Shock notes: Win over Rattlers has team feeling upbeat
Wins do wonders for a football team’s morale. Big wins mean even more.
Spokane had an extra bounce in its step at Wednesday’s practice after knocking off Arizona last week. The Shock are just 5-10, but they have a good shot at the third seed – particularly if they defeat visiting Portland on Saturday – in the National Conference, which would likely mean a first-round playoff matchup against the Rattlers in Phoenix.
“It builds confidence,” defensive lineman James Ruffin said. “Some of the guys who haven’t been around and played arena football that long don’t really know the feeling to win against good teams. Now they have experience and know what it takes, and that’s (forcing) turnovers and scoring fast.”
The Shock experienced their share of struggles this season and have yet to win consecutive games. Still, they’ve defeated two of the four division leaders (Arizona and Orlando) and hung tough with Philadelphia in Week 2.
Spokane overcame a two-touchdown deficit and a couple of turnovers to rally past the Rattlers. Quarterback Arvell Nelson, making his first start, passed for four touchdowns and ran for two.
“Super high,” Nelson replied, when asked about his confidence level. “I feel like we can win any game no matter who steps on the field.”
Coach Andy Olson praised his team’s effort and determination, but noted there’s room for improvement. That, in itself, is a positive because it means the Shock didn’t have to play out of their skulls to register their biggest win of the regular season.
“Everyone’s upbeat,” Olson said. “We have a lot to work on. We really don’t feel like we played a fantastic game, we played a good team game. Arvell has a long way to go, tons of timing to get down with receivers and making sure we’re doing the right thing every single play.”
Nelson led a second-half comeback two weeks ago against L.A. to earn the starting position.
“He got an opportunity and took advantage,” Olson said. “He did a great job down in (L.A.), made some key throws. (Against) Arizona, he could have easily folded when we were down by two scores. Very positive guy, upbeat guy, making mistakes doesn’t bother him. He steps back in and tries to make the next play. Physically he has everything, he just needs more experience.”