As I sat in the Pepsi Arena I witness two different NJ Red Dog teams. In the first half the Red Dogs who were suppose to be a legitimate AFL Champion contender showed up. The offense moved the ball up and down the field with ease. Scoring in the red zone, with the running game making an impact. Defensively, sacks and punishing hits made Albany’s QB rush is throws leading to 3 interceptions and several batted passes. The kicking game was also in sync. At the end of the first half the score board read Firebirds 17, Red Dogs 31 with the Dogs receiving the kickoff in the second half. The Pepsi Arena was as quiet as a church. Fire Bird fans knew they needed a miracle and the Red Dogs delivered.
Close to the end of the first half Alvin Ashley made the cut throat sign to the Albany fans. This was way off the mark.
When the teams came out of the locker room for the second half the Red Dogs walked carrying their helmets. The Firebirds ran out as a team... helmets on. The Red Dogs who have played poorly with no composure now took the field. Penalties negated 3 Red Dog’s touchdowns. Misses field goals, and a coaching staff that showed poor clock management in the fourth quarter lead to only 3 second half points and a 34-38 Fire Bird victory. The Fire Bird fans received their miracle gift wrapped by the Red Dogs.
The announced attendance at the Pepsi Arena was over 11,000. This Friday at the Meadowland the Red Dogs must pull themselves up and make a run. The new Los Angeles Avengers will be playing next season. Hopefully, so will the Red Dogs.