Evanston, IL. The Chicago Force offense showed in first half of their regular season finale what happens when they properly execute their game plan, by scoring touchdowns on each of their five first half possessions. The West Michigan Mayhem (4-4) were the unfortunate recipients of that precision. This game was a nice launch into the post-season for the undefeated Force (8-0), who are in excellent position now to host throughout the playoffs. It is also the fourth undefeated regular season in the eleven year history of the Chicago franchise.
The first half scoring was varied - two short rushing touchdowns by Darcy Leslie, three touchdown receptions (one each to receivers Jeanette Gray, Ashley Berggren and Karlee Quaritsch), and a spectacular defensive play resulting in an interception return for a touchdown by Kim Marks.
On the pick six, Jen Dulski pressured the Mayhem QB into an ill-advised pass that was tipped by Angel Smith and then intercepted by Marks who returned it 55 yards for the touchdown. Dulski was named the defensive game day MVP for her 9 tackles and constant backfield pressure. The Mayhem were unable to mount any real scoring threats and Chicago took a 43-0 lead into the locker room at the end of the first half.
In the second half the Force offense hit the snooze button, scoring just twice more and seeming to lose focus. A third quarter pass to Brandy Hatcher was good for a 14 yard touchdown reception. And late in the fourth quarter running back Mary Choules punched in a 1 yard touchdown run to close out the Force scoring. Choules was the workhorse in this game, carrying 21 times for 102 yards. Rookie receiver Quaritsch added a nice dimension to the offense with 5 receptions for 38 yards and a rousing touchdown reception where she broke through multiple would-be tacklers to fight her way into the end zone.
Opposing defenses are struggling to deal with the multi-pronged Chicago attack. The Force lead the league in overall scoring, passing yardage and touchdown receptions. Quarterback Sami Grisafe continues to play well and was named the offensive game day MVP. She passed for 386 yards on 23 of 34 attempts, with 4 touchdown passes and no interceptions. Grisafe leads the league in passing yardage (2582), completions (178) and touchdown passes (32). Her #1 target is receiver Jeanette Gray who leads the league in receptions and receiving yards. Gray sliced through the Mayhem secondary with 6 catches for 178 yards and a touchdown.
The Chicago defense had another solid game with noteworthy contributions from Jamie Menzyk (5 tackles, a fumble recovery, and 2 partially blocked punts), Elisha Okrey (4 tackles, 2 pass deflections), and Dorian Bridges and Martha Dantuma each had an interception.
The Mayhem's lone touchdown came late in the game on a pass over the middle against rookie coverage, and the Force safety failed to make the tackle, resulting in a 62 yard touchdown. The subsequent extra point kick was good for a final score of 56-7.
By winning their division, the Force has earned a bye for the first round of playoffs as well as hosting rights for the second round on Saturday June 22nd, time TBD. Continued hosting rights will be determined by outcome of previous rounds.
For tickets and more information please visit chicagoforcefootball.com or call the Force hotline at (872) 222-5078
