The undefeated Milano Rhinos (12-0) aim to run the table in Italy today as they take on the surprising Bolzano Giants in the Italian Superbowl or Italian Bowl XXXVI.
The Giants are returning to the title game for the first time since 2009 when they beat Lazio to win the Italian crown. The Rhinos have to look further back than that. They won the Italian championship in 1990 and have not appeared in the Italian Super Bowl since 1994.
Rhinos head coach Chris Ault has led his team on an impressive journey in 2016. The architect of the pistol offense has taught his team how to win games. Although not always blowing teams out, Milano has fashioned an undefeated season by winning games any way they can. The old adage in sports, a W is a W, meaning no one remembers how you won, describes the Rhinos perfectly.
PHOTOS: MARA TELANDRO, BEPPE FONGARO
Their semifinal win over the Seamen was a case in point. Although the Rhinos had dominated the Seamen in the regular season beating them the first time 45-19, and then beat them in the second regular season contest winning by one point, they still pulled out another win in the semifinal game, again winning by one.
The Rhinos beat the Giants both times they played each other in the regular season, 21-14 and 29-27. In other words, they keep finding ways to win. Quarterback TJ Pryor has thrived in coach Ault’s offense and with his scrambling mobility has helped expand it. Don’t forget that Ault had a hand in the development of NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick while head coach at Nevada.
Bolzano quarterback James Peterson has led his team back from a dismal 0-3 start winning five straight games in the regular season before cooling off late. Still the Giants then downed the previously undefeated Ancona Dolphins in the quarterfinals before beating Parma in the semifinals. So Peterson now leads his team into the title game against another undefeated team. Defensive back Alex Germany was a key in the semifinal win over Parma with two key interceptions, one for a touchdown.
The Giants have a chance to down the two top regular season teams in the league while winning the championship. That is more than enough incentive.
Kickoff Saturday July 9: 9 PM (3 PM EDT)
