Japan: Fujitsu Frontiers and Fujifilm Ebina Minerva AFC kick off X League 2025
The Fujitsu Frontiers (6-0 in 2025) face newcomers, the Fujifilm Ebina Minerva AFC (0-5-1) in the 2025 Japanese X League opener at Chichibu Palace Rugby Stadium, marking the venue’s first American football game.
Dominance vs. ambition
Fujitsu, last year’s X1 Super runners-up, aim to reclaim the Rice Bowl behind fifth-year QB Tsubasa Takagi and RB Trashawn Nixon. Their offense, bolstered by WR Jordan Summersy and rookie RB Shun Yamazaki, combines elite skill with emerging depth. Ebina, promoted to the Super Conference, debut with San Jose State alum QB Shevan Cordeiro leading a revamped attack.
Frontiers’ offensive firepower
Takagi’s leadership anchors a multifaceted offense featuring Nixon’s explosive runs and Summersy’s downfield threat. Rookie OL Kazuki Morimoto strengthens a veteran line, while backup QBs Ryo Hamaguchi and Yuto Kamada add strategic flexibility. The unit’s balance—honed through spring preparations—poses a stern test for Ebina’s defense.
Minerva’s new-look attack
Cordeiro’s dual-threat ability and chemistry with WR Taisei Kuwabara could disrupt Fujitsu’s secondary. RB William Derek Aquila’s power-running style complements a play-action scheme designed to minimize defensive focus. Ebina’s run-heavy approach leverages their physical OL to control tempo.
Defensive chess match
Fujitsu’s defense, led by DL Kenta Miyagawa and DB Takuya Chikada, thrives on aggressive rotations and pressure. Their ability to contain Cordeiro’s mobility hinges on DL veterans Yuki Takahashi and Shogo Fujitani. Ebina counters with LB Tsubasa Ando and DL Hiroto Kubota, aiming to stifle Nixon and force turnovers.
