Aviators Dominate Jouster in TSL Play

A marginally acceptable ground game was the deciding factor in the game between the Aviators and the Jousters in The Spring League play.  The Aviator out-rushed the Jousters two-to-one in route to a 28-0 statement victory. 

The offenses of neither teams have coalesced this early into the developmental league schedule.  The Aviators generated 260 total offensive yards, 157 in the air and 103 on the ground.  By comparison, the Jousters generated a respectable (for this early in the season) 225 total offensive; however, failed to develop a balance attack and produced only 53 rushing yards.   Both teams will need to nearly double their outputs is any of the players are reconsidered by the NFL. 

The Jousters are coached by long-time NFL defensive coordinator Chuck Bresnahan.  Bresnahan is in his first season in the TSL.  Terry Shea, the long-time NFL offensive coordinator and QB coach, coaches the Aviators and is in his fourth season with the TSL. 

The Aviators were led by quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson who went 18-for-21 for 147 yards. Bethel-Thompson is one of the more experienced players in TSL.  Since leaving Sacramento State in 2010, his professional career has been on the cusp of breakthrough. He has played with San Francisco, Miami, Minnesota, New England, and Philadelphia. 

De’Veon Smith was the leading ball carrier for the Aviators, producing 51 yards on 19 carries.  Smith is a product of the University of Michigan program.  He was signed by Miami (2017) and Washington (2018) but his career cycled between the practice squads and roster cuts. 

Quarterback Alex Hornibrook was the sole bright spot for the Jousters’ offense.  Hornibrook threw for 172 yards (21-for-30).  Hornibrook is the ideal TSL developmental candidate.  After being passed for the NFL combine and draft, he is trying to differentiate himself in the eyes of the scouts watching The Spring League.