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SALT LAKE CITY - In its first nationally televised game of the season, the Utah Blaze (12-5) put on a spectacular performance under the bright lights of EnergySolutions Arena. With 13,083 fans in attendance - the franchise's largest turnout since 2008 - the Blaze seized control of the West Division by overwhelming the Cleveland Gladiators (7-10), 83-63.
QB Tommy Grady continued to dazzle the audience by tying an Arena Football League record with 12 touchdown passes, as he gained 291 yards through the air on 25-of-34 passing (73.5%). The prolific passer spread the wealth, finding four different receivers for multiple scores. Grady has now thrown for an unprecedented 137 touchdowns on the season, shattering the previous record of 117 with one game remaining on the schedule.
Although the game's score may indicate otherwise, Utah played tough defense throughout the night. The Blaze forced four turnovers in the game, as the unit shut down Cleveland three times on fourth down attempts and came up with an interception in the final minutes. DL Keenan Mace put his power on display, racking up 2.0 sacks for 14 yards in losses. MLB Joe Mortensen and DL Mike Lewis combined on one sack and another tackle for loss. DB Al Phillips came up Utah's only interception, as he and David Hyland paced all defenders with 6.5 total tackles.
Not to be outdone, Utah's special teams unit put forth a momentum-changing performance. K Kyle Brotzman managed to boot three powerful kicks off the nets that were recovered by the Blaze kickoff coverage team. Utah took advantage, converting all three net recoveries into scores.
WR Tysson Poots led the receiving corps with 11 receptions for 110 yards and five touchdowns. WR Aaron Lesue brought his franchise record up to 53 touchdown catches on the season, as he totaled seven receptions for 109 yards and three scores. WR Alvance Robinson and WR Jeremy Kelley each hauled in two touchdowns of their own.
While Utah handled its business, the Blaze received a little help from the San Antonio Talons. San Antonio (14-3) defeated the Arizona Rattlers (12-5) on Friday night, allowing Utah to advance into to first place in the West Division.
Utah hits the road in the Arena Football League's final week of regular season play to take on the East Division leading Philadelphia Soul (14-3) on Sunday, July 22nd. If the Blaze can knock off the Soul, the franchise will clinch a home playoff game in the first round of the postseason.
Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Game
QB Tommy Grady (Utah)
Riddell Defensive Player of the Game
DL Keenan Mace (Utah)
JLS Ironman of the Game
JLB Antwan Marsh (Utah)
AFL Playmaker of the Game
WR Tysson Poots (Utah)
Cutters Catch of the Game
WR Jeremy Kelley (Utah)
Spalding Highlight of the Game
WR Jeremy Kelley (Utah)
National Guard MVP
QB Tommy Grady (Utah)
