The Potsdam Royals (2-0) will host the Cologne Crocodiles (2-1) in this German Football League North matchup on Saturday, June 26.
These two talented teams look to make a statement today as the GFL North’s top spot seems up for grabs this season. Both teams have started the season off well and are keen improving their position in the standings.
Cologne comes to town with a high-flying passing offense, as quarterback Christian Strong and receiver Aaron Jackson are the leagues most exciting duo. Strong’s 2021 performance has shocked some fans as the one time quarterback of the winless 2019 Dusseldorf Panther has returned to Germany by throwing for a league leading 1,276 yards and 14 touchdowns in only three games. Strong has been well protected behind an experienced offensive line, with the extra time he has found his favorite target Aaron Jackson for 421 yards and four scores. Look for Strong to throw for over 40 attempts again today as this game could be another high scoring shootout.
Cologne Crocodiles @ Potsdam Royals, June 26, 16:30 CET (4:30 pm, 10:30 am ET)
Defensively, Cologne will have to stop the run as Potsdam’s Jake Mayon is currently the league’s leading rusher. Expect defensive backs Emory Polley and Thomas Jacob to try and take away Potsdam’s dangerous receivers. Linebacker Martin Pinter will be around the ball often as he currently sits at top the league with three sacks and eight tackles for a loss. Pinter’s play will be crucial in stopping the efficient Potsdam running game.
The Royals rushing attacks is led by former Northern Michigan (NCAA D2) running back Jake Mayon. Mayon’s strong early season start has benefited quarterback PJ Settles who has been able to find his receivers wide open after utilizing play action fakes. Settles is a dynamic athlete who can score through the air or on the ground. Look for him to target French receiver Aymeric Nicault and Dane Fredrick Myrup Nielsen. If pressured, Settles can use his speed and move the chains against this Cologne defense.
The Royals made some interesting roster moves as they announced the signing of Italian-American quarterback Giovanni Rescigno. Rescigno is a former Rutgers University (NCAA D1) gunslinger who just completed a season in Italy where he led the league in passing yards as the starter for the Milano Rhinos. Lanky, 6’3″ Belgian pass catcher Feli Manoka also joins the Royals. The tall target has experience playing for the Allgau Comets and Dusseldorf Panther in the past two seasons. Expect Manoka to become a one of the Royals main targets as he’s racked up 2,115 yards and 26 touchdowns receiving in his previous two seasons.
The Potsdam secondary offers a new test for Cologne’s potent passing attack as import defensive backs Adehkeem Brown and Abu Daramy Swaray contribute solid tackling and tight coverage. Potsdam’s defensive line features skilled pass rushers Malcom Engstroem and OJ Thompson. If the rush can get past the line of scrimmage, Potsdam has a great chance of causing turnovers and staying undefeated.
This is a great matchup between two teams that look like contenders in this early part of the season. Both Cologne and Potsdam have come out of the gates with impressive wins. Now they face each other in what could be a crucial game for playoff position come September.
Watch the game live here. Cologne Crocodiles @ Potsdam Royals, June 26, 16:30 CET (4:30 pm, 10:30 am ET)
Potsdam Royals roster
Cologne Crocodiles roster
