The Red Dragons still sit in the drivers seat of winning the AFC west title and control their own destiny with just 1 more win. Last week we looked at how difficult the road was and with the tough loss to the River Hogs last week (lossed 30-28 after the comeback attempt fell short on a failed 2 point conversion with just under 2 minutes left in the game) it might have gotten a little bit more rocky. The debate was on about this team last week and it seemed everything the critics and experts were saying about them came true in the loss. Cause for concern in San Diego?
Coach Davis always preaches one game at a time and we get the sense that this mantra holds true even stronger this week. After questions arose last week on if the offense can pull their weight if the defense doesn't show, how fitting to watch the scenario unfold in the game following the debate and the Red Dragons not able to silence the talks. The defense not only had a tough time getting the River Hogs off the field but typically a stout redzone presence they struggled to limit the endzone trips. Despite the struggles on defense and early costly turnover by Savoy, the Red Dragons were able to come together and put a comeback bid together and just fell short.
Coach Davis went into the River Hogs matchup trying to spark his offense. "My main goal as a coach is to put our team in the best position to win and I didn't do that." Trying to ignite the offense with switching up the weekly game plan did not bode well for the Red Dragons and got them away from what they do best, a strong running game and dominant defense. The River Hogs were prepared and may have come up with the blueprint to exploiting the Red Dragons defense after putting up the 30 points (most points given up this season). With the playoffs looming and teams still fighting to punch their way in, this upcoming game seems like a must win for the Red Dragons.
The Red Dragons look to rebound and get back to their winning ways as they head to Salt Lake City to take on the Pioneers (won 38-18 week 12). In the previous matchup the Pioneers were only able to gain 39 rushing yards while allowing the Red Dragons to rush for 250 yards and leaving many to say that this was the coming out party for Anthony Savoy who put together a loaded stat sheet with 26/36 315 yards 3 TD and added 98 yards 1 TD on the ground (Charles Raymond also had 5 sackson the day). If Savoy is able to limit his mistakes and allow his defense to play with a lead this team is dangerous but the question remains if the Red Dragons have to put the game in his hands to win the game, can he do it?
subscribe to the RFL website and follow us all on social media accounts for more up to date information about your favorite teams!