Germany: Straubing Spiders overpower Allgäu Comets in high-scoring shootout
The Straubing Spiders (3-7) extended their late-season resurgence in the German Football League’s South conference with a dominant 58-38 victory over the Allgäu Comets (2-7) at VfB-Stadion, securing their third consecutive win for the first time since 2022 behind a record-breaking offensive outburst. Running back Sidney Gibbs and receiver Leroy Rümmeli spearheaded the attack, combining for five touchdowns as the Spiders piled up nearly 500 total yards to outgun an undermanned Comets squad.
Offensive surge fuels Spiders’ climb
Straubing’s much-maligned offense delivered its best performance of 2025, scoring on nine of ten drives and showcasing newfound balance. Gibbs bulldozed his way to 172 rushing yards and three touchdowns, exploiting gaping holes in the Comets’ injury-depleted front seven. Rümmeli added three receiving scores, including a 45-yard deep strike that broke the game open in the third quarter. Quarterback play proved efficient, with zero turnovers and nine different players recording receptions. “We had six receivers with catches and three backs contributing—that’s the balance we’ve been chasing all season,” said head coach Cody Kent.
Defense capitalizes on Comets’ limitations
While surrendering 38 points, the Spiders’ defense made critical plays to stifle Allgäu’s comeback attempts. Three interceptions—two off backup quarterback Dr. Green and one from starter Conor Regan—halted promising drives. Defensive end Austin Spille notched his first career pick, returning it 22 yards to set up a short-field touchdown. Though the Comets managed 298 passing yards, Straubing contained the ground game, holding Allgäu to 3.1 yards per carry outside of Green’s two early rushing scores.
Comets’ resilience despite roster chaos
Hampered by injuries and illness, Allgäu dressed only 36 players but showcased promising youth contributions. Rookie linebacker Jean-Pierre Porta forced a pivotal fumble on special teams, while receiver Nicco Formosa hauled in two fourth-quarter touchdowns. Regan, playing through injury, tossed three scores, including a 34-yard strike to Dominik Hörner. “Their young guys fought hard, but our depth wore them down,” noted Coach Kent.
Playoff math narrows for both clubs
The win keeps Straubing’s faint postseason hopes alive, though they must win out and rely on multiple upsets. For Allgäu, elimination became official due to tiebreakers, despite Formosa’s 89-yard kick return touchdown injecting late drama. Both teams now shift focus to developmental opportunities, with the Comets prioritizing youth integration and the Spiders aiming to build momentum for 2026.
Final challenges ahead
Straubing faces a stern test next week against the Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns (5-5), who need a win to lock down a playoff spot. The Spiders’ revitalized offense will confront the GFL South’s third-ranked defense. Meanwhile, Allgäu hosts the Ravensburg Razorbacks, seeking to avoid the division cellar. With Gibbs and Rümmeli peaking late, Straubing aims to prove their recent surge isn’t a fluke—but a foundation for future contention.
Key stats:
- Sidney Gibbs: 172 rushing yards, 3 TDs.
- Leroy Rümmeli: 5 receptions, 131 yards, 3 TDs.
- Straubing defense: 3 INTs, 7 tackles for loss.
The Spiders’ late-season awakening has transformed them from league doormats to spoilers—a role they’ll embrace fully in their final two games.
