The Milano Rhinos (1-0) will play host to the defending Italian champions, the Parma Panthers (1-0) Saturday, February 22 at the Velodromo Vigorelli in Milan as the Italian Football League enters its second week of action.
The Rhinos defeated the Bologna Warriors 38-0 on the opening weekend of play last week while Parma downed the Bergamo Lions 35-10.
In the only game between the two teams in 2024, Parma came out on top, defeating the Rhinos 33-26.
Rhinos quarterback Marquez McCray (Monmouth University) looked impressive in his debut last week throwing for 296 yards and five touchdowns. He also rushed for a game-high 68 yards. His favorite target was speedy wide receiver Jordan Bouah who hauled in five passes for 118 yards and three of those touchdowns. Bouah returned to the IFL this season after spending three years in the European League of Football with the Vienna Vikings. His explosive speed will definitely put the Parma secondary to the test.
The Panthers may rely on veteran passer Tommaso Monardi. In last week’s win, he stepped in for starter Robbie Patterson (University of Montana) partway through the first half and completed 11 of 15 passes for 151 yards and three touchdowns. At that point, Patterson, who led Parma to the title in 2024, had completed eight of nine passes for 95 yards and two touchdowns. The starter for today’s game remains to be seen.
Titi Mpoko Paul Wilfried was Parma’s leading rusher last week with 13 carries for 84 yards. He will no doubt get the start today.
Although Milano has the home field advantage, the edge has to go to the reigning champions. However, the wild card could well be Bouah as he can break a game wide open.