The All Mitsubishi Lions (1-2) and SEKISUI Challengers (0-3-1) return from the summer break Saturday at Fujitsu Stadium Kawasaki, with both teams looking to turn a difficult spring into a stronger second half of the X League Premier season.
Irons gives Lions dual-threat option
DeMarcus Irons Jr. sits at the center of the All Mitsubishi offense after making an impact with both his arm and his legs during the spring.
Irons completed 49 of 79 passes for 542 yards and four touchdowns in three games while also leading the Lions on the ground with 173 yards and two touchdowns on 31 carries.
Isaiah Malcome gives All Mitsubishi another weapon. He caught 14 passes for 218 yards and two touchdowns, giving Irons a dangerous option when the Lions move the ball through the air.
After finishing the spring 1-2, All Mitsubishi will look to get Irons and Malcome moving early and put pressure on a SEKISUI team still searching for its first victory.
Safron and Knight lead Challengers
The Challengers counter with an established quarterback-receiver combination of Garrett Safron and Boogie Knight.
Safron completed 70 of 116 passes for 644 yards and six touchdowns during the spring, although his seven interceptions proved costly. Knight was his most productive target, hauling in 24 passes for 361 yards and five touchdowns.
SEKISUI can also turn to Shu Endo to give the offense some balance. Endo rushed for 137 yards on 22 carries, averaging 6.2 yards per attempt.
For two teams needing a fast start to the fall, Saturday offers an immediate chance to change the direction of their seasons.