Week 16 update

06/28/03 LandSharks Press Release

THIS WEEK’S GAME: vs. Tennessee RiverHawks 

TOP STORY – LANDSHARKS WIN ATLANTIC SOUTH; LOOK TO MAINTAIN MOMENTUM

The Lake Charles LandSharks began the season by winning five in a row, lost the next two (both to Houma), and are currently on a six-game winning streak.  The Sharks look to close out the 2003 regular season with a win over a familiar opponent, the Tennessee RiverHawks (formerly the Tennessee ThunderCats).  This will be the second time the Sharks have played the RiverHawks, but played the Tennessee ThunderCats three times last season, losing two out of the three, including a playoff loss.  The Sharks are looking to put the past behind them and move forward into the playoffs and look to keep their momentum against the RiverHawks.  The Sharks beat the RiverHawks 36-28 in Laredo, Texas in Week 11 to even the all-time series 2-2.

Last week, the LandSharks beat the Tupelo FireAnts 51-24 to move to 11-2 (8-2) and claim the Atlantic South Division Championship.  The Sharks were without RB David Winbush who was attending to personal matters.  WR Jacobe Austin stepped in for Winbush and was productive, gaining 50 yards on 14 carries with 2 TD’s.  Austin added 113 yards and a TD on kickoff returns.  QB Freddie Harrison came in off the bench to add 50 yards on 5 carries and 2 touchdowns.

The LandSharks’ Defense stepped up in the second half allowing Tupelo only 9 points.  LB Myron Tuner led the Sharks with 6.5 tackles, .5 sacks, and an interception.  DE Kendal Shello had 2.5 sacks and 3.5 tackles before leaving the game due to a shoulder injury.

Freddie Harrison will make his fourth start of the season at quarterback for the LandSharks against the RiverHawks, Harrison’s second start against the RiverHawks.  QB Johnny Johnson will be inactive for Saturday’s game.  The Sharks will also be without LB Butch Monticello.

The LandSharks will return to the Reef to host the first round of the playoffs on July 12^th against either the Houma Bayou Bucks or the Lexington Horsemen.  The Sharks will play the Bucks if Houma wins Saturday or the Horsemen lose another game.  If the Bucks lose and the Horsemen win their last two games, the Sharks will host Lexington.  Keep up-to-date with the latest news from the Lake Charles LandSharks by visiting our website at www.landsharksfootball.com or visit the NIFL website at nationalindoorfootballleague.net and follow the links.