stalwarts who are primed to wreak havoc and shut down opposing offenses with their tenacity and skill. From dominant defensive linemen to ball-hawking defensive backs and hard-hitting linebackers, we're diving deep into the players who will be the backbone of their teams' defensive efforts this season. ⏰ Timestamps: 1:45 Players to Watch - Defensive Backs 12:10 Calle Henriksson (DB, Stockholm Mean Machines) Interview 20:19 Players to Watch - Defensive Linemen 29:06 Mattias Eriksson (LB, Carlstad Crusaders) Interview 33:27 Players to Watch - Linebackers 44:34 Joshua Akena (LB, AIK) Interview 1:03:42 Last Words 📱 Connect with Pro Football Sweden Join the conversation on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ProFootballSweden Stay updated on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProFootballSweden 🔥 Don't miss out on the excitement! Share your predictions, thoughts, and reactions in the comments below. Subscribe to the channel, hit the like button, and share this video with fellow football fans. 🚀 Coming Soon: Stay tuned for next week's episode, where we'll be previewing the first games of the 2024 Super Serien season! 🌟 Special thanks to our sponsors for their support: Reyrr Athletics: www.reyrr.se RCI BYGG: www.rcibygg.se SWE3: www.swe3.se Perfect Pervis: www.perfectpervis.com American Football in Finland: www.AmericanFootballinFinland.com Ballers International: https://sites.google.com/view/ballersinternational/home Improve Athletes: www.improveathletes.com

  • Continuing Success: ELF MVP Leads UWE Bullets to Championship

    Jadrian Clark has been on quite the tear over the last year. After winning the European League of Football season MVP, ELFChampionship,  and ELF Championship game MVP, Jadrian Clark decided to take it back to school and capture a championship for the UWE Bullets of the British University and Colleges Sports (BUCS) Championships. Clark went bonkers in that game, throwing for four touchdowns and rushing for one more, giving him yet another MVP. But what does this all mean? For an American like myself, I was curious as to what college sports were like in Europe, having thought all my life that they didn’t exist. I started gathering pictures of Bryant-Denny (Alabama’s home stadium) stadium in the middle of England, but instead of fatty fried foods at the concessions there were teas and little sandwiches. I’m joking, but I needed to get some further information, so I asked Jadrian a few questions about the win and about college athletics in Europe, in general: Another One Voitek: Well first off congrats, how does it feel to win another chip? Jadrian: There’s nothing that feels as good as winning it all. Voitek: Love that. Can you tell me what the college football experience is like in England compared to America? Jadrian: It’s incomparable. Division-I football in America is a business and in England, besides the UWE Bullets, it’s closer to intramural sports. We obviously have resources at UWE being dedicated to the facilities, coaches and players. I hope other teams can copy that model and grow the sport more in the UK. Voitek: Interesting. Do they have rivals? Who would you say is the Bullets rival? Jadrian: SGS college – they are also in Bristol, so it created a big/little brother rivalry. Voitek: How are you feeling rolling into the ELF after absolutely going off this whole year? Do you think this has helped you prepare? Jadrian: Without a doubt. I feel ready to go and healthy for the ELF season. I can’t wait to be back with the boys. Voitek: Which new addition are you most excited to play with? Jadrian: I would have to say the addition of Tony Anderson for the defense was huge. It gives us one more dynamic Defensive Back, plus now we don’t have to face him 2-3 times this year. Jadrian Clark looks reared and ready for another MVP type season in the ELF, but many teams have stocked talent from across the world to compete with the reigning champion, Rhein Fire. We’ll see what happens in what should be the best season to date in the European League of Football.

