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Playoff picture

© John L. Hoh, Jr.

Well, the final standings are in and the top 8 teams have been selected. This year, more than any other that I've witnessed, has been the closest race yet. As of just prior to the final regular season weekend, there were eleven teams with a chance at the playoffs. The way the Arena League does its playoff format is unique in the world of football. It uses a seeding system where the top eight teams regardless of divisional alignment, make the playoffs, and in the first round, #8 plays at #1, #7 at #2, etc. again regardless of division. The object being that the top two teams will battle it out in the Championship game. Always, the team with the higher seeding plays at home.

That said, let me go to the teams that are in.

#1 Tampa Bay Storm

The team with the #1 defense in the league and coached by Tim Marcum, the winningest coach in AFL history. Can anyone stop this team from winning its 5th Championship? The key is the strength of their offensive and defensive lines. They will play at home against the #8 Orlando Predators.

#2 Iowa Barnstormers

This team is one of the surprises of this year. Strong on offense and defense and led by an experienced QB. The Barnstormers will host the #7 Milwaukee Mustangs.

#3 Albany Firebirds

Probably the most complete team in the league. The hottest QB and receiving corps, with a strong secondary and stronger linesmen. They were the early favorite to win it all. The #6 Grand Rapids Rampage will be thier first round opponent.

#4 Arizona Rattlers

Devastated by injuries this year, especially to QBs where they have had 3 different starters. They will have to rely on a rookie signal caller for the playoffs starting with the #5 Nashville Kats.

#5 Nashville Kats

One of several teams with a 7-7 record, this team entered at #7 by a complicated tie-breaking system. A potent team offensively but suspect on defense. They travel to Arizona for the 1st round.

#6 Grand Rapids Rampage

A team in only its second year, they have had an up and down season. Solid all around, but inconsistent this year. They will be tested when they travel to Albany for round one.

#7 Milwaukee Mustangs

A team that started off 0-5 this season has been as hot as can be since. Can they stay hot against the surprising Iowa Barnstormers.

#8 Orlando Predators

Barely beat out the Portland Forest Dragons in the same complicated tie-breaker. This year has been a huge disappointment for the 1998 Champions. The Predators must now travel to their arch-nemisis Tampa Bay's home for the 1st round.

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