Two teams heading in opposite directions. The San Antonio Commanders are coming off their biggest win of the season, dominating on the ground against the Birmingham Iron. The Arizona Hotshots, on the other hand, are starting to head into a downward spiral. After losing to the Atlanta Legends, a team previously in disarray, and the Salt Lake Stallions, the Hotshots look to get back on track against the Commanders. Here are the keys to victory for the Hotshots and Commanders, both who look to pick up win number three on the season.
San Antonio Commanders-Arizona Hotshots: AAF Week Five Preview
Ground Attack
The Commanders torched one of the best defenses in the AAF with a huge rushing day. Running back Kenneth Farrow had a league-high rushing effort this season, running for 142 yards on 30 attempts. Farrow and backup running back Trey Williams provide a nice duo for the Commanders backfield.
The Hotshots struggled to stop the run last week against the Legends, surrendering 177 rushing yards. When a team is running the ball down your throat like that, it causes the defense to wear down. It also keeps the offense off the field, which can cause an offense to press when they regain possession. In both of the Hotshots losses, the Hotshots held the ball for less than 25 minutes in each game, giving their offense fewer chances to score.
Struggling Offense
The Hotshots offense has not looked the same since their week one victory. For three straight weeks, the amount of points scored by the Hotshots has declined, from 20 to 15 the next game, to a measly 11 this past weekend against the Legends. With explosive weapons on offense such as Rashad Ross, who ranks second in receiving yards with 295 and is first in touchdown receptions with five, and Josh Huff, who ranks sixth in receiving yards, there is no excuse for the poor offensive play.
The Hotshots running game needs more action. On just 11 attempts, running back Jhurell Pressley ran for 104 yards against the Legends. The Hotshots need to lean more on their running game to control the clock and pick up first downs. Time of possession is crucial for an offense like the Hotshots. Long, methodical drives will help quarterback John Wolford not rely on his arm 31 times, especially coming back from his injury in their loss to the Stallions two weeks ago.
The Commanders pass rush forced Iron quarterback Luis Perez to scramble several times in their win over the Iron. The Commanders defense is the only defense to boast three players with two or more sacks, with linebacker Shaan Washington leading the way with three. If the Commanders can hit home with pressure with their front seven, it will be a long day for Wolford and the Hotshots offense.
Last Word on Commanders vs Hotshots
This game, along with the Iron and Orlando Apollos game, will certainly be the matchups of this weekend. All four teams could very well be facing off in the playoffs, with a trip to Las Vegas on the line. In barn burners like these, turnovers and who makes the most of red zone trips will determine the outcome of an evenly matched game. Like Commanders coach Mike Riley said postgame in their win over the Iron, “whoever is the best team that day will win.” Expect offensive fireworks from both offenses and a highly competitive game.
Prediction: Commanders 36, Hotshots 32
