LIVESTREAM Germany: Allgäu Comets @ Pforzheim Wilddogs, May 10, 16:00 CET (4 pm, 10 am ET)

AFI | Allgau Comets | 05/10/2025

Graphic: Dante Bustos

The Pforzheim Wilddogs welcome the Allgäu Comets to their home stadium on Saturday, launching the 2025 Erima German Football League season. The Wilddogs make their top-flight debut after securing promotion in 2024 with a decisive win over Montabaur Fighting Farmers, while the Comets aim to rebound from a challenging preseason.

Wilddogs’ promotion momentum
Promoted after a dramatic 2024 campaign, the Wilddogs lean on receiver Alec Tatum and new quarterback Dre Harris (ex-Regensburg Phoenix) to test the Comets’ secondary. A 36-6 preseason victory over the Nuremberg Rams showcased potential, though lapses in concentration highlighted areas for improvement.

Comets’ preseason hurdles
Allgäu enters untested after preseason cancellations but intensified training under head coach Elias Gniffke. New starting quarterback Conor Regan brings dual-threat dynamism, having amassed 3,063 rushing yards, 41 touchdowns, and a 66% completion rate in 2024 with the Rostock Griffins (GFL 2). The former University of Northern Colorado, Long Island University, and Mississippi Valley State signal-caller also rushed for 932 yards and nine scores in four games with the Münster Blackhawks in 2023. New receivers face immediate pressure to execute, while new defensive coordinator Nic Soupidis prioritizes disrupting Harris’ rhythm.

Stakes and adjustments
Saturday’s clash tests the Wilddogs’ adaptability to GFL speed and the Comets’ revamped roster. For Pforzheim, maintaining offensive cohesion is key; for Allgäu, Regan’s mobility and Soupidis’ defensive schemes could dictate their early-season trajectory.