‘SALERNO-LESS’ TEMPTATION WILL SQUARE-OFF WITH SIN ON FATHER’S DAY (OFFICIAL GAME PREVIEW)

(LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA- WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2015)

The first half in the week 6 game between LA and Vegas was close and it appeared that the game could come down to the last drive of the night, as both teams were playing great on both sides of the ball. However in the second half, Ashley Salerno and Carmen Baurseau completely dominated, as Baurseau rushed for nearly 80 yards and Salerno rushed for another 50, on their way to a 46 point second half performance.  No one expected the 13-6 halftime score in favor of LA, to end up as a final score of 59-24.

The western conference currently stands at Los Angeles 2-1, Seattle 1-1, and Las Vegas 0-1. If Vegas can beat Seattle in their first game on Sunday, a win against LA would put them in first place in the west. Both games will be a big test, but a still fairly unknown Sin team could very well be a sleeper team in the conference.  With rookies that had great performances and the acquisitions of a few other veterans, Vegas might have enough to edge both teams on Sunday.

The game will be broadcast two weeks later in primetime on national television via Fuse (check local listings), Saturday, July 4, 9p / 8c.

Las Vegas Betting Line

Los Angeles – 8.5 points | 35 Over/ Under

Las Vegas Sin

It appeared that Vegas would have two players fighting for rookie of the year, as Dominique Maloy and Charlotte Abrahamsen both had incredible performances in their LFL debuts. Maloy rushed for 67 yards on ten carries and had one touchdown, while Abrahamsen caught five passes for 42 yards and also had a seven yard carry. Abrahamsen showcased her field presence, size, and hands while Maloy made her case for being one of the fastest and most agile players in the LFL this season, as both players had ‘highlight reel’ types of nights. However, a shoulder injury kept Maloy out for most of the second-half, while Abrahamsen suffered an MCL and ACL tear which will keep the rookie out the remainder of the season. Maloy will be back Sunday and ready to go, as her dislocated shoulder has had a month to heal.

In her first game against LA, Vegas quarterback, Sindy Cummings was given criticism for her physical and conditioning shape that kept her from providing the mobility needed in the game to extend plays, especially during the fourth quarter. Cummings finished the game completing 14 of 27 passes for 161 yards with one touchdown and one interception. On the ground she only netted three yards on six rushes, which will need to be improved for Vegas to have success with their style of offense. Sindy can throw the ball well outside of the pocket, but without a running threat teams will have an easy time defending her receivers.

Two big additions for Vegas will improve the offensive and defensive line, helping replace Charlotte Abrahamsen, as Kimberly Jack from the Baltimore Charm, and Brittany Demery from the Omaha Heart will be suiting up, which will bring Vegas instant experience in the trenches.  Also look for the new rookie addition, Adrienne Kopko to get some reps and make an impact Sunday, as the nearly six-foot, previous college basketball player will play tight-end and defensive-end for the Sin.

Los Angeles Temptation

As head-coaches David Bizub and Tui Suiaunoa are looking to lead the Temptation back to the Legends Cup, they have some competition that will make the western conference championship no lay-up. Chris Michaelson has his Seattle Mist are looking as balanced as ever, and Willie Garrett is still putting together his threat of a Las Vegas Sin team. There is certainly no Omaha Heart in the west and after Sunday it still might not be clear who the favorite in the west will be.

With the Ashley Salerno injury that will keep her out for a second game, quarterback Michelle Angel will make her second career start for the LA offense. Replacing the best quarterback in the league is not an easy task, but Angel has proved that she can be effective. The real question is, how long can LA afford to go without Salerno in the lineup? As the season plays out that answer will be known, but right now all coach Bizub can do is prepare Angel to lead the Temptation.

LA’s defense has been a site to see this season with the veterans making their presence and the rookies having a huge impact for the Temptation.  LA might have the most physical secondary in the league with Danielle Harvey, Ogom Chijindu, and Chelsea Haardt putting a beating on opposing offenses each game. They have depth at the defensive-end position with Christina Sagarminaga and rookies Kimm Chase and Naja Christmas playing great this season. The glue of the defense and leadership is second to none with Monique Gaxiola playing in her sixth LFL season for the Temptation.  This defense is a championship caliber defense that will improve each game.

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