The Calanda Broncos have returned to familiar territory in Switzerland, undefeated and atop the standings.
They lost 42-35 in the 2016 Swiss Bowl to the Bern Grizzlies after entering the game as heavy favorites. So they know the value of not becoming complacent.
With their last win two weeks ago over the defending champion Grizzlies, their second victory over Bern this year, not only are the Broncos undefeated but they have scored 246 points in six games.
Calanda head coach Geoff Buffum:
“We are improving as the season wears on. There are still plenty of areas we need to shore up, but the guys are showing up to practice and playing hard.”
Quarterback Clark Evans, (University of Hawaii, Ljubljana Silverhawks) a veteran of play in Europe, guides a potent offense and has thrown 23 touchdown passes while also scoring six more on the ground. Receiver Lukas Lütscher has been one of his favorite targets along with Adrian Suenderhauf while running back Nathanael Fellberius has given Calanda a solid running game.
Calanda’s defense, second best in the Swiss league, is anchored by defensive end Jeff Worthy (Arizona) who at 6’4″, 290 lbs causes huge problems for offensive linemen and quarterbacks.
As the Broncos get set to face the Winterthur Warriors Sunday they are mindful of the pitfalls of being over confident. Although Winterthur dropped a shocking 48-0 decision to the Bern Grizzlies, the Warriors have rebounded winning their last two games and playing good football.
The last time these two teams met was in the Swiss semifinal when Calanda dominated the Warriors 52-21.