PREDATORS LOOK TO EVEN THEIR OVERALL RECORD AGAINST THE COLUMBUS LIONS

On Friday, the Predators will look to even out the win-loss column as they take on the Columbus Lions at home.

The Predators (2-3) will host the Lions (2-2) after a much-needed win over the San Antonio Gunslingers (0-5) on May 28. After steady improvement throughout the season in all three aspects of the game, the Predators hope to continue their momentum into Friday’s game.

Defensive back Joshua Jenkins, who leads the NAL in solo tackles with 26 on the season, said he expects his team to ride high after their win after a good week of practices. 

“I expect a full game from our guys this week,” Jenkins said. “I think we had some good practices. We should be ready for the task.”

Quarterback Rakeem Cato made headlines around the NAL by being named the offensive player of the week for week six after a 272 yards and seven touchdown performance. Cato and his offense look to battle it out with a steady defense who will test an offense that has been on a hot streak in terms of scoring.

In its first four games of the season, Columbus has allowed the fewest total points with 182. The Lions defense is led by defensive back Droelle Green, who had accumulated 21 tackles, one forced fumble and one interception in the 2022 season.

Jenkins said the emphasis in practice this week was to make sure the team was playing all four quarters and not letting their foot off the gas.

“We like the way we are playing,” Jenkins said. “We need to continue putting four quarters together. Throughout the week, we made that an emphasis. Now we just want to execute.”

Friday’s matchup is slated for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff at the Amway Center and will be streamed via the NAL YouTube channel.