The Jacksonville Sharks wrapped up their regular season by hosting the Orlando Predators at the Veterans VyStar Memorial Stadium in Jacksonville Saturday night. They were looking for their 13th consecutive win headed into the postseason.
The Sharks got off to a hot start when Devin Wilson scored on the team’s first offensive play of the game. The touchdown was Wilson’s 17th consecutive game with a touchdown reception, a new National Arena League record.
Mike Faulfel, who started in place of Jonathan Bane, completed 17 of 21 passes for 239 yards and six touchdowns. Wilson had two of those and Chris Gilchrist, Jarmon Fortson and Durron Neal each had one, as well.
Markus Smith was the dominant force on defense, intercepting three passes, returning one for a touchdown. Cody Saul returned two interceptions for touchdowns.
Jacksonville went on to win by a final score of 85-30. The 85 points is a new franchise record and their 13th consecutive win tied a franchise record. This also marked the fourth time in franchise history the Sharks swept the Predators in a season series [2011-2013, 2019].
The Sharks will host the Columbus Lions in the second National Arena League playoff game on Tuesday, Aug. 6. If they win, they will host their second National Arena Bowl in three years against either the defending champion Carolina Cobras or Massachusetts Pirates.
