LIVESTREAM Italy: Parma Panthers @ Milano Rhinos, March 9, 18:00 CET (6 pm, 12 noon ET)

AFI | American Football | 03/09/2024

Graphic; Igor Lazarevic

The defending champion Parma Panthers (0-0) open their 2024 Italian Football League season at home when they face the Milano Rhinos (1-1) in a repeat of their opening game last season.

The Panthers lost to Milano in the first game of the 2023 season 21-14 which was their only loss all year.

While this is the first game of the year for Parma, Milano has won one and lost one after falling 43-42 in their opener to the Torino Giaguari and then beating the Lazio Marines 27-16.

Parma has signed former University of Montana signal caller Robbie Patterson to lead the offense while the defense will feature Western Oregon University linebacker Jaylin Parnell. Parnell was a first team All American in his senior season for the Wolves.

For Milano, quarterback Hamish McClure is the key and has thrown for 477 yards in the two games. His two favorite targets are Romello Bentley (10 catches for 109 yards and 2 TDS) and Niccolo Pulsinelli (12 catches for 123 yards and 3 TDs).

This could well be another close game for the Panthers as Milano is battle tested and will be playing at home for their first two games.