Shock take on San Antonio Talons

Spokane Shock coach Andy Olson is hoping his young roster can teach some old dogs a few new tricks.

After a devastating loss in overtime in their season opener on Monday, the Shock visit the San Antonio Talons tonight.

“We watched the film, we lived our mistakes, and hopefully we will learn from them,” Olson said. “That will be the big test for us – did we learn from our mistakes? Did we improve as a group? We will see.”

The Talons boast a roster loaded with AFL veterans, including one-time Washington State quarterback Aaron Garcia, a 17-year veteran and last season’s ArenaBowl MVP with Jacksonville. In the Talons’ 54-48 victory over Utah last weekend, Garcia connected on 62.2 percent of his passes for 341 yards, eight touchdowns and one interception.

“We are playing a team that was very consistent last week,” Olson said. “Half or more of their players were on the team that won the championship last year and they have one of the best quarterbacks to ever play in the AFL, so we have a challenge.”

Among the Shock’s challenges are having to start rookie quarterback Adam Froman after veteran QB Erik Meyer left last week’s game in the fourth quarter when a late hit took him out of the game.

“Erik wants to get back as soon as possible and hopefully it won’t be too long,” Olson said.