  • Flash La Courneuve Brace for a Crucial Match against Leopards Rouen

    American football enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating an intense showdown this Saturday, the 30th, as the Flash La Courneuve clash with the Leopards Rouen in a highly anticipated match set to take place in Rouen. With both teams vying for dominance, this game promises to be a thrilling spectacle for fans. In the Northern Conference standings, Flash La Courneuve currently holds the top spot with two victories and one defeat, positioning themselves as strong contenders in the league. However, their opponents, Leopards Rouen, are close behind in third place with one victory, one draw, and one defeat. The Leopards recently impressed by securing a draw against the former French champions, Black Panthers Thonons les Bains, in a closely contested match where they displayed exceptional skill and determination. Flash Looking for Consistency Despite their strong position in the standings, Flash La Courneuve has faced challenges in the early part of the season. Their campaign began with a last-second victory against the Molosses in the opening game, followed by being caught off guard by the Cougars in week 3. These hurdles have made it difficult for them to find their rhythm and establish dominance on the field. The Flash passing game, orchestrated by quarterback Leo Cremades, has been less than stellar. Cremades has struggled with a completion rate of less than 50%, averaging only 5.4 yards per attempt. Additionally, their touchdown-to-interception ratio of 3 to 2 leaves much to be desired. These rather average performances by Leo Cremades raise questions about the Flash's strategy, which once again this year, chose not to recruit an import at the quarterback position. This strategy worked last year with their magnificent victory in the CEFL European championship, but this season, the Flash appear much weaker. With the departure of top talents to the Paris Musketeers (ELF professional team), and the mediocre performances by French quarterback Leo Cremades, the Flash seems weakened and, for one of the first times, vulnerable to smaller teams like the newcomers, the Leopards. To avoid disappointment and regain their momentum, Flash La Courneuve must elevate their performance against the confident Leopards. The Leopards have already demonstrated their prowess by defeating the Cougars and securing a draw against the Black Panthers. Now, they are determined to add Flash La Courneuve to their list of conquests and remain in contention for the playoffs. Who will emerge victorious? This upcoming match presents a crucial opportunity for both teams to assert their dominance and solidify their positions in the standings. With pride, glory, and playoff aspirations on the line, fans can expect an intense and fiercely contested battle as Flash La Courneuve and Leopards Rouen clash on the gridiron. Who will emerge victorious? The answer will be revealed on Saturday in what promises to be a captivating display of American football prowess.

  • Thonon-les-Bains Black Panthers Ready to Face the Formidable Asnières Molosses

    Thonon-les-Bains Black Panthers Ready to Face the Formidable Asnières Molosses French American football is gearing up for an epic showdown this Saturday, March 30th, as the Thonon-les-Bains Black Panthers host the formidable Asnières Molosses on their home turf. This encounter promises to be a true test of strength and talent, pitting two teams with contrasting trajectories this season against each other. Black Panthers Must Bounce Back The reigning French champions, the Black Panthers, have faced unexpected difficulties this year, with a mixed record of only one draw and one defeat. They’re now at the bottom of the Northern Conference ranking. Their last match ended in a 34-34 draw against the Rouen Leopards in a particularly tight and intense duel. Despite their undeniable talent, the Black Panthers are still finding their rhythm this season, but there's no doubt they'll be looking to turn the tide in this crucial home match. With the arrival of their new American quarterback, K’Hari Lane, following the shoulder injury of José Tabora Jr, the Black Panthers will be able to continue building their offense on new foundations. With a debut game of 311 passing yards and 2 touchdowns, this new quarterback seems rather promising and will be eager to bring the first victory to Thonon. Asnières Molosses Look to Continue Dominance On the other hand, the Asnières Molosses are emerging as a dominant force in the competition this year, led by their formidable dual threat quarterback, Brody Hahn. With two wins under their belt, including an impressive 41-6 victory against the Saint-Ouen l'Aumône Cougars, the Molosses are currently tied for the lead in the Northern Conference. Their only defeat, against the Flash, has done nothing to dampen their determination to shine on the field. Touchdowns and Interceptions in Thonon-les-Bains This match between the Black Panthers and the Molosses promises to be a rare intensity showdown, where each team will seek to impose its game and secure victory. The Black Panthers' supporters will undoubtedly be behind their team, encouraging them to regain their winning form. At the same time, the Molosses will aim to consolidate their winning streak and assert their dominance over the competition. This Saturday, Thonon-les-Bains will pulsate to the rhythm of touchdowns and interceptions as the Black Panthers and the Molosses clash in a titanic battle for glory and victory. Who will emerge victorious from this epic duel? The answer will be given on the field, in a breathtaking sporting spectacle.

  • VIDEO: Super Serien Players to Watch: Offense - Pro Football Sweden Pod - Episode 2

