LIVESTREAM Germany: Braunschweig NY Lions @ Potsdam Royals, July 8, 16:00 CET (4 pm, 10 am EDT).

| American Football | 07/08/2023

The Braunschweig New Yorker Lions (5-0) will put their undefeated record on the line as they travel to play the 5-1 Potsdam Royals as the German Football League passes the midpoint of the season. 

The last time these two teams met was in 2022 and on that day, Potsdam overwhelmed the Lions, whipping them 65-26.

How things have changed.

Halfway through the season, Braunschweig has fashioned an impressive record. To start, the Lions boast the best run-defense in the league, holding opponents to just 22.5 yards per game on the ground, while allowing just over 11 points per game. They also sit tied third in interceptions (7) while Alan Steinohrt and OJ Thompson both hold the second place spot for tackles-for-loss (9).

Offensively, the Lions have been unstoppable, thanks in majority to British running back D’wayne Obi; Obi leads the league in yards and touchdowns, with 96 rushes for 628 yards and six touchdowns (as well as one receiving score) in his five appearances. This gives him a terrifying average of just over 125 yards per game.

Watch live PPV. Braunschweig New Yorker Lions @ Potsdam Royals, July 8, 16:00 CET (4 pm, 10 am EDT).

Although quarterback Karé Lyles has been putting up good numbers through the air, with 175.4 yards per game and 14 TDs, he has seen consistency and accuracy issues recently. Braunschweig’s 38-21 win over the Berlin Rebels saw Lyles pass for a completion rate of just 50%, while the game prior saw him turn the ball over three times against the Unicorns.

The Royals boast the highest scoring offense in the GFL averaging 44.2 points per game, followed closely by the Dresden Monarchs (44.0) who beat Potsdam in a 59-45 shootout in week six.

Quarterback Jaylon Henderson instantly asserted himself in his first GFL season, sitting second in completion percentage (71.3%) while holding down third place in touchdowns and yards and turning the ball over just twice. The Boise State alum has also scored five rushing touchdowns and gained 291 yards on the ground.

Wide receiver Simon Fons has been a crucial element to Henderson’s success, showing to be a top five receiver in yards and touchdowns; the Danish wideout has accumulated 27 receptions for 584 receptions and seven touchdowns. American WR Brandon Polk has been an excellent player all over the field for the Royals, racking up over 500 all purpose yards and four total touchdowns.

Defensively, the Royals have struggled against premier competition, which was exposed in their loss to the Monarchs earlier this season. 

Potsdam will look to cause an upset at home as the New Yorker Lions will travel to protect their undefeated streak against the number two team in the North.

Watch live PPV. Braunschweig New Yorker Lions @ Potsdam Royals, July 8, 16:00 CET (4 pm, 10 am EDT).

A current student at Bournemouth University as well as a quarterback with eight years of playing experience. Brad's goal is to be a part of the growth of the game around the world through journalism and media.