Celebration was the theme for last night’s Predators game as the team commemorated the career of Kenny McEntyre. After 13 strong AFL seasons McEntyre is retiring and he’s doing so as the league’s all-time leader in interceptions with 95.
The new jungle at the Amway Center is loud, loud, and even louder. Before the clock started and the ball was kicked off the Predators were introduced by Axl Rose and rock band Guns N’ Roses popular 80’s tune “Welcome to the Jungle.”
Fireworks, cheerleaders, and a raucous crowd of Predator fans welcomed their team to the jungle for the last home game of the regular season.
The New Orleans VooDoo came to town to try and stop any possible momentum the Predators have headed toward the playoffs but their efforts were futile. Orlando was led by quarterback Nick Hill’s seven touchdown passes and receiver Bobby Sippio’s 166 receiving yards as they went on to best the VooDoo 62-44.
Orlando led by as many as 24 points in the 3rd quarter but New Orleans fought their way to within 10 points in the 4th quarter.
New Orleans had trouble on offense early as quarterback Danny Wimprine tossed three interceptions and had issues finding any type of offensive rhythm. Orlando’s defense was staunch at times but often movable. The Preds had ample opportunity to put the VooDoo away for good but would allow a long pass play or a random lengthy rushing play, letting N.O. back in the ballgame.
But in the end the Predators did what was needed to end any speculation about which team was best. By the end of the game Orlando was up by 18 points and if not for penalties would have ended the game with an interception cornerback Kenny McEntyre.
The Predators were flagged 10 times for 57 yards by the 3rd quarter and their penchant for playing un-disciplined football will have to change if the Preds want to bring the conference championship game to Orlando.
Their playoff position was sealed before their contest against the VooDoo but Orlando is headed to the playoffs for an AFL record 19th consecutive time and finishes the regular season with a record of 11-7.
The Predators head to Jacksonville next week to take on the 14-4 Sharks. Jax leads the season series over Orlando 2-0.
-JH