    Get ready for an electrifying episode as Pro Football Sweden delves into the realm of offensive firepower in the 2024 SuperSerien season! Join us as we shine the spotlight on the players who are poised to dominate the field and leave spectators in awe with their exceptional skills and game-changing performances. From dynamic quarterbacks to explosive wide receivers, we're breaking down the offensive juggernauts who are set to light up the gridiron this season. ⏰ Timestamps: Introductions 01:39 1st & 10 04:11 Players to Watch - Wide Receivers 27:14 Players to Watch - Running Backs 33:36 Players to Watch - Quarterbacks 45:59 Last Words 📱 Connect with Pro Football Sweden Join the conversation on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ProFootballSweden Stay updated on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ProFootballSweden 🔥 Don't miss out on the excitement! Share your predictions, thoughts, and reactions in the comments below. Subscribe to the channel, hit the like button, and share this video with fellow football fans. 🚀 Coming Soon: Stay tuned for next week's episode, where we'll be diving into the defensive players to watch in the 2024 Super Serien!! 🌟 Special thanks to our sponsors for their support: Reyrr Athletics: www.reyrr.se RCI BYGG: www.rcibygg.se SWE3: www.swe3.se Perfect Pervis: www.perfectpervis.com American Football in Finland: www.AmericanFootballinFinland.com Ballers International: https://sites.google.com/view/ballersinternational/home

  • Diving Into the Wide Receiver Position & Italy's Top Talents

    American football is a fun and smart game loved by millions of people. Next to the quarterback, the conductor and leader of the offense, wide receivers (WR) are often the most loved and well-known offensive players. It is a spectacular position that includes two main roles: catching balls thrown by the quarterback to advance the ball toward the end zone (touchdown zone) and blocking defenders to support the offense's running plays. Receivers must have a good connection with their quarterback to catch a maximum number of balls and gain the maximum yards to advance the offense and score touchdowns. What is a Wide Receiver The wide receiver is a very fast and athletic player; his explosiveness allows him to run routes to beat his direct opponent, the defensive back. Running a route helps a receiver get open, allowing the quarterback to pass them the ball. They aim to catch it and gain yards for touchdowns. The role of the wide receiver is crucial because the progress of the passing game depends on his ability to catch balls and advance the ball on the field. The progress of the running game also depends on his ability to block defenders and create spaces for the running backs. Key Responsibilities RUNNING ROUTES A good receiver is a good route runner. This involves: - Quickness and agility to make hard cuts and get free from the defensive backs. - Finding space in the defense to open a window for a quarterback’s throw. - Understanding concepts and designs of plays by memory to be coordinated with the other receivers. - Having good timing with the quarterback to get open at the right time and in the right space to catch a good ball. CATCHING BALLS Catching balls is a wide receiver’s main job. This requires: - Good eye-hand coordination to catch every ball. - Excellent grip and finger strength to catch hard balls. - Being able to catch contested balls by the defensive back. - Concentration and regularity to avoid drops (when the receiver misses the ball and it drops on the field). MAKING BIG PLAYS Many of the “big plays” are made by receivers, they must: - Be able to make the play at the right moment when a big play is called. - Catching long throws to gain significant yards. - Gain yards after the catch, run the ball through the defense, break tackles, and avoid defenders. BLOCKING DEFENSE A receiver needs to be a good blocker to be a complete player. They might: - Block Defensive Backs or Linebackers to help create gaps for the Running Back. - Be physical to dominate and keep the defender away from the run play. - Prevent Defensive Backs from tackling the Running Back, or the Quarterback when he decides to run. READING THE DEFENSE A good receiver must read the defense pre-snap to adapt his game depending on the defense formation: - Identify if the defense is playing zone or man-to-man, and understand the defensive formation. - Anticipate the movements of defenders to adjust routes and find space in the defense. - Observe how your counterpart plays to identify their weaknesses and capitalize on them. Skills Required SPEED: Necessary to get free and beat defensive backs. AGILITY: Essential to make hard cuts and gain yards after catch. VERY GOOD HANDS: Vital to have good hands to catch every ball. INTELLIGENCE: Important for understanding complex plays and reading the defense. STRENGTH: