LIVESTREAM Germany PPV: Paderborn Dolphins @ Berlin Rebels, May 10, 16:00 CET (4 pm, 10 am ET)

AFI | American Football | 05/10/2025

The Berlin Rebels, who finished 5th in the GFL North in 2024, face the Paderborn Dolphins (7th in 2024) at Mommsenstadion on Saturday, launching the 2025 German Football League season. Both teams aim to shed their 2024 struggles, with the Rebels targeting playoff contention and the Dolphins seeking redemption.

Rebels’ revamped roster
Berlin fortified its lineup with key additions: former Berlin Adler receiver Maylan Bacher, defensive linemen Stephan Stadler and Mika Habermann (Potsdam Royals), and offensive tackle Tim Waltner. Returning quarterbacks Connor Kaegi (2023 playoff starter) and Tyquell Fields lead an offense bolstered by running back Nazar Bombata (University of Arizona) and receiver Aaron “AJ” Jackson. Coaches emphasized restoring a potent ground game to complement their defensive upgrades.

Dolphins’ underdog ambition
Paderborn retained core players like safety TJ Comstock, running back Joshua Breece, and linebacker Antonio Valentine while adding Arena Football veteran Jordan Pouncey at receiver. The Dolphins’ preseason mixed a 50-21 rout of Solingen Paladins with a 35-9 loss to Krefeld, highlighting inconsistency.

Preseason contrasts
Berlin’s lone warm-up, a 40-9 loss to Lübeck, excluded imports, leaves questions about cohesion. Conversely, Paderborn tested depth but faces pressure to refine execution.

Stakes and expectations
For the Rebels, Saturday tests their playoff-caliber rebuild and dual-QB strategy. Paderborn must prove its revamped roster can disrupt Berlin’s momentum. With both teams prioritizing redemption, the opener sets the tone for their 2025 trajectories.