Berlin Thunder cruise past Firenze Red Lions to snap losing streak

The Berlin Thunder improved to 3-4 with a dominant 49-3 victory over the Firenze Red Lions, putting together one of their most complete performances of the American Football League Europe season while extending Firenze’s winless start to 0-6.

After surviving a lengthy opening drive by the Red Lions, the Thunder took complete control behind an efficient passing attack, a balanced running game and a defense that never allowed the visitors to find any rhythm.

Sullivan leads explosive offense

The Thunder capitalized after Firenze’s opening drive stalled and never looked back.

Quarterback Jakeb Sullivan completed 22 of 32 passes for 268 yards and five touchdowns without an interception. Niklas Schumm enjoyed a breakout performance, hauling in seven passes for 138 yards and three touchdowns, while Jon Cole added six catches for 59 yards and two scores.

The running game also made an impact as Kai Hunter rushed for 50 yards and a touchdown, and Simon Homadi added 34 yards and another score. Sullivan chipped in 24 rushing yards as Berlin finished with 105 yards on the ground to complement its productive passing attack.

Defense keeps control

While the offense piled up points, the Thunder defense limited the Red Lions to just three points despite allowing a lengthy opening possession.

Making his debut for Firenze, quarterback Harrison Roubidoux completed 20 of 31 passes for 153 yards, while Keith Coffee II added a 13-yard completion after also leading the team with six receptions for 78 yards. Brandon Belgrave paced the running game with 52 yards on 17 carries, but the Red Lions managed only 166 passing yards and were undone by turnovers and penalties.

The aggressive Berlin defense consistently forced difficult situations and prevented Firenze from reaching the end zone.

Thunder build momentum

The victory gives the Thunder valuable momentum heading into next week’s home game against the Alpine Rams. The connection between Sullivan and Schumm was nearly unstoppable, while Cole continued to make big plays as another reliable target.

For the Red Lions, the search for a first victory continues. There were encouraging moments from Roubidoux and Coffee, but too many mistakes prevented Firenze from challenging a Berlin team that controlled the game from the opening quarter through the final whistle.