LIVESTREAM FINLAND: Helsinki Roosters @ Seinäjoki Crocodiles, August 28, 15:30 CET (3:30 pm, 9:30 am ET)
The Seinäjoki Crocodiles (3-4) will host the Helsinki Roosters (6-1) in this matchup as this game marks the final game of the regular season in the Finnish Maple League.
The Roosters have secured the league’s second seed while their opponents today have done just enough to grab the fourth and final playoff seed.
The Crocodiles offense hits the field today in a shroud of mystery. Injuries have decimated the Crocodiles‘ quarterback position as they’ve started four different playings behind center this season. Initially, Seinäjoki lost starting quarterback Zachary Whitehead for the season in late June. The Crocodiles responded by signing former UTSA (NCAA D1) quarterback Zack Greenlee. Greenlee started two games then suffered an injury of his own and is questionable for today. Expect running back Christian Powell and defensive back Nathaniel Robitaille to both take snaps at the quarterback position and use their athleticism to try and make some big plays. Last week with Robitaille taking most of the snaps the Crocodiles offense produced 46 yards and an interception passing. The savior of the offense has been running back Christian Powell, Powell has been the star in Seinäjoki’s offense for the fourth consecutive season rushing for 1,007 yards and eight touchdowns this year.
Helsinki Roosters @ Seinäjoki Crocodiles, August 28, 15:30 CET (3:30 pm, 9:30 am ET)
Defensively Seinäjoki will have to play well on the back end as the Roosters bring an offense that can sling the ball all over the field. Expect French defensive back Atony Rodriguez and Nathaniel Robitaille to match up well with the Roosters‘ top receivers. In the middle of the defense, Finnish defender, Jaska Varinen is a top player to watch. Varinen leads the Maple League in tackles once again this year. The veteran has been one of Finland’s top linebackers year in and year out for the Crocodiles. At the line of scrimmage, defensive end Filip Zacok brings size, experience, and strength to his hometown club’s defensive line. Zacok will have to get pressure on the Roosters quarterback to disrupt one of the league’s top offenses.
The Roosters offense has shown efficiency and versatility scoring 38 points a game behind 253 yards passing and 125 yards rushing per game. Miro Kadmiry leads this offense throwing for a league-leading 21 touchdowns this season. The league’s lone Finnish starter has had a ton of weapons to chose from this season including Micky Kyei, Arttu Erkkila, and Rashad Still. On the ground, a talented Roosters backfield features veterans Mike Gentili, Andres Lindley making this a tough offense to slow down. Expect the Roosters to run the ball often today as the Crocodiles gave up 240 yards rushing last week.
The Crocodiles enter this game still looking for an identity on offense. While they have established a running game they are desperate to find another dimension before the postseason. The visiting Roosters are eager to finish the regular season as they look to make a run at the title and reclaim Finland’s championship.
Seinäjoki Crocodiles Depth Chart
Helsinki Roosters Depth Chart
