Game Preview: Star Wars Night May 8, 2026

Week 9 of the IFL is upon us, and the Quad City Steamwheelers travel up to Green Bay to face the Blizzard at the Resch Center. These two clashed earlier this season, with the Steamwheelers walking away with the 51-36 victory. The Blizzard went on to win three straight after, while Quad City has struggled to stay consistent after the Barnstormers snagged their first win against them last week. This has been a great rivalry, as every matchup never disappoints. 

Last time the two met, Quad City quarterback Daquan Neal had an excellent performance, putting up a total of 216 yards and 5 touchdowns. He has led the league in passing touchdowns and passing yards for multiple weeks; however, he also ranks second in the league in interceptions. Despite the interceptions, Neal remains a big threat to the defense, and the Blizzard will need to contain him to slow down this offense. Another star on the offense is receiver Quian Williams, who ranks in the top three in the league in receptions, yards, and touchdowns among receivers. The Blizzard defended Williams quite well last time, only giving up seven yards and a touchdown, but he is still a player to keep your eyes on at all times. 

The Blizzard lost the last matchup against the Steamwheelers and will want to get revenge this week. Recently, the Blizzard receivers have been making a big-time impact. Draysean Hudson remains in the top three in receiving yards; however, every receiver has been making a huge impact. Issac Ross capped off a great performance last week with 73 yards and a touchdown. Terrell Carey and Jack Studer found the end zone as well. With a dual-threat quarterback like Liam Thompson and this receiving core, this offense has been striking back. Shifting to the defensive side of the ball, the Blizzard D-line continues to terrorize opposing offenses in the league. Last week, Allen Henry racked up 7 total tackles and a tackle for loss. Jonathan Ross also continues his great season, as he had a tackle for loss and a forced fumble against the Freight. Another defensive piece making plays all over the field is defensive back Franky West Jr. He racked up nine tackles against the Freight last week. West has been a playmaker all year and has no means of stopping anytime soon. 

The Blizzard are home again and celebrating Star Wars night for the first time in over six seasons! Doors open at 5:30 PM with a costume contest at the Marcus Theaters table in the lobby. Don't worry, there's more! Show up early, as the first 1,500 fans will receive a laser sword. For more pregame information, check here. And, be sure to tune in for the rematch as the Blizzard is looking to strike back this Friday, May 8th. The kick-off is set for 7:00 PM CST. 

Written By: Tristan Wendt