Significant for blocking defenders, resisting big hits, and breaking tackles. CONCENTRATION: Must need skills, when the ball arrives, receivers must be focused to avoid drops. Position on the field The wide receivers line up next to the sideline, in general at the level of the numbers at the start of the play, and they need to be aligned to the ball. A slot receiver (or inside receiver) is usually lined up in the middle between the wide receivers and the Offensive-Line, they need to be aligned 2 yards behind the ball. Famous Wide Receivers Several receivers have become legends of the game, known for their skill, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure. Names like Jerry Rice, Larry Fitzgerald, Tyreek Hill and Odell Beckham Jr. are synonymous with excellence at the wide receiver position. IFL Top Performing Wide Receivers The Italian Football League, while not as globally recognized as the NFL, showcases a remarkable depth of talent, especially at the receiver position. This season, several wide receivers have distinguished themselves through exceptional play, huge catches, and unique abilities on the field. Each of these receivers brings a unique set of skills and qualities to the field, making them stand out in the Italian Football League. Their performances this season not only highlight their talents but also underscore the competitive spirit and high level of play within the league. Here's a look at five of the top receivers in the league so far. Damon Sheehy-Guiseppi, Legnano Frogs Sheey-Guiseppi has been the most dominant player in the Italian Football League, so far. The former NFL receiver (Cleveland Browns) has racked up 504 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns in only 3 games this season. Sheey-Guiseppi has explosive speed & quickness, which allows him to be a great route runner, and dynamic playmaker once the ball is in his hands. He is averaging 19.4 yards per catch, confirming that when he touches the ball it changes the game. Damon Sheehy-Guiseppi is a large reason the Legnano Frogs are off to a surprising 2-1 record this season. Adrian Tolbert, Torino Giaguari At 6’5, 230 lbs, Adrian Tolbert is by definition a Tight End. But that means nothing once #2 steps on the football field. The Giaguari are fortunate to have a great receiving corps, which means the ball is spread pretty evenly between them. Adrian Tolbert does more with less, totaling 257 receiving yards on a mere 13 receptions (19.8 yards per catch). Tolbert uses his size to go over defenders to catch the ball at the high point, then proceeds to use his underrated speed and athleticism to turn EVERY catch into a big play. More than a bruising Tight End, Adrian Tolbert is a dynamic receiver who is among the best in the Italian Football League. Andrea Serra, Torino Giaguari Serra can make a case for the best Italian receiver in the country. The youngster is a great route runner with great hands. Similar to his aforementioned teammate, Andrea Serra does more with less, totaling 251 yards on only 13 catches (19.3 yards per catch) through four games. What sets Serra apart from his peers is his ability to make tough catches deep down the field. His level of focus on the ball is unmatched, and has helped him haul in 4 touchdowns this season. It also needs to be mentioned that Andrea Serra has good speed and route running ability, which allows him to create separation from defenders consistently. Maclaine Griffin, Varese Skorpions Maclaine Griffin has been everything the Skorpions expected from the Portland State Alumni. After a week of adjustment to the IFL, Griffin put up two consecutive weeks of 100+ receiving yard performances and totaled 2 touchdowns. In those same two weeks, he accrued 18 receptions for 286 yards (15.8 yards per catch), making his presence known in the league. Griffin is a polished receiver who has all the skills necessary to be a dominant receiver: speed, great route running ability, explosive playmaking with the ball, and great hands. Maclaine Griffin receives a ton of targets from his brother, which allows him to have a major impact on his team’s success offensively. Niccolò Pulsinelli, Milano Rhinos Niccolò Pulsinelli is inevitable. The veteran receiver leads the league in receptions (41) and touchdowns (7) after five games. Pulsinelli does it all for the Rhinos, short routes, deep routes, first down routes, whatever is needed he is there. The Rhinos receiving Corps is very talented, which allows Pulsinelli to be a matchup nightmare in most games. Pulsinelli does two things that standout: 1) Catches the ball consistently 2) Scores touchdowns. His ability to consistently catch the ball allows him to see more targets than most players, and he converts those targets into receptions, averaging 8.2 catches a game. As long as Niccolò Pulsinelli is on the field, the Rhinos have a chance to win.

