Arena football and defense, two terms that don’t co-exist.
Well, except for the Arizona Rattlers in the early stages of the 2011 season.
Through three games the Rattlers have scored 186 points and given up only 103. Considering that most teams in the AFL average more than 40 points a game, it is an impressive feat.
Arizona held Tulsa scoreless through the first half of Monday’s 69-20 victory in Tulsa, and it was 42-0 before the Talons reached the end zone. The defense recorded five interceptions, and the Rattlers were able to sit many of their starters in the second half.
Teams typically pour on the points, and touchdowns can be scored in a matter of seconds on each possession. Don’t be caught off guard if a team reaches 80 in a game. But holding a team to 20 points? That is unheard of.
Add in that the Rattlers gave up 31 points at home to Milwaukee one week earlier, and this season looks like it could be fun.
Nearly every game in 2010 came down the wire, and I will be honest, it wore me down.
I am ready to see some comfortable blowouts.
Reach the Rattler fan at nathan.meacham@asu.edu
