The Berlin Rebels (3–2) host the Kiel Baltic Hurricanes (3–3) at Mommsenstadion in a high-stakes German Football League matchup, with both teams battling to solidify playoff positioning in a tightly contested North Division.
Historic rivalry reignited
Since 2015, the Rebels hold a narrow 9–7 edge in head-to-head matchups, but Kiel dominated their 2024 meeting with a 56–24 road victory. This year, the stakes are higher: Berlin sits third in the division, while Kiel trails closely in fifth. Both teams aim to rebound from losses to title contenders—Berlin fell to Potsdam Royals and Dresden Monarchs, while Kiel stumbled against Hildesheim Invaders.
Watch live PPV. Kiel Baltic Hurricanes @ Berlin Rebels, June 29, 15:00 CET (3 pm, 9 am ET)
Kiel’s offensive firepower
Quarterback PJ Settles, a dual-threat playmaker, fuels the Hurricanes’ attack with 1,178 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and 368 rushing yards (7 TDs). His chemistry with receiver Chandler Smith (28 catches, 586 yards, 5 TDs) poses a critical challenge for Berlin’s secondary. Settles’ mobility and Smith’s deep-threat ability will test a Rebels defense that allowed 26 points per game in Weeks 5–6. Linebacker Rob Revels III, known for hard-hitting tackles, adds physicality to Kiel’s defensive schemes.
Berlin’s balanced attack
The Rebels counter with a potent ground game led by running back Nazar Bombata (471 rushing yards, 4 TDs), ranked second in the GFL. Quarterback Connor Kaegi (750 passing yards, 8 TDs) distributes efficiently, with receiver Aaron Jackson (25 catches, 343 yards, 3 TDs) as his primary target. Berlin’s offense thrives on controlling tempo, averaging 27.6 points during their recent two-game win streak against the New Yorker Lions and Düsseldorf Panther.
Key matchups and stakes
- Kiel’s run defense vs. Bombata: Containing Berlin’s ground game is vital for Kiel to force Kaegi into predictable passing situations.
- Berlin’s secondary vs. Smith: Cornerbacks must limit Smith’s explosive plays to avoid a shootout.
- Home advantage: Berlin’s 2–1 home record contrasts with Kiel’s 1–2 road struggles, though the Hurricanes’ Week 5 bye provided extra preparation time.
Playoff implications
A Berlin win would create separation in the standings, while Kiel seeks to avenge their 2024 collapse and re-enter the postseason conversation. Veteran leadership, like Kiel receiver Benedikt Englmann’s experience, could prove decisive in a game likely decided by turnovers and red-zone efficiency.
Kickoff at Mommsenstadion on Sunday promises a physical, strategic duel between two franchises with deep GFL roots, each aiming to claim momentum ahead of the season’s second half.