Columbus Aviators Fly High to Avenge the Houston Gamblers in Week 6 Rematch of Inaugural UFL Season
The Columbus Aviators avenged their previous loss to the Houston Gamblers by securing a pivotal home win fueled by a disciplined second-half performance and a dominant turnover-free game from quarterback Jalan McClendon.. (Dave Adamson/Unsplash)
In a Week 6 rematch at Historic Crew Stadium, the Columbus Aviators secured a crucial victory over the Houston Gamblers by establishing an early lead and maintaining second-half discipline behind strong performances from John Lovett and Jalan McClendon.
Article by Alex Zimmerman, Chief Sports Anchor
COLUMBUS, Ohio - A team that has not scored first in any game this season finally had their moment, and this time around, they didn’t completely break down in the second half. Historic Crew Stadium revved with energy after the early score from Aviator’s John Lovett off of a much-anticipated connection with McClendon finally showed, just 7 minutes into the first quarter. 8,347 fans turned up for the short rematch after the Aviators’ loss to the Gamblers in Houston just last week. Houston came into town on a 2-3 record, while the Aviators were 1-4, eager to defend their home turf in a critical mid-season match up.
Last week after the Aviators loss, Coach Ginn stressed the importance of second-half discipline for winning games in a league that can be incredibly unpredictable. This week’s preparation was critical for the Aviators style of play to finally shine in a victory. Let’s take a look at a few key players from the May 1st match up to keep an eye on as the season continues.
Aviators
John Lovett, RB (PSU) – explosive 4th down conversion in the first quarter to put the first points on the board, truly a first for this Aviators group. 63 rushing yards on 17 carries and a touchdown last night.
Jalan McClendon, QB (Baylor) -boasts a zero turnover game after struggling to protect the ball this season, finished with 20 completions of 26 passes for 187 yards. Established a solid tempo from the jump.
Gamblers
Taulia Tagovailoa, QB (Alabama, Maryland) – efficient but limited last night as part of a rotation, with 65 yards and one 1 TD. Typically, when volume goes up for Tagovailoa, the offense finds ways to score.
Jalen White, RB (Georgia Southern) – In past games with consistent touches, White sees 4+ yards per carry compared to less than 3 last night, so as the scheme evolves, expect to see White break out further to more explosive drives.
The teams both left Columbus on the same flight back to Arlington where the UFL teams are based, the losers sit in the back while the winners sit up front. Next week, the Gamblers will host the Orlando Storm while Columbus will travel to St. Louis to play the Battlehawks.