ELF North showdown: Berlin Thunder host Cologne Centurions in pivotal clash
The Berlin Thunder (5-7 in 2024) welcome the Cologne Centurions (6-6 in 2024) to Preussenstadion in Berlin in a matchup defined by offseason overhauls, with both teams seeking early momentum under new coaching regimes.
Berlin’s air raid reloaded
The Thunder, led by 2024 ELF passing yards leader Jakeb Sullivan, retain their pass-heavy identity. Sullivan’s top target, Bais Kouanda, returns alongside E-import linemen Connor Bolton (NFL International Combine alum) and Jose Ariza. However, a weak rushing attack—ranked bottom-four last season—relies on Emil Fuchs (Cologne’s 2024 backup), raising questions about balance.
Defensive questions
Berlin’s defense faces uncertainty after losing ELF all-time sack leader Kyle Kitchens. New defensive back Felix Proulx (Paris Musketeers) joins two-time All-Star Moritz Thiele to stabilize a secondary that allowed 245.3 passing yards per game. For Cologne, coordinator Javan Lenhardt’s hybrid schemes (utilizing Jackson’s versatility) must contain Sullivan’s aerial assault.
Centurions’ rebuild under Lenhardt
Cologne enters 2025 with a retooled roster after losing quarterback Isaiah Weed to Helvetic Mercenaries. Last-minute signing Keegan McCormack-Reamer (ex-Münster Blackhawks) steps into the starting role, tasked with building chemistry with receiver Austine Osborne (Berlin Rebels), a physical route-runner lacking deep-threat explosiveness. Defensive additions like E-import Jai-Albert Jackson (hybrid DE/LB) and A-import Alex Alteus (pass-rush specialist) aim to bolster a unit that allowed 28.1 points per game in 2024. Veterans like safety Efekan Akgün and kicker Jens Appelt provide stability.
Coaching chess match
Berlin’s Jag Bal, back for a second tenure as HC and who also served as HC for Cologne for part of the 2024 season, brought in former Barcelona Dragons HC Adam Rita as his DC. With multiple Grey Cup (Canadian Football League) titles under his belt, Rita provides invaluable experience. Cologne head coach Javan Lenhardt, returning after a 2022 Galaxy stint, prioritizes adaptability. His offensive coordinator, Quinten Pounds (a former Centurions receiver), designs plays to maximize McCormack-Reamer’s mobility.
Key matchup: McCormack-Reamer vs. Berlin’s pressure
Cologne’s new QB faces a Thunder front that ranked second in sacks (35) last season. If Berlin’s rebuilt line (Bolton, Ariza) protects Sullivan, their deep-ball prowess could exploit Cologne’s secondary.
For Cologne, a win validates their rebuild; for Berlin, it signals playoff intent. With both teams eyeing mid-table relevance, this clash tests offseason gambles and sets the tone for 2025.
