Los Angeles – (1 March 2001) — The upcoming challenge for L.A. is clear. With the New York/New Jersey Hitmen’s defensive tackles combining for seven sacks last week, the Xtreme need to be sure the shortest distance between two points isn’t through their own offensive line.
While it’s true this statistic came against a Chicago offense that’s been decimated up front, it’s also true that line play has been the Xtreme’s biggest liability thus far. The team ranks last in the league in rushing, and not because of any lack of commitment on the part of coaches, who’ve been more than willing to augment their pass-first philosophy when time permits. There’s just not enough push to establish a running game. Neither is there enough agility to protect quarterback Tommy Maddox in a one-dimensional system, which is what then develops out of necessity.
Perhaps someone should consider interchanging the current left tackle and right guard. At 370+ lbs., Jerry Crafts is indeed the “Big Daddy” his jersey suggests, and, together with his age (32), this heft makes it difficult for him to work against blindside speed rushers one-on-one. Jose Portilla seems equally miscast as a guard. He’s tall, young and relatively athletic, meaning he has more trouble getting leverage on drive blocks, but can mirror defenders more effectively on an island.
AFTER THE RAIN IS TIME TO SHINE
Look for the Xtreme to get their first decisive victory this weekend. Since division leader Las Vegas is almost certain to win against the aforementioned Chicago, and since a bout with undefeated Orlando looms in the near future, the entire squad should be motivated to achieve their still unmatched potential. The offense in particular should be driven by the memory of its last performance, one as dismal as the Coliseum slush bucket in which it was delivered.
The Hitman defense may be first in the league against the pass, but they haven’t faced a pair of receivers like Jeremaine Copeland and Darnell MacDonald, both of whom are near 100% for the first time since early in Game One. And NY/NJ looked more topsy-turvey than tops against an Orlando unit which two weeks ago moved the ball at will in the fourth quarter.
