The first real day of summer brought out the best in the Superior Stampede. Playing their first four games in sub 50 degree weather was a challenge. Temperatures were in the 80’s with a nice 10 mile an hour breeze. The game was a breeze from the get go too.

The Stampede forced the Minnesota Phoenix of Arden Hills to go three and out on their first series, blocked the Phoenix punt and the Offense took over at the Phoenix 10. The Stampede Defense created several early turnovers and forced the Phoenix to punt six times, allowing the Stampede Offense the fortune of great field position the entire game. The great field position led to lots of early scoring opportunities, as the Stampede scored on their first five possessions in route to a 35-0 lead two minutes before the half.

The Stampede needed the early dominance, as the Stampede Defense, 3 points allowed in 11 quarters previously, has fallen back to earth. In the last five quarters the Defense has allowed 39 points. Despite the points purge, the Defense has still produced turnovers and pressure. Nick Farrell again had a stellar game leading the Defense. He led the in tackles with 7 and had two interceptions. Tim Manns had 6 tackles and forced a fumble. Travis Larson contributed with 2 sacks and Nick Treumer added an interception.

The Offense didn’t have the yards one might expect with a big score, but the short field is to blame for that. The Offense accounted for all 50 points The Stampede still piled on 336 yards of Offense, 165 on the ground, and 171 through the air. Of the 4 different running backs, Kevin Guillory led the ground game with 79 yards and 2 touchdowns. Joe Dupree and Matt Grammer also scored on the ground. The passing game has rejuvenated with the return of LaShawn Bullock. He had his second straight big game, with 5 catches for 62 yards and a touchdown. Sean Gallagher had 2 catches for 35 yards and a score. Quarterback Dave White was equally efficient through the air or on the ground. He made plays avoiding pressure and scrambling for some first downs, rushing for 22 yards. He was 13-18 passing for 171 yards, 3 touchdowns and 1 interception.

The Stampede (3-3) are on the road again this week. They travel to Ishpeming, MI to take on the Upper Peninsula Artic Blast (1-5). Game time is set for 6:00pm CST. You can hear the game locally on ESPN radio WEBC 560.CT.