Barnstormers Beat Spokane in Overtime

The first half of the game was back and forth between the Iowa Barnstormers and the Spokane Shock.  But things seemed to change after half-time as the Spokane Shock seemed to be shooting themselves in the foot.  The Iowa Barnstormers took the lead, and at one point had extended their lead to 56-42, but that lead would dwindle and regulation time would run out with the score tied at 63.

Iowa won the coin toss for overtime and after deferring to Spokane.  On the third play of overtime, Iowa intercepted the ball and that set up the 35 yard pass from Raterink to Marco Thomas that would give Iowa the win.

Spokane didn't look good most of the game.  In fact, if it hadn't been for the vicious hit that took Spokane's Quarterback out of the game, the game would have likely ended with a much more decisive win by Iowa.  Meyer was just not putting it together.  Iowa also needs to take into consideration that incidents like the vicious hit that Mohring put on Spokane's Quarterback, that got him ejected from the game, is going to put a target on their backs and could work against them.  I mean, come on gentlemen, its not like you're out there defending a job that pays millions a year.  This is arena football, you're not making all that much, and with the past success of your player union, its not going to get much better.

So, what's next?

The Iowa Barnstormers host the Utah Blaze on Saturday.  The Blaze lost their first game of the season against Arenabowl Champion Quarterback Aaron Garcia, and the San Antonio Talons who were only 8-10 for 2011.  Utah apparently had a rough game, penalties and miscues being a major part of their loss.  Iowa is normally efficient at home, and coming in with a Win against Spokane, I am going to give Iowa the nod in this match up.

Week Two Prediction:  Iowa over Utah.