In a gritty and closely contested game, the New Orleans Breakers defeated the Houston Gamblers 17-10 at Houston’s home field. The Breakers rallied in the second quarter and sustained their lead throughout the second half to secure the win, which clinched them a spot in the playoffs.
Breakers’ Performance
Offense
New Orleans Breakers’ offense was led by quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson, who completed 23 of 31 passes for 227 yards and two touchdowns. He managed to distribute the ball well among his receivers, with Johnnie Dixon having a notable performance with three receptions for 60 yards, including a 30-yard touchdown grab. Wide receiver Dee Anderson also hauled in a 4-yard touchdown pass.
The Breakers’ running game struggled to find consistent traction. Running back Wes Hills had nine carries for 20 yards, while Cyrus Habibi-Likio had four carries for only 4 yards. The Breakers relied heavily on their passing game to move the ball down the field.
Kicker Matt Coghlin added three points to the scoreboard with a successful 30-yard field goal.
Defense
The Breakers’ defense was formidable throughout the game, putting pressure on the Gamblers’ quarterback and limiting their rushing game. Linebacker Jerod Fernandez led the team with nine tackles, while Vontae Diggs had a standout performance with six tackles, one interception, and one sack. Defensive tackle Keonte Schad also added a sack. The Breakers’ secondary, led by cornerbacks Adonis Alexander and Jarey Elder, limited the Gamblers’ passing game to just 231 yards.
Gamblers’ Performance
Offense
The Houston Gamblers’ offense struggled to find their rhythm. Quarterback Kenji Bahar completed 21 of 30 passes for 231 yards but was unable to throw a touchdown pass. Running back Mark Thompson provided some life on the ground with 19 carries for 84 yards and scored the team’s only touchdown on a 13-yard run.
Receivers Justin Hall and Keke Chism were Bahar’s primary targets, with Hall grabbing five receptions for 54 yards and Chism contributing four receptions for 53 yards.
Kicker Nick Vogel contributed three points to the Gamblers’ total with a 49-yard field goal.
Defense
Houston’s defense was not far behind the Breakers’. Linebacker Jerod Fernandez matched his counterpart with nine tackles, and defensive tackle Keonte Schad recorded the Gamblers’ only sack of the game. The Gamblers’ secondary, led by cornerbacks Jarey Elder and Adonis Alexander, kept the Breakers’ passing game in check for most of the game.
What’s Next
With this win, the New Orleans Breakers have made it back to the playoffs and will take on the Birmingham Stallions in the South Division Championship on Sunday, June 25th at 7 pm on FOX. The Houston Gamblers will look to rebound in their next matchup and finish the season on a high note.
Overall, it was a thrilling game that showcased the determination of the Breakers and highlighted the tenacity of both teams.
USFL Box Score