  • Is This the Year for Berlin? - Breaking Down the Thunder off season

    Is this the year for Berlin? ( Breaking down the Thunder off season) - Jamal Clay (Mar 15) Amidst the anticipation of the upcoming ELF season, all eyes are on the Berlin Thunder. As one of the original teams of the league and under the ownership of Björn Werner, they're poised for greatness. With a mix of retained talent and key acquisitions, including championship MVP Jakeb Sullivan at quarterback, the Thunder aim for their first championship. However, their journey won't be easy, facing tough opponents in the Eastern Conference. Yet, with a balanced roster and high aspirations, the question lingers: Is this the year for Berlin to claim the championship title? The Team in the capital The Berlin Thunder, a team that resides in the capital of Germany and one of the original 8 teams to kick start the birth of the ELF, find themselves in a similar circumstance for another off-season. Asking themselves, how do we improve? It’s a question a lot of teams ask themselves during the off-season, but very few find the success they are looking for. Björn Werner (former 1st round pick for the Indianapolis Colts) took ownership of the team in year 2 of the ELF with one goal in mind and that was to bring a championship to the capital of Germany. Overall the Thunder are 18-15 in 3 seasons of the ELF with 1 playoff appearance. Heading into year 4, one has to ask, did they improve enough to be considered a championship team in September? The Jakeb Sullivan experience This off-season the Berlin Thunder didn’t make a ton of changes after re-signing most of their guys, but they did make a change at one key position, the quarterback. Jakeb Sullivan, an ELF championship MVP, parted ways with the Frankfurt Galaxy after 3 seasons, and exchanged his Frankfurt purple for Berlin red by signing with the Berlin Thunder. Instantly, Sullivan becomes the most successful Quarterback in Berlin Thunder history. He will be joining an offense with an established group of weapons such as receivers Aaron Jackson and Robin Wilzeck, Tight end Nicolai Schumann , and last year’s Offensive Rookie of the Year, Ali Khalife, former running back of the Milano Seaman. Sullivan has all the tools needed to take the Berlin Thunder somewhere they have never been, to the ELF Championship Game Schedule outlook When you look at the Eastern Conference some may say it is the easier road out of the three conferences, but Berlin still has to de-throne last year’s conference champion (Vienna Vikings). In their first five weeks of play, the Thunder will play 3 playoff teams from the 2023 season. It will be important to get off to a fast start, because the second half of the season will be the toughest part in attempting to make the playoffs. Five of their final seven games will be played against 4 teams who had a combined record of 38-10 last season. It will not be an easy road, but Berlin has proven to be a better team inching closer and closer to becoming a Championship organization every year. What’s next for Berlin? The 2024 Berlin Thunder are one of the most balanced rosters as currently constituted on paper. This is a team that can most definitely compete for a championship, but it starts with winning the East. After clinching a playoff berth last year, the next step for the Thunder would be winning the East and getting a home playoff game in the Capital. If the Thunder can do that, it will most definitely increase their chances of getting to a championship. The weapons are there offensively, with most of the defensive personnel led by Kyle Kitchens returning, and now they have an ELF Champion under center. This could very well be the best Berlin Thunder team thus far. Is this the year for Berlin? If not now then when?

  • Quarterbacking Across Continents: Derek Green's Football Legacy

    In the realm of international football, quarterback Derek Green stands as a formidable presence, bringing his wealth of experience from college football at Southern Methodist University (SMU) to the gridiron in Europe. With a journey marked by the weight of expectations as the son of an NFL player, Green's resilience and adaptability shine through, defining his approach both on and off the field. Beyond football, his passions for travel, music, and faith enrich his perspective, while his dual-threat style and leadership role within the Aix Argonautes underscore his impact on the sport. As he navigates the challenges and aspirations of Division 1 Elite in France, Green's philosophy resonates: embrace the journey, lead by example, and make every moment count. Getting to know Derek Are there any personal stories or challenges you’ve faced that have significantly shaped your journey? There was definitely added pressure on the football field from being an NFL player’s son, expectations from others and others opinions are easy to listen to, but you learn how to be mentally tough and drown out noise from others. One of the best quotes I’d heard that resonated with me is “Don’t take criticism from someone you wouldn’t take advice from” -Dakota Meyer Beyond football, what are some of your interests or passions? Outside of football I love traveling, being outdoors and seeing the world. Music is another passion of mine, I think it connects the world. My Faith is another big aspect of my life. I believe everyone has their own personal relationship with God, but we all need to treat each other with respect and kindness. Ball is Life How would you describe your playing style and the skills that set you apart on the field? I would say I am a sneaky dual-threat QB. I’d like to sit in the pocket and throw passes all game, but that’s not always reality. I’m ultra-competitive and think I adapt to different situations well, whether that’s a specific game, team, coach, or league in general. In what ways do you believe you’ve made an impact on the sport of football or inspired others? Growing the game of football across the world is something that has really inspired me to play in Europe. I’ve been involved with football for over 20 years and bringing my experience over here I think has made an impact on the two teams I’ve been a part of. I love answering questions or telling stories about what football is like in the States, and working to improve or evolve things in Europe to match that. What is your current role within your team, and how do you see it evolving? My current role is to be a leader for our team, on and off the field. Whether it’s practice, games, lifting, or film, I need to lead by example. It is the ultimate team game and takes 11 guys every play in order to be successful. Whatever the Future Holds Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and what goals do you hope to achieve in your future football endeavors? Our aspirations are to win every week. Don’t look too far ahead and try to go 1-0 every week. We obviously have championship aspirations but need to take it one week at a time. In your own words, how would you summarize your legacy and the mark you’ve left in football? Use football, don’t let football use you. That is something I learned at university. Football went on before me, and it’ll go on after me, so while I’m living it I need to make the most of it and use football to its fullest. That is through education, networking, traveling the world, and enjoying life. Is there a particular quote or message you’d like to leave with our readers that encapsulates your journey and philosophy? If it was easy, everyone would do it. Football is full of failures and life lessons. It is truly the greatest sport in the world.

