With the 2023 Italian Football League (IFL) regular season now in the books and the playoffs just around the corner, we have decided to take a look back at the statistical leaders over the course of the year.
Rushing – Ryan Minniti – Parma Panthers
Ryan Minniti initially came to the Panthers as a defensive back out of Western Oregon (NCAA, DII), but was quickly converted to running back for their run-first offense. He may not be leading the league in rushing touchdowns, or even yards-per-carry, but Minniti has proved to be a formidable and reliable weapon for the Panthers this season.
Passing – Austin Albericci – Lazio Ducks
Despite having the most generous defense in the league, Austin Albericci has outperformed week in and week out since the beginning of the season. No one even comes close to him statistically and he is surely the first choice for MVP this year.
Receiving – Ryan Curtis – Lazio Ducks
Unsurprisingly, the leading receiver this season is one of Albericci’s receivers. Ryan Curtis has been with the team for a couple of years now but has exploded since teaming up with Albericci. He has twice as many receptions and yardage as the next man down and has routinely put up multiple scores in one hundred-plus yard games.
Tackles – Vincent Winey – Ancona Dolphins
This former hard-hitting Morehead State linebacker has introduced himself to the Italian Football League in style, terrorizing running backs and quarterbacks alike. He leads the second best rushing defense in the league and the second best overall defense which bodes well for the Dolphins as the playoffs loom.
Sacks – Andrea Poglietelli – Firenze Guelfi
The young Italian defensive end Andrea Poglietelli snuck on the scene this year for the Guelfi Firenze. He was productive last year but has been borderline unstoppable from the edge in 2023.
INTs – Andrea Fantin – Lazio Ducks
Andrea Fantin was one of the few bright spots in one of the worst defenses in the league this year. The Ducks as a collective may not have struck fear into the hearts of opposing offenses this year, but Fantin certainly did. The long, rangy defensive back served as a safety net for the Ducks and undoubtedly played a big role in their 2023 playoff berth.