  • Beyond the Field: Jaylen Tregle's Passion for Football and Faith

    Years ago, a young Jayle Tregle was enjoying playing youth football, as an offensive lineman. One unlucky game, the team’s running back went down with an injury. The team turned to Tregle, and gave him the rock. The young offensive lineman put on a spectacular performance, scoring 3 touchdowns for his team. The rest is history. Jaylen Tregle is now a 25 year old football player, enjoying his first professional season overseas with the Catalans Grizzlys in France’s Division 1 Elite. Originally from Vallejo, California, Tregle has a great football journey he would like to share with the world. Early Life and Entry into Football Where did you grow up, and how has your hometown influenced your football journey? I grew up in the San Francisco/ Bay Area of California. My hometown is Vallejo, California. Growing up, I admired a lot of hometown athletes of various sports. I got to witness Cj Anderson play and train while I was young. These hometown athletes were an inspiration for me to make a mark in sports in order to set an example for others coming behind me. What sparked your interest in football, and who were your early influences in the sport? My earliest memories of my interest in football starts at 7 years old. My brother had played football, but I didn’t pay much attention. It was when I met one of my baseball coaches, that I started to be more invested in football. My baseball coach had also coached football; he would tell me how great of a football player I would be. After that, I would begin to watch football more and eventually go play for him at 8 years old in youth football. Football Journey Can you walk us through your football journey, from your early days to where you are now? I started playing football at 8 years old. I played offensive line and then eventually switched over to running back. I then switched to quarterback once I started high school. I played 1 year junior varsity and started 3 years on varsity. In my college career,  I played at many places. I went from redshirting NAIA, to playing a few years in Junior College to finishing off my career at the NCAA D2 level. What are some of the proudest moments in your football career? I would say my proudest moment of my football career so far is winning the North Coast Section Championship in high school and also being selected in high school to play in the East-West Blue-Grey All-American Game. Getting Personal Are there any personal stories or challenges you’ve faced that have significantly shaped your journey? At 6 years old, I lost my mother from terminal lung cancer. She was the one to introduce me to my faith. At that time, I had a lot of questions about life and what the meaning of it was. I had to think about things beneath the surface. That moment of my life made the craziest change. I began to give my life to Jesus Christ and my faith has carried me through my football career and my life. Beyond football, what are some of your interests or passions? I have a passion for helping others heal. I desire to start my own holistic wellness coaching service that focuses on helping people change their physiology and psyche for the better. I do my best to give back to my community. I usually try to volunteer at churches I’m affiliated with at home, and fellowship groups that donate to our communities. Playing Style and Impact How would you describe your playing style and the skills that set you apart on the field? I would say I’m a 60/40 dual threat passer. 60 being the passing and 40, the running. I can make every throw on the field, near or far hash. The best part of my game is my ability to improvise. In what ways do you believe you’ve made an impact on the sport of football or inspired others? I believe I’ve made an impact on football by way of my transparency and my hard work. I think a lot of my teammates and coaches could say I was one of the hardest workers on each team. Also, I’ve made countless relationships through football that could only happen through me being real with others. I’ve always earned my respect as a leader through showing people who I was completely. Future Outlook What is your current role within your team or the league, and how do you see it evolving? My current role is the starting quarterback of the Grizzlys and one of the leaders of the team. I lead the offense but I also strive to lead my team on the football field and the way we conduct ourselves away from the field. I only see myself gaining more respect and responsibility within these roles. Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and what goals do you hope to achieve in your future football endeavors? I hope to play football until my body tells me to stop. I hope to reach the top of European football. The top goal is to land a shot in the NFL or CFL. As of now, my nearest goal is winning the championship for my current season. Reflection In your own words, how would you summarize your legacy and the mark you’ve left in football? From a child until now, my football journey has been a bumpy road. It’s been bittersweet. I’ve had moments where I’ve wanted to quit and moments where I felt on top of the world. I’ve made many good relationships from football. I’ve inspired others to continue playing when they were close to quitting. Also, my football journey has inspired people outside of sports to pursue their passions with a full head of steam. All of these things are not for my own glory. I bring all this attention to myself and redirect to Jesus. My purpose for playing football is bigger than the sport itself and it’s what drives me to continue to play. I may fail and lose battles, but I will never be denied